WO2020008132A1

WO2020008132A1 - Compact foldable kick scooter

Info

Publication number: WO2020008132A1
Application number: PCT/FR2019/051617
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven PINGON; Rémy MONTAGNE
Original assignee: Pingon Steven; Montagne Remy
Priority date: 2018-07-02
Filing date: 2019-07-01
Publication date: 2020-01-09
Also published as: FR3083204B1; FR3083204A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a compact foldable kick scooter (100) comprising at least two wheels (1a, 1b) including one rear wheel (1a) and one front wheel (1b), a steering post (10) provided with handlebars (11) and connected to a platform (20) via the intermediary of a connecting member (30), in which said platform (20) comprises a foldable upper plate (21) and at least one first (22a) and one second (22b) telescopic portions that serve as a chassis (22) and are able to slide with respect to one another to make it possible to pass from a deployed position (P1), in which the upper plate (21) is unfolded and serves to receive the feet of a person, to a stowing position (P2), in which the upper plate (21) is folded and the first (22a) and second (22b) portions are nested at least partially one inside the other for compactness, and vice versa.

Description

FOLDABLE SCOOTER WITH REDUCED SIZE

Technical field and prior art

The present invention relates to the field of urban mobility, and more particularly to the field of scooters type land vehicles.

The object of the present invention thus relates to a foldable scooter with reduced overall dimensions.

By “scooter” within the meaning of the present invention, it is necessary to understand in all the description which follows a land vehicle comprising a platform on which is mounted a directional column itself equipped with a handlebar, said platform being carried by at least two wheels including at least one rear wheel and at least one front wheel connected directly or indirectly to the steering column.

In practical terms, the user of a scooter places one or two feet on the platform, one of the feet being conventionally used to rest on the ground and propel themselves. The latter then handles the directional handlebars to steer the front wheel and steer his vehicle.

Motorized scooters have recently appeared. These allow in particular to extend the distances traveled by limiting the efforts of the user.

It will be understood here that the present invention will find an advantageous application for both non-motorized scooters and motorized scooters.

City dwellers have today widely adopted the use of scooters in their urban journeys.

The scooter has indeed become an easy-to-use means of transport which presents itself as an attractive alternative to bicycles, the use of the scooter avoiding the various problems linked in particular to traffic, parking or even pollution.

Scooters offer significant advantages in terms of mobility over bicycles: they are by nature less bulky and lighter than these.

The Applicant submits, however, that scooters, even motorized, are not perfectly suited to long distances: the size of the wheels of a scooter, the bearings and the mode of propulsion make it tiring to travel a long distance on a scooter. . The scooter therefore remains a complementary means of transport which mainly makes it possible to travel a short distance or to finish a journey to reach a final destination.

We also talk about the problem of the “last kilometer”.

Thus, a person leaving the bus, subway or train must most often travel an additional distance before arriving at their final destination (workplace or other).

This last distance to cover can represent several minutes of walking.

In this situation, the use of the scooter is a perfect candidate.

It is however necessary to be able to store your scooter before / after use to limit its size and to fold / unfold it easily to facilitate its use.

Likewise, a child who scoots to school or to a various activity always encounters a storage problem to put away his scooter after use.

It is therefore understood here that the problem of size represents a major issue for the use of the scooter.

Certainly, there are already folding solutions to reduce the size of the scooter in its storage configuration.

Are known in particular folding scooters conventionally comprising a pivot connection between the platform (or "deck") and the directional column (telescopic or not).

Such scooters are described in documents US2005248111 Al, US2005006866 Al, US7156405 Bl, US2014151982 Al, US9545970 B2 or even CN2430350 Y.

Although interesting, the Applicant submits that the size reduction performance of this type of scooter remains unsatisfactory and does not allow the folded scooter to be introduced into a backpack.

Generally, the platform of a scooter has a minimum support surface substantially equal to at least the length of a foot, or about 350 to 400 millimeters.

