GB2595916A

GB2595916A - Motorized kick scooter

Info

Publication number: GB2595916A
Application number: GB2008896.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Desmond John; Brown Carson; Adey Richard
Original assignee: Taur Tech Ltd
Current assignee: Taur Tech Ltd
Priority date: 2020-06-11
Filing date: 2020-06-11
Publication date: 2021-12-15
Also published as: GB202008896D0

Abstract

A motorized kick scooter 1 which, when in a folded configuration, can be positioned to have three points of contact with a horizontal floor. The handlebar provides two points of contact 12A, 12B, with a wheel arrangement 14C providing a third point of contact. The centre of mass C of the motorized scooter 1 is configured so that, when the scooter 1 is positioned to have three points of contact with a horizontal floor, it has a horizontal position lying within the triangle defined by the three points of contact.

Description

MOTORIZED KICK SCOOTER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of kick scooters, and in particular to motorized kick scooters.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Motorized kick scooters are effectively a "kick scooter" or "stand-up scooter" with a motorized wheel that provides propulsive power. To operate the motorized kick scooter, a user typically stands upright upon a foot platform and controls a speed via a user input interface (e.g. a throttle lever or twistgrip). A motorized kick scooter should be distinguished from "motor scooters" or simply "scooters", which are a type of motorcycle comprising a seat.

Thus, motorized kick scooters are usually seatless.

Typically, a motorized wheel for a motorized kick scooter comprises a petrol/gas motor or an electric motor, which is controlled in response to a user input to drive a wheel. Recent trends indicate that electric kick scooters, comprising an electric motor, are more popular than those comprising a petrol/gas motor, as they are more environmentally friendly, easier to control and less dangerous in use.

There has been an increasing interest in the use of motorized kick scooters within urban environments, e.g. cities or towns, to provide a cheap and simple way for quick transportation about urban environments.

However, an ongoing problem with motorized kick scooters is the difficulty in storing a motorized kick scooter when it is not in use. Typically, a scooter is configured to be foldable, to reduce its overall size. The scooter could then be placed into a stand or other storage facility.

There is a desire for a motorized kick scooter that is easy to store with reduced floorspace or floor area requirements

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is defined by the claims According to examples in accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a motorized kick scooter for transporting a user across a ground surface.

The motorized kick scooter comprises: a frame formed of first and second portions; a folding mechanism configured to enable an angle between the first and second portions of the frame to be adjusted; a handle for supporting a hand of the user, coupled to the first portion of the frame, the handle providing first and second contact points for contacting a ground surface; a foot platform adapted to support at least one foot of the user, coupled to the second portion of the frame and/or being formed from at least part of the second portion of the frame; a first wheel arrangement, comprising a first wheel, coupled to the second portion of the frame; a second wheel arrangement, comprising a second wheel, coupled to either the first or second portion of the frame, wherein at least one of the first and second wheels are motorized.

The motorized kick scooter is configured to enable the motorized kick scooter to be placed in at least a folded configuration, in which the handle and first wheel arrangement are positioned with respect to one another such that, when the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than (i.e. greater than or equal to) 0.3 times the distance between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and a horizontal position of a center of mass of the motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within a triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement The invention provides a motorized kick scooter that can be stored in a compact manner, so that the total floorspace or floor area occupied by the motorized kick scooter (when stored) can be reduced whilst maintaining stability during storage The present invention is directed towards enabling a scooter that can be stored upright, where the handle and a wheel arrangement of the scooter contact the ground to provide stability. The present invention particularly relates to methods of providing a scooter that is stable when stored in this manner, e.g. for ease of static storing or for transporting the motorized kick scooter on public transport. This provides a scooter that can be stored vertically, without the need for additional components or frameworks for storing the scooter.

In particular, the motorized kick scooter is configured to be foldable, by use of a folding mechanism. The motorized kick scooter is also designed and arranged so that, when in a folded configuration, a center of mass of the motorized kick scooter lies above a triangle defined by contact points of a handle and a contact point of a wheel arrangement. In other words, the handle and the first wheel arrangement provide a three-point contact with the ground surface, thereby defining a triangle, and the center of mass of the scooter is vertically above this triangle. This allows the scooter to be stored upright, with the handle and first wheel arrangement contacting a ground surface, whilst remaining stable (i.e. being less likely to unintentionally fall over).

By ensuring that the points of contact of the handle and the point of contact of the second wheel are suitably proximate to one another, the floorspace occupied by the motorized kick scooter can also be reduced.

Of course, the motorized kick scooter may be configured to be placed in an unfolded configuration, in which the user can operate the motorized kick scooter (e.g. ride upon the motorized kick scooter). Preferably, when in the folded configuration, the user may be unable to ride upon the motorized kick scooter, e.g. the motorized wheel may be deactivated. Of course, the motorized kick scooter may comprise other components for controlling the operation of the motorized kick scooter, such as a user input interface (for enabling a user to control a speed of the motorized kick scooter) and/or a control mechanism adapted to control the operation of the motorized wheel(s), e.g. in response to an input at the user input interface, and/or a braking mechanism adapted to response to user input to brake the first and/or second wheels.

