GB2406315A - Light personal vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The vehicle has three wheels, the single front wheel 1 being steered and powered. It supports a standing or nearly standing rider on a platform 4 that is very close to the ground and has an extension 7 to the riding platform behind the rear wheels 5 to prevent backward toppling of the vehicle and to allow the rider to dismount easily. As this vehicle is intended primarily for use by semi-disabled persons, an automatic speed limiting device is incorporated to make it comply with common legal requirements governing the use of vehicles on pavements and pedestrian areas. The steered front wheel 1 can be pivoted 360{. The vehicle can be folded with rear wheels 5 close to the steering column 2; the platform 4 may have small wheels at the front to support the folded vehicle.

Description

24063 1 5 DESCR1P191011 Title: IMPROVEMENTS TO LIGHT PERSONAL TRANSPORT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

I'his invention relates generally to the field of personal transport vehicles and specifically to improvements to such vehicles so that they can be used legally, safely and conveniently in pedestrian areas by disabled and semi-disabled people in particular. 'I'he vehicle typically has a tricycle configuration with a driven and steer able front wheel and two smaller rear wheels supporting a very low platt'orrn that is designed to accommodate a standing rider. The use of the vehicle is primarily in buildings and paved pedestrian areas such as shopping malls, railway stations and exhibition halls.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are an increasing number of large vehicle-free urban areas such as shopping malls, stations, exhibition halls and city centres. Able bodied people and disabled people in wheel-chairs have access to these areas but there are many people who are not confined to wheel-chairs but do find walking more than a short distance both difficult and tiring. 'Ibis invention relates to improvements to powered vehicles intended for those who are able and prefer to stand upright while travelling. l claim a number of novel features and advantages over the existing art. It is also intended that the vehicle is modular and adjustable so that the position of the handlebars, the wheels and platform type, can all be matched to the user and their particular application or needs.

KNOWN AND PRIOR ART

Powered and non-powered vehicles and buggies with three and wheels are well known in the fields of disability transport. Some have features that are common to the disclosed invention but none have the combination of features and improvements that make this type of vehicle safe, convenient and legal for use in pedestrian areas.

Industrial platt'orm trucks, road going personnel carriers and recreational scooters for children and adults are all known designs, and do not exhibit the novel combination of improved features disclosed here that are necessary to make such 'vehicles' legal, safe and convenient for the user. Where a platform is used for a standing rider, it is at a considerable height above the ground, making dismounting difficult or dangerous for anyone with walking difficulties. 'Ihe disclosed improvements show a platform that is very close to the ground and so constructed that dismounting is achieved by simply sliding the foot backwards in a continuation of the normal reflex action that prevents a person from falling over.

Three wheeled scooters for disabled persons having a powered front wheel are only for seated passengers and have a platform that is usually obstructed to the rear by the battery compartment or seat fixings. 'I'he front wheel assembly can only be rotated through a limited arc, so it is difficult or impossible to manoeuvre in very confined spaces such as 'lifts'. Examples of this type of vehicle include the 'I'GA and Aquasooth Scooters manufactured in the OK.

Also known arc the type of scooter declared in invention EP0588353 which has the two rear wheels driven and a front wheel that is steered. 'I'he passenger is seated and the platform is obstructed to the rear by the batteries and motor drive but such buggies typically have electronic speed limiting controls to comply with vehicle regulations and projections or 'Jockey wheels' to prevent 'rearing'.

A vehicle named the 'Runner-168' by its manufactures Elcbike in Taiwan is of similar concept but comprise a chassis, cover moulding and large rear wheel, all of which presents significant obstructions and hazard to a dismounting semi-disabled rider. No speed limiting controls are provided so they cannot be used legally in pedestrian areas in most countries, no platt'orm extension or folding capability is offered, rendering then difficult to dismount, dangerous and awkward.

I'atent (,B2306925 discloses a trolley specifically adapted to carry a golfer and golf bag. There is no specific speed limiting control' as there is no legislation that requires such t'or its use on golf courses. The platform, although similar to the one declared in this invention is supported by large 'Grass friendly' wheels and the rear of the platform would not prevent 'rearing' Patent US 6267190 discloses a vehicle of tubular construction with rear wheel drive and control means other than speed limiting and no rearward extension of the platform to prevent 'rearing'.

Patent US 3872945 discloses a powered walker for disabled standing riders which has rear wheel steering and no facility to dismount rapidly in an emergency.

Patent FR2733187 discloses a powered golf cart with numerous configurations but without means to prevent rearing and without speed limiting controls.

