阅读说明：本技术 具有可拆卸驱动组件的个人移动车辆 (Personal mobility vehicle with detachable drive assembly ) 是由 伊恩·迪斯伯格 乔伊·黄 马克·阿尔费雷泽 于 2019-05-30 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明公开了各种电动移动系统,例如踏板车和带轮板。电动移动系统可以是驱动组件,该驱动组件可以包括马达、传动组件、驱动轮和电源。该驱动组件可以与个人移动车辆的其余部分拆卸。(Various motorized movement systems, such as scooters and wheeled boards, are disclosed. The motorized movement system may be a drive assembly that may include a motor, a transmission assembly, a drive wheel, and a power source. The drive assembly is detachable from the remainder of the personal mobility vehicle.)

1. A personal mobility vehicle, comprising:

a body having a support surface and configured to support a user;

a plurality of wheels including a drive wheel and a front wheel; and

a drive assembly configured to be selectively detached from the body, the drive assembly comprising:

a motor and a drive shaft;

a power supply housing;

a transmission assembly including a gear transmission including at least a drive gear connected to the drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate the drive wheel; and

a power source configured to power the drive assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel.

2. The personal mobility vehicle of claim 1, wherein the power source is configured to be selectively removed from a power source housing.

3. The personal mobility vehicle of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second front wheel.

4. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, wherein the drive assembly includes a drive wheel.

5. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, further comprising a pressure sensor in functional communication with the controller, the pressure sensor configured to cause the controller to detect movement of a user's weight and vary a speed of the motor.

6. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, wherein the body includes a channel configured to slidably receive a portion of a drive assembly.

7. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, wherein the drive assembly includes at least one actuator configured to disengage a locking mechanism that secures the drive assembly with the body.

8. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, further comprising a brake mechanism extending rearward from the body and over at least a portion of the drive wheel.

9. The personal mobility vehicle of claim 8, wherein the drive assembly includes a braking mechanism.

10. The personal mobility vehicle of any preceding claim, wherein the personal mobility vehicle is a pulley plate including a steering system including an axle, an axle bearing surface, and a pivot member.

11. A drive assembly for a personal mobility vehicle, the drive assembly comprising:

a drive wheel;

a power supply housing;

a motor and a drive shaft;

a transmission assembly including a gear transmission including at least a drive gear connected to a drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate a drive wheel;

a power source configured to supply power to the drive assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel; and

a locking mechanism configured to selectively secure the drive assembly to the personal mobility vehicle.

12. The drive assembly of claim 11, wherein the power source is configured to be selectively removed from a power source housing.

13. The drive assembly of claim 11 or 12, further comprising a brake mechanism extending over at least a portion of the drive wheel.

14. The drive assembly of any of claims 11-13, further comprising at least one actuator configured to disengage the locking mechanism.

15. The drive assembly of any of claims 11-14, wherein the motor is configured to communicate with a controller of the personal mobile vehicle, the controller configured to receive a signal from a pressure sensor on the personal mobile vehicle.

16. A personal mobility vehicle, comprising:

an electric skate comprising:

a body comprising a first foot-support surface;

a first wheel on a first end of the electric skate and a second wheel on a second end of the electric skate opposite the first end, one of the first and second wheels being a drive wheel; and

a drive assembly, comprising:

a power supply housing;

a motor and a drive shaft;

a transmission assembly including a gear transmission including at least a drive gear connected to a drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate a drive wheel; and

a power source configured to power the drive assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel, the power source configured to be selectively removed from the power housing; and

non-powered roller skates comprising:

a body comprising a second foot-support surface;

a first wheel on a first end of the non-electric skate and a second wheel on a second end of the non-electric skate opposite the first end; and

wherein the direction of travel of the personal mobility vehicle is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the user's foot.

17. The personal mobility vehicle of claim 16, wherein the drive assembly includes a drive wheel.

18. The personal mobility vehicle of claim 16 or 17, wherein the drive assembly is configured to be selectively detachable from a body of a powered roller skate.

19. The personal mobility vehicle of any one of claims 16-18, wherein each wheel of the motorized roller skate has an axis of rotation disposed laterally of the first foot support surface, and each wheel of the unpowered roller skate has an axis of rotation disposed laterally of the second foot support surface.

20. The personal mobility vehicle of any one of claims 16-19, wherein the motorized roller skates are leading roller skates and the unpowered roller skates are trailing roller skates.

Technical Field

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to personal mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters and wheeled skateboards.

Background

Personal mobile vehicles such as scooters and wheeled skateboards have become popular recreational activities as well as useful transportation devices. Scooters and wheeled skateboards typically have a plurality of two wheels and steering mechanisms. Some scooters and wheeled skateboards include a braking mechanism.

Disclosure of Invention

There remains a need for new and/or improved designs to provide new ride experiences or unique functionality. The systems, methods, vehicles, and apparatus described herein have innovative features, none of which is essential or solely responsible for its desirable attributes.

Various personal mobility vehicles and motorized mobility systems are described in this disclosure. In some embodiments, a vehicle may include a body. The body may include a support surface and may be configured to support a user. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a plurality of wheels. The plurality of wheels may include one or more rear wheels and one or more front wheels. In some embodiments, the vehicle may include a drive assembly. The drive assembly may include a motor and a drive wheel, which may be driven by the motor. In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a transmission assembly. The transmission assembly may include a gear assembly. In some embodiments, the gear assembly may include at least a drive gear connected to the drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate the drive wheel. In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a power source. In some embodiments, the power source may be configured to power the drive assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel. In some embodiments, the power supply may be configured to be selectively removed from the power supply housing. In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a braking mechanism. For example, the drive assembly may include a brake operated by a foot of the user. .

The drive assembly may be configured to be selectively attached to and detached from a body of a vehicle. This allows the vehicle to be adapted to various uses. For example, where the user seeks speed (e.g., for dexterity or quick arrival at a destination), a drive assembly having a higher power motor may be attached to the body. In situations where the user seeks endurance (e.g., for longer riding times and/or for riding to a distant destination), a drive assembly having a lower power motor may be attached to the main body. Furthermore, in situations where the user seeks torque (e.g. for off-road use and/or for climbing a hill), a drive assembly with appropriate gearing may be attached to the main body. Additionally, the attachable and detachable drive assembly may facilitate separation of the drive mechanism from the remainder of the scooter for maintenance, repair and/or replacement. For example, if the drive assembly fails, the user may leave the remainder of the vehicle body by simply sending the drive assembly to service. The replacement drive assembly may be mounted to the vehicle body to ensure that the user is ready to use the vehicle and/or to avoid interference with the user's transportation.

According to some embodiments, a personal mobility vehicle may include a body. The body may include a support surface and be configured to support a user. The personal mobility vehicle may include a plurality of wheels, such as a drive wheel and a front wheel. The personal mobility vehicle may include a drive assembly. The drive assembly may be configured to be selectively removable from the body. The drive assembly may include a motor, a drive shaft, a power supply housing, a transmission housing, and/or a power supply. The transmission housing may include a gear transmission including at least a drive gear connected to the drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate the drive wheel. The power source may be configured to power the driver assembly and cause the motor electric drive wheel to rotate.

In some embodiments, the power supply is configured to be selectively removed from the power supply housing.