The skilled person would be capable of selecting appropriate parameters (e.g. dimensions such as length, height, width or depth), weights, configurations, positions, orientations, relative positions and/or other properties for the various elements of the motorized kick scooter to achieve the desired position for the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter (when in the folded configuration).

In some embodiments, an appropriate position for the center of mass can be achieved by configuring the motorized kick scooter so that (when it is in the folded configuration) a distance between a contact point of the handle and the folding mechanism is equal (within a margin of error, e.g. +2% or +1%) to a distance between the point of contact of the wheel arrangement and the folding mechanism. This can be achieved through appropriate selection of the size, configuration and/or arrangement of the first and/or second portions of the frame, the handle and/or the wheel arrangement The areas of the handle that form the contact points may be reinforced, coated/ covered in protective material to reduce long term damage to the scooter resulting from repeated storage. In some examples, the areas of the handle that form the contact points may be substantially flat, to increase a stability of the motorized kick scooter. The areas of the handle that form the contact points may be dedicated areas of the handle (e.g. and may be free from (electrical) control components used for controlling speed of the motorized kick scooter, such as a brake lever or throttle).

In some embodiments, the folding mechanism is configured such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, the distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.5 times the distance between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

The motorized kick scooter may further comprise a locking mechanism operable when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration, the locking mechanism being adapted to operate in (i.e. be switchable between): a locked configuration, in which the locking mechanism prevents the first portion of the frame from rotating with respect to the second portion of the frame; and an unlocked configuration, in which the locking mechanism allows the first portion of the frame to rotate with respect to the second portion of the frame.

In some examples, the locking mechanism may only be operable when the motorized kick scooter in the folded configuration. For example, the locking mechanism may be an element that directly couples the first portion to the second portion to prevent rotation of the first and second portions (where the direct coupling can only occur when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration).

In some embodiments, the handle comprises: a base structure for connecting to the first portion, the base structure being for supporting a hand of the user; a first handle protective element positioned on the base structure, the first handle protective element providing the first contact point for the handle; and a second handle protective element positioned on the base structure, the second handle protective element providing the second contact point for the handle.

Providing handle protective elements aids in preventing or reducing deterioration of the handle during (repeated) storage. In particular, the handle protective elements may act to reinforce areas of the handle that regularly come into contact with the ground surface (i.e. during storage), to reduce damage to the handle.

In at least one example, the first and second handle protective elements each comprise a grip for the handle. In some examples, the first and second handle protective elements each comprise a protruding element that protrudes from the base structure.

In some embodiments, the handle comprises a first handle portion for supporting a first hand of the user and a second handle portion for supporting a second hand of the user, wherein: an angle between the first handle portion and the first portion of the frame is greater than 900; and an angle between the second handle portion and the first portion of the frame is greater than 90°.

Angling the handle portions means that an end of the handle may be the element of the handle that comes into contact with the ground surface. This enables protective elements to be positioned at an end of the handle (for improved user comfort -as they will typically not grip an end of the handle) or for additional elements (e.g. scooter control mechanism) to be positioned on the handle whilst reducing a likelihood that these additional elements will be damaged when placing the motorized kick scooter on the floor.

The first wheel arrangement may further comprise a wheel protective element adapted for contacting a ground surface. Providing a wheel protective element ensures that the wheel itself is not damaged or affected during storage (e.g. if the stored motorized kick scooter is accidentally knocked), thereby maintaining a ride quality of the motorized kick scooter.

The first wheel arrangement may comprise a mudguard for the first wheel, and the wheel protective element may be mounted upon or formed from the mudguard.

The second wheel arrangement may be coupled to the first portion and positioned such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, the first wheel arrangement does not lie in a same vertical axis as the second wheel arrangement. Thus, when in a folded configuration, the first and second wheel arrangements may be offset from one another.

In some examples, the second wheel arrangement is positioned such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal position of the second wheel arrangement is positioned to lie within the triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement The size of the second wheel, the position of the folding arrangement, the size of the first portion, the size of the second portion, the structure of the foot platforms and the structure of the handle may be configured such that, when in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal position of a center of mass of the C) motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within a triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

In some embodiments, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.3/0.5 times: the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement In some embodiments, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.5 times: the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement Optionally, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is between 0.5 and 2 times the size of: the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

Optionally, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement is between 0.5 and 2 times the size of a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the first contact point of the handle; and a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the second contact point of the handle.

