Seated Collapsible Vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a Seated Collapsible Vehicle. The user can fold it and carry it as a trolley whenever needed and can be used as a vehicle by unfolding it. The vehicle can be powered by an external source like motor or an engine or by human power. The vehicle comprises of a front armature connected to the rear armature by a hinge. The rear armature also comprises retractable fork for the rear wheel. The rear armature also comprises the saddle armature, mounted over a hinge. The saddle armature mounts saddle with the help of saddle mounting mechanism. Front armature comprises a encloser for battery and electronics, the foot rests are also mounted on front armature for resting legs while riding. Front fork comprises front wheel and rotatable mounted on front armature with the help of bearings. Front fork has an extension rod which mounts handlebar at other end. The extension rod can extend and retract for the purpose of folding and dragging invention like a trolley.

Claims

1. A seated collapsible vehicle assembly, comprising: a front armature (1) being provided at least one; a paddling system (PS) and an electric powertrain; wherein the front armature (1) mounts a front fork (10) being connected to a selectable rigid or retractable handle, the handle (6) being comprised either of a foldable handlebar (7) or a rigid handlebar; a rear armature (2) at an angle through a hinge (H1) provided with locking mechanism (L1) to rigidly sustain the angle; wherein the rear armature (2) being connected with the retractable rear fork (3) and mounts saddle armature (4), the said saddle armature mounts a saddle (5) by a saddle mounting mechanism (L5) and supported by a means (14) wherein the saddle armature (4) is adapted to be positioned roughly parallel to the rear armature (2) in a collapsed configuration through a saddle armature locking mechanism; the front fork (10) and retractable rear fork (3) mounts wheel powered or non-powered; and retractable attachments are retracted inside in collapsed configuration; characterized in that the front fork (10) and the retractable rear fork (3) accommodate a locking mechanism (L6) for locking the wheel in aligned position while the whole structure is in collapsible configuration; and the fixed or retractable handle (6) is optionally extended out for forming a trolley structure having handle; and wherein the user may sit on saddle (5) collapsed or expanded configuration.

2. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means (14) to absorb vibration is selectable from a nylon strap, any metallic or non-metallic material with elastic properties.

3. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front fork (10) and the retractable rear fork (3) accommodate lock (L3) and (L4) respectively, to secure the assembly in place, selectable from pins or fastening mechanisms or a quick release clamp provided with a spring button for indexing of retractable attachments.

4. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear armature (2) and front armature (1) is configured with a locking mechanism (L1) selectable from pins or fastening mechanisms or a first lock (LA1) and a second rotatable lock (LB2) and a spring strip (SS) to hold second rotatable lock (LB2), which is in mesh with the first lock (LA1).

5. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the saddle armature locking mechanism in collapsed configuration is selectable from magnet or slit in a spring strip (SS) is configured to mesh with a grove in the saddle armature (4) or any fastening mechanism.

6. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the saddle armature (4) accommodates the saddle mounting mechanism (L5) selectable form magnets or fastening mechanisms or a rectangular spring strip with protrusions, which meshes with holes, both inside the saddle armature (4) and the saddle (5) to secure the saddle in place.

7. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, the front fork (10) and the retractable rear fork (3) consist a locking mechanism (L6) for locking the wheel in aligned position while the whole structure is in collapsible state selectable from a magnet or a u section meshes with a square pipe with holes to mesh spring button or fastening mechanisms.

8. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the paddling system (PS) is configured to drive the vehicle, and comprised of a pulley (9P) to guide a rope (9R), a wheel with recoiling module and paddles.

9. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rear armature (2) and the front fork (10) are provided with a suspension system being divided into three sections: Fork, spring and pipe, wherein the fork and the pipe are in mesh with a rib in order to stop relative motion and the spring is used for reducing shocks.

10. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the saddle armature (4) mounts a leaf spring (81) connected to the means (14), acts as a member to absorb vibrations while riding.

11. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the foldable rods (71) and (72) sustain the angle between the front armature (1) and rear armature (2), the lock within two rods assists to act as rigid member.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0020] The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and processes that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:

[0021] FIG. 1 shows: A Perspective side view of the invention in an expanded configuration, ready for a user to ride.

[0022] FIG. 2 shows: A Perspective side view of the invention in collapsed configuration.

