JP2022544177A - Ride-on device with motorized wheels - Google Patents

Abstract

A motorized wheeled riding device receives left and right foot inputs from a user and controls left and right motors accordingly to steer the device without changing the orientation of the wheels relative to the frame of the riding device. configured to move the left and right wheels of the forward and backward in concert with left and right foot input. The riding device has at least one rear wheel that is not motorized. The rear wheels are mounted on wheel mounts that rotate freely about a vertical axis so that the rear wheels are free to point in any direction. [Selection drawing] Fig. 5

Description

The present disclosure relates to the field of motorized wheeled ride-on toys.

Wheeled riding toys, such as wheeled riding horses, are well known. In such toys the child sits in the saddle of the horse. Wheels are placed on all four legs of the horse with a rigid internal frame to support the rider. Thus, the rider can ride the horse and use the legs to propel the horse around. While this may be fun for some people, users tend to get bored with toys that take this approach.

Two-wheeled self-balancing scooters, often called hoverboards, are also well known. A typical hoverboard includes right and left portions each having wheels and foot pads. A user typically stands on a foot pad, and electronic devices such as sensors detect movement of the user's feet. The hoverboard controller directs control of the motors that drive the wheels based on such user input. Although popular, hoverboards have limited versatility.

This specification describes embodiments using technical aspects of a self-balancing scooter and a themed wheeled ride-on toy.

According to one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a ride-on toy portion comprising a frame structure supporting a saddle configured to support a rider thereon and defining a plurality of rear legs; Mounted wheel structures, each wheel structure having a wheel and a rotating mount configured to allow the wheel to rotate in any rotational direction, and left and right foot pads. A motorized wheeled self-balancing scooter, the scooter configured to receive rider input via a footpad. The scooter may be attached to the frame structure so that the ride-on toy section moves with the scooter.

In some embodiments, the scooter is rigidly attached to the frame. In some such embodiments, the frame defines a plurality of front legs, the front legs being positioned in front of the scooter. In a further embodiment, the scooter footpad is located in front of the saddle and behind the front legs. In a further embodiment, the mounting post extends between the scooter and a mounting structure located on the body of the frame. In a further such embodiment, the scooter comprises right and left portions rotatable relative to each other, an insert disposed between the right and left portions, and the mounting post connected to the insert.

In a further embodiment, the toy controller of the ride-on toy section communicates with a scooter controller of the scooter, the scooter controller adapted to control movement of the scooter and communicating movement data regarding the scooter to the toy controller, The controller is configured to activate one or more effects of the ride-on toy portion based on the motion data. In some such embodiments, the toy controller is configured to instruct the scooter controller to control movement of the scooter according to one of a plurality of control modes. In a further embodiment, the toy controller is configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote computing device such that the remote computing device can configure the behavior of the toy controller.

According to another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a connector configured to be attached to a self-balancing scooter, a post extending from the connector, and a post supported by the post and held by a user standing on the self-balancing scooter. a theme structure configured for use with an electric self-balancing scooter, comprising a theme element configured to The post is attached to the connector with a joint configured to allow the post to move relative to the connector without affecting operation of the scooter.

According to yet another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a ride-on toy comprising a frame structure supporting a saddle configured to support a rider thereon and defining a plurality of rear legs and left and right front legs. and a wheel structure attached to each of the rear legs, each wheel structure having a wheel and a swivel mount configured to allow the swivel mount to rotate freely about a vertical axis. , a wheel structure, a left motor configured to rotate the left wheel and attached to the left front leg, a right motor configured to rotate the right wheel and attached to the right front leg, and the user's right foot. a right footrest configured to receive a right foot input configured to receive a forward or backward user right input; and a right footrest configured to receive a user's left foot and configured to receive a forward or backward user left input. A motorized wheel comprising: a left footrest comprising a configured left foot input; and a controller configured to direct the left and right motors to turn the left and right wheels according to user left and right inputs, respectively. to provide a riding device with

According to a further embodiment, the present disclosure provides a motorized wheeled ride-on device, wherein the front wheels do not rotate to steer, but are independently controlled to steer by relative motion of the wheels, and the rear wheels is configured to rotate freely in any direction, rather than being motorized, so that the riding device moves with the motorized front wheels.

In some such embodiments, user input for controlling the powered front wheels is obtained from the user's foot input.

In other embodiments, user input for controlling the powered front wheels is derived from user input from the user's hands.

According to yet another embodiment, the present specification provides a themed accessory selectively attachable to a two-wheel self-balancing scooter.