This configuration can reduce the likelihood that the center of mass is close to an edge of the triangle, thereby reducing the chances that a slight knock would cause it to fall over. In other words, this embodiment can help avoid a lopsided weight distribution. It was something that we briefly discussed in the original meeting, according to my notes at least. Even more preferably, the range of 0.5 and 2 times for this embodiment is replaced by a range of between 0.7 and 1.2 times, and more preferably between 0.9 and 1.1 times.

In some examples, the motorized kick scooter further comprises a wheel locking mechanism adapted to dampen (and/or prevent) rotation of the first wheel when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration. In embodiments in which the first wheel arrangement contacts the ground surface (when stored upright), this feature will reduce the likelihood that the first wheel will roll during storage, and thereby increase a stability of the motorized kick scooter and decreasing a likelihood that the scooter will fall over.

The second wheel may be motorized. In other examples, the first wheel is motorized. In yet other examples, both the first wheel and the second wheel are motorized. These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example only, to the 20 accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 illustrates a motorized kick scooter in an unfolded configuration; Figs. 2 and 3 illustrate a motorized kick scooter in a folded configuration; Fig. 4 illustrates a virtual triangle created by contact points of a motorized kick scooter in an embodiment; Fig. 5 illustrates a portion of a motorized kick scooter; Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate a handle for a motorized kick scooter; Fig. 8 illustrates a motorized wheel for use in a motorized kick scooter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The invention will be described with reference to the Figures.

It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, systems and methods, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus, systems and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings It should be understood that the Figures are merely schematic and are not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used throughout the Figures to indicate the same or similar parts.

According to a concept of the invention, there is proposed a motorized kick scooter which, when in a folded configuration, can be positioned to have three points of contact with a horizontal floor. The handle provides two points of contact, with a wheel arrangement providing a third point of contact. The center of mass of the motorized scooter is configured so that, when the scooter is positioned to have three points of contact with a horizontal floor, it has a horizontal position lying within the triangle defined by the three points of contact.

Embodiments are at least partly based on the realization that a storage footprint of a motorized kick scooter can be reduced by providing a kick scooter that can be stored in an upright position when folded, whilst remaining stable. The present invention proposes to use two points of contact on the handle, and a point of contact with a wheel arrangement, to define the contact with a floor, and position a center of mass appropriately so that the motorized kick scooter is stable when in this configuration.

Illustrative embodiments may, for example, be employed in motorized kick scooter designed for the urban environment, in which motorized kick scooters may occasionally need to be transported by the user (e.g. due to space or location-based restrictions, such as on a train) or where a storage footprint for a motorized kick scooter is at a premium.

In the context of this disclosure, a vertical axis/plane is an axis/plane that contains the local gravity direction. A horizontal axis/plane is any axis/plane perpendicular to a vertical plane. A non-inclined ground surface (i.e. a flat ground surface) can be modelled/approximated as lying in a horizontal plane, so that a "horizontal ground surface" is a ground surface that can be modelled/approximated as lying in the horizontal plane.

A "horizontal distance" is a distance along a horizontal axis, and a "vertical distance is a distance along a vertical axis.

Figure 1 illustrates a motorized kick scooter 1, for transporting a user, according to an embodiment of the invention.

The motorized kick scooter comprises a frame 10 formed of a first portion 10A (o first frame portion-) and a second portion 10B (or "second frame portion").

The first 10A and second portions 10B are connected together via a folding mechanism 11. The folding mechanism 11 is configured to enable an angle between the first 10A and second 10B portions of the frame 10 to be adjusted with respect to one another. Here, the folding mechanism 11 effectively acts as a hinge to facilitate folding of the first 10A and second 10B portions of the frame 10.

The motorized kick scooter 1 further comprises a handle 12, for supporting a hand of the user. The handle 12 is coupled to the first portion 10A of the frame 10. In particular, the handle 12 may be coupled to a distal end of the first portion 10A of the frame.

The motorized kick scooter also comprises a foot platform 13 adapted to support at least one foot of the user. In the illustrated example, the foot platform 13 is formed as an aspect of the second portion 10B of the frame 10. However, the foot platform 13 may instead be a separate element coupled to the second portion 10B of the frame.

The motorized kick scooter further comprises a first wheel arrangement 14. The first wheel arrangement 14 is coupled to the second portion 10B of the frame 10 (e.g. via a first wheel coupling element 14B). The first wheel arrangement 14 comprises a first wheel 14A. The motorized kick scooter also comprises a second wheel arrangement 15, comprising a second wheel 15A. The illustrated second wheel arrangement 15 is coupled to the first portion 10A of the frame 10 (e.g. via a second wheel coupling element 15B). However, in other embodiments, the second wheel arrangement may be coupled to the second portion 10B of the frame, e.g. the second wheel coupling element 15B may connect to the second portion of the frame instead of the first portion 10A of the frame.

The first portion 10A of the frame may comprise a steering column for the second wheel 15A, so that a user can manipulate or rotate the handle 12 (and thereby the first portion 10A) to control a direction of the second wheel. In this way, the user can manipulate/control the direction of the overall motorized scooter.

