WO2001047613A1

WO2001047613A1 - A game or event

Info

Publication number: WO2001047613A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2000/000260
Authority: WO
Inventors: Derek Errington Mccullough
Original assignee: Jiggernaut Limited
Priority date: 1999-12-24
Filing date: 2000-12-22
Publication date: 2001-07-05
Also published as: AU2413801A

Abstract

An event, activity or game which includes using a track (4) with one or more vehicles. Each vehicle is powered by one or more individuals and is raced on the track in accordance with rules against either the clock, or against other individuals or teams to eventually select a winner. The track can be of any configuration such as an endless loop track or a track between places or points on a line and can be a track with rails of the general type used as tram or train tracks. The vehicle can be hand or foot powered. Each vehicle can be a series of inter-connected articulated modules (2) of aerodynamic shape. The vehicle can include a front fairing (1) and rear spoiler (16) the orientation of which can be adjusted either in use or before use to alter the set up and ride characteristics of the vehicle.

Description

A GAME OR EVENT

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an event or game and more particularly to an activity which can be played by individuals and/or teams against each other.

Background to the Invention

At present a number of events such as pursuit cycling and dragon or outrigger boat racing are very popular to both spectator and participants. It is a feature of these sports that they have spectator appeal and for participants they provide an opportunity to compete with each other or other teams in a way which improves their health and well being.

An object of the invention is to provide an event, activity or game which has spectator appeal and for participants the benefits of participation and improved health.

Further objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an event, activity or game including, a track adapted for use with one or more vehicles, each vehicle being powered by one or more individuals, the arrangement being such that each vehicle is raced on the track in accordance with rules against either the clock, or against other individuals or teams to eventually select a winner of the event, game or activity The track can be of any configuration such as an endless loop track or a track between places or points on a line. For example, the track can be a track with rails of the general type used as tram or train tracks.

The vehicle can be hand or foot powered and is adapted to run on a straight or non- straight track

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle adapted to be powered by hand or foot and to run on a track or the like, the vehicle being powered by one or more persons running beside, reclining, lying or sitting on the vehicle.

The vehicle can be a series of inter-connected articulated modules each module being of aerodynamic shape and adapted to support one or more persons.

The vehicle can include a front fairing and rear spoiler the orientation of which can be adjusted either in use or before use to alter the set up and ride characteristics of the vehicle. The set up can be adjusted by tensioning members extending between the fairing and spoiler and the vehicle frame. The tensioning member(s) may be brass or other metal fitting or set of fittings which act as a tumbuckle.

The vehicle frame can include a tensionable longitudinal member extending from a front axle to the rear axle with a spacer between adjacent module(s) or pair of axles, the arrangement being that the longitudinal rigidity of the frame can be adjusted either in set up or while in use to improve the cornering ability of the vehicle.

The tensionable member can be a cable extending between the front and rear axles with the spacer between individual modules.

The ιndιvιdual(s) can kneel on fabric members in each module extending between the axles of the modules. According to yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a set of rules for an event, activity or game according to the first aspect and for use with vehicle according to the second aspect of the invention.

Further aspects of the invention which should be considered in all its novel aspects will become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only.

Description of the Drawing

Examples of vehicle according to the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view from the front of a first example of the vehicle on rails;

Figure 2 shows a plan view of the first example shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a side view of the first example shown in Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 4 shows a front view of the first example shown in Figures 1 to 3;

Figure 5 shows a perspective view from the front of a second example of vehicle;

Figure 6 shows a plan view of the second example shown in Figure 5;

Figure 7 shows a side view of the second example shown in Figures 5 and 6;

Figure 8 shows a front view of the second example shown in Figures 5 to 7; Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the parts of a crank drive and frame for either of the vehicles shown in Figures 1 to 8; and

Figure 10 shows an example of wheel and its drive train mounted to an axle and showing part of the vehicle frame for the vehicles shown in Figures 1 to 8.

Description of the Preferred Examples

The vehicle shown in Figures 1 to 4 of the drawings has an aerodynamically shaped forward or front end spoiler 1 and consists of two modules 2 linked together by a connection (not shown in detail) so that the vehicle with two or more modules as may be required for a particular event can articulate round fixed rail type tracks 4.

Each module 2 of the vehicle has a series of sets of wheels 3 which are preferably of a lightweight metal or metal alloy construction. In the example each wheel 3 is adapted to run on a rail by providing a peripheral rim 5. In a case where the event is not being run on a rail the rims 5 are unnecessary and each wheel can have an appropriate tyre or other surface.

The body of the vehicle is adapted to have two persons seated, reclining or lying on each module 2 preferably with two persons on each module. Each person is in a position in which he or she can provide the necessary motive force for turning the wheels.