Thus, the total length of this type of scooter in the folded state remains substantially equal to the support length of the foot plus possibly the diameter of each wheel, which remains far too bulky for storage in a backpack.

To reduce this size, there are scooter solutions with a foldable platform.

Mention may be made, for example, of documents US6616154 B1, CN106741487 A, CN106741451 A, CN106882312 A, CN 104743033 A, EP3103712 Al or else WO2015197879 A1 which disclose solutions for reducing the size of the scooter in the folded state with a foldable platform mechanism.

Document W02010140143 A1 is also known which discloses a solution for reducing the size of the scooter in the folded state with a mechanism of folding wheels.

Despite these various solutions provided in the state of the art, the Applicant considers that the scooter is a land vehicle which nevertheless remains bulky: the reduction in overall dimensions obtained with these various solutions is not optimal; it remains difficult, if not impossible, to store a scooter in a backpack for example or even in a bag possibly in addition to a laptop.

The Applicant further submits that scooters of the state of the art do not provide for simple structures ensuring automatic folding / unfolding facilitating the operations of its user for switching from one configuration to another.

Object and summary of the present invention

The object of the present invention is to improve the situation described above.

The present invention therefore aims to remedy the various drawbacks mentioned above by proposing the design of a foldable scooter whose size is reduced and makes it possible to position said scooter in a bag of the backpack type or even in a bag possibly in addition to 'a laptop.

The object of the present invention relates more particularly to a scooter, motorized or not, with reduced overall dimensions which conventionally comprises at least two wheels including a rear wheel and a front wheel, a directional column equipped with a handlebar and connected to a platform by through a liaison body.

According to the present invention, the platform comprises a foldable upper plate and at least a first and second telescopic portions serving as a frame.

It is understood here that the first portion is the proximal portion connected to the connecting member and that the second portion is the distal portion. Those skilled in the art will understand here that a third or even a fourth portion can be provided. In this case, the third, or the fourth portion, is the portion furthest from the connecting member. It is generally on this most distant distal portion that the rear wheel is fixed. Advantageously, said at least a first and second portions are able to slide relative to one another to allow the passage from a deployed position in which the upper plate is unfolded and is used to receive the feet of a person (configuration steps) to a storage position in which the upper plate is folded and the first and second portions are fitted at least partially into one another for reduced bulk (and vice versa).

Thus, the present invention, by these different functional and structural technical characteristics, and in particular the presence of a foldable plate cooperating with a telescopic chassis system, allows the portions of the chassis to be embedded together to significantly reduce the size of the platform in the folded state.

Advantageously, the upper plate comprises first and second plates, each having a distal end and a proximal end.

According to the present, the proximal ends of the first and second plates are mounted between them according to a pivot connection having a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the axis of movement of the scooter. It is therefore understood here that the plates are capable of pivoting with respect to one another according to this pivot connection.

According to the present invention, the distal ends of the first and second plates are mounted respectively on the at least a first and second portion according to a pivot connection having a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the axis of movement of said scooter.

Thus, during the transition from the deployed position to the storage position, the sliding of the first and second portions causes successive pivoting to bring the distal ends of each of the plates together and to fold the plates towards one another.

It will be understood here that the plates are not necessarily folded against each other in the storage position, but can simply be folded towards each other, the folding allowing the space requirement of the platform to be reduced in the position storage by bringing the plates towards each other by pivoting the plates between them.

Preferably, the plates are folded against one another and come at least partially to bear on said at least one first and second nested portions.

Alternatively, the plates once folded bear at least partially on the rear wheel.

The pivot connections are preferably implemented by hinges cooperating together so as to simultaneously allow the portions to be interlocked while ensuring the folding of the upper plate. It is therefore sufficient for the user to initiate the folding of the upper plate to allow the portions to be embedded one inside the other.

In terms of the kinematics of the structure, the implementation of the hinges here acts as connecting rods making it possible to synchronize the fitting of the portions of the chassis together as well as the folding of the upper plate.