In the illustrated example, the first portion may comprise a steering column 10C, which connects the handle 12 to the second wheel 15A, and a steering column support 10D, which connects the steering column 10C to the folding mechanism 11, whilst allowing the steering column 10C to rotate with respect to the steering column support (e.g. using one or more bearings or a similar arrangement). Other arrangements for providing a steering column will be apparent to the skilled person (e.g. the steering column support may be only indirectly connected to the folding mechanism 11).

At least one of the first 14A and second 15A wheels are motorized, i.e, are driven by a (electric) motor. An example of a suitable motorized wheel will be described later. It will be apparent that the motorized kick scooter 1 further comprises components for powering one or more of the wheels of the motorized kick scooter. Thus, the motorized kick scooter may further comprise one or more electric motors (which may be formed in a wheel or externally to the wheel), a battery arrangement (for powering the electric motor(s)), control circuitry and/or a user interface for enabling a user to control a speed of the motorized kick scooter.

By way of example, the motorized kick scooter may further comprise a user interface for receiving a first user input indicative of a desired speed of the motorized kick scooter. The user interface may comprise a throttle lever (or twistgrip) and optionally a brake lever, wherein activation of the throttle lever/twistgrip indicates a desired speed or increase in speed (with activation of the optional brake lever indicating a desired reduction in speed). The user interface is preferably positioned in/on the handle for ease of access and control by the user riding the motorized kick scooter.

The operation and configuration of such elements is standard practice in the art of motorized kick scooters, and the skilled person would readily envisage various mechanisms for implementing such elements. However, the presence of such control/power elements is not essential to achieving the underlying concept of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure proposes to configure the motorized kick scooter (in particular, at least the folding mechanism) so that the motorized kick scooter 1 can operate in or be placed in a folded configuration. Of course, this implies that the motorized kick scooter 1 can also operate in an unfolded configuration (i.e. the configuration illustrated by Fig. 1).

The unfolded configuration may be a "riding configuration", i.e. a configuration in which the motorized scooter operates when transporting a user across a ground surface. The folded configuration may be a "storage configuration", i.e. a configuration for storing the scooter with a low footprint.

Figs. 2 and 3 provide views of the motorized kick scooter in a folded configuration. Fig. 2 provides a side illustration, and Fig. 3 provides an isometric illustration of the motorized kick scooter 1 in a folded configuration.

When in the folded configuration, the angle between the first 10A and second portions 10B is reduced, compared to when operating in the folded configuration. Thus, the handle 12 is brought to be more proximate to the first wheel arrangement 14 when in the folded configuration than when in the unfolded configuration (illustrated by Fig. 1).

When in the folded configuration, the motorized kick scooter I can be positioned or oriented so that two contact points 12A, 12B of the handle 12 (first 12A and second 12B contact points) and the first wheel arrangement 14 can make contact with a ground surface 20 lying in a horizontal plane -a "horizontal ground surface". The first wheel arrangement 14 makes contact with the ground surface at a point of contact 14C. This positioning is perhaps best illustrated by Fig. 2.

This position can be labelled the "three-point contact position", as there are (at least) three points of contact between the horizontal ground surface and the motorized kick scooter.

In embodiments, when in the three-point contact position, it is assumed that the first and second contact points of the handle are equidistant (within a margin of error, e.g. +2% or +1%) from the point of contact of the wheel arrangement. This can be achieved, for example, by arranging the first and second wheels to point in a same direction, e.g. lie in the same vertical plane or in parallel vertical planes.

In this way, the motorized scooter 1 can be positioned to be substantially vertical.

The motorized kick scooter 1 is configured so that, when in this position and in the folded configuration, a distance di between the two (first and second) contact points of the handle is no less than 0.3 (preferably, no less than 0.5) times the distance 1:19, (13 between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

In more preferable embodiments, the motorized kick scooter 1 is configured, so that when the motorized kick scooter in the three-point contact position, a distance di between the two (first and second) contact points of the handle is no less than 0.3 (preferably, no less than 0.5) times the distance d3 between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement and no less than 0.3 (preferably, no less than 0.5) times the distance d3 between the second contact point of the handle In some examples, when in this position and in the folded configuration, a distance di between the two (first and second) contact points of the handle is no more than 2 times the distance ch, d3 between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

In some examples, when the motorized lack scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance di between the first 12A and second 12B contact points of the handle 12 is between 0.3/0.5 and 2 times the size of the distance d2 between the first contact point 12A of the handle 12 and the point of contact 14C between the ground surface 20 and the first wheel arrangement 14; and the distance d3 between the second contact point 12B of the handle 12 and the point of contact 14C between the ground surface 20 and the first wheel arrangement 14.