In the example the motive force is provided by rotating crank levers 6 (detailed in Figure 9) which through gearing drives the wheels 3. Alternatively reciprocating levers can be used and these through an appropriate mechanical mechanism can convert the forward/backward motion of the levers into rotational motion at wheels 3. The reciprocating levers could operate through sprag clutches. As an alternative to kneeling and operating the crank levers 6 as shown in Figures 1 to 4 of the drawings each person could lie in a recumbent position or sit on a seat on the vehicle and rotate cranks by hand or with their legs in a similar way to a cycle crank so that a chain drive rotates the wheels.

Each module 2 or only one of the modules of each vehicle can have a brake mechanism 7 which operates on the rails by rearward movement of a lever not shown which can be operated by hand or foot. Pad 8 of the mechanism contacts the rails on each side of the module to provide in effect parallel braking provided the people on each side of this module actuate their brake at the same time. The brake mechanism 7 can also include a park brake (not shown) in which reverse movement of the mechanism activates a pad which contacts the wheel. In order to avoid damage to the light weight wheels it is preferred that the pads 8 activate against the steel rails although other braking systems are possible as would be recognised by a skilled engineer.

As is shown the people kneel on shaped trays or pads 8. The people may be restrained in position by lap belts 9. The trays may be formed from fabric sleeves which extend between parallel axles 1 0 of each module.

The levers 6 can be provided with variable gearing adjusted by hand or foot.

The axles 10 for the wheels 3 can be continuous hollow axles to save weight.

The lever brake mechanism 7 is track acting and forward movement of the user who grips a brake handle near his heels while kneeling causes downward pressure under the users weight of the pads 8 onto the rails to improve weight transfer and improve efficiency. A park brake can also be included.

The brake mechanism 7 includes appropriate linings to increase braking efficiency.

The frame (not shown in detail in Figures 1 to 4 but partly shown in Figures 9 and 1 0) for the vehicle can be an inverted bike frame to save weight.

The side frame partly shown in Figures 9 and 1 0 consists of three members 1 1 , 12,

1 3 which are constructed of a carbon fibre material to save weight and provide strength. The members support what is in effect an inverted bottom cycle bracket

14 and sprocket 1 5.

The rear of the vehicle can include an aerofoil spoiler 1 6 which aids stability at speed.

In the second example shown in Figures 5 to 8 similar parts to those incorporated in the first example are referenced by the same numerals.

In this example the first and last modules 3 are similar to those in Figures 1 to 4 except that they are shown operated by a single person, in this case the modules themselves may be the same but incorporate in connection with the cranks 6 extensions which position the crank handles 6' nearer to the centre of the module so that a single person can operate the cranks on either side of the module.

In the second example the two centre modules 1 7 are inserted together with spacers 1 8 to change the overall length of the vehicle. The length of the tensionable member which extends from the front axle 1 9 to axle 20 is longer to enable the single tensionable member to link the four modules 2, 1 7, 1 8, 2. The tensionable member is preferably a cable the tension of which can be adjusted to join the modules and to give the desired longitudinal rigidity.

In use the second example is used in the same way as the first example and can be trimmed in the same way.

Trim for the vehicle is effected by adjusting the tension in the tensionable member to give the required longitudinal rigidity to the vehicle.

The front fairing and spoiler 1 is positioned by the members 21 the length of which may be changed to adjust the orientation of the fairing relative to the frame to thereby adjust the aerodynamic and ride characteristics. Similarly the orientation of the spoiler 6 can be adjusted by altering the tension and length on the tensioning tensioners.

Figures 9 and 1 0 show the members forming a triangular side frame 22 formed by members 1 1 , 1 2, 1 3. The ends of member 3 have a sleeve 23 in which the hollow axies 10 are fitted.

In Figure 9 is shown a sleeve 23 for a forward of the axles and a housing 24 for an axle of the crank 6.

The housing 26 as shown has a journal 27 for the axle of the crank. Although the axle of the crank is not shown its centre line is indicated at 28.

The crank 6 and handle 1 6 are shown together with a pin 29 mounting the handle 1 6 to the crank.

The connection of the crank end 30 to the axle is via a sprag clutch 31 the parts of which are indicated by the arrow 31 .

The position of the journal 27 in the housing 26 can be rotated to alter the tension in chain 32. This is effected by releasing the bolts 33 rotating the offset 27 to tighten or loosen the chain 32 as required .

Figure 1 0 shows the connection between a wheel 3 and axle 1 0 which is fitted through a housing 23 The lower end of the chain 1 3 is shown as is the lower drive sprocket 34. In this drawing for clarity an image from the version is actually shown.

In this example the wheel 3 incorporates a bearing 35 mounted on end of axle 1 0. The sprocket 34 which is fixed to the wheel 3 causes direct movement of the chain 32 to rotate directly the wheel on the hollow stub axle. In use the vehicle is used in an event which has elements from a number of sports such as pursuit cycling, yachting, rowing, tennis and dragonboat racing embodied in the event rules.

For example, the track can be a measured straight line or continuous track. The track can be divided into equal length segments.