In an advantageous embodiment, the scooter according to the present invention comprises at least one rear wheel mounted integrally on a third telescopic portion of the platform. It will be understood here that the rear wheel can also be mounted on the second portion.

In either case, the rear wheel is mounted on a so-called distal portion of the platform.

In this mode, it is preferably provided that the axis of the rear wheel is located in the extension of said platform. Such a mode ensures a good reduction of 1 footprint.

Optionally, the second and third portions can be telescoped together so that, when the third portion fits into the second portion, the rear wheel retracts at least partially into the volume of the second portion and then the first portion.

Advantageously, the scooter according to the present invention comprises locking / unlocking means configured to ensure locking / unlocking of the platform in the deployed position.

In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the locking / unlocking means comprise at least one spring leaf which is integral with the upper plate and on which is mounted at least one stud capable of engaging in a light provided on a side tab secured to the chassis.

Those skilled in the art will understand here that this configuration can be reversed and that the spring leaf can be mounted integrally on the chassis (that is to say on at least one of the portions) and that the light can be provided on a side tab secured to the upper plate.

In one case as in the other, a stud system mounted on a spring leaf and able to engage in a light is implemented between the upper plate and the chassis to ensure a locking in position of the elements between them and similarly secure the position of the chassis portions therebetween. Thus, when passing into the deployed position, the spring leaf forces Pau minus one stud to engage in Pau minus a lumen ensuring the blocking in position of the upper plate against the portions of the platform.

Preferably, the actuation of the rear wheel in the direction of the connecting member forces the locking / unlocking means to be deactivated to allow the folding of the upper plate. Thus, the engagement of the rear wheel triggers the folding of the upper plate and the embedding of the first and second portions therebetween.

It is understood here that it is sufficient for the user to engage the rear wheel in the direction of the connecting member to initiate the unlocking and allow the folding of the upper plate in order to automatically engage the nesting of the portions therebetween. .

This actuation of the rear wheel may require the user to simultaneously actuate a safety button to allow this automation and to avoid automatic unlocking accidentally when using the scooter, for example by kicking foot when braking.

Advantageously, said at least a first and second telescopic portions comprise guide means, the implementation of which makes it possible to guide the sliding of the first and second portions therebetween.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the guide means comprise at least one elongated slot formed on at least one of the lateral flanks of said at least a first and / or second portion and at least one guide finger formed on at least one of the lateral flanks of said at least a second and / or first portion.

In this mode, the at least one guide finger is engaged in the at least one elongate slot so that, when passing from one position to the other, the at least one guide finger slides along the at least one elongated slot for guiding the portions between them.

This configuration ensures good rigidity of the connection between the portions of the platform and ensures good sliding when switching from one configuration to another.

Advantageously, the connecting member comprises means for rotating the platform for the folding of the platform against the directional column.

It is thus possible to fold the platform against the directional column.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the scooter comprises an automatic unlocking mechanism for the means of rotation comprising a system of deformable blades capable of having two positions, of which: a locking position in which the blades are engaged against the means of rotation preventing the folding of the platform against the directional column, and

an unlocking position in which the blades are disengaged, releasing the means of rotation to allow the folding of the platform against the directional column.

Preferably, the chassis of the platform comprises disengagement tabs each having an inclined slope forming a cam so that, when passing from the deployed position to the storage position, the cams bear on the blades to deform them in order to release the means for rotating in the unlocked position.

This configuration using cams allows automatic unlocking of the rotation means. It suffices for the user to fit the portions into one another by actuating the rear wheel so that the cams lift the spring blades allowing the release of the means of rotation for the folding of the platform against the directional column.

Advantageously, the handlebars are detachably fixed on the directional column.

Advantageously, the handlebar comprises a main body of elongate shape capable of being introduced into a lateral reception opening of complementary shape and formed on the upper portion of the directional column, also called the extremal part of the column.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the main body is of cylindrical shape.

In this mode, the main body is provided on its central portion with a key adapted to be introduced into a first groove formed on the receiving opening to block the handlebar in rotation relative to the directional column.