Achieving these distance limitations can be realized through appropriate configuration, placement and design of the components of the motorized kick scooter 1. In particular, it is recognizes that the placement of the folding mechanism 11 (e.g. relative to the overall motorized scooter), the sizes of the first and second portions 10A, 10B of the frame and/or the structure/configuration of the handle 12 define the relative position of the handle 12 to the first wheel arrangement and the distance between the handle 12 and the first wheel arrangement (when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration). However, the skilled person will recognize other properties that would affect the relative position of the handle to the wheel arrangement (such as the size of the first wheel 14C).

Thus, one or more of these properties of the motorized kick scooter may be appropriately designed or selected so that the contact points of the handle are positioned sufficiently proximate to the motorized kick scooter when it is in the folded configuration.

Thus, the two contact points 12A, 12B of the handle and the point of contact 14C of the wheel arrangement with the ground surface form a (virtual/hypothetical) triangle T. The point of contact 14C of the wheel arrangement may be the contact patch of the wheel 14 (as illustrated), although other examples will be described later. The vertices of this triangle are defined by the positions of the contact points 12A, 12B of the handle and the point of contact 14C of the wheel arrangement with the ground surface 20.

Thus, when the motorized kick scooter 1 is in the folded configuration, and is positioned in the three-point contact position, then a virtual triangle T is formed in/on a horizontal plane on the horizontal ground surface.

The motorized kick scooter is further configured so that a horizontal position of the center of mass C of the motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within the triangle T, when the motorized kick scooter 1 is in the folded configuration, and is positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface. In other words, if a virtual line is drawn from the center of mass C along a vertical axis (i.e. in the direction of gravity), then this line will intersect or cross through the virtual triangle T. Positioning the center of mass C in this manner results in a motorized scooter that is stable when positioned in a substantially upright orientation, reducing the floor space occupied by the motorized scooter (e.g. when stored) whilst ensuring that it is stable.

Thus, the present disclosure proposes a concept of configuring the center of mass of the motorized scooter so that its horizontal position lies within the triangle T when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface The virtual triangle T is also illustrated by Fig. 4, which provides a top-down projection of the virtual triangle (e.g an illustration of the horizontal plane in which the virtual triangle T lies).

Fig. 4 also illustrates the first 12A and second 12B contact points of the handle and the point of contact 14C between the first wheel and the ground plane. Fig. 4 clearly illustrates the relationship between the distances of the contact points.

An example horizontal position of a center of mass C is also illustrated Turning back to Figs. 2 and 3, the present disclosure recognizes that various approaches can be used to configure the horizontal position of the center of mass within this virtual triangle T. A number of these approaches can be used to achieve this technical recognition, and the present disclosure is not considered to be limited to a specific one or combination of the proposed approaches.

For example, the length of the first and/or second portions of the frame 10 will affect the relative angle of the motorized kick scooter when the scooter is in the folded configuration and the contact points 12A, 12B of the handle and the point of contact 14C is in contact with a horizontal ground surface -and therefore affect the horizontal position of the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter.

Thus, in some embodiments, the length of the first and/or second portion may be selected so that the center of mass of the motorized scooter is configured so that its horizontal position lies within the triangle T when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface.

As another example, the position of elements of the motorized kick scooter with respect to the frame (e.g. batteries for powering the motorized kick scooter) will affect the horizontal position of the center of mass. For example, with reference to Fig. 2, if batteries for powering the motorized kick scooter are positioned in/on the first portion 10A of the frame, then the horizontal position of the center of mass will be more to the left than if the batteries for powering the motorized kick scooter are positioned in/on the second portion 10B of the frame.

As yet another example, it will be understood that the size of the first wheel 14A will affect the horizontal position of the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter 1 when it is in a folded configuration and placed in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface. The angle of the overall motorized kick scooter with respect to the horizontal place will change as the size of the first wheel 14A changes, thereby causing the horizontal position of the center of mass C to change. For example, with reference to Fig. 2, if the first wheel 14A is made smaller (whilst maintaining the three-point contact position), then the kick scooter will be angled more to the right (causing the center of mass C to shift to the right).

Similarly, if the first wheel 14A is made larger (whilst maintaining the three-point contact position), then the kick scooter will be angled more to the left (causing the center of mass C to shift to the left).

The skilled person would be capable of selecting appropriate parameters (e.g. dimensions such as length, height, width or depth), weights, configurations, positions, orientations, relative positions and/or other properties for the various elements of motorized kick scooter to achieve the desired position for the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter when it is in the folded configuration and positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface.

Of course, other factors may also be taken into account when designing a motorized kick scooter having a center of mass meeting these requirements.

For example, the relative ground clearance of the foot platform (e.g the distance between the users foot and the ground surface in an unfolded configuration) may define or control the selection of the length of the first portion 10A of the frame (to ensure the handle 12 is provided at a comfortable height for riding).