1 is a perspective view of a typical self-balancing scooter; FIG. FIG. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a user riding a themed wheeled ride-on toy in combination with a self-balancing scooter. 3 is a top view of the arrangement of FIG. 2 showing movement options of the arrangement; FIG. FIG. 10 is a side view of another embodiment in which a themed ride-on wheeled toy is rigidly attached to a self-balancing scooter; Figure 5 is a perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 4; Figure 5 is a front view of the arrangement of Figure 4; 5 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 4 showing the interior of the arrangement having ghost line theme elements; FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of certain elements of a self-balancing scooter constructed in accordance with one embodiment; FIG. Figure 9 is an end view of the arrangement of Figure 8; 10 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 10-10 of FIG. 9; FIG. 9 is another exploded perspective view of the arrangement of FIG. 8; FIG. FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of another embodiment of an insert positioned between left and right portions of a self-balancing scooter; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a motorized theme toy showing a frame selectively attachable to a self-balancing scooter; Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 14-14 of Figure 13; 1 is an exploded perspective view of an axle assembly of an embodiment of a self-balancing scooter; FIG. Figure 16 is an end view of a scooter with the axle assembly of Figure 15; Figure 16B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 16B-16B of Figure 16A; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a wheeled ride-on toy with clamps; Figure 18 shows the toy of Figure 17 fastened on a self-balancing scooter; FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a mounting device configured for use with another embodiment of a self-balancing scooter; Figure 19B shows a wheeled ride-on toy attached to the configuration of Figure 19A. FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a wheeled ride-on toy attached to a self-balancing scooter via yet another embodiment of an attachment device; FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an attachment device and a wheeled ride-on toy attached to a self-balancing scooter via the attachment device; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a wheeled ride-on toy with clamps; Figure 23 is a perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 22 mounted on a self-balancing scooter and having mounting accessories; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a wheeled ride-on toy attached to a self-balancing scooter; 1 is a perspective view of a theme accessory attached to a self-balancing scooter; FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a motorized wheeled riding device; Figure 27 shows the configuration of Figure 26, showing the internal structure;

Referring first to FIG. 1, a typical self-balancing scooter 30, often referred to as a hoverboard, has a right portion 32 with a right wheel 34 and right footpad 36, and a left portion 42 with a left wheel 44 and left footpad 46. including. The user typically stands on foot pads 36,46. Electronic components such as sensors detect movement of the user's feet. The scooter controller, which includes a microprocessor, receives signals indicative of such foot movement and, based on such user input, directs control of the motors that drive the wheels. For example, the user stands on the scooter 30 and the scooter 30 is instructed to move forward if the user leans forward and move backward if the user leans backward. In the illustrated embodiment, the opposing right and left portions 32,42 of the scooter 30 twist relative to each other according to user input to the footpads 34,44. For example, if the right portion 32 rotates forward and the left portion 42 rotates backward at the same time, the right wheel 36 moves forward and the left wheel 46 moves backward, so that the scooter 30 rotates (counterclockwise). It will turn left and/or twist.

2 and 3, in one embodiment, a two-wheel self-balancing scooter 30 may be used in conjunction with a wheeled ride-on toy 50. As shown in FIG. As shown, the wheeled ride-on toy 50 is configured with a horse theme. A frame 60 (see FIG. 7) supports a saddle 54 on which a user can sit. A wheel 62 is positioned on each of the front and rear legs 56,58. Each wheel 62 rotates about an axle 64 supported by wheel mounts 66 . Preferably, each wheel mount 66 is rotatable relative to its associated leg such that each wheel 62 is free to rotate about a substantially vertical axis. In one preferred embodiment, wheel mounts 66 and wheels 62 are casters. In the embodiment shown, the scooter 30 is positioned similar to where the user's feet would be placed with stirrups on a real horse—under and slightly forward of the saddle 54, with the user's feet on the foot. It is positioned immediately behind the front legs 56 of the ride-on toy 50 so as to ride on the pads 34,44.

As the user controls the scooter 30 via foot input, the ride-on toy 50 follows the movement of the scooter 30 . For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the ride-on toy 50 moves forward and backward, turns left and right, and even spins according to input provided to the scooter 30 by the user.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, the ride-on toy 50 is independent of the scooter 30, with no direct physical or electrical connection between them other than through the rider. In a further embodiment, front legs 56 of ride-on toy 50 are connected to scooter 30 to provide a physical connection that assists scooter 30 in directing and controlling movement of ride-on toy 50 . Such connections take various forms. For example, in some embodiments, straps may extend from the front legs to and around the scooter to allow unrestricted movement of the left and right portions of the scooter. In other embodiments, one or more of the front legs may be attached to the casing and/or chassis of the scooter so as to physically and rigidly connect the ride-on toy to the scooter, providing direct contact during movement of the scooter and ride-on toy. strengthen the correlation.

4-11, an insert 70 is positioned between the left and right portions 32, 42 of the scooter 30 and is configured to rotate about the axle 72 of the scooter 30, but any other Another embodiment is shown that is also constrained from rotating about the axis of . Preferably, the insert 70 does not rotate with either scooter portion 32, 42 (within its range of motion). A post 80 extends upwardly from the insert 70 to support the ride-on toy 50 . With inserts 70 and posts 80 rigidly attached to ride-on toy 50, front legs 56 of ride-on toy 50 are preferably in front of scooter 30, rise above the ground, and do not include wheels. rear legs 58 are wheels 34 rotatable about a vertical axis--or the axis of the rear legs 58--to allow the ride-on toy 50 to continue to follow movements of the scooter 30, including turning and spinning; 44 remains supported. Preferably, rear wheels 58 do not participate in the steering or direction of ride-on toy 50 .

Referring specifically to FIG. 7, in a preferred embodiment, ride-on toy 50 comprises a frame structure 60 comprising a plurality of upper frame elements 74 and lower frame elements 76 that may be interconnected by struts 78. As shown in FIG. Support plate 82 includes a mounting structure 83 configured to receive post 80 . The frame 60 maintains the themed appearance (i.e., horse, dragon, unicorn, elephant, camel, car, spaceship, etc.), supports the user on the saddle 54 of the themed ride-on toy 50, and supports the ride-on toy 50. is configured to safely and effectively transmit the motion of the scooter 30 to the ride-on toy 50 and the rear legs 58 so that the motor moves in concert with the scooter 30 .