[0023] FIG. 3a shows: A side view of invention. Saddle at an angle with saddle armature.

[0024] FIG. 3b shows: A side view of invention. Saddle at perpendicular with saddle armature.

[0025] FIG. 4 shows: Another exemplary embodiment in expanded configuration with a nylon strap (means).

[0026] FIG. 5 shows: A locking mechanism in expanded configuration.

[0027] FIG. 6a shows: An intermediate collapsed configuration.

[0028] FIG. 6b shows: Another collapsed configuration showing structure as a trolley.

[0029] FIG. 6c shows: Another collapsed configuration showing folded handlebar and saddle mounting mechanism.

[0030] FIG. 7 shows: Another exemplary embodiment introducing suspension mechanism.

[0031] FIG. 8 shows: Another exemplary embodiment introducing hybrid mechanism and leaf spring suspension.

[0032] FIG. 9 shows: The front wheel and paddling system in exploded view.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0033] While the embodiments of the disclosure are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof have been shown by way of example in the figures and will be described below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[0034] The present invention makes a disclosure regarding a technology pertaining to a seated electric vehicle.

[0035] Reference may be made to FIG. 1 indicating a perspective side view of the invention in an expanded state, ready for the user to ride. The front armature (1) is connected to the rear armature (2) by hinge (H1). rear armature (2) can rotate with respect to front armature (1), as hinge (H1) forms a rotational joint between the two. Rear armature (2) is in mesh with the retractable rear fork (3). They together form a rotatory curn sliding joint helps in collapsing vehicle. Retractable rear fork (3) mounts the rear wheel (12). The rear armature (2) mounts the saddle armature (4), mounted by the hinge (H2). The saddle armature (4) mounts saddle (5) on the saddle mounting mechanism (L5). Front fork (10) constitutes a retractable handle (6) that mounts handlebar (7) at other end. Front armature (1) comprises encloser (8) encloses battery and electronics, the foot rests (9) are mounted on the front armature (1) for resting legs while riding. Foot rest (9) can folded by rotating in upward direction. The rear wheel (12) is an electric hub motor.

[0036] Front fork (10) rotatable mounted on front armature (1) by means of bearings and comprises front wheel (11). Handlebar (7), handle (6), front fork (10), front wheel (11) in mesh with front armature (1) forms a steering system for the vehicle. The handle (6) can extend and retract for the purpose of folding. The lock (L3) is used to lock handle (6) in place in expanded and collapsed configurations. Handlebar (7) can be further folded.

[0037] The lock (L1) helps to lock the acute angle between rear armature (2) and front armature (1). It comprises of a lock pin and holes to insert pin. Together the mesh forms a lock to hold the angle.

[0038] The lock pin (L2) helps to lock rotation and sliding between rear armature (2) and retractable rear fork (3). In expanded configuration, the holes in rear armature (2), retractable rear fork (3) and lock pin together form a mesh for the purpose. The rear armature (2) and retractable rear fork (3) together with lock (L2) form a load bearing member.

[0039] The rear armature (2) also mounts the saddle armature (4). Rotatable mounted by the hinge (H2) at an angle to the rear armature (2) and supported by a means. It folds along the rear armature (2). The hinge (H2) holds it from further rotation of saddle armature (4). The saddle (5) is mounted on saddle armature (4) by saddle mounting mechanism (L5), the mechanism comprises a disk (13) at an angle for the purpose of changing the angle of saddle (5) when collapsing, by rotating it. Saddle (5) and angled disk have an axially rotatable joint.

[0040] The saddle armature (4) and rear armature (2) can also incorporate a suspension system for the purpose of smooth riding. Also rear armature (2) and rear armature (3) can also form a suspension for the purpose of comfort.

[0041] Referring FIG. 2. Shows the collapsed view of the invention. The front armature (1) and rear armature (2) are parallel to each other. Retractable rear fork (3) is retracted inside the rear armature (2). The saddle (5) is rotated half a circle, it become perpendicular to saddle armature (4) by saddle mounting mechanism (L5). Both the front wheel (11) and rear wheel (12) becomes parallel to each other as retractable rear fork (3) and rear armature (2) have a rotatable linkage. Saddle armature (4) is a U section folds about hinge (H2), it overlaps rear armature (2). handle (6) retracts inside front fork (10) and handlebar (7) is further folded. Lock (L3) is used to keep handle (6) in desired position. Foot rests (9) are folded upward and becomes parallel to front armature (1).