Generally, the motorized kick scooter may be adapted so that the size of the first wheel, the position of the folding arrangement, the size of the first portion, the size of the second portion, the structure of the foot platforms and the structure of the handle are configured such that, when in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal position of a center of mass of the motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within a triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

In some embodiments, an appropriate position for the center of mass can be achieved by configuring the motorized kick scooter so that a distance between a contact point of the handle and the folding mechanism is equal (within a margin of error, e.g. +2% or +1%) to a distance between the point of contact of the wheel arrangement and the folding mechanism. This approach may require appropriate selection of the sizes of the first and/or second portions and/or the size of the wheel arrangement and/or handle In the illustrated example, the motorized scooter is configured so that the first wheel arrangement does not lie in a same vertical axis as the second wheel arrangement when the motorized scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position.

In the illustrated example, when the motorized scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position, the motorized scooter is also configured so that a horizontal position of the second wheel arrangement lies within the triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.

In some examples, the first portion 10A of the frame 10 may have an adjustable length, e.g. be telescopic. As previously described, adjusting the length of the first portion will affect the horizontal position of the center of mass C of the motorized scooter (when the motorized scooter is in the three-point contact position).

Where the first portion has an adjustable length, the first portion 10A may be configurable to be fixed or secured (automatically or by a user) at a first length (an "appropriate length") in which the horizontal position of the center of mass C falls within the triangle defined by the contact points of the handle and the first wheel arrangement with the ground surface (when the motorized scooter is in the three-point contact position).

The motorized scooter may be provided with one or more elements for aiding the first portion to be fixed at the first length. For example, an indicative mark may be provided that visually indicates when the length of the first portion is in the appropriate length. In another example, a biasing element (such as a spring) may provide a physical indication of when the length of the first portion is an appropriate length.

As another example, a clipping/fixing mechanism may automatically activate when the first portion reaches the first length. As an example, if the first portion 10A of the frame is telescopic, i.e. formed from a first part that slides within a second part to adjust a length, the first part may comprise a biasing element (e.g. spring) that pushes a fixing element into a complimentary receiving element (e.g. a hole) of the second part when the first portion 10A reaches the first length. A user may need to push against the fixing element to allow the length of the first portion to be re-adjusted.

In other examples, the length of the first portion 10A of the frame 10 may be fixed.

To improve stability of the motorized kick scooter (when in the folded configuration and positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface), the motorized kick scooter may comprise a locking mechanism.

The locking mechanism is operable when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration. In particular, the locking mechanism may be adapted to operate in: a locked configuration, in which the locking mechanism prevents the first portion of the frame from rotating with respect to the second portion of the frame; and an unlocked configuration, in which the locking mechanism allows the first portion of the frame to rotate with respect to the second portion of the frame.

Thus, when the locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, the first portion of the frame may be unable to rotate with respect to the second portion of the frame (i.e. unable to unfold).

Examples of a locking mechanism include: a strap (e.g. for securing the first portion 10A of the frame to the second portion 10B of the frame); a clip (for clipping the first portion of the frame to the second portion and/or the first wheel); a folding mechanism restrictor (e.g. a mechanism introduced into the folding mechanism, such as a ratchet, for preventing a rotation of the first and second portions) and/or other locking approaches.

Another mechanism for improving a stability of the motorized kick scooter, when the point of contact 14C of the first wheel arrangement 14 is on the first wheel 14A of the first wheel arrangement, is the use of a wheel locking mechanism. A wheel locking mechanism may be configured to dampen or prevent a rotation of the first wheel 14 when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration. This reduces a likelihood that the first wheel will rotate (e.g. causing the motorized kick scooter to roll and fall over).

Referring to Fig. 2, in one example, the wheel locking mechanism 21 comprises a segment of the first portion 10A of the frame, which comes into contact with the first wheel 14A. This wheel locking mechanism 21 dampens a rotation of the first wheel 14A (via friction), thereby improving a stability of the wheel locking mechanism.

Other examples for a wheel locking mechanism will be apparent to the skilled person, such as automatic (disc or friction) brake or, if the wheel is motorized, controlling the operation of the wheel or a braking force applied to the wheel.

The skilled person would appreciate that the wheel locking mechanism 21 is optional, e.g, the first wheel 14A may be spaced apart from the first portion 10A of the frame when the motorized kick scooter is in the three-point contact position The wheel locking mechanism 21 may not be necessary if, for example, the first wheel 14A is not the part of the wheel arrangement 14 that comes into contact with the ground surface, when the motorized kick scooter is in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface). By way of example, a mudguard or other protruding portion of the wheel arrangement could act as the point of contact between the wheel arrangement and the ground surface.

Thus, a wheel protective element (not shown) could be used to contact the ground surface (when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and positioned in the three-point contact position on a horizontal ground surface). The wheel protective element could, for example, be integrated into a mudguard for the first wheel 14A.