Patent G12282355 discloses a motorised personal transport vehicle without speed limiting controls and without a riding platform that prevents rearing.

Industrial platt'orm trucks with three wheels are known. They are also known to have a powered and steer able front wheel but the construction and purpose is different and electric drive is not used. If provision is made for seating, it does not provide for a near standing rider or a clear platform to the rear of the rider's fact.

Industrial lift trucks are known but which lack the specific provisions for a standing or near standing rider or they have a single steered and or powered rear wheel or the platt'orm to the rear of the rider's feet is obstructed.

I'hree wheeled scooters for children and recreational purposes arc known and arc provided with and without seats.

Those without seats and with a clear platform behind the rider's feet are not powered by the front wheel or have provision for 360 degree steering of the front wheel.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

General: 'Ibis type of vehicle gives the rider much better visibility of such items as information boards, art exhibitions and other standing people. The prejudice that is shown, usually un-intentional, towards seated disabled people is much less apparent when communications between the rider and other pedestrians is conducted at or near eye level. Access to the upper shelves in super-markets, ticket machines and cash dispensers, much easier and sal'er from a vehicle as herein described.

Specific: The disclosed improvements to this type of vehicle include its very narrow platform, having a width that is similar to or even narrower than the rider. 'Ihe riding is almost intuitive as the 'footprint' of the unit does not intrude on other pedestrians and there is little tendency to collide with obstructions because the rider has similar dimensions to the buggy. This Blows free access through supermarket checkout alleys, the use of lifts, lavatories and other confined areas not especially modified t'or disabled people but where conventional buggies and wheelchairs would have difficulty. The buggy can be used within the confines of a railway sleeping car corridor which can be as little as 450mm wide. The 'turning circle' is very small and the near upright riding position and low unobstructed platform makes it easier to dismount from the vehicle normaly or in an emergency. The disclosed 'folding system' can be operated from a standing position and allows the buggy to be stowed upright or trailed like luggage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

finis vehicle is intended for use by standing semi-disabled people and to comply with the legal requirements for operating in pedestrian areas (Class 2 Invalid Carriage in the united Kingdom). Modifications are possible to make it suitable for higher speeds and other environments but it is intended that it should be a 'pedestrian compatible' device being no faster than the average walker and taking up little or no more space than a normal pedestrian. It is intended to blend in with other able- bodied people and give access over relatively short distances of a few thousand metres in buildings and pedestrian areas.

The platform is extended to the rear of the wheels so that the rear edge comes in contact with the ground if the front wheel is lifted more than about 10 degrees off the ground. This could occur if the vehicle 'ran away' down a steeply sloping surface such as a door threshold. 'fine rear edge of the platform could he manufactured in rubber or an elastic material so as to provide a braking action in the event of the vehicle 'rearing, or by deliberate pressure from the riders foot on the rubber strip. The low platform makes it possible to supplement the power from the motor on a steep incline such as a doorway threshold, using ones foot, as you would with a kick-scooter. Stability is achieved by the rider standing with his or her fleet slightly apart and very close to the rear wheels, such that the centre of gravity is well within the three wheels. Stability is enhanced by keeping the heavy items such as the motor and battery, as low as possible. The platform may also carry or contain the battery or power source within its structure or supported on it in an enclosure'l'he standing platform can comprise two smaller units, one for each toot and each provided with a small wheel. An active suspension system could be included to improve stability, in particular for levelling the unit when driving across a slope. Sensing might employ the use of a gyroscope.

The electronic control system comprises a single integrated unit controlling all aspects of the vehicle and;LS usage or a number of discrete control units each having a specific function and being interconnected with or communicating with other units as appropriate. The control and monitoring functions include: Ground speed has to be regulated by the rider for safety and functionality. A control loop is incorporated which limits the motor input power and or provides a braking action if the ground speed is greater than uha which is legally allowed and defined by a multi-position switch on the vehicle control panel and or a reference source programmed into the control system and accessed by the 'Cenural Processing Unit' CPU. An input signal is derived fi om an accelerator in the form of a 'twist grip' 'touch sensitive surt'ace' or 'handle'. This controls the speed and possibly the direction of the vehicle. The control system also receives a signal related to motor speed which is directly related to uhe ground speed.

In functionality the control is similar to known designs used on conventional 'Invalid Carriages'. 'Ihis control function is fail sat'e, in that removal of the fingers from the controlling element will result in the vehicle coming to rest in an appropriate manner.