[0042] The retractable rear fork (3) comprises a plate which meshes with hook in front fork (10) and with Lock pin (LP) together in forms a lock (L6). Lock (L6) keep both wheels' parallel, retains retractable rear fork (3) inside rear armature (2), restricts from retracting out.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b are the two position of saddle describes the saddle mounting mechanism (L5). In 3a saddle (5) is mounted on angled disk (13). Angled disk (13) is rotatable mounted on saddle armature (4). The saddle (5) and saddle armature (4) are at an angle. In 3b the saddle (5) is rotated half a circle and perpendicular to saddle armature (4). The angled disk (13) provides a change in orientation of saddle (5), which helps in achieving portability and a saddle position to sit in collapsed configuration.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2. The procedure to collapse invention is described. Foot rest (9) folds upward and parallel to front armature (1). The lock (L3) is detached, the handle is retracted inside front fork (10) which in mounted in front armature (1). Further handlebar (7) is collapsed. the saddle (5) is rotated to change the angle as shown in FIG. 3a, 3b. The lock pin (L2) is removed retractable rear fork (3) retracts into rear armature (2). The lock pin is detached from lock (L1). Front fork (10) and retractable rear fork (3) are rotated. Front wheel (11) and Rear wheel (12) becomes parallel to each other. A plate from retractable rear fork (3) meshes with hook from front fork (10) and a lock pin (LP) is inserted, together forms a rigid lock (L4). The saddle armature (4) is rotated about hinge (H2) and saddle armature (4) becomes parallel to rear armature (2). A magnet or any retracting mechanism is used to hold in place. The invention is collapsed configuration needs minimum space to store.

[0045] To drag invention like a trolley handle (6) can be extended out to purpose a handle for trolley. Both the front wheel (11) and rear wheel (12) together act as wheels of a trolley.

[0046] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 4, the front armature (1) mounts two bearing for mounting the front fork (10). The front armature (1) mounts an enclosure for batteries and electronic circuitry, the controller (15) and the footrest (9). The front fork (10) mounts front wheel (11) which could be powered or non-powered.

[0047] The front fork (10) houses retractable handle (6). They together form a rotatory curn sliding joint helps in collapsing vehicle, connected by means quick release clamp (L3) and a spring button aids indexing purpose of the handle (6). The spring button is a simple pin with a spring attached. The circular slots in front fork (10) and the extension fork (6) meshes with spring button thus helps in indexing. By pressing spring button user can retract the handle. Handle (6) mounts the foldable handlebar (7).

[0048] The foldable handlebar (7) has nut & threads mechanism to attach both pipes straight in expanded configuration to act as a handlebar to ride; could collapse when needed.

[0049] The front armature (1) also mounts a rear armature (2) through a hinge (H1). Both front armature (1) and rear armature (2) contains a locking mechanism (L1) to rigidly sustain the angle.

[0050] The rear armature (2) has retractable rear fork (3) for mounting rear wheel (12). They together form a rotatory curn sliding joint helps in collapsing vehicle. The retractable rear fork (3) has quick release clam (L4) to lock relative motion. Spring button solves indexing of retractable rear fork (3). Retractable rear fork (3) mounts wheel (12) powered or non-powered. The rear armature (2) also accompany mounting for seat armature (4).

[0051] A foldable stand (S) is provided to maintain vertical stance of vehicle both in collapsed and expanded configuration.

[0052] The seat armature (4) can rotate over the mounting by means of hinge (H2). The hinge (H2) constitutes hollow pin and bush mechanism. The seat armature (4) is supported by a nylon strap (14). Saddle (5) is connected to saddle armature (4) by saddle mounting mechanism (L5).

[0053] Referring to FIG. 5, The locking mechanism consist of lock (L1A) and rotatable lock (L1B) and a spring strip (SS) which is in mesh with rotatable lock (L1B). The rotatable lock (L1B) also mounts the nylon strap (14). (L1A) & (L1B) both in mesh locks the angle. The spring strip (SS) acts as a means to keep lock (L1B) in place and also holds seat armature (4) when folded. The nylon strap (5) is mounted on lock (L1B), in expanded configuration keeps (L1B) in mesh. Hinge (H1) holds front armature (10) and rear armature (2) together. (L3) the quick release clamp helps in fastening handle (6) to front fork (10). Bearing (B) is used to provide relative rotational motion between front armature (1) and front fork (10).