The user can therefore grasp the main body serving as handlebars and introduce it laterally into the receiving opening to allow an integral assembly of the handlebars on the directional column.

Here, the handlebars are locked in rotation relative to the column by the presence of the key which is housed in a groove provided for this purpose.

In another embodiment, the main body has a cross section of substantially polygonal shape. In this case, the edges of the polygon coming to bear in the shape complementary to the lateral opening allow the handlebars to be prevented from rotating relative to the directional column. Preferably, provision is also made for the main body to include a spring cleat. Here, the implementation of this cleat with the directional column during the introduction of the body into the receiving opening ensures a locking in translation of the handlebar relative to the directional column.

Preferably, the directional column comprises a receiving housing formed at one of the ends of the column and dimensioned to receive the handlebars.

Preferably, when the main body is cylindrical in shape and includes a key along its length, the receiving housing includes inside its second groove extending vertically in the axis of the column and able to receive the key.

The presence of this second groove makes it possible to guide the positioning of the main body in the receiving housing provided for receiving the handlebars, and to block the handlebars in rotation in the housing.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the directional column comprises at least one male tube and one female tube capable of sliding one inside the other to reduce the overall height of the column in the folded state. We also speak of a telescopic column.

Preferably, the axis of the steering column is offset forward relative to the axis of the front wheel.

Preferably, the axis of the directional column is offset forward relative to the directional axis of rotation of the front wheel so that, in the folded state, the telescopic tubes embedded between them are positioned in front of the front wheel. This directional axis of rotation is here the vertical axis around which the wheel turns to steer the scooter.

Thus, in the folded state, the telescopic tubes embedded between them are positioned in front of the front wheel. This forward directional column configuration significantly reduces the size of the scooter.

Advantageously, provision can be made for the directional column to be equipped with at least one locking ring comprising a first lever.

Preferably, the first lever has a first gripping rod and a bend, opposite to said first gripping rod, the actuation of this first lever in the locked position causing the elbow to engage in an opening formed on the female tube and then introducing the elbow into a notch on the male tube in order to block the tubes in translation with each other. The user of the scooter can therefore grasp this first lever and actuate it to engage the elbow in the opening of the female tube in order to block in translation the male tube and the female tube.

In an advantageous alternative embodiment, the directional column is equipped with a clamping ring comprising a second lever, the actuation of which in the clamping position maintains the female tube and the male tube against each other by clamping.

Here, the clamping serves to reduce the clearance between the two tubes.

Preferably, this second handle comprises a second gripping rod provided with an opening dimensioned to receive the first gripping rod so that, following the successive actuation of the first and second handles, the first gripping rod is housed in the opening ensuring that the locking ring is locked in the locking position.

Here, the opening on the second rod allows the reception of the first rod when passing into the locked position. This constitutes additional security by avoiding accidental unlocking of the unlocking ring during unintentional handling of the first lever.

In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the scooter comprises a transmission element implemented between the clamping ring and the locking ring so that the actuation of the first lever of the clamping ring causes the actuation of the second lever of the locking ring.

The presence of this transmission element allows automation of the locking since it suffices for the user to tighten the tubes together by actuating the second handle to automatically engage the first handle and allow the tubes to be locked in translation with each other. by the engagement of the elbow in the opening provided on the male tube.

In an alternative embodiment, this transmission element comprises a leaf spring, one end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the locking ring and the other end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the clamping ring so that the actuation of the second lever of the clamping ring in the clamping position actuates the transmission element constraining the locking ring in the locking position, and vice versa.

This implementation variant allows automatic locking.

Alternatively, such a transmission element may not be implemented. In this case, the two rings are configured with respect to each other so that the finger the user actuates the clamping ring and the locking ring simultaneously in the same movement.

Thus, the present invention, by its various structural and functional technical characteristics, provides users with a scooter whose new design guarantees a reduced bulk in storage configuration and whose manipulations for the transition from this storage configuration to the scooter configuration are done simply and semi-automatically, even automatically.