Motor temperature can be monitored so that short term overloads can be accommodated without the risk of overheating or damaging the motor.

Battery condition can be monitored to prevent damage, indicate the state of charge and indicate the short term capability of the system in terms of current drain. Additional functions including battery life and charging characteristics can also be incorporated into the control system.

It is envisaged that the light construction will require the extensive use of some or all of these materials: aluminium, titanium, composites and large mouldings in plastic. It is envisaged that a semi-disabled person can assemble, move and stow the vehicle in a car boot, train or other transport without additional help. The vehicle can be lifted with one hand or f'oldcd and trailed like wheeled luggage. Should the rider fall off the vehicle. overturn it or collide with another person or object. there is less likelihood of injury or damage being caused to people or the vehicle because it is so light, typically less than 20 kg.

The front wheel drive prevents the vehicle from bucking when the motor switches on. Where the powered front wheel is barrel shaped, additional stabil ity is achieved if the tricycle heals over to the point where the outer rim of the barrel grounds. In such circumstances the point of ground contact is farther away from the centre of gravity.

The large diameter of the front wheel and it being driven, much improves its ability to climb obstructions and give a generally safer ride. A fender or protection bars are envisaged to protect the wheels and pedestrians in the event of a collision. A fitment or bracket is envisaged to enable the vehicle to push a supermarket trolley or similar unit containing consumer purchases or for the transport of goods, postal items, maintenance materials or similar items.

Regenerative braking could be applied to the system in order to govern the speed on downward slopes.

Mechanical power could be provided wholly or partly from the rider by means of a rocking platform or platforms, sometimes referred to as a 'surfing bike' drive system. Such a system uses chains, sprockets and one way clutches in the drive. Most conveniently this would be to the rear whecis of the platform. It is envisaged that the vehicle could have a range of attachments including baskets, boxes, seats and weather protection. Other sources of electrical power are envisaged, which include 'fuel cells'. Other sources of power are envisaged which include compressed air, liquid nitrogen, dry ice and hydro-carbon fucis. Mechanical variable speed drives are also possible and provision may also be made for the changing of gear ratio to match the specific rider and or site conditions. A flexibic cable outside the headstock bearing or within the pivoting tube connects to the controls on the handlebars.

Brakes can be provided to any of the wheels but pret'erably to the rear ones to reduce the possibility of skidding and a one-way or 'spray' clutch could be provided to prevent the buggy running back when the power is switched off when going up a slope. A method of disengaging the transmission is envisaged for occasions when it is necessary to move the buggy without power. Wider wheels can be provided t'or use on soft level ground. 'Pine addition of suspension, active or passive will determine the ride and stability as will the wheel size and type of tyre.

A system of folding, whereby forward facing projections on the riding platform come into contact with the ground when the riding platform is folded up according to (FIG 5), so that it form a stable upright assembly with a handle at the top. Small wheels can be provided instead of the projections to make it easy to trail the folded unit using the extended steering column as a handle. A loop can be provided in the handlebars to make this more comfortable.

Clips, straps or fastenings can be provided to keep the unit in its folded position. A locking pin is provided in the steering system for engagement when the unit is folded and a locking mechanism is provided for the main folding hinge between the platform and the steering column. A cover or bag can be manufactured to fit over the folded assembly, which would help containing the various parts and protecting against the weather and tangling with other items when in transit. Other associated items such as a scat or a carrier basket can be made to fold or stow alongside the main unit. 'I'he controls and cables pass through a hollow steering column and arc not tangled or damaged during the folding process.

Its use as a recreational vehicle t'or semi-disabled people is envisaged. 'I'his would include ball games such as polo.

A scat can be provided if it does not obstruct the platform unduly or make rapid dismounting (which is a major feature of this invention) less easy. A seat that folds away when the rider is in a standing position is preferred The saddle can be specially modified to a similar design as a horse riding saddle, to give extra comt'ort, because there is no need for peddling which necessitates the sides of the saddle being cut away. The saddle can also be made so that it can swivel to facilitate mounting end dismounting.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

1. It combines the safety of being able to step off the vehicle from a standing position, with an electronic speed limiter without which a vehicle of this type cannot legally be used in the UK and most other developed countries.

2. It allows the rider to have 'eye level' contact with other pedestrians and cause minimal inconvenience.

3. It enables the rider to see notices fixed at high level and to view exhibitions and local environment.

4. ACCeSS to supermarket shelves, ticket office windows and at shop checkout tills are all improved.

5. Access to pedestrian areas such as stations, exhibitions and shopping malls are all improved and legal.

6. It results in reduced fatigue for semi-mobile riders who would otherwise have to walk.

7. It opens up the possibility of new sporting activities such as indoor polo.

8. Reduced weight when compared to other buggies makes the transfer to other types of transport (Car, train, acroplane or boat) much easier for the loan traveller.