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 6a & 6b, represent method for collapsing the invention. The rear wheel (12) is rotated by right angle. The quick release (L4) on rear armature (2) is released to retract rear fork (3) inside rear armature (2), after that seat (5) is rotated for half a circle to change orientation perpendicular to saddle armature (4). The handle (6) is rotated by a right angle. The lock (L1) is released by pressing Spring strip. As front armature (1) is lifted to straight, the lock (L6) clamps. Both wheels (12) & (13) are in same plane, desired to achieve trolley. After that seat armature (4) is rotated upward and becomes parallel to rear armature (2).

[0055] Now the front quick release clamp (L3) is released. The handle (6) is collapsed inside.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 6c. The saddle armature locking mechanism is used to secure seat armature (4) in collapsed configuration. A slot in spring strip (SS) meshes with the latch in seat armature (4). The handlebar (7) mounts the throttle, brake lever and digital display for information. The (7) is collapsed unscrewing the bolt and thread mechanism, both the parts of handlebar are folded downward.

[0057] The seat mounting mechanism (L5) responsible for aligning seat in expanded and collapsed configuration. The system consists of rectangular having protrusions meshing inside the holes in seat pillar and seat post. Thus helps to sustain position of saddle in both configurations.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 7. In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the suspension system (74) and (75) is introduced. The front fork & rear fork is divided into three section. Fork, spring & pipe. The fork and pipe are in mesh and spring helps in reducing shocks. A rib is provided between the two to stop relative motion.

[0059] The locking system for maintaining acute angle is achieved by two rods (71) & (72). The rod (71) is hinged with front armature (1). The rod (72) is hinged with retractable rear fork (3) through a clamp (73), (73) rotatable linkage with retractable rear fork (3). Both rods (71) and (72) hinges at center, have a lock to act as a straight member in loading conditions. While in collapsed configuration (71) and (72) lifts upward to collapse. The front armature (1) mounts nylon strap (14).

[0060] Referring to FIG. 8. In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the seat armature (4) fastens a leaf spring (81) connected to nylon strap (14). The spring act as member to absorb vibrations while riding.

[0061] The embodiment also consists of a paddling system (PS) converts human energy into motion. Utilization of both electric and human energy makes this vehicle hybrid. The (91) and (92) are paddles.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 9. The (91) and (92) are paddles to support legs and to transfer energy. Paddles are connected to rope (9R) to transmit force. The rope (9R) passes through guide pulley (GP), (GP) guides the rope. The rope (9R) is attached on pulley (9P). (9P) act as a member to convert force exerted by rope to rotational motion. The pulley (9P) is attached to one way bearing (9B). One way bearings transfers rotation in one direction only same as ratchet mechanism. A recoiling spring is attached between the front fork (10) and pulley (9P). As the paddle (91) is pressed the rope (9R) transfers force to pulley (9P). The pulley (9P) rotates in clockwise direction. One way bearing (9B) transfers the motion. The wheel (11) rotates and propel the vehicle. The recoil spring (9S) stores the energy, as the foot is lifted from the paddle. The spring recoils and restores the position of pulley (9P) and paddle (91), the one way bearing (9B) does not transmit the rotation motion in this direction. Both paddles (91) and (92) in conjunction propels the vehicle forward.

[0063] While the embodiments of this invention are shown and described, it is understood that further variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of invention.

[0064] Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention, which for infringement purposes is recognized as including equivalents to the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the “invention” may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the “invention” will refer to subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims.

[0065] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the appended claims.

[0066] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particulars claim containing such introduced claim recitation to inventions containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogue to “at least one of A, B and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B”.

[0067] The above description does not provide specific details of manufacture or design of the various components. Those of skill in the art are familiar with such details, and unless departures from those techniques are set out, techniques, known, related art or later developed designs and materials should be employed. Those in the art are capable of choosing suitable manufacturing and design details.

[0068] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated that several of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined into other systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may subsequently be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as encompassed by the following claims.