Brief description of the attached figures

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description below, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 11 which illustrate different embodiments thereof which are devoid of any limiting character and in which:

Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a scooter in scooter configuration with the platform in the deployed position;

Figures 2a-2b-2c each schematically show a view of a scooter according to Figure 1 when passing from the deployed position to the storage position;

Figures 3a and 3b each show a schematic view of the locking / unlocking means of the platform in the deployed position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a complete view of a scooter according to Figure 1, the platform is in the storage position;

5 shows a schematic view of an automatic unlocking mechanism of the means for rotating the platform relative to the directional column according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 6 represents a schematic view of the handlebar fixedly attached to the directional column;

Figures 7a-7b and 8a-8b each show a schematic perspective view of a removable handlebar which is positioned in the column during storage of the scooter, according to two embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 9 schematically represents a schematic view of the scooter in the storage configuration with the platform in the storage position and the directional column in the storage position for reduced bulk; Figures lOa-lOb and lOc each show the use of the locking and tightening rings according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 11 represents a perspective view of a system of locking and tightening rings according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description according to an advantageous exemplary embodiment

The present invention will now be described in what follows with reference to Figures 1 to 11 appended to the description.

For the record, one of the objectives of the present invention is to design a foldable scooter with reduced overall dimensions. Preferably, the design developed within the framework of the present invention must allow the scooter to be able to be stored in storage configuration in a reduced volume such as that defined by a backpack or in a bag possibly in addition to a computer. portable.

One of the other objectives of the present invention is to design a light scooter structure whose transition from the storage configuration to the scooter configuration is simple and allows rapid and automatic folding / unbinding, in particular to limit handling of the user.

These various objectives are simultaneously achieved in the exemplary embodiment of the invention described below and illustrated in the figures in the appendices.

In the example described here and illustrated in Figures 1 to 11, there is a foldable scooter 100 conventionally having at least two wheels la and lb including a rear wheel la and a front wheel lb, a telescopic directional column 10 equipped with a handlebar 11 which is connected to a platform 20 by means of a connecting member 30.

Here, the ′ axis of the rear wheel 1a is in the extension of the platform 20, which makes it possible to further reduce the size of the scooter in the storage configuration as will be understood below. This rear wheel design 1a in the extension of the platform 20 makes it possible to implement large diameter wheels on the scooter.

Alternatively, the skilled person can provide that this rear wheel 1a can also be positioned under the platform 20. In this case, the platform is raised compared to the previous version of the dimension of the wheels, which is less comfortable for the 'user. One of the concepts underlying the present invention is to reduce the size of the platform 20.

In this example, a telescopic platform solution is therefore provided, making it possible to reduce the space requirement in the storage position P2 (see FIG. 2c).

The implementation of a telescopic platform is characteristic of the present invention.

In the example described here, the platform 20 therefore comprises an upper plate 21 which is foldable and telescopic portions 22a, 22b and 22c serving as a frame 22.

In the example described here, first 22a, second 22b and third 22c telescopic portions are provided. Obviously, those skilled in the art will understand that this is an example among other possible, the chassis 22 can be constituted by at least two portions (that is to say two or more portions) .

It is understood that the first portion 22a is that directly connected to the connecting member 30 while the third portion 22c on which the rear wheel 1a is mounted is the extreme portion, that is to say the portion located at the 'opposite of the connecting member 30. In other words, it is the portion serving to support the rear wheel.

In the example described here, the telescopic portions 22a, 22b and 22c are able to slide relative to one another to fit together and thus allow the passage from a deployed position Pl (illustrated in Figure 1) at a storage position P2 (illustrated in FIG. 2c) in which the portions 22a, 22b and 22c are embedded in one another.

In the P2 storage position, the size of the platform 20 is optimally reduced, while in the deployed position, the platform 20 offers a good support surface, thus complying with the standards in force.

In this example, the upper plate 21 has a first 23 and a second 24 plates.

Here, the plates 23 and 24 are able to fold towards one another.