In some embodiments, the personal mobility vehicle may include a second front wheel.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a drive wheel.

In some embodiments, a personal mobility vehicle includes a pressure sensor and a controller. The pressure sensor may be in functional communication with the controller. The pressure sensor may be configured to cause the controller to detect movement of the user's weight and vary the speed of the motor.

In some embodiments, the body includes a channel configured to slidably receive a portion of the drive assembly. The drive assembly may include at least one actuator configured to disengage a locking mechanism that secures the drive assembly to the body.

In some embodiments, the personal mobility vehicle includes a braking mechanism. The brake mechanism may extend rearwardly from the vehicle body and/or over at least a portion of the drive wheel. The drive assembly may include a braking mechanism.

In some embodiments, the personal mobility vehicle is a pulley plate. The personal mobility vehicle may be a wheeled board, such as a skateboard. The personal mobility vehicle may include a steering system having an axle, an axle bearing surface, and/or a pivot member. In some embodiments, the personal mobility vehicle is a scooter.

According to some embodiments, the drive assembly may be configured for use in a personal mobility vehicle. The drive assembly may include a drive wheel, a power supply housing, a motor, a drive shaft, a transmission assembly, a power supply, and/or a locking mechanism. The transmission assembly may include a gear assembly. The gear assembly may include at least a drive gear coupled to the drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate the drive wheel. The power source may be configured to power the driver assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel. The locking mechanism may be configured to selectively secure the drive assembly to the personal mobility vehicle.

In some embodiments, the power supply is configured to be selectively removed from the power supply housing.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes a braking mechanism that extends over at least a portion of the drive wheel. The drive assembly may include at least one actuator configured to disengage the locking mechanism.

In some embodiments, the motor is configured to communicate with a controller of the personal mobility vehicle. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from a pressure sensor on the personal mobility vehicle.

According to some embodiments, the personal mobility vehicle may include powered roller skates and non-powered roller skates. The powered roller skate may include a body, a first wheel, a second wheel, and/or a drive assembly. The body of the powered roller skate may include a first foot-supporting surface. The first wheel may be provided on a first end portion of the electric skate, and the second wheel may be provided on a second end portion of the electric skate opposite to the first end portion. One of the first and second wheels of the electric roller skate may be a driving wheel. The drive assembly may include a power supply housing, a motor, a drive shaft, a transmission assembly, and/or a power supply. The transmission assembly may include a gear assembly. The gear assembly may include at least a drive gear coupled to the drive shaft and a driven gear configured to rotate the drive wheel. The power source may be configured to power the drive assembly and cause the motor to rotate the drive wheel. The power supply may be configured to be selectively removed from the power supply housing. The unpowered roller skate may include a body, a first wheel, and/or a second wheel. The body of the unpowered roller skate may include a second foot-supporting surface. The first wheel may be disposed on a first end of the unpowered roller skate and the second wheel may be disposed on a second end of the unpowered roller skate opposite the first end. The direction of travel of the personal mobility vehicle may be substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the user's foot.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly may include a drive wheel.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly may be configured to be selectively detachable from the body of the powered roller skate.

In some embodiments, each wheel of the electric skate may have an axis of rotation disposed at a side of the first foot-supporting surface. Each wheel of the non-electric skate may have an axis of rotation disposed at a side of the second foot-supporting surface.

In some embodiments, the powered roller skates may be leading roller skates, while the non-powered roller skates may be trailing roller skates.

Drawings

These and other features, aspects, and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings of example embodiments, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a personal mobility vehicle, i.e., a scooter.

Fig. 2 is another perspective view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a top view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a bottom view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a left side view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a right side view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the portion shown in fig. 7.

Fig. 9 is another exploded view of the rear wheel assembly of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 10 and 11 are perspective views of an embodiment of a drive assembly for the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a battery included in the drive assembly of fig. 10 and 11.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a transmission included in the drive assembly of fig. 10 and 11.

Fig. 14A and 14B are perspective views of another embodiment of a transmission included in the drive assembly of fig. 10 and 11.

Fig. 15 is another perspective view of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of the drive assembly of fig. 10 and 11.

Fig. 17 and 18 are perspective views of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 19A is a perspective view of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1 illustrating the process of attaching the drive assembly to the main body.

Fig. 19B is a perspective view of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1, shown with the drive assembly attached to the main body.

Fig. 20A and 20B are additional perspective views of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1 with the battery released in engaged and disengaged positions.

Fig. 21A is a bottom view of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 21B is a side view of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 1.

Fig. 22A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a personal mobility vehicle, i.e., scooter.

Fig. 22B and 22C are perspective views of the rear portion of the scooter of fig. 22A illustrating the process by which the drive assembly is being attached to the main body.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a personal mobility vehicle, i.e., a pulley plate.

FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

Fig. 25 is a top view of the pulley plate of fig. 23.

Fig. 26 is a bottom view of the pulley plate of fig. 23.

FIG. 27 is a left side view of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

FIG. 28 is a right side view of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the rear of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

Fig. 30-32 are additional perspective views of the rear portion of the pulley plate of fig. 23.

Fig. 33 is a left side view of the pulley plate of fig. 23 with a drive assembly attached.

Fig. 34 is a left side view of the pulley plate of fig. 23 with the drive assembly removed and being installed.

FIG. 35 is a partial view of the rear portion of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the pulley plate of FIG. 23.

Fig. 37 depicts a top view, a bottom view, and various perspective views of the pulley plate of fig. 23.

Fig. 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a steering system that may be used with the pulley plate of fig. 23.

Fig. 39 is another perspective view of the steering system of fig. 38.

Fig. 40 is a bottom view of the steering system of fig. 38.

Fig. 41 is a bottom perspective view of the steering system of fig. 38.

Fig. 42 is a bottom view of the steering system of fig. 38 with the axle in a different position.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a personal mobility vehicle, a pair of wheeled skates, showing a user's shoes for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the wheeled skate of FIG. 43.

FIG. 45 is a side view of the wheeled skate of FIG. 43.

FIG. 46 is a side view of the motorized skate of the wheeled skate of FIG. 43 with a portion shown as translucent for purposes of illustration.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of the present systems, components, and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements throughout. Although certain embodiments, examples and illustrations have been disclosed, the invention described herein is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and illustrations, and may include other uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. These described embodiments are merely illustrative of the present technology and the present technology includes alternatives, modifications and equivalents of the embodiments. Embodiments of the present invention may include several novel features, and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or is essential to practicing the inventions herein described. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the following description.

FIGS. 1-21B

Fig. 1-21B illustrate an embodiment of an electric personal mobility vehicle, such as scooter 10. As shown in fig. 1, the scooter 10 includes a body 20, a rotatable shaft 26, a handlebar assembly 24 and a drive assembly 44. Scooter 10, such as drive assembly 44, may include any of the features of the motorized movement system described in U.S. patent application publication No.2018/0015355, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The body 20 may include a deck, which may have a platform or support surface 34. The support surface 34 may be configured to support at least one foot of a user. The illustrated support surface 34 is configured to receive two feet of a user, such as one or two in a front-to-back or side-by-side arrangement. In some embodiments, the scooter 10 has a plurality of wheels, including a front wheel 28 and a rear wheel 22 connected with the body 20. The front and rear wheels 28, 22 may be spaced apart from one another by a support surface 34 extending therebetween. As shown, the wheels 28, 22 may be aligned substantially in the same plane. Wheels may be located at opposite ends of the support surface 34.