With particular reference to FIGS. 8-11, in one embodiment a portion of a typical scooter may be modified to support a mounting post 80. FIG. As shown, scooter chassis 84 comprises left and right chassis portions 85 , 86 rotatably connected to each other via axle 72 . In the illustrated embodiment, axle 72 is elongated relative to a stock scooter and extends through axle bearings 88 formed in inserts 70 positioned on axle 72 . Washers 89 are positioned on axle 72 on either side of insert 70 . Post receiver 90 is located on top of insert 70 and is shaped and configured to receive mounting post 80 .

In a typical scooter, pins on the right side 85 of the chassis fit into grooves in the left side 86 to limit rotation of the chassis parts relative to each other beyond the range of motion. In the illustrated embodiment, pin 92 extends from right portion 85 of chassis 84 and groove 94 is formed in insert 70 . Preferably, the insert groove 94 is about half the length of a typical groove in the left side 86 of the chassis, while the groove 96 in the left side 86 remains normal length. In the illustrated embodiment, the insert 70 has two pins 98 configured to fit into the left groove 96 . The pin 98 is configured to allow travel about half the length of a typical groove. Thus, in this configuration, with the insert 70 in place, the total operating rotation between the left and right portions 85, 86 would be approximately the same as for a stock scooter without the insert. It should be understood that other specific structures may be used to obtain such effects.

When the ride-on toy 50 is attached to the scooter 30 via the post 80 , the ride-on toy 50 moves with the scooter 30 . Mounting post 80 is mounted on a frame 60 that is sufficiently rigid to transmit movement of scooter 30, preferably through rear leg 58, and is free about the leg axis (and/or vertical axis). Because of their caster-like ability to rotate, they transmit to wheel mounts 66 that position wheels 62 to roll as directed by the motion that scooter 30 transmits. Thus, a user sitting on the ride-on toy 50 with his feet on the scooter 30 can control the movement of the ride-on toy 50 by manipulating his feet on the foot pads 36 , 46 of the scooter 30 .

With continued reference to FIGS. 8-11, the scooter 30 preferably includes various electronic components, such as a controller 100 comprising a processor with memory. Battery 102 provides power. Wires 104 communicate from controller 100 to such electronics and include passing through axle 72, which is preferably hollow. For example, left and right footpad sensors 106 , 108 sense user inputs and communicate them to controller 100 . Preferably, an axle opening 110 is formed through axle 72 and aligned with post receptacle 90 of insert 70 . Wires extend from controller 100 through axle opening 110 into post receiver 90 and post 80 and terminate in an electronic connector 112 formed in post 80 . Of course, in other embodiments such wires may terminate in different types of connectors, such as free-hanging connectors.

Still referring to FIG. 7, the mounting structure 83 of the ride-on toy 50 preferably also has an electronic connector 114 complementary to the post connector 112 . Thus, when post 80 is received in mounting structure 83, electronic connectors 112, 114 are engaged. Wiring extends from the mounting structure electronic connector 114 to a ride-on toy controller 120, which preferably includes a microprocessor with memory. Thus, toy controller 120 is electronically connected to scooter controller 100 . In a preferred embodiment, toy controller 120 receives power and control data from scooter controller 100 . Thus, the toy controller 120 is fed movement data of the scooter 30 and thus recognizes how the ride-on toy 50 is moving (ie, forward, backward, fast, slow, turn, twist, etc.).

Referring again specifically to FIG. 7, the ride-on toy 50 is preferably connected to and operated and controlled by the toy controller 120, preferably using power supplied by the battery 102 of the attached scooter. with multiple effects such as visual, auditory, and haptic effects. For example, the first lighting effect 124 can be a cluster of LED lights positioned at the horse's eye 126, while the second lighting effect 128 can be the horse's mane 130 (or unicorn horn, car dashboard, etc.). ), and the third lighting effect 132 may comprise a band of light extending along the horse tail 134 . A first speaker 136 may be positioned adjacent the horse's mouth 138 to simulate whining, snorting, etc., and a second speaker 140 may be positioned within the body below the user. A haptic effect such as a vibration motor 142 may be attached to the horse's saddle 54 and/or the frame 60 adjacent to the saddle, and a second haptic effect 144 may comprise a motor configured to swing the horse's tail 134. . Another haptic effect may comprise smoke generators 146 positioned adjacent to the horse's nostrils 148 . Yet another haptic effect may include a motor 150 located at the hinge joint. Yet another haptic effect may include a motor 150 positioned at a hinge joint 152 on the horse's neck and configured to rotate the horse's head 154 up and down.

In some embodiments, toy controller 120 will activate one or more of the effects in response to data received from scooter controller 100 . For example, if the scooter data indicates that the toy 50 is moving forward, the controller illuminates the horse's eye light 124, activates the "move" light 128 on the mane 130, and activates the body speaker 140. When activated, it will produce the clatter of horse hooves. If the scooter data indicates that the scooter is moving at full speed, the toy controller 120 will speed up the hoof sound emitted by the body speaker 140, speed up the moving lights 128, and cycle the smoke generator 146. to exhale smoke from the nostrils 148. If the user then changes the input to stop abruptly, the toy controller 120 activates the saddle vibration motor 142 to vibrate the saddle 54, activates the head speaker 136 to emit a loud whine, and the mane The light 128 is flashed, the main speaker 140 is activated to emit a popping sound corresponding to the horse decelerating rapidly, the head motor 150 is activated to rotate the head 154 backward, and the smoke generator 146 is activated. and will emit a flurry of puffs of smoke from nostrils 148 . In a preferred embodiment, the toy controller 120 activates the mouth speaker 136 and emits a whine, activates the saddle motor 142 to vibrate the saddle 54 , and so on. , visual, and other effects. It should be understood that other effects and various arrangements of effects may be used. Also, in embodiments with other themes (eg, unicorns, elephants, pegasus, cars, spaceships, etc.), different effects that match the theme and correspond to various motion conditions may be used.