This feature would aid in reducing a wear on the wheel (e.g. if it is repeatedly stored in the folded configuration).

One example of a wheel protective element 50 is illustrated in Fig 5, which illustrates a portion of a motorized kick scooter according to an embodiment.

The wheel protective element 50, which forms part of the wheel arrangement 14, is configured to protect the first wheel 14A from contacting the ground surface when the motorized scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position. Rather, a portion of the wheel protective element 50 contacts the ground surface 20.

Fig 5 also demonstrates an embodiment in which the feature of a wheel locking mechanism is absent.

Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate a handle 12 and part of the first portion 10A of the frame for a motorized kick scooter according to an embodiment. Fig. 6 provides a general isometric view of the handle 12, and Fig. 7 provides a view of the handle when it is in contact with a ground surface (e.g. when the motorized kick scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position).

The handle 12 comprises a base structure 12C for connecting to the first portion 10A of the frame. The base structure is suited for supporting a hand of the user (e.g. is sufficiently strong to support a hand of the user thereon). The base structure 12C may form part of the first portion 10A of the frame (e.g, be integrally formed therewith).

The handle 12 further comprises a first handle protective element 12D, which is positioned on the base structure 12C. The first handle protective element provides a first contact point for the handle (with the ground surface).

The handle 12 also comprises a second handle protective element 12E, which is positioned on the base structure. The second handle protective element provides a second contact point for the handle (with the ground surface).

In the illustrated example, the first and second handle protective elements each comprise a grip for the handle. However, in other examples, the first and second protective elements are protrusions that extend outwardly from the handle for forming the contact points for the handle In some examples, the protective elements 12D, 12E may be configured to provide a flat or substantially flat surface 12F, 12G for resting the handle on the ground surface.

Thus, each handle protective element may comprise a flat surface that makes contact with the ground surface when the motorized kick scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position. Thus, the handle protective element may provide a contact point for the handle portion(s) via a substantially flat surface.

In other examples, the protective elements can be omitted, e.g. the contact points can be formed directly on the base structure (which could, optionally, be reinforced at the contact points for the handle).

In some examples, the handle 12 may comprise a first handle portion 1211 and a second handle portion 121. Each handle portion may provide a respective contact point for the handle (when the motorized scooter is in the three-point contact position). In some examples, the base structure 12C may be divided in these two handle portions.

Each handle portion may be a substantially elongate member for supporting a respective hand of the user, and is coupled at one end to the first portion I OA of the frame. The contact point of each handle with a horizontal ground surface (when the motorized kick scooter is positioned in the three-point contact position) may be at a distal end of the handle (e.g. closer to a free end of the handle than to the coupling with the first portion 10A of the frame).

Preferably, an angle 0 between the first handle portion 12H and the first portion 10A of the frame is greater than 90° (e.g. greater than 100°, greater than 1200 or greater than 140°); and an angle 02 between the second handle portion 121 and the first portion 10A of the frame is greater than 90° (e.g, greater than 100°, greater than 120° or greater than 140°).

Preferably, the two angles are substantially the same (e.g. within a margin of error, such as ± 1% or +2%).

In some examples, the angle of each handle portion can be adjusted (e.g. manually).

An angled handle portion results in the contact point (e.g, provided on the handle portion) being vertically offset from the other elements of the handle portions, thereby providing space for other components to be positioned on the handle (e.g. levers for controlling a speed) without causing such components to act as the contact points (which could affect their operation).

Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a motorized wheel 80 for use in a motorized kick scooter according to an embodiment. Other examples of suitable motorized wheels will be readily apparent to the skilled person, e.g. incorporating a geared wheel or a belt-driven wheel.

The motorized wheel can act as the first wheel and/or the second wheel.

The motorized wheel 80 comprises a tire 81, a rim 82, a rotor 83, a stator 84, and an axle 85. The tire 81 is adapted for contacting a ground surface. The rim 82 is adapted to mount the tire thereon. The rotor 83 is fixedly connected to the rim 82 and is magnetically coupled to the stator 84, so as to be rotatable about the stator 84. Here, the rotor comprises a ring of permanent magnets. The stator 84 comprises a ring of electromagnetic windings, the current through which can be controlled to thereby control the torque applied to the rotor 83, and thereby the propulsive force applied by the motorized wheel. The rotor 83 is mounted on the axle 85 by at least one bearing (not shown), the bearings allowing the rotor 83 to rotate about the axle 85. The stator is fixedly coupled to the axle 85.

In this way, the motorized wheel can be controlled by controlling a current flowing through the stator 84 to control a rotation of the rotor (and thereby the rim and the tire).

A motor control unit (not shown) may control the operation of the stator 84, e.g. responsive to a user input provided at a user interface (e.g, positioned on the handle).

The motorized wheel can be controlled to propel forward by applying a torque about the rotor 83 in a desired direction of travel. This is performed by sequentially applying current through the ring of electromagnetic windings in a particular pattern, as would be well known to the skilled person.