As shown, some embodiments of the scooter 10 include a rotatable shaft 26. The shaft 26 may rotate with the handlebar assembly 24 such that the handlebar assembly 24 may rotate or turn within the head tube of the body 20. The shaft 26 may be coupled to a fork 31, and the fork 31 may be coupled to the front wheel 28 such that the handlebar assembly 24 may be rotated to turn the front wheel 28 to steer the scooter 10. Fork 31 may be directly connected to the side of front wheel 28 and/or extend across the axis of rotation of front wheel 28.

In some embodiments, the front wheels 28 are approximately the same size as the drive or rear wheels 22. In some embodiments, the diameter of the front wheels 28 may be greater than the diameter of the drive wheels 22. In some embodiments, the front wheels 28 are smaller in diameter than the drive wheels 22. In some embodiments, the vehicle 10 has two front wheels. In some embodiments, the vehicle 10 has two rear wheels.

In some embodiments, the platform or support surface 34 may provide comfort and/or support for the user's foot. As shown in fig. 3 and 9, the support surface 34 may include one or more grips 18. The grip portion 18 may be configured to provide friction to secure the user's foot to the support surface 34. The grip 18 may include projections (e.g., ribs or otherwise) extending upwardly from the support surface 34. The protrusions may extend transverse to the top surface of the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the handles 18 are spaced apart along a top surface of the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the grip 18 may include a slot and/or cut-out in the support surface 34.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 includes a folding assembly 40. The folding assembly 40 allows the handlebar assembly 24 and the rotatable shaft 26 to pivot relative to the body 20 such that the handlebar assembly 24 folds against the body 20 for compact transport and storage of the scooter 10. Thus, in some embodiments, the rotatable shaft 26 may pivot about the folding assembly 40.

In some embodiments, the handlebar assembly 24 may be positioned generally parallel to the main body 20 when the scooter 10 is in a folded state. As shown in fig. 5, the folding assembly 40 includes a release mechanism 42. The release mechanism 42 may include a handle, button, lever, and/or knob, and/or any other suitable mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, the release mechanism 42 includes a handle that locks the rotatable shaft 26 in a substantially upright or riding position in a first position and allows the rotatable shaft to pivot between the rotatable shaft 26 and the body 20 about a pivotal connection in a second position such that the rotatable shaft 26 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body 20. In certain variations, the release mechanism 42 includes a motor. In some embodiments, the release mechanism 42 is in wired and/or wireless communication with the controller 45 to receive instructions to release and/or lock the folding assembly 40. For example, the controller 45 may instruct the motor to fold or unfold the scooter. In some embodiments, the handlebar assembly 24 is adjacent or near the brake mechanism 96 when the scooter 10 is in the folded condition. In some embodiments, the handlebar assembly 24 abuts and/or contacts the braking mechanism 96 and may cause the braking mechanism 96 to contact the rear wheel 22 or otherwise lock the rear wheel 22 to prevent rotation of the rear wheel 22.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 includes a motor 32, such as an electric motor. Motor 32 may be mounted to the underside of body 20 below support surface 34, on the rear end of support surface 34 adjacent drive assembly 44, on the front end of support surface 34 adjacent front wheel 28, on handlebar assembly 24 or fork 31, on drive assembly 44, and/or any other location. The motor 32 is operatively coupled to the at least one rear wheel 22 to provide a powered rotational force on the at least one rear wheel 22. In some embodiments, the battery housing and motor 32 may be located or supported at various locations on the scooter 10, including in the drive assembly 44, on top of the support surface 34, or adjacent the front or rear wheels 28, 22. In some embodiments, the battery housing and the motor 32 may be co-located.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 includes a sensor 14 (e.g., a pressure sensor). The sensor 14 may be in functional communication with a controller 45, such as shown in FIG. 16. The sensor 14 may be positioned on any portion of the vehicle 10. For example, the sensors 14 may be located on or integrated with the platform or support surface 34, the body 20, and/or the motor assembly 30, or located in other areas of the scooter 10. For example, as shown in fig. 7 and 15, the sensor 14 may be located on a support surface 34 below the grip 18. The signal from the pressure sensor 14 can be used to control how much power the battery 36 supplies to the drive wheels 22. In some embodiments, the signal of the pressure sensor 14 may be used (e.g., by the controller 45) to detect movement of the user. For example, the signals may indicate how far the user pushes and/or leans forward, rearward, and/or laterally on various portions of the scooter 10. Thus, the controller 45 may adjust the motor speed of the motor 32 depending on the portion of the scooter 10 being propelled by the user. This may allow some embodiments to assist the user in balancing, may compensate for weight shifts of the user, or otherwise assist the user in safely riding the scooter 10, for example.

In some embodiments, the signal of the sensor 14 may be used to control the speed of the motor 32. In some embodiments, the sensor 14 may be a variable input pressure sensor. For example, in some embodiments, the controller 45 may vary the speed of the motor 32 based on the amount of pressure applied by the user to the sensor 14. In some embodiments, the harder the user steps on the sensor 14 (e.g., the greater the pressure the user applies to the sensor), the faster the motor speed, and the lighter the user steps on the sensor 14 (e.g., the less pressure the user applies to the sensor), the slower the motor speed.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 is configured to receive and interpret various inputs from a user or other user. For example, the sensor 14 is configured to transmit a signal based on the duration and/or number of times the user contacts (e.g., taps, touches, or otherwise contacts) the sensor 14, and the controller 45 is configured to interpret the signal. For example, the scooter 10 may respond to multiple taps by the user on the sensor 14. In some embodiments, the scooter 10 is configured to recognize taps that occur continuously and/or over a period of time, such as at less than or about equal to: 1 second, 2 seconds, 3 seconds, 4 seconds, or any other suitable time period or range of times. For example, in some embodiments, when a user taps the sensor 14 twice in at least about 2 seconds and/or less than or equal to about 5 seconds, the signal from the sensor 14 causes the controller 45 to increase the motor speed, e.g., by a predetermined value. In some embodiments, the signal of the sensor 14 may be used to control the direction of rotation of the rear or drive wheel 22. For example, in some embodiments, when a user taps the sensor 14 three times in at least about 3 seconds and/or less than or equal to about 6 seconds, the signal from the sensor 14 may cause the controller 45 to reduce the speed of the drive wheel 22 and/or reverse the direction of rotation of the drive wheel 22. The sensor 14 and controller 45 may be configured to send any suitable signals (e.g., regarding motor speed, direction of travel, etc.) and respond to these signals, respectively. In some embodiments, the user may customize the scooter 10 to respond in a particular manner to multiple taps or changes in the degree of pressure.

In some embodiments, the sensor 14 includes a switch 16, such as a kill switch. In some embodiments, the switch 16 may be configured to turn on the motor 32 and/or enable the motor 32 to propel the scooter 10 in response to actuation of the switch. In some embodiments, the switch 16 is configured to switch off the motor 32 in response to actuation of the switch 16. In some embodiments, the switch 16 is required to receive input (e.g., pressure from the user's foot) before the scooter 10 is driven.