With continued reference to FIG. 7, in a preferred embodiment, the toy controller 120 is configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote computing device 160, such as a remote control, smart phone, tablet, or laptop computer, such as an antenna and transceiver. A wireless communication structure is provided. A remote computing device can communicate with toy controller 120 via such wireless communication. In some embodiments, remote device 160 can access the memory of controller 120 and modify the programming of toy controller 120 .

The toy controller can also preferably communicate instructions to the scooter controller 100--via a wired connection--to change how the scooter 30 responds to user input. For example, in one embodiment, a smartphone user may have an app that allows the user to choose between beginner mode, intermediate mode, and advanced mode. When the smartphone signals to operate in beginner mode, toy controller 120 may be configured to operate in a manner more suitable for young children. For example, the vibration of the saddle 54 may be minimized and the sounds may be exotic rather than realistic to appeal to young children. Sounds may even include singing, and themed toys may talk, laugh, etc. rather than simulate animal movements. Also, in beginner mode, the toy controller 120 will instruct the scooter controller 100 to change its response to user input. For example, the speed of the scooter's reaction to the movement of the user's foot may be muted and intentionally slowed, and the speed of operation reduced by half, two-thirds to allow safe use by young children. etc. may be performed. Additionally, certain movements such as backwards or spins may be eliminated and/or slowed to a quarter speed.

In intermediate mode, sounds and reactions may be more realistic, but speed and reaction time may still be limited. Advanced mode can expect full speed and the most advanced and realistic effects. In another embodiment, the app may have a quiet mode, including mechanisms for turning down or muting the audio effects, and may include options to turn certain effects on or off. In some embodiments, the toy controller may communicate status or alerts to the remote device. For example, the toy controller can signal the remote device when the smoke generating device needs to be replenished with smoke fluid. In further embodiments, ride-on toy 50 may include additional sensors, such as proximity sensors, that communicate the proximity of external objects to toy controller 120 . In such an embodiment, if the toy controller 120 recognizes an object that is too close to the toy 50, it will communicate instructions to the scooter controller 100 to limit certain actions. For example, toy controller 120 may instruct scooter controller 100 not to induce spin—regardless of user input—to avoid colliding with a sensed object. Such embodiments may include an "internal" mode for activating this feature, and an "external" mode when the proximity sensor feature is disabled.

In further embodiments, user profiles may be created with preferred settings for particular users. For example, the first member of the family would always operate in beginner mode, while the second member of the family would operate in advanced mode but set all backward movements to half speed. , prefer to turn off the vibration motor. Selection of a particular user's profile results in the user adopting the operational settings of the selected profile. In some embodiments, user profiles may be stored in the memory of toy controller 120 . In other embodiments, the user profile may be stored in an online app and accessed via remote device 160 when initiating control of ride-on toy 50 .

In a further embodiment, remote computing device 160 may act as a remote control. Accordingly, the toy controller 120 will receive input instructions from the remote device 160 to instruct the scooter controller 100 how to control the scooter 30 regardless of the user's foot input. Instead, remote control 160 would instruct toy controller 120 how to move, and toy controller 120 would communicate such movement instructions to scooter controller 100, and scooter controller 100 would instruct such movement. It will control the wheel motors 52 to apply the instructions.

Referring now to FIG. 12, another embodiment of insert 70 is shown. In this embodiment, the insert 70 is integrally formed and includes left and right hollow axle portions 164 (rather than separately formed axles). Control wires 166 connect the toy controller 120 with the scooter controller 100 through the hollow axle and post receiver 90 . In the illustrated embodiment, a free hanging wire connector 168 is provided for connecting to wires extending from the toy controller 120 . In another embodiment, toy controller 120 and scooter controller 100 may be configured to share and exchange data wirelessly. In such embodiments, ride-on toy 50 preferably also includes its own battery.

In a preferred embodiment, mounting post 80 is releasably attachable to insert post receiver 90 and/or ride-on toy mounting structure 83 . The electronic connector may be configured to engage the toy mounting structure as shown in FIG. 7 or within the post receptacle of the insert as desired. In some embodiments, the user can obtain a second themed ride-on toy construction (no scooter), remove the original ride-on toy 50 from the scooter 30, and replace the second ride-on toy with an electric A second ride-on toy can be engaged with the scooter, including physically connecting to the scooter. Thus, the scooter will provide motion and power interchangeably with multiple different ride-on toys, each of which will have its own customized set of themed effects.

In further embodiments, structures such as shock absorbers may be incorporated into the mounting posts and/or rear legs to smoothen the ride. Additionally, the mounting posts and/or legs may have a motorized telescoping structure to impart up/down motion to the ride-on toy. Such up/down movements may be configured to vary in frequency with speed and may be configured to vary in amplitude based on personalization settings and modes and/or in relation to detected motion. .