A braking force can be applied to the wheel by either applying torque, in the manner previously described, to oppose the direction of travel or by continuously running a current through at least one coil to oppose or resist rotation of the rotor 83 about the stator 84.

In this way, a braking force can be applied to the motorized wheel. A braking force may be applied responsive, for example, to a user input provided at a user interface (positioned on the handle).

Variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. If the term "adapted to" is used in the claims or description, it is noted the term "adapted to" is intended to be equivalent to the term "configured to". Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A motorized kick scooter (1) for transporting a user across a ground surface (20), the motorized kick scooter comprising: a frame (10) formed of first (10A) and second (10B) portions; a folding mechanism (11) configured to enable an angle between the first and second portions of the frame to be adjusted; a handle (12) for supporting a hand of the user, coupled to the first portion of the frame, the handle providing first (12A) and second (12B) contact points for contacting a ground surface; a foot platform (13) adapted to support at least one foot of the user, coupled to the second portion of the frame and/or being formed from at least part of the second portion of the frame; a first wheel arrangement (14), comprising a first wheel (14A), coupled to the second portion of the frame; a second wheel arrangement (15), comprising a second wheel (15A), coupled to either the first or second portion of the frame, wherein at least one of the first and second wheels are motorized; wherein the motorized kick scooter is configured to enable the motorized kick scooter to be placed in at least a folded configuration, in which the handle and first wheel arrangement are positioned with respect to one another such that, when the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance (di) between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.3 times the distance (db, d3) between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; 25 and a horizontal position of a center of mass of the motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within a triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
2. The motorized kick scooter (1) of claim 1, wherein the folding mechanism (11) is configured such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement (14) and first (12A) and second (12B) contact points of the handle (12) make contact with a ground surface (20) lying in a horizontal plane, the distance (di) between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.5 times the distance (th, d3) between any one of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact (I 4C) between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
3. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 or 2, further comprising a locking mechanism operable when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration, the locking mechanism being adapted to operate in: a locked configuration, in which the locking mechanism prevents the first portion of the frame from rotating with respect to the second portion of the frame; and an unlocked configuration, in which the locking mechanism allows the first portion of the frame to rotate with respect to the second portion of the frame.
4. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the handle (12) comprises: a base structure (12C) for connecting to the first portion, the base structure being for supporting a hand of the user; a first handle protective element (12D) positioned on the base structure, the first handle protective element providing the first contact point for the handle; and a second handle protective element (12E) positioned on the base structure, the second handle protective element providing the second contact point for the handle.
5. The motorized kick scooter of claim 4, wherein the first (12D) and second (12E) handle protective elements each comprise a grip for the handle.
6. The motorized kick scooter of claim 4, wherein the first and second handle protective elements each comprise a protruding element that protrudes from the base structure.
7. The motorized kick scooter (1) of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the handle (12) comprises a first handle portion (1M) for supporting a first hand of the user and a second handle portion (121) for supporting a second hand of the user, wherein: an angle (01) between the first handle portion and the first portion of the frame is greater than 900; and an angle (02) between the second handle portion and the first portion of the frame is greater than 90°.
8. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first wheel arrangement further comprises a wheel protective element (50) adapted for contacting a ground surface.
9. The motorized kick scooter of claim 4, wherein the first wheel arrangement comprises a mudguard for the first wheel, and the wheel protective element is mounted upon or is formed from the mudguard.
10. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second wheel arrangement is coupled to the first portion and is positioned such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, the first wheel arrangement does not lie in a same vertical axis as the second wheel arrangement.
11. The motorized kick scooter of claim 10, wherein the second wheel arrangement is positioned such that, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal position of the second wheel arrangement is positioned to lie within the triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement
12. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the size of the first wheel, the position of the folding arrangement, the size of the first portion, the size of the second portion, the structure of the foot platforms and the structure of the handle are configured such that, when in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane, a horizontal position of a center of mass of the motorized kick scooter is positioned to lie within a triangle having vertices located at the horizontal positions of the contact points of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
13. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.3 times the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement, and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
14. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is no less than 0.5 times the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
15. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a distance between the first and second contact points of the handle is between 0.5 and 2 times the size of: the distance between the first contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement; and the distance between the second contact point of the handle and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement.
16. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein, when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration and the first wheel arrangement and first and second contact points of the handle make contact with a ground surface lying in a horizontal plane: a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the point of contact between the ground surface and the first wheel arrangement is between 0.5 and 2 times the size of: a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the first contact point of the handle; and a horizontal distance between the center of mass of the motorized kick scooter and the second contact point of the handle.
17. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a wheel locking mechanism (21) adapted to dampen rotation of the first wheel when the motorized kick scooter is in the folded configuration.
18. The motorized kick scooter of any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the second wheel is motorized.