In some embodiments, the handlebar assembly 24 may include a control mechanism. In some embodiments, the control mechanism includes a throttle assembly. The throttle assembly may be connected to the controller 45, such as by a wired or wireless connection. The throttle assembly may include a user-switchable drive actuator, such as a lever. In response to actuation of the drive actuator, the throttle assembly may send a signal to the controller 45 to increase or decrease the speed of the motor 32, and thus the speed of the scooter 10. In some embodiments, the throttle assembly includes a brake actuator, such as a lever. In response to actuation of the brake actuator, the throttle assembly may send a signal to the controller 45 to activate the brake assembly to slow or stop the scooter 10. In some embodiments, the throttle includes a button, switch, joystick or other actuator that is accessible to the user's hand while the user is operating the scooter 10. Upon activation (e.g., depression) of a button, the throttle may send a signal (e.g., an electrical signal or an RF signal) to the controller 45. This signal is used to transfer electrical energy from the battery to the electric motor 32, resulting in the transfer of rotational power from the electric motor 32 to the drive wheels. In certain embodiments, the drive actuator includes a handle mechanism or other similar manual actuation mechanism.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 may include a display, such as an LCD, LED screen, or otherwise. The display may provide a visual indication of scooter parameters such as battery level, speed, distance, direction, or other information. In some embodiments, the display indicates the remaining battery power. The display may indicate battery charge as a numerical percentage display, or in the form of a color gradient (e.g., green, yellow, red) or any other visual indicator. The display may be configured to indicate when the battery needs to be replaced and/or recharged, or to indicate the amount of time remaining until the battery is fully discharged.

In some embodiments, the scooter 10 includes a drive subsystem, such as a drive assembly 44. As shown, the drive assembly 44 may be positioned at the rear of the scooter 10. In some variations, the drive assembly 44 is positioned on the front of the scooter 10, and the drive assembly 44 may be a separate assembly from the rest of the scooter 10. Drive assembly 44 is attachable, insertable, replaceable, and/or removable from body 20, support surface 34, and/or other suitable portions of scooter 10. For example, as shown in fig. 8, 19A and 19B, in some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 may be inserted into and removed from the body 20 of the scooter 10.

As noted above, the attachable and detachable drive assembly 44 allows the scooter 10 to be adapted for various uses. For example, in situations where the user seeks a higher speed (e.g., for dexterity or quick arrival at a destination), a drive assembly 44 having a higher powered motor may be attached to the scooter 10. In situations where the user seeks to increase endurance (e.g., for longer riding times and/or for riding to a remote destination), a drive assembly 44 having a lower power motor may be mounted to the scooter 10. Further, in situations where the user seeks to increase torque (e.g., for off-road use and/or for climbing a hill), a drive assembly 44 having suitable gearing may be attached to the scooter 10. The drive assembly 44 may allow a user to adapt and/or customize the scooter 10.

Additionally, the attachable and detachable drive assembly 44 may facilitate separation of the drive mechanism from the remainder of the scooter for maintenance, repair and/or replacement. For example, if the drive assembly 44 should fail, the drive assembly 44 need only be sent for repair, while the user can leave the remainder of the scooter 10. A replacement drive assembly 44 may be mounted to the scooter 10 to ensure that the user is ready to use the vehicle and/or to avoid interference with the user's transportation.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 may be engaged with the body 20 (e.g., slid in, snapped in, etc.). In some embodiments, the body 20 includes a cavity 56, the cavity 56 configured to receive at least a portion of the drive assembly 44. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 includes a projection configured to engage an opening 56 in the body 20. In some embodiments, the cavity 56 is located below the support surface 34 of the body 20 and/or behind the front of the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the cavity 56 includes a window, slot, or opening on the side of the scooter 10. As shown in fig. 6, on this side, the charging port 88 and/or the power switch 89 are visible and/or accessible to the user. In some embodiments, the interior of the rear portion of the body 20 is hollow and/or configured to receive a portion of the drive assembly 44. In some variations, scooter 10 includes an actuator (e.g., a lever) to engage or disengage a locking mechanism that secures drive assembly 44 to body 20.

As shown in fig. 7, 8, 10 and 11, the drive assembly 44 may include a gap 57. The gap 57 may be configured to receive a portion of the body 20 or the support surface 34. For example, the gap 57 may receive a tongue 55 (e.g., a fin or protrusion) on the body 20. In some embodiments, the gap 57 on the drive assembly 44 may be located above the power switch 89 and the charging port 88. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 is secured to the body 20 or the support surface 34 by a snap fit, a threaded fit, and/or a press fit. For example, as shown in fig. 4 and 21A, the drive assembly 44 may be coupled to the body 20 using a fastener 12, such as a screw.

In various embodiments, the body 20 and the drive assembly 44 have corresponding mating features. For example, the tongue 55 of the body 20 may include a first mating feature and the drive assembly 44 may include a correspondingly shaped second mating feature. The mating features of the body 20 and the drive assembly 44 may be joined together. This may help position (e.g., align) the drive assembly 44 relative to the body 20. In some embodiments, one of the first and second mating features has a post, projection, rib, or is otherwise receivable in a corresponding slot, notch, groove, or other feature of the other of the first and second mating features. For example, as shown in fig. 8, the body 20 may include a recess stepped in a tongue 55, and the drive assembly 44 may include a protrusion (not shown) that is correspondingly shaped and/or received in the stepped feature.

In some embodiments, the support surface 34 and the drive assembly 44 are configured to connect or engage. In some embodiments, the support surface 34 extends above at least a portion of the drive assembly 44 when the drive assembly 44 is engaged with the body 20 and/or the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the support surface 34 extends above at least a portion of the rear wheel 22 of the scooter 10 when the drive assembly 44 is secured to the body 20 and/or the support surface 34. In some embodiments, substantially the entire support surface 34 is below the battery 36. In some embodiments, the support surface 34 has a substantially fixed height and/or width along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the height and/or width of the support surface 34 varies along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 10.

The drive assembly 44 may include the drive wheel 22. The drive assembly 44 and motor 32 (see fig. 13) may be operatively connected to the drive wheel 22. The drive wheel 22 may be the rear wheel of the scooter. The drive wheel 22 may be the front wheel of the scooter. In certain embodiments, torque from the motor 32 is transmitted to the drive wheel 22 via a transmission such as a gear set or gear assembly. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 may include a transmission housing 78. As shown in fig. 7, 8, 10 and 11, the housing 78 may include a first housing portion 78A and a second housing portion 78B.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 may include a power source, such as a battery 36. In some variations, the battery 36 is configured to be separate from the scooter 10. An example of the battery 36 being separate from the scooter 10 is shown in fig. 12. As shown in fig. 10 and 11, the battery 36 may be disposed above (e.g., directly above) at least a portion of the motor assembly 30 when connected with the scooter 10. The battery 36 may be stored in a battery storage chamber 37. In some embodiments, the battery compartment 37 extends substantially rearward facing and/or substantially horizontally outward from the scooter 10. The battery 36 may extend beyond (e.g., rearwardly beyond) the motor assembly 30. In some embodiments, the battery compartment 37 extends substantially horizontally outward from the scooter 10 beyond at least a portion of the motor assembly 30.