In the embodiment shown in Figures 8-11, the mounting post has a circular cross-section. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the mounting post may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as square, hexagonal, and the like. Such a shape may facilitate the transfer of rotational motion from the scooter to the ride-on toy. In further embodiments, other structures, such as keyed structures, may engage mounting structures and/or post receptacles to prevent mounting posts from rotating relative to such mounting structures. In a further embodiment, the insert may be configured to rigidly connect to the front leg of the ride-on toy frame rather than using a mounting post that passes between the scooter and the ride-on toy body.

13-16, another embodiment is shown in which the mounting post 80 is rigidly and permanently attached to the frame 60, particularly the support plate 82. As shown in FIG. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting post 80 has a non-circular cross-section. More specifically, the mounting post is generally elliptical or elliptical in cross-section, with major and minor axes extending from its lower end (which engages insert 70) to its upper end (which attaches to support plate 82). both increase. A post interface 170 is defined at the lower end and is configured to be received in a complementarily formed post receptacle 90 of the insert 70 . Thus, when the mount post 80 is in the post receptacle 90 of the insert 70, due to its elliptical shape, the mount post 80 efficiently and effectively transmits the rotation of the scooter 30 to the ride-on toy 50 with little play. . In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of fasteners 172 are also provided to vertically connect the mounting post 80 to the insert 70 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the head 154 of the ride-on toy 50 includes a head post 174 configured to be received by a head receiver 176 supported by the frame 60 . Head post 174 may be secured in place on head receiver 176 via fasteners 178 . Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the non-load-bearing front legs 56 are each supported by a rotatable connector 180 with a spring-loaded detent 182 . In practice, the legs 56 can each be rotated about a vertical axis from a retracted position (opposite the position shown) to an extended position shown. When the front leg 56 is in the desired extended position, the spring loaded detent 182 will operate to keep the front leg 56 in the extended position. Preferably, the spring-loaded detent 182 will also operate to releasably keep the front leg 56 in the retracted position. In this manner, the ride-on toy 50 can be partially disassembled and miniaturized for easier storage and shipping.

Figures 13 and 14 show the frame 60 of the ride-on toy 50 without the theme feature covering. It will be appreciated that such a base frame 60 may accommodate multiple variations of theme covers, including horse themes, and may also accommodate various visual, auditory, and tactile effects appropriate to the chosen theme. should. For example, rather than attaching the head to the head rest 176, the toy laser gun could be attached to the head post 174 and the frame 60 could be covered with themed decorations consistent with the spacecraft. Visual, auditory, and tactile effects especially suited to spaceflight/space warfare games may be included, along with radio transmissions from teammates, rocket engine sounds, laser firing sounds, and lighting effects, as well as other laser-powered ships. and/or tactile vibrations from simulated meteorite impacts.

15 and 16A-B, the illustrated embodiment includes a bearing support interface between insert 70, axle 72, and left and right chassis portions 85,86. Specifically, left and right chassis portions 85, 86 each include a mounting block 190 having an insert sidewall 192 and a wheel sidewall 194, and an axle passageway 196 extending therethrough. Axle 72 extends through axle passage 196 and axle bearing 88 of insert 70 . A plurality of bearing assemblies 200, each comprising a bearing cup 202, a bearing kit 204, and a bearing race 206, one for each of the insert sidewall 192 and wheel sidewall 194, allow the axle 72 to rotate relative to the mounting block 190. provided to support. The bearing assembly 200 of the insert sidewall 192 is also received in a bearing seat 208 formed in the insert 70 to provide limited clearance space between the insert 70 and the insert sidewall 192 of the adjacent mounting block 190. configured as Spacers 209 may be provided between the bearing assemblies 200 on the axle.

The bearing support interface is preferably configured with little or no play. As such, one end of axle 72 includes a retaining ring 210, washer 212, and race stop 214, and at the opposite end of axle 72, a threaded bearing race 216 replaces race 206 and a locknut 218 holds the entire interface together. fixed. Since the bearing support interface has little or no play, rotation about an axis transverse to the axle 72, such as the spin of the scooter 30, is easier and predictably transferred to the mount post 80 and ride-on toy 50. be done.

In another embodiment, rather than using retaining rings, washers and race stops, the first end of the axle can be provided with a convex flange to retain the bearing assembly.

The embodiments discussed herein generally provide ride-on toy 50 attached to scooter 30 via insert 70 . In further embodiments, different structures may be used to attach the ride-on toy 50 to the scooter 30 . For example, referring now to FIGS. 17 and 18, an embodiment of the ride-on toy 50 may include a clamp 220 defining a collar 222 configured to be opened and closed using a lever 224. As shown in FIG. In use, the collar 222 can be opened to wrap around the center of the typical scooter 30, and the lever 224 can then be actuated to close the collar 222 and somewhat clamp it around the center of the scooter 30. . Scooter 30 is then attached to ride-on toy 50, and ride-on toy 50 will move with scooter 30 in a manner similar to the embodiments discussed above.

The embodiments discussed above use scooters in which the left and right parts rotate relative to each other. It should be understood that the principles discussed herein may be applied to other configurations of two-wheel self-balancing scooters, such as configurations in which the left and right sections do not rotate relative to each other.