A person, persons or teams who use similar vehicles start and race against the clock or against each other. For example the racers can start at opposite sides of the track at the same time or over the same length of track and times are compared through the segments. Time trial events can also be run with the slower person, persons or teams eliminated and the faster proceeding to a next round.

Event rules can be as follows:

The event consists of teams of four members competing against each other on a time trial basis in vehicles specially designed to race on rails.

It is suited although not restricted to athletes with upper body strength, such as kayakers, rowers, yachting grinders and wheelchair athletes. Trials have shown that teamwork and co-ordination are as important as brute strength.

The Britten Jiggernaut has been in development for 1 2 months. The result is a superb piece of design and engineering. By entering a team in this competition, you will be among the first in the world to experience this exciting new sport. Jiggernaut Vehicles Specs

Length 3550 mm Width 1 570 mm

Nosecone Height 700 mm

Tail Height 980 mm

Weight 60 kg

Power Single gear, hand cranked Brakes Trailing arm, direct to track

Competition Format

Each team gets two heats to set their fastest time. The fastest 1 6 in each division progress through to the knockout round, where they are seeded. First races 1 6^th, 2^nd races 1 5^th and so on. The fastest of each pair continue through to the next round.

The Teams

Each team shall have four members, with at least two females. This can be picked from a nominated squad of six.

A corporate division may be designed to cater for small companies or units of larger organisations. It is primarily a fun, team-building exercise, and while a certain level of fitness is required, it is not for the specialist athlete. Team members must work for at least 1 5 hours for the same company. At the discretion of the race director, partners of workmates may be teammembers.

An open division is for any teams, with the same condition that each team must have at least two females. It may include serious athletes or teams put together specifically for this event. Team Uniforms

Each team uniform must reserve a space below the collar on the back for a sponsor's logo. The rest of the uniform is open for company or sub-sponsors names. There may be a prize for the best looking uniform. Each uniform must also include a cycling safety helmet.

The use of the single common design of vehicle over the same or similar pieces of track measures team skill and effort rather than design skill in operating the vehicles to enable a winner to be declared.

The vehicle(s) can be modular allowing for teams of varying numbers.

It is envisaged that the game or event can be run, for example, on the central city tram tracks of Christchurch, New Zealand. This will bring speed glamour excitement and colour to the heart of the City.

The vehicles can be used on non-competitive days as a tourist attraction.

Where in the description particular mechanical or other integers are mentioned it is to be appreciated that their equivalents can be substituted as if they were individually set forth herein.

Thus by this invention there is provided an activity or game which has spectator appeal and provides benefit to participants in improved health.

Particular examples of the invention have been described and it is envisaged that improvements and modifications can take place without departing from the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

1 . An event, activity or game including, a track adapted for use with one or more vehicles, each vehicle being powered by one or more individuals, the arrangement being such that each vehicle is raced on the track in accordance with rules against either the clock, or against other individuals or teams to eventually select a winner of the event, game or activity.

2. An event, activity or game as claimed in claim 1 wherein the track is of any configuration such as an endless loop track or a track between places or points on a line.

3. An event, activity or game as claimed in claim 2 wherein the track is a track with rails such as those used as tram or train tracks.

4. An event, activity or game as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the vehicle is hand or foot powered

5. An event, activity or game as claimed in claim 1 and substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

6. A vehicle adapted to be powered by hand or foot and to run on a track or the like, the vehicle being powered by one or more persons running beside, reclining, lying or sitting on the vehicle, the vehicle can be a series of inter- connected articulated modules each module being of aerodynamic shape and adapted to support one or more persons.

7. A vehicle as claimed in claim 6 wherein the vehicle includes a front fairing and rear spoiler the orientation of which can be adjusted either in use or before use to alter the set up and ride characteristics of the vehicle.

8. A vehicle as claimed in claim 7 wherein the set up is adjusted by tensioning members extending between the fairing and spoiler and the vehicle frame.

9. A vehicle as claimed in claim 8 wherein the tensioning member(s) is/are brass or other metal fitting or set of fittings which act as a tumbuckle.

10. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 9 wherein the vehicle frame includes a tensionable longitudinal member extending from a front axle to the rear axle with a spacer between adjacent module(s) or pair of axles, the arrangement being that the longitudinal rigidity of the frame can be adjusted either in set up or while in use to improve the cornering ability of the vehicle.

1 1 . A vehicle as claimed in claim 1 0 wherein the tensionable member is a cable extending between the front and rear axles with the spacer between individual modules.

1 2. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 1 1 wherein the individual(s) kneels on fabric members in each module extending between the axles of the modules.

1 3. A vehicle as claimed any one of claims 6 to 1 2 wherein braking is provided substantially simultaneously on each rail by a hand or foot operated lever.

14. A vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 3 and substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 5. A set of rules for an event, activity or game as defined in any one of claims 1 to 5.

16. A set of rules for an event, activity or game for use with a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 14.