In some embodiments, the battery compartment 37 may include a locking mechanism 38, such as a latch, clip, or button, as shown in fig. 17. The locking mechanism 38 may be released by, for example, depressing an actuator of the battery. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 38 is slidable. For example, as shown in fig. 20B, the locking mechanism 38 is released by sliding in a substantially downward direction. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 38 is released by being in a substantially upward or leftward or rightward direction. In certain variations, the locking mechanism 38 is released by pushing or pulling inward or outward relative to the motor 32. As shown in fig. 20A and 20B, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism 38 may be disposed on a lateral portion of the drive assembly 44. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 38 may be located above the rear wheel 22 and in front of the battery 36, as shown in fig. 21B. In some variations, the locking mechanism 38 may be positioned on one or both lateral sides of the drive assembly 44.

In some embodiments, the battery 36 is insertable, replaceable, and/or removable from the battery storage compartment 37 of the drive assembly 44. The battery 36 may include any type of battery, such as a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the battery 36 may have a discharge time of at least about 1.5 hours and/or less than or equal to about 2.5 hours. In some embodiments, the battery 36 may have a discharge time of at least about 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, or more.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 may include a charging port 88. The charging port 88 may receive a plug to receive power to allow charging of the battery 36. In some embodiments, a seal such as a rubber boot may cover port 88 when not in use. In some embodiments, the charging port 88 allows the battery 36 to be charged without removing the battery 36. In some embodiments, the charging port 88 may be positioned along a side of the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the charging port 88 may be positioned along the rear of the support surface 34. In some embodiments, the charging port 88 is located near the power switch 89, as shown in fig. 18. The charging port 88 may be located along the side of the support surface 34 below the power switch 89. In some embodiments, activating the power switch 89 may allow the battery 36 to power the motor 32 of the motor assembly 30. In some embodiments, the battery 36 may provide power to the motor 32. Through a physical connector (e.g., a wire). The wires may be coupled to the battery 36 via a charging port 88. The port 88 and/or the switch 89 may be illuminated. In some embodiments, the switch 89 may be activated by depressing the switch 89. In some embodiments, this may be via Wi-Fi,The mobile application or the like wirelessly activates the switch 89. For example, in some embodiments, the system includes wired and/or wireless motor control.

As shown in fig. 10, the first housing portion 78A may include a stepped configuration. For example, the first housing portion 78A may include a first stepped region 79A, a second stepped region 79B, and a third stepped region 79C. The first, second and third stepped regions 79A, 79B, 79C may have respective outer surfaces that are laterally offset (e.g., non-coplanar) from one another. In some embodiments, the first step area 79A may have a vent portion 77. Vent portion 77 may include one or more apertures. The holes may allow air to flow from the surroundings to the motor 32 for cooling. In some embodiments, the aperture at least partially surrounds an end of the motor 32 to allow airflow to directly contact the motor 32 for cooling.

As shown in fig. 13, 14A and 14B, the motor assembly 30 may include a motor 32 and a drive shaft 62. The drive shaft 62 may extend outwardly from the side of the motor. The drive shaft 62 may be coupled to a transmission assembly 70. The transmission assembly 70 may include a gear transmission configured to transmit power from the motor 32 to the drive wheel 22. In some embodiments, the transmission assembly 70 may include a plurality of gears. The plurality of gears may include a drive gear 72 and at least one driven gear 74. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 14B, the plurality of gears may include at least three driven gears 74. In some embodiments, the plurality of gears may include one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, and/or eight or more driven gears. For example, as shown in fig. 13, the plurality of gears may include four driven gears. The plurality of gears may include various types of gearing. For example, the plurality of gears may include spur gears, double spur gears, and/or worm gears, among other gear arrangements. In some embodiments, the transmission assembly 70 includes and/or functions as a gear reducer. This may allow the motor to drive the drive wheel 22 at a lower speed than the motor 32. As described above, the drive shaft 62 may be engaged with the drive gear 72 when the motor 32 is operated.

The plurality of gears may be at least partially enclosed by the transmission assembly housing 78 and/or enclosed within the transmission assembly housing 78. The transmission assembly housing 78 may protect the transmission assembly from dirt, rocks, and/or other harmful substances that may damage the transmission assembly during operation. In some embodiments, the transmission assembly housing 78 at least partially surrounds the drive wheel 22. The drive assembly housing 78 may include recesses and/or slots for receiving the drive assembly 70. As previously mentioned, the transmission assembly housing 78 may include: a first housing portion 78A and a second housing portion 78B. In some embodiments, the first housing portion 78A includes a recess and/or slot 79 for receiving the drive assembly 70. The second housing portion 78B may be connected to the first transmission assembly portion 78A to enclose the transmission assembly 70.

In some embodiments, the drive shaft 62 may be engaged with the drive gear 72 and/or axially aligned with the drive gear 72. In some embodiments, the drive shaft 62 is offset from the drive gear 72. In some embodiments, the motor 32 may rotate the drive shaft 62. In some embodiments, this causes the drive gear 72 to rotate at about the same speed as the drive shaft 62. Through gear reduction, the drive gear 72 may drive at least one driven gear 74 to rotate a drive axle 76, which in turn drives the drive wheel 22 to rotate. In some embodiments, the drive gear 72 is offset from the motor 32, and the drive gear 72 may be smaller in diameter than the at least one driven gear 74 of the transmission assembly 70. In some variations, the motor 32 may drive the drive wheel 22 at a higher speed and/or using less power (e.g., as compared to certain variations without gears). In some embodiments, the diameter of the drive gear 72 is smaller than the diameter of the at least one driven gear 74. The drive gear 72 rotates the drive wheel 22 slower than the drive gear 72 and/or slower than the drive shaft 62 of the motor assembly 30. The power transmitted from the motor assembly 30 to the drive wheels 22 may convert a higher transmission speed to a slower drive wheel speed and/or may increase torque. The increase in torque applied by the motor 30 allows the drive wheel 22 to be driven more efficiently, as well as facilitating grip and the like. In some embodiments, the ratio of the outer diameter of the drive gear 72 (e.g., the gear connected to the drive shaft 62) compared to the diameter of the at least one driven gear 74 (e.g., the gear connected to the drive axle 76) is at least about: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0 or other ratios.

As shown in fig. 13, the motor assembly 30 may include a motor housing 60. The motor housing 60 may surround at least a portion of the motor 32 and may be positioned over at least a portion of the drive wheel 22. The motor 32 may be slid into and/or secured within the motor housing 60. In some embodiments, the motor housing 60 includes a cover 64, and the cover 64 may be connected to the motor housing 60 to enclose the motor 30. The cover 64 may be connected to the motor housing 60 by a snap fit, a threaded fit, a press fit, and/or other suitable arrangement.

The scooter in various embodiments has a brake mechanism 96. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 44 includes a brake mechanism 96. In some embodiments, the brake mechanism 96 is located on other portions of the scooter 10, such as the main body 20. The detent mechanism 96 may be in the form of a lever, as shown in fig. 1, 2 and 10. The detent mechanism 96 may be actuated by the foot of the user. In some embodiments, the braking mechanism 96 applies pressure to the rear wheels 22 and generates braking force based on friction between the rear wheels 22 and the braking mechanism 96. The brake mechanism 96 is integrated with (e.g., a part of) the drive assembly 44 or may be a separate component coupled with other components of the drive assembly 44. In some embodiments, the braking mechanism 96 includes a rear end configured to engage the rear wheel 22 and/or a front end configured to engage a stop structure. The detent mechanism 96 may be biased by a biasing member such as a spring. For example, the rear end of the brake mechanism 96 may be biased away from the rear wheel 22 and/or the front end of the brake mechanism 96 may be biased into engagement with the stop structure. In some embodiments, the brake mechanism 96 may extend rearward from the body 20 of the scooter 10 and may extend over at least a portion of the rear wheel 22.