Referring now to Figures 19A-B, an embodiment of the self-balancing scooter 30 is shown in which the scooter's body 226 is integral. Thus, the sensors in the left and right footpads 36, 46 detect and communicate user input to the scooter controller, but the body 226 is not separated into right and left portions that rotate relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting member 230 comprises an upper portion 232 and a lower portion 234 configured to enclose a portion of the body 226 of the scooter 30 . Upper and lower portions 232, 234 are preferably fastened together to sandwich body 226 therebetween. Top 232 includes an interface 236 comprising a male interface member 238 configured to be received by a female receiver (not shown) in an embodiment of mounting post 80 of ride-on toy 50 . Accordingly, the ride-on toy 50 may be selectively attached to and work with multiple types of scooters 30 .

FIG. 20 shows another embodiment in which mounting member 230 is configured to bolt directly to scooter body 226 and includes post receivers 90 configured to receive mounting posts 80 of ride-on toy 50 . As an alternative to bolting, the mounting member 230 shown includes tabs 240 configured to fit under the left and right foot pads 36, 46 so that the foot pads attach the mounting member 230 to the scooter body 226. in place.

Referring now to FIG. 21, another embodiment of mounting member 230 having tab 240 includes interface 236 having sliding receiver 242 . Mounting post 80 of ride-on toy 50 includes a flange 244 about its lower end that is configured to be received in slide receiver 242 to securely secure ride-on toy 50 to scooter 30. be done.

It should be appreciated that further embodiments may employ additional structures to secure the ride-on toy to the scooter, whether via the insert 70 or via the mounting member 230 . And, for example, the interface 236 for connecting the mounting post 80 may be used in various specific structural configurations, whether used with the mounting member 230 as shown or in embodiments using the insert 70. can take

22 and 23, another embodiment of the ride-on toy 50 comprises a frame 60 attachable to the scooter 30 via mounting posts 80. As shown in FIG. The illustrated frame 60 is supported by a single wheel mount 66 and wheel 62, with the wheel mount 66 configured to allow free rotation about a vertical axis. The wheels 62 shown are relatively large, eg, having a diameter equal to or larger than the diameter of the wheels 34 , 44 of the scooter 30 . In a preferred embodiment, wheels 62 comprise inflatable tires configured to support the weight of larger children, teenage boys, and the like. Saddle 54 is supported by frame 60 . In the illustrated embodiment, the saddle 54 resembles a typical bicycle seat.

Handlebar 250 is supported by neck 252 , which is attached to both mounting post 80 and frame 60 . The handlebars 250 perform no steering function and preferably simply provide a place for the rider seated in the saddle 54 to catch while riding. In the preferred embodiment, neck 252 provides a rigid connection to both mounting post 80 and frame 60 so that, in essence, frame 60, neck 252, and mounting post 80 are integral frame members. Works effectively. Thus, and like the embodiments discussed above, the ride-on toy 50 moves with the scooter 30, albeit in a different shape than the ride-on toy embodiments discussed above.

With continued reference to Figures 22 and 23, the illustrated embodiment does not include theme elements. Such embodiments may be preferable to older children, teens, and adults who may enjoy the movement of ride-on toy 50 without the need for thematic elements. Also, it should be understood that accessories may be added. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, a mount 254 may be provided on handlebar 250 . Mount 254 can have many configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, mount 254 is configured to hold a toy gun, such as a water rifle or Nerf® dart gun. Groups of riders can use their ride-on toys in game battles similar to aircraft dogfights.

In a further embodiment, the handlebar 250 may be offset from the axis of the neck 252 to accommodate user comfort or, for example, to provide a range of motion for aiming a game gun 256 secured to the mount 254 . It can be configured to rotate about. In a preferred embodiment, the range of rotation of handlebar 250 is limited to such as 90° or 60° full rotation (ie, 45° or 30° in each direction of rotation).

In further embodiments, frame 60 may also rotate about the axis of neck 252 . However, excessive rotation of frame 60 about neck 252 may destabilize ride-on toy 50 . Accordingly, in further embodiments, such rotation is limited to a range such as 90° or 60° full rotation (ie, 45° or 30° in each direction of rotation).

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, ride-on toy 50 is attached to scooter 30 via clamps 22 . It should be appreciated that in further embodiments, some other type of attachment mechanism may be used, as discussed in other embodiments. Referring now to FIG. 24, another embodiment is shown in which the frame 50 is permanently attached to the scooter 30. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, mounting post 80 and insert 70 are one unitary member.

A simple old theme toy is the "ponystick", which basically comprises a broomstick with a theme feature at one end - such as a horse's head. A child can pretend to ride a horse by holding a stick between their legs while skipping - preferably while wearing a cowboy hat.

Referring to FIG. 25, an embodiment of a themed toy structure 260 that can be removably attached to the self-balancing scooter 30 is shown. The theme structure 260 shown includes a ponystick 262 with a horse head 154 . In the embodiment shown, the clamp 220 is configured to fit and clamp such a scooter 30 at the joint between the right and left portions 32,42.

A post 264 extends upwardly from clamp 220 . In the illustrated embodiment, post 264 comprises primary post member 266 and secondary post member 268 . Secondary post member 268 is partially slidably received within primary post member 266 in a telescoping configuration to adjust the length of post 264 . Telescoping clamp 270 fixes the position of secondary post 268 relative to primary post 266 to maintain post 264 at the selected length. Preferably, post 264 is connected to clamp 220 by a ball joint 272 to give post 264 a wide range of motion and adjustment around clamp 220 (and associated electric scooter 30).