More particularly, as can be seen in FIGS. 2a, 2b and 2c, the proximal ends 23b and 24b of the first 23 and second 24 plates are mounted together according to a pivot connection having a pivot axis extending perpendicular to the axis of movement A1 of the scooter 100; the distal ends 23a and 24a of the first 23 and second 24 plates are in turn mounted respectively on the first 22a and second 22b portions according to a pivot link having a pivot axis extending perpendicularly to the axis of movement A1 of the scooter 100 _^ Thus, the design of this platform 20 makes it possible to implement a connecting rod system between the plate 21 and the chassis 22.

The actuation of this connecting rod causes the plates 23 - 24 to pivot successively between themselves and relative to the frame 22 allowing the portions 22a, 22b and 22c to slide with the distal ends 23a and 24a of each of the plates 23 and 24 coming together and a folding of the plates 23 and 24 towards each other.

In the example described here and illustrated in FIG. 2c, once the plates 23 and 24 folded towards one another, these come against the rear wheel allowing it to retract the rear wheel 1a into the volume of the chassis 22. During the embedding of the portions therebetween, the rear wheel thus retracts into the volume of the chassis 22, which significantly reduces the overall volume of the scooter in the storage position P2.

This kinematics of the plates 23 and 24 and of the chassis 22 between the deployed position P1 and the storage position P2 makes it possible to reduce the overall dimensions of the platform 20 and of the rear wheel 1a as much as possible, this overall dimensions being substantially reduced to that of the first portions 22a of the chassis 22.

This kinematics is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2a-2b-2c.

In the deployed position P1 (FIG. 1), the platform 20 therefore serves here as a running board: the upper plate 21 is unfolded and serves to receive the feet of a person while the portions 22a-22b-22c are deployed between them.

In the storage position P2, the upper plate 21 is folded up with the two plates 23 and 24 folded down towards one another, and the portions 22a-22b-22c embedded in one another.

The structural means implemented here on the platform 20 ensure optimization of the space requirement in the storage position P2.

To facilitate handling by the user, it is here provided that it is the actuation of the rear wheel 1a in the direction of the connecting member 30 which initiates the unlocking of the platform 20 and actuates the system of connecting rods to authorize the 'embedding portions 22a, 22b and 22c therebetween and the folding of the plates 23 and 24 therebetween.

A blade system can be provided for this purpose to automate this unlocking. Alternatively, an actuation button can be provided to secure the unlocking operation and prevent accidental passage from one position to the other.

Guaranteeing the safety of the user while simplifying the handling of the scooter is one of the objectives of the present invention.

In the example described here, there is therefore provided locking / unlocking means 40 ensuring the locking / unlocking of the platform 20 in the deployed position Pl. In this example and as illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b, the locking / unlocking means 40 comprise at least one leaf spring 41 secured to the upper plate 21. On this blade 41 is mounted a stud 42.

In the deployed position P1, the pad 42 faces a light 43 which is formed on the frame 22.

The blade 41 therefore forces the stud 42 to engage in this lumen 43 to hold the upper plate 21 together with the frame 22 (see FIG. 3 a)

When the button 44 is actuated as illustrated in FIG. 3b, the latter disengages the stud 42 from the light 43 to unlock the system and allow the passage from the deployed position Pl to the storage position P2.

This implementation by the actuation of a simple button 44 on a side face of the platform frees the stud 42 from the light 43 thus unlocking the system.

It therefore suffices for the user to actuate this button 44 to begin the transition from the deployed position Pl to the storage position P2.

Allowing a good passage from the deployed position Pl to the storage position P2 is also ensured by the implementation between the portions of the chassis 22 of guide means 50 ensuring good sliding of the telescopic portions between them.

In this example, the guide means 50 comprise a slender slot 51 formed on the lateral flanks of the portions 22a and 22b and at least one guide finger 52 formed on the lateral flanks of the portions. As illustrated in FIGS. 2a-2b-2c and 3a, the at least one guide finger 52 is engaged in the elongated slot 51 and slides along it when passing from one position to the other to ensure the guiding the portions together.