FIGS. 22A-22C

Fig. 22A-22C illustrate another embodiment of an electric personal mobility vehicle, such as a scooter 410. The scooter 410 may include any of the features described above, and the scooter 10 may include any of the following features. The scooter 410 is similar in many respects to the scooter 10 described above. As shown in fig. 22A-22C, the scooter 410 may include a body 420, a rotatable shaft 426, a handlebar assembly 424, a front wheel 428, a rear wheel 422, a sensor 414, and a drive assembly 444, which may be similar to the body, sensor, and drive assembly of the scooter 10 described above. The scooter 410 may include any one or any combination of the features of the scooter 10. Likewise, the scooter 10 may include any feature on the scooter 410, such as the sensors 414 and drive assembly 444 described below.

For example, in some embodiments, the body 420 includes a platform or support surface 434. In some embodiments, the sensor 414 (e.g., sensor housing) may be visible from the exterior of the scooter 410. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 22C, a portion of the sensor 414 extends above the platform or support surface 434. In some embodiments, the sensor 414 is disposed in a recess of the platform 434.

The scooter 410 may include a folding assembly. The folding assembly may enable the handlebar assembly 424 to fold or rotate relative to the platform 434. In some variations, as shown in fig. 22A, the vertical position of handlebar assembly 424 relative to platform 434 is fixed. In some embodiments, the height of handlebar assembly 424 is adjustable. In some embodiments, the height of handlebar assembly 424 is fixed.

As shown in fig. 22B and 22C, the drive assembly 444 can include a drive assembly housing having first and second housing portions 478A, 478B. The first housing portion 478A may include a stepped configuration. In some embodiments, first housing portion 478A includes a plurality (e.g., two) of stepped regions. For example, first casing portion 478A may include first stepped region 479A and second stepped region 479B. The first and second stepped regions 479A, 479B may have respective outer surfaces that are laterally offset (e.g., non-coplanar) from one another. In some embodiments, as shown, first stepped region 479A does not include a vent portion having a plurality of apertures.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 444 may include a power source, such as a battery 436. The battery 436 may be configured to be separate from the scooter 410. The battery 436 is removably stored in the battery storage chamber 437. In some variations, the battery compartment 437 may include a locking mechanism 438, the locking mechanism 438 having one or more actuators configured to release the battery 436 upon actuation. For example, as shown in fig. 22B and 22C, the locking mechanism 438 can include a first actuator 438 on a first side of the drive assembly 444 and a second actuator 438 on an opposite side of the drive assembly 444.

FIGS. 23-42

Fig. 23-42 illustrate another embodiment of an electric personal mobility vehicle such as a pulley plate 210. The plate 210 may include any of the features described above, and the scooter 10 may include any of the following features. The plate 210 is similar in many respects to the scooter 10 described above. As shown in fig. 23-31, plate 210 may include a main body 220, a sensor 214, and a drive assembly 244, which may be similar to the main body, sensor, and drive assembly of scooter 10 described above. The pedal 210 may include any one or any combination of the features of the scooter 10. Similarly, scooter 10 may include any of the features of pedal 210, such as the steering system described below.

In some embodiments, the body 220 includes a platform or support surface 234. As previously described, in some embodiments, the vehicle 210 may include a plurality of wheels, including front wheels 228L, 228R and at least the drive wheel 222. The drive wheel 222 may be a rear wheel. In some embodiments, the vehicle 210 may have more than one rear wheel 222 (e.g., two rear wheels). In some embodiments, the front wheels 228L, 228R are the same size as the drive or rear wheels 222. In some embodiments, the diameter of the front wheels 228L, 228R may be greater than the diameter of the drive wheel 222. The front wheels 228L, 228R have a smaller diameter than the drive wheel 222. In some embodiments, the vehicle 210 has two or more rear wheels.

In some embodiments, board 210 includes a personal mobility system, such as drive assembly 244. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 244 is insertable, replaceable, and/or removable from the body 220, the support surface 234, and/or other suitable portions of the plate 210. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 244 is configured to contact or engage at least a portion of the body 220 or the support surface 234 of the plate 210. For example, the driving assembly 244 may be connected to a bottom surface of the main body 220. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 244 is secured to the body 220 by a snap fit, a threaded fit, a press fit, and/or other suitable arrangement.

The support surface 234 may be configured to support a user, such as a rider. The shape of the support surface 234 may be oval, rectangular, or any other suitable shape. As previously described, in some embodiments, the width of the support surface 234 is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis of the plate 210. In some embodiments, the width of the support surface 234 varies at different points along the longitudinal axis of the plate 210. For example, in some embodiments, the support surface 234 is wider near the front of the plate 210 than near the back of the plate 210. In some embodiments, a portion of the support surface 234 contacts a portion of the top surface of the battery 236. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 37, the top surface of the battery 236 may be substantially flush with the support surface 234 when the drive assembly 244 is engaged with the body 220 of the plate 210. In some embodiments, the support surface 234 extends over at least a portion of the rear wheels 222 of the vehicle 210 when the drive assembly 244 is secured to the body 220 and/or the support surface 234. In some embodiments, the height of the support surface 234 of the plate 210 varies along the length of the plate 210. For example, as shown in fig. 27, in some embodiments, the front portion of the support surface is lower than the rear portion of the support surface. In some embodiments, the support surface 234 is lower near the front wheels 228L, 228R and higher near the rear wheels 222.

As previously described, in some embodiments, board 210 may include a charging port 288 and/or a power switch 289. In some embodiments, charging port 288 and power switch 289 are located on the same portion of vehicle 210. In some embodiments, charging port 288 and power switch 289 are located on different portions of vehicle 210. The charging port 288 and the power switch 289 may each be located on the support surface 234, the body 220, and/or the drive assembly 244. For example, as shown in fig. 33, in some embodiments, the charging port 288 and the power switch 289 may be located on the side of the drive assembly 244 below the support surface 234 and the locking mechanism 238.

As shown in fig. 26, in some embodiments, the vehicle 210 may have one or more pull handles 258 attached to or formed therein. Such a handle 258 may assist a user in transporting or riding the vehicle 210, performing maneuvers, and/or may be used to attach a pull cord or the like. In some embodiments, the forward end or front end of the device has a pull 258. In some variations, the rear of the vehicle 210 may have a pull handle 258. In some embodiments, the pull 258 includes a recess in the top and/or bottom surface. In some embodiments, the pull 258 includes a hole (e.g., a through hole) in the support surface 234 or the body 220.

In some embodiments, the body 220 includes a recess 254. The recess 254 may be located at any other suitable location of the body 220. For example, in some embodiments, the recess 254 is formed on an underside of the body 220, such as below the support surface 234. The recess 254 may be configured to provide rigidity and/or strength to the plate 210. In some embodiments, the recess 254 includes a rigid member to enhance the strength of the plate 210.