With continued reference to FIG. 25, in the illustrated embodiment, ponystick 262 is attached to the top of post 264 via top clamp 274 . In the illustrated embodiment, the ponystick 262 is longitudinally slidable within the upper clamp 274 to a desired position and is selectively held in place by the upper clamp 274 at that position. The upper clamp 274 is preferably configured so that the upper clamp/ponystick can rotate about the hinged connector 276 in a vertical plane—that is, a plane parallel to and/or including the post. It is attached to the upper end of post 264 with a hinged connector 276 . This connection can also be configured so that the upper clamp/ponystick can rotate in the horizontal plane--that is, the plane perpendicular to the post.

The configuration shown in FIG. 25 allows the themed toy structure 260 to be attached to any scooter—such as by the clamps shown on any of the mounting structures discussed in the other embodiments. Preferably, adjustments can be made to customize the structure 260 to the size of the rider. In use, the user rides the scooter 30 in a vertical-standing position. However, the pony stick 262 is supported in an ideal location for the user to play as if riding a pony, and the user can even rotate the pony's head up and down to simulate a galloping horse. can. Additionally, the pony stick 262 will accommodate the forward and lateral tilt of the user's body associated with controlling the self-balancing scooter 30 . Additionally, the scooter 30 supports the weight of the themed toy structure 260, yet the user still holds it in place while riding.

In at least some embodiments, the themed toy structure 260 may be physically and electrically attached to the scooter 30 and may include motorized elements capable of being powered by the scooter's battery. Of course, in other embodiments, structure 260 may have its own battery for powering such elements and may only be physically attached to scooter 30 . In one embodiment, the theme structure 260 may have buttons that are actuable by the user to activate sound effects. Other effects may be triggered by conditions such as speed, direction, etc., as discussed in other embodiments. Such effects may include auditory, visual, and/or tactile effects.

It should be understood that the principles discussed herein may be used with other specific structures and other thematic structures. For example, in another embodiment, the theme structure may simulate the shape of an aircraft, spaceship, car, etc. rather than a ponystick. Although the specific construction of the posts may vary slightly, the theme structure is attachable to and supported by the electric self-balancing scooter while being supported by the rider while standing and riding on the scooter 30. The principle of holding and being used remains the same.

It should be appreciated that additional embodiments may include additional features. For example, some embodiments may include toy gun constructions—such as Nerf® dart guns, squirt guns, laser tags, and/or other types of play guns. Further embodiments may include mounts so that participants can add their own game gun structures to the theme structure. A group of riders can then participate in, for example, a "dogfight" simulation or game.

26 and 27, another embodiment of a motorized themed ride-on toy 280 is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the ride-on toy 280 is horse-themed and includes a head 54, a mane 130, a tail 134, and the like. The illustrated ride-on toy 280 may share similar components with some of the ride-on toy 50 embodiments discussed herein. For example, the theme elements of ride-on toy 280 are upper member 74 and lower member 76 and a pair of wheel mounts 66 mounted on wheel mounts 66 configured to rotate freely about the axis of preferably substantially vertical rear legs 58 . It is supported by a frame 60 having rear legs 58 . Wheel mounts 66 support a horizontal axle 64 about which wheels 62 rotate. The wheel mounts/wheels can be casters.

In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of front legs 56 connect to motors 52 mounted to the hubs of the right and left wheels 34,44. Therefore, the motor 52 is substantially invisible. Each motor is configured to drive the corresponding wheel 34, 44 forward or backward. Preferably, each motor 52 is rigidly attached to its corresponding leg 56 so that the motor does not rotate in the same manner as the rear wheels 62 . More specifically, the motor/wheel combination does not rotate about the vertical axis in a manner that would be considered steering the wheel.

Continuing to refer to FIGS. 26 and 27. FIG. Frame 60 preferably supports controller 100 and battery 102, which are connected to motor 52 for controlling the motor. In response to user input, controller 100 controls right and left wheels 34, 34, 34, 34 to direct the movement of ride-on toy 280 in a manner similar to the control strategy used in self-balancing scooter 30 as discussed above. Instruct 44 to move back and forth. In fact, from a motion standpoint, this embodiment of the ride-on toy 280 would move similarly to the way the embodiment of the ride-on toy 50 discussed above had the scooter 30 been attached to the front legs 56 .

Stirrup supports 282 depend from frame 60 on opposite sides of ride-on toy 280 generally aligned with saddle 54 . Stirrups 284 depend from stirrup supports 282 and each stirrup 284 preferably includes a stirrup plate 286 configured to receive a user's foot resting thereon. A sensor 288 associated with stirrup plate 286 measures the user's foot input and communicates such input to controller 100 . Thus, the user's foot input can be used to control ride-on toy 280, including forward, backward, pivot, and spin motions. Such control is directed by the wheels 34, 44 of the front legs 56, while the rear wheels 62 simply support the ride-on toy 280 while providing no steering control. It should be appreciated that various sensor configurations may be used to obtain the user's foot input. For example, in one embodiment, stirrup plate sensor 288 measures the angle of rotation of stirrup plate 286 relative to associated stirrup 284 as a user input. In a further embodiment, in addition to or instead of such a rotation sensor, a pressure sensor 290 may measure the difference in the user's foot pressure between the front and rear of stirrup plate 286, controller 100 , may determine a control strategy based on such measurements.

The themed electric ride-on toy 280 shown can employ a number of visual, auditory, and haptic effects, including examples of effects discussed in other embodiments, and the controller 100 is controlled by the remote computing device 160. It should be understood that it may include wireless communication structures that allow monitoring, programming and even control.