9. Areas that may currently by inaccessible such as lifts, lavatories telephone booths and shops, should be accessible because of the very tight turning ability and very small footprint.

10. 'I'he vehicle is easily folded vertically to make it compact and convenient for storage.

PREFERRED OR OPTIONAL FEATURES OF THE INVENTION

The Layout that is preferred has a single steered and powered wheel at the front that can be rotated through a large arc if not the complete 360 degrees.

Construction materials for the vehicle must he strong and light; thin steel, aluminium, titanium and composites are all envisaged. Light batteries such as Ni-MH are envisaged in addition but not to the exclusion of more traditional lead acid Sl A types.

Handlebars are positioned for an upright rider and the need for rests can he catered for with a seat or saddle that is almost at standing height, allowing the rider to change position easily while stationary or on the move.

The riding platfonn comprises a 'gooseneck' structure from the 'headstock' assembly which may he provided with a socket, hinge or similar device to enable the unit to be dismantled, folded or altered nor transport, stowage or adaptation for other purposes. 'I he gooseneck is fixed to or part of the floor-pan of the trailed platform, which may be cast, fabricated, moulded or pressed to form a light, strong and low level platform which is typically less than 30mm from the floor level. A hinge and securing catch is provided where the 'gooseneck' meets the platform so that the platform can be folded upwards to meet the handlebars.

The riding platform is very close to the ground because it is intended for paved areas and smooth floors. fee preferred platform slopes towards the rear so that the rider's weight can easily be transferred onto the toes to aid balance and if necessary, to transfer weight onto the front driving wheel.

I'he riding platform is unobstructed to the rear of the rider's feet, so that the rider can slide his or her feet straight onto the ground.

the rear edge of the riding platform is extended as a continuation of the footplate, so that it grounds in the event of the vehicle 'rearing-up'. This can occur on steep gradients up or down or where the rider pulls backwards on the handlebars. The rear edge of this extension would be manufactured in a flexible rubber or plastic material so that on contact with the ground it provides a wearing surface that also improves braking. In the preferred arrangement this flexible element can be bent downwards by the rider foot so that it makes contact with the floor, thus providing a braking force without making the vehicle rear-up.

I he rear wheels are smaller than the front driving wheel so as to allow the rider to dismount quickly. It also makes the structural integrity with the platform better since the shaft level is higher than the platform.

The powered front wheel can be in the form of a wheel motor and remote battery which is able to rotate with the handlebars or cylinder containing the motor, transmission, battery and controls. The motor and its associated battery are low down and forward of the rider, which improves stability by keeping the eentre of gravity low. The battery and or the complete drive assembly could be removable.

The front wheel assembly can be rotated through 360 degrees to give good manoeuvrability and reverse' without the need to reverse the motor. To achieve this it is necessary lor the steering geometry to have little or no 'caster angle' and for there to be enough room for the front wheel and/or motor, to clear the vehicle frame. I here also has to be provision for the electrical controls and brake cable to pass through the eentre of the 'headstock' bearing or have 'slip-rings' and or other systems to prevent the controls from becoming tangled or damaged. 'I'he simplest system would use a very flexible cable to achieve 360 degrees of rotation before having to reverse the action. 'the riding position makes very easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces and electronic motor control allows very easy slow transport in supermarket check-out queues.

Electronic variable speed controls will be fitted, which provide speed control and speed limiting so that the vehicle can legally be used on pavements and pedestrian areas by a disabled or semi-disabled person. In the prcDerred embodiment the controls provide monitoring and instrumentation which would indicate some or all of the following parameters: battery charge, terminal voltage, running current, watt-hours charged, watt-hours discharged, distance travelled, reserve capacity, motor temperature, battery temperature, motor control, regenerative braking, and immobilization. A fail-safe system would be employed, whereby releasing the throttle brings the buggy to rest, with or without applying a brake. Battery charging is also monitored by the electronic controls. The preferred speed control is a touch sensitive pad over which the finger is moved to change the speed and which will stop the vehicle if the finger is removed. A fail-safe switch or key is provided to prevent inadvertent starting or theft.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A specific embodiment of this invention is illustrated in Figs I - 4 and comprises a powered wheel, I which is connected by a steering column 2 to the handlebars 3. This assembly rotates in a bearing 6. The powered wheel is attached to a riding platform 4 so that the rider can place his or her feet close to the back wheels 5 to get maximum stability. The platform extension 7 is shown close to the ground. A speed control unit 8 is operated by the rider and also provides speed limiting to meet legal requirements.