In some embodiments, the vehicle 210 has a steering system 298. The steering system 298 may include an axle 246. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 24 and 26, the axle 246 is positioned toward the front end of the plate 210. In some embodiments, plate 210 may include a similar axle and steering system toward the rear end of plate 210. Axle 246 may connect wheels 228R, 228L.

As shown, steering system 298 includes axle bearing surface 248 and/or pivot member 250. In some embodiments, axle 246 slides and/or rotates within surface 248 and/or about pivot member 250. The axle 246 changes direction, allowing steering of the plate 210. In various embodiments, axle bearing surface 248 includes a channel or groove in the bottom surface, such as within plate 210. The channel may be substantially V-shaped, U-shaped, or any other suitable shape. Axle bearing surface 248 may receive axle 246 and may guide and/or retain axle 246 to facilitate rotation of plate 210. Axle 246 is movable relative to and within axle bearing surface 248. In some embodiments, axle bearing surface 248 may be positioned at an angle to pivot member 250. In some embodiments, the axle bearing surface 248 may be single-sided, or multi-sided or curved. In some embodiments, the axle bearing surface 248 may extend substantially from one end of the axle 246 to the other end or from one wheel to the other.

In some embodiments, axle bearing surface 248 is removable, such as for replacing or changing the turning characteristics of the vehicle due to wear, or for other reasons including aesthetics. In some embodiments, the pivot member or its contact surface with the axle 246 is removable. Different shapes and materials and the hardness and/or resiliency of the materials may be used for the support surface and the pivot member and pivot member surfaces as desired, such as for different rotational or performance characteristics.

Pivot member 250 may have a narrow contact area for contacting axle 246, such as having a triangular cross-section, or some other shape that presents a narrow or sharp surface to the axle. Suitable other shapes include shapes having cross-sections related to or including square, rectangular, pentagonal, teardrop, circular, or other shapes. Narrow or sharp surfaces may also be truncated. In some embodiments, pivot member 250 may be a portion that protrudes from another portion (e.g., a support surface, a body, or another portion).

In some embodiments, pivot member 250 provides a substantially single pivot axis. In some variations, pivot member 250 comprises an extended pivot member 250. The extended pivot member 250 may be shaped such that the point or area of contact between the axle 246 and the pivot member 250 moves toward the inside of a turn when the plate 210 is tilted, for example, by the user moving his or her weight laterally on the plate 210.

The curved form of extended pivot member 290 is depicted in fig. 40. In some embodiments, curved, extended pivot member 290 and axle bearing surface 248 may be separated to some extent, for example, using a gap or intermediate material that is flush with the surface of pivot member 290 and/or axle bearing surface 248, or that protrudes or is recessed from the surface of pivot member 290 and/or axle bearing surface 248.

In operation, as the rider leans or otherwise turns, the support surface 234 will lean, with one edge of the support surface 234 moving toward the axle 246 and the other edge moving away from the axle 246. As shown in fig. 42, as support surface 234 tilts, axle 246 will move its contact area with pivot member 290 to a new area closer to the edge of the side of support surface 234, where the edge of support surface 234 moves toward the axle. The axle movement causes the axle 246 to pivot in unison with a portion of the pivot axis in a plane substantially parallel to the top of the running or support surface 234, with the wheel 228R or 228L at one end of the forward moving axle and the wheel 228L or 228R at the other end of the forward moving axle, thereby creating a turning effect relative to the direction of travel. Depending on the position and orientation of axle bearing surface 248 and pivot member 290, the steering direction and magnitude of the steering action are varied, e.g., made more sensitive and less sensitive, to rotate inwardly along bearing surface 234 toward the direction of tilt or compression of axle 246, or away from bearing surface 234 toward the direction of tilt or compression of axle 246. As the rider moves position to move in different directions, the contact area of the axle 246 with the pivot member will also move, with the axle 246 contacting different points along the pivot member associated with the curvilinear interface of the pivot member and the axle bearing surface.

In some embodiments, the pivot member may be a pin or a rod. In some embodiments, the axle shaft 246 may include a cover over at least a portion of its surface, and the pivot member may contact an exterior or interior of the cover portion of the axle shaft 246. The pivot member may be a pin projecting from the center of the axle 246 at a right angle or another angle relative to the axle 246. The pin may protrude into a hole or cavity formed in the middle portion of the inclined axle-bearing surface. In some embodiments, more than one pin may be used.

For simplicity, a simple rectangular extending pivot member 250 is shown in fig. 39, but rounding of the block occurs when pivoting of the axle 246 away from its position perpendicular to the long axis of the conveyor, creates an offset from the axle 246 at the center of the support surface 234. A suitable curved extending pivot member 290 is depicted in fig. 40. In some embodiments, the extended pivot member is attached to axle 246, rather than being molded as part or rigidly fixed to a fixed portion, such as a portion of a support surface or a spring-loaded surface.

In some embodiments, the support surface may be a continuous or discontinuous surface. Suitable discontinuous surfaces include those consisting of a number of separate surfaces or surfaces interconnected with different or recessed materials. The respective surfaces may be made of similar or dissimilar materials. The respective surfaces may be flat, curved, rounded, rectangular, regular, interlocking, non-interlocking, or any other suitable shape as desired. In some embodiments, the surface of the pivot member may be a continuous or discontinuous surface. In some embodiments, a continuous bearing surface may be used with a pivot member having a discontinuous surface, or a discontinuous bearing surface element may be used with a pivot member having a continuous surface, or both the bearing surface and the surface of the pivot member may be continuous or discontinuous. In some embodiments, the pivot member or bearing surface may be comprised of a series of individual portions, for example in the form of ridges protruding from the support material or individual portions. Examples of discontinuities in the surfaces of the support surface and pivot member are shown in fig. 40-42. For example, in fig. 41, the axle-bearing surface and pivot member surface are formed by a network of openings formed by a plurality of struts having a material spacing and thickness sufficient to resist the associated forces from the axle.

As shown in fig. 41, in some embodiments, the pivot member may be disposed at an angle to the support surface, such as where the support surface and the surface of the pivot member intersect at an angled apex 268.

The axle 246 is prevented from sliding laterally relative to the longitudinal axis of the bearing surface 234. This can be achieved in various ways. In one embodiment, the cylindrical pin is welded to the axle shaft 246 or threaded into a cavity within the axle shaft such that the central axis of the cylindrical pin passes through a central region of the axle shaft. The pins project from the axle and fit into holes formed in corresponding portions of the inclined axle bearing surface 248. In some embodiments, a pin may be used as the pivot member. In some embodiments, the axle shaft 246 may be positioned by two disks that fix the fixed axial position of the shaft between the wheels 228L, 228R and the outermost edges of the inclined axle bearing surfaces 248 of the bearing surfaces 234.