In further embodiments, additional inputs may be considered by controller 100 when controlling motor 52 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, head 54 is hinged to head post 174 at hinge joint 152 and reins 292 are accessible to the user and are connected to the nose of head 154 . Thus, by the user pulling up on the reins 292, the head 154 may rotate upwards—in the view shown, clockwise about the hinge joint 152, while by pulling down on the reins 292 by the user, the head 154 may rotate. Portion 154 may rotate downward—counterclockwise about hinge joint 152 in the view shown. Joint sensor 294 may measure such rotation and transmit data thereon to controller 100 . For example, the user may pull the reins to rotate the head 154 downward to signal forward movement, while pulling back on the reins 292 to rotate the head 154 upward may slow/stop or even retreat. signal. In such a configuration, the reins 292 provide only forward/backward guidance and no steering. Instead, steering input is obtained from stirrups 286 .

In some embodiments, forward/backward input may be obtained from both reins 292 and stirrups 286, with rein 292 input taking precedence over stirrups 286 input, but only for forward/backward input. In other embodiments, the stirrup input is the default input for all controls, except that if a sharp pull back on the reins 292 is detected, the emergency stop control is activated and the ride-on toy 280 stops all movements. It will stop immediately. Of course, it should be understood that additional control routines and sensor inputs may be used. For example, in some embodiments, sensors may be configured to detect directional (i.e., left and right) pulls on the reins 292, such that steering control may also be based on rein inputs. .

The embodiments discussed above disclose structures with substantial specificity. This provides a good context for disclosing and discussing the subject matter of the invention. However, it should be understood that other embodiments may use different specific structural shapes and interactions.

Although the inventive subject matter is disclosed in connection with certain preferred or illustrated embodiments and examples, the inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or Those skilled in the art will appreciate the use of the invention and its extension to obvious modifications and equivalents. Additionally, while many variations of the disclosed embodiments have been shown and described in detail, other modifications within the scope of the inventive subject matter will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure. be clear. It is also contemplated that various combinations or combinatorial components of the specific features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the inventive subject matter. For example, as discussed above, any of the embodiments may be modified to connect to a scooter using any of the various mounting structures discussed herein, in FIGS. Embodiments as discussed can employ many of the principles discussed in other embodiments, particularly with regard to options for visual, auditory, and haptic effects, as well as theme and accessory additions. It is therefore to be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined or substituted with one another to form various modes of the disclosed inventive subject matter. Accordingly, the scope of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments discussed above, but should be determined solely by a fair reading of the following claims. intended to be

Claims (11)

A motorized wheeled riding device comprising:
a ride-on toy portion comprising a frame structure supporting a saddle configured to support a rider thereon and defining a plurality of rear legs;
A wheel structure attached to each of said rear legs, each wheel structure having a wheel and a rotating mount configured to allow said wheel to rotate in any rotational direction. When,
A motorized wheeled self-balancing scooter comprising left and right footpads, said scooter configured to receive rider input via said footpads;
A riding device comprising
A ride-on device, wherein the scooter is mounted to the frame structure such that the ride-on toy portion moves with the scooter. 2. The riding device of claim 1, wherein the scooter is rigidly attached to the frame. 3. The riding apparatus of claim 2, wherein the frame defines a plurality of front legs, the front legs being positioned in front of the scooter. 4. The riding apparatus of claim 3, wherein the scooter footpad is located in front of the saddle and behind the front legs. 3. The riding apparatus of claim 2, wherein a mounting post extends between the scooter and a mounting structure located on the body of the frame. 6. The scooter comprises right and left portions rotatable relative to each other, an insert disposed between the right and left portions, and the mounting post connected to the insert. The riding device according to . a toy controller of the ride-on toy section in communication with a scooter controller of the scooter, the scooter controller adapted to control movement of the scooter and communicating movement data regarding the scooter to the toy controller; 3. The ride-on device of claim 2, wherein the toy controller is configured to activate one or more effects of the ride-on toy portion based on the movement data. 8. The riding apparatus of claim 7, wherein the toy controller is configured to instruct the scooter controller to control movement of the scooter according to one of a plurality of control modes. 9. The riding device of claim 8, wherein the toy controller is configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote computing device such that the remote computing device can configure the operation of the toy controller. A theme structure configured for use with an electric self-balancing scooter, comprising:
a connector configured to be attached to the self-balancing scooter;
a post extending from the connector;
a theme element supported by the post and configured to be held by a user standing on the self-balancing scooter;
is a theme structure comprising
A theme structure, wherein the post is attached to the connector with a joint configured to allow the post to move relative to the connector without affecting operation of the scooter. A motorized wheeled riding device comprising:
a ride-on toy portion comprising a frame structure supporting a saddle configured to support a rider thereon and defining a plurality of rear legs and left and right front legs;
A wheel structure attached to each of said rear legs, each wheel structure having a wheel and a swivel mount configured to allow the swivel mount to rotate freely about a vertical axis. structure and
a left motor configured to rotate a left wheel and attached to the left front leg;
a right motor configured to rotate a right wheel and attached to the right front leg;
a right footrest configured to receive a user's right foot and comprising a right foot input configured to receive forward or backward user right input;
a left footrest configured to receive a user's left foot and comprising a left foot input configured to receive forward or backward user left input;
a controller configured to direct the left and right motors to turn the left and right wheels according to the left and right user inputs, respectively;
A riding device comprising:

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