Fl(, I shows the rider in a standing position on the vehicle with an external battery pack, FIG 2 shows the vehicle from behind without the rider.

FIG 3 shows the vehicle in front elevation.

FIG 4 shows a side elevation.

FIG 5 shows the vehicle with platform folded up to the handlebars.

FIG 6 shows the folded vehicle being trailed on its jockey wheels.

Claims (33)

1. A number of improvements to personal transport vehicles having wheels, one or more of which are driven by an electric motor or prime mover and having provision for steering some of the wheels, combined with the following improvements relating to safety, convenience and legal usage in pedestrian areas: A low level platform with wheels that is designed to accommodate a standing or near standing rider, that is a similar width to the rider, has no significant obstruction to the rear or side and extends behind the wheels of said platt'orm to t:acilitate the dismounting ol' the rider and prevent backwards toppling (rearing) of the vehicle.

An electronic control system as required by law in many countries that limits the ground speed of the vehicle so that said vehicle can he legally used on pavements and pedestrian area by disabled or semi- disabled persons.

2. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which a single powered and steered front wheel is a self-contained unit comprising a powered wheel, steering column, handlebars controls and headstock bearing which can be rotated through a large angle up to 360 degrees of rotation.

3. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim two, having a pair of driven wheels in such close proximity that they can be steered from a single pivot point like a single wheel.

4. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim two in which the front driving wheel contains the battery and/or motor.

5. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the platform is sloping towards the rear wheels to facilitate dismounting and balance.

6. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the axle of the rear wheels is above the level of the adjacent platform.

7. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which a seat or saddle is provided t'or the rider to use while riding or resting.

8. A seat as described in claim 7 in which provision is made so that it can be rotated easily to facilitate dismounting or changing position.

9. A seat as described in claim 7 in which provision is made so that it can be folded away and not compromise the riders ability to dismount quickly in an emergency.

10. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which provision is made in the platform or frame for folding and or demounting components so as to make it easier to transport or stow.

11. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which a fender or 'bull-bar' is provided around all or part of the wheel or wheels for the purpose of protecting the vehicle and pedestrians in the event of a collision.

12. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is a suspension system.

13. A personal transport vchicic as described in claim one in which the motor and/or the battery unit are detachable.

14. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the control cables and/or power cable pass down through the main steering pivot in order to protect them and prevent them from becoming tangled.

15. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is a braking system t'or use while riding or parking the vehicle.

16. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the rear of the riding platform is made of rubber or elastic material so as to provide a braking action when forced against the ground by the vehicle rearing' or the passengers weight deflecting the strip downwards in relation to the platform as a deliberate means ol'braking.

17. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there arc additional electronic controls to provide all or some of the following functions, information about battery charge, distance travelled, motor control, regenerative braking, recharging and immobilization

18. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the wheels are interchangeable according to the use to which the vehicle is being put.

19. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is a one way 'spray' to prevent the vehicle from moving backwards when the power is stopped.

20. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is provision to de-clutch the drive so that the vehicle can be pushed or pulled manually.

21. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the motor control is tail sate. such that releasing the hand or f nger from the control ler brings the vehicle to rest.

22. A personal transport vehicle according to claim one in which the electrical speed control affixed to the handlebars can be operated by either hand.

23. A personal transport vehicle according to claim 21 in which the speed control is achieved with a touch sensitive pad over which the riders finger is moved to control the vehicle.

24. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which a mechanical' electro-mechanical or re- generativc braking system is fitecd.

25. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which a mechanical or electronic variable speed control system is fitted.

26. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is a gyroscopieally controlled stabilization or weight transfer system.

27. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the rider vehicle obtains some or all of its power from the movement of the rider via mechanical, electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic linkages.

28. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is provision for attaching a load carrying basket or frame.

29. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which there is provision lor towing a trailer or item of wheeled luggage.

30. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which another source of power is provided to the front wheel of said vehicle.

31. A personal transport vehicle as described in claim one in which the gear ratios in the drive train may be altered.

32. A vehicle as described in claim one in which modifications are made for recreational and sporting uses such as racing or indoor games.

33. A personal transport vehicle substantially as described herein with reference to figure I of the accompanying drawings