In some embodiments, the axle 246 may be a solid or unitary cylinder. In some embodiments, the axle 246 may be non-solid, multi-part, or other shapes than a cylinder. The axle 246 may have any other cross-sectional shape, including square, rectangular, variable, etc., and the axle 246 may be hollow, multi-part, monolithic, etc. In some embodiments, the axle 246 may have one or more holes, cavities, indentations, extensions, protrusions, or other shape features, such as for receiving springs, pins, axle retention devices, etc., or for other purposes, such as contacting a bearing surface or pivot member. In some embodiments, a second material (e.g., a polymer or aluminum composition) may be molded onto the axle to form an axle block in the region between the wheels 228R, 228L. Alternatively, the axle block may be formed from a single material, with a cylindrical axle portion formed from a second material or the same material extending from both ends. In some cases, the axle block may include a flat surface that sits flush against the inclined axle bearing surface 248, or another shaped surface that may engage a similar or coincident surface of the axle bearing surface 248, which (in some embodiments) may reduce friction on these surfaces. In some embodiments, other features are needed to hold the axle 646 and wheels horizontally and vertically, and can be easily molded into the axle block. For example, the center locating pin may be transverse to the axle shaft, or the locating washer may be molded as part of the axle block.

FIGS. 43-46

Fig. 43-46 show other embodiments of an electric personal mobility vehicle, such as a pair of roller skates 300. The skate 300 may include a powered skate 380 and a non-powered skate 382. The pair of wheel skates 300 includes features of the vehicle 10, 210, 410. The skate may include any of the features of the motorized mobility system described in U.S. patent application publication No.2018/0015355, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As shown in fig. 43, the pair of wheel skates 300 may be configured to ride sideways, e.g., in a direction of travel that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the user's foot. In some variations, each of the powered and unpowered roller skates 380, 382 may include a first wheel on a first end of the roller skate and a second wheel on a second end of the roller skate opposite the first end. The first and second wheels of the skate 380, 382 can be spaced from one another such that, in use, the first wheel is disposed on one side of a user's foot and the second wheel is disposed on the other side of the foot. The longitudinal axes of the skate 380, 382 and the longitudinal axis of the skate's wheels may be parallel. The longitudinal axis of the skate 380, 382 and/or the longitudinal axis of the skate's wheels may be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the user's foot. In some variations, as shown in fig. 45, each wheel may have an axis of rotation that is not disposed below the foot bed portion of the skate 380, 382, which may advantageously allow for a low profile skate and/or a low center of gravity. For example, the axis of rotation of each wheel may be disposed on the side of the foot bed portion of the skate 380, 382. In some embodiments, a portion of the or each wheel may extend above a foot bed portion of the skate 380, 382 (e.g., a portion for receiving a user's foot).

In some embodiments, powered roller skate 380 is a leading roller skate and non-powered roller skate 382 is a trailing roller skate. In some embodiments, the non-powered roller skate 382 is a leading roller skate and the powered roller skate 380 is a trailing roller skate.

As shown in fig. 46, the electric skate 380 includes a drive assembly 344. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 344 may be separate from the body 320 of the skate 380. The body 320 may include a support surface, such as a footbed. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 344 may include a motor 332 and a power source, such as a battery 336. In some embodiments, the battery 336 may be separate from the drive assembly 344. The drive assembly 344 may include a transmission, such as one or more gears that functionally couple the motor 332 and the drive wheel 322. The drive wheel 322 may be located at the rear or front of the skate 380. As shown, the electric skate 380 may include a controller 345, a charging port 388, and/or a power switch 389. In some embodiments, the powered skate 380 includes a wired or wireless control actuator (e.g., joystick) that communicates with the controller 345 to control the motor 332.

In various embodiments, the powered skate 380 includes a sensor 314. The sensor 314 may be configured to receive input from a user and communicate with the controller 345 to control the operation of the skate 380. For example, in some embodiments, sensor 314 senses pressure on body 320 by the user's foot, which may be used to enable driving of wheel skate 380. In some embodiments, sensor 314 comprises a kill switch. In some embodiments, sensor 314 detects the amount of pressure applied to body 320 by the user. In some embodiments, in response to the signal from the sensor 314, the controller 345 modulates the speed at which the motor 332 drives the wheel 322.

Some terms

Some terminology is used in the description for the reference only and thus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as "above" and "below" refer to directions referenced in the drawings. Terms such as "front," "rear," "left," "right," "rear," and "side" describe the orientation and/or position of components or parts of components within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, and the invention may be best understood by reference to the text and associated drawings describing the component or part in question. Moreover, terms such as "first," "second," "third," and the like may be used to describe individual components. These terms may include the specific words mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

Conditional language, e.g., "may," "might," "such as," and the like, as used herein, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include or exclude certain features, elements, and/or descriptions unless expressly stated otherwise or understood otherwise in the context of the usage. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that one or more embodiments are in any way required for features, elements, and/or descriptions or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether there is an input or a prompt or that such features, elements, and/or descriptions are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

Articles in the singular, such as "a," "an," and "the," include plural referents unless expressly specified otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to an item includes one or more items. The terms "a" or "an" refer to one, two or more, and are generally applicable to the selection of some or all of the numbers. The term "plurality" means two or more. The terms "about" or "approximately" mean that the quantity, size, dimensions, formulations, parameters, shape, and other characteristics need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art.

For convenience, a number of items may be listed in a general list. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique identifier. Thus, no single element of the list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other element of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common list without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms "and" or "are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be interpreted broadly, as any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term "alternatively" refers to the selection of one of two or more alternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listed alternatives or to only select one of the alternatives at a time, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The terms "proximate", "about" and "substantially" as used herein mean an amount close to the stated amount that still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, in some embodiments, the terms "proximate," "about," and "substantially" may refer to an amount that is less than or equal to 10% of the recited amount, as the context permits. The term "generally," as used herein, means a value, amount, or characteristic that predominantly includes or is intended to refer to that particular value, amount, or characteristic. By way of example, in certain embodiments, the term "substantially parallel" may refer to from completely parallel to less than or equal to 15 degrees, as the context permits.

In general, the language of the claims will be construed broadly based on the language employed in the claims. The language of the claims is not intended to be limited to the non-exclusive examples and embodiments shown and described in the present disclosure or to the examples discussed during the prosecution of the application.

Summary of the invention

Various electric mobility systems and vehicles have been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples above. However, the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In particular, although the motorized mobile system has been described in the context of illustrative embodiments, certain advantages, features, and aspects of the motorized mobile system may be realized in a variety of other applications. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modifications. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described herein.

In addition, various aspects and features of the described embodiments can be implemented separately, combined together, or substituted for one another. And various combinations and subcombinations of features and aspects may be implemented and still fall within the scope of the invention. Certain features that are described in this disclosure can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation, in the context of separate implementations. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features of a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as any subcombination or variation of any subcombination.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. The figures are drawn to scale, but such scale should not be limiting as dimensions and proportions other than those shown are contemplated and within the scope of the invention. Distances, angles, etc. are exemplary only and do not necessarily have an exact relationship to the actual dimensions and layout of the devices shown. Components may be added, removed, and/or rearranged. Moreover, the disclosure herein of any particular feature, aspect, method, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, etc., associated with various embodiments can be used in all other embodiments set forth herein. Additionally, any of the methods described herein may be practiced using any apparatus suitable for performing the recited steps.

In summary, various embodiments and examples of an electric mobility system and a vehicle have been disclosed. Although these improvements have been disclosed in the context of those embodiments and examples, the present disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or other uses of the embodiments, as well as certain modifications and equivalents thereof. The present disclosure expressly contemplates that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by the particular embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.