Thus, even in the event of a major shock, the system functions and folds back even if the geometry is degraded. Only a certain precision is required only on the slots, and not on the entire length of the portions.

In the example described here and illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the connecting member 30 comprises means 31 for rotating the platform 20 for the folding of the platform 20 against the directional column 10.

Those skilled in the art will understand here that these means of rotating 31 can comprise any type of solution ensuring the folding of the platform 20 against the column 10 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

Here, for example, provision is made for the platform 20 to be mounted on the connecting member 30 via a pivot axis 32 ensuring the pivoting of the platform 20 against the column 10. Guaranteeing user safety while facilitating locking / unlocking operations by automatic means is one of the objectives of the present invention.

In this example, provision is thus made, as illustrated in FIG. 5, for the implementation of an automatic unlocking mechanism 60 of the rotation means 31, the actuation of which automatically unlocks the rotation means 31 to authorize the folding the platform 20 against the column 10.

In this example and as illustrated in FIG. 5, the unlocking mechanism 60 here comprises a set of deformable blades 61 capable of having two positions, of which:

a locking position in which the blades 61 are engaged against the rotation means 31 preventing the folding of the platform 20 against the directional column 10, and

an unlocking position in which the blades 61 are disengaged, releasing the means of rotation 31 to allow the folding of the platform 20 against the directional column 10.

In this example, the frame 22 has disengagement tabs 62 with an inclined slope 62a forming a cam.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, passing from the deployed position Pl to the storage position P2, the cams bear on the blades 61 and deform the latter by lifting them, thereby releasing the means of rotation 31 in the unlocked position.

This implementation of cams cooperating with the blades 61 provide automatic unlocking.

It therefore suffices for the user to actuate the rear wheel 1a to fold the platform to the storage position P2. When the portion 22b or 22c of the chassis 22 reaches the end of the race, the cams bear against the blades 61 and engage against them in order to deform them to release the means of rotation in the unlocked position and allow a folding of the platform 20 against the tube 10.

Thus, after reducing the overall volume of the platform as illustrated in FIG. 2c, it is possible without any additional operation to fold the platform 20 against the directional column 10 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

Reducing the vertical volume of the scooter is one of the objectives of the present invention.

It is therefore provided here that the handlebar 11 is removably fixed to the directional column 10. In the example described here and illustrated in FIGS. 6, 7a-7b and 8a-8b, the handlebar 11 comprises a main body 1 the removable which is of elongated shape and which can be introduced into a lateral receiving opening 12 formed on the upper portion 10a of the directional column 10.

By introducing the body 11a into this opening 12, the handlebar 11 is positioned on the column 10.

In the example of FIGS. 7a-7b, the main body 1a of the handlebar 11 is of cylindrical shape. In this example, the lateral reception opening 12 is of complementary shape to allow easy introduction.

To block the handlebar 11 in rotation relative to the column 10, provision is however made, as illustrated in FIG. 7a, for the implementation of a key 13 on the middle portion 1a ′ of the body 11. During the introduction of the body l in the opening 12, the user directs the body l the of the handlebars so as to introduce this key 13 into the first groove 14 formed on the receiving opening 12 and thus block the handlebars 11 in rotation relative to the directional column 10.

The implementation of a key is however not useful in the embodiment of Figures 8a-8b which provides a handlebar 11 whose main body there is substantially square section (or polygonal in the broad sense). Indeed, in this preferred configuration, the handlebars 11 do not rotate in the opening 12 of the column 10.

In either case, there is provision here for the presence of a spring clip 15 on the main body there. After introduction of the handlebar into the opening 12, the implementation of the stopper 15 on the directional column 10 ensures a locking in translation of the handlebar 11 relative to the directional column 10.

It therefore suffices for the user to introduce the handlebars into this opening so that the latter is rigidly held in position with the column 10.

It is also provided in the example described here and as illustrated in Figures 7a and 8a to accommodate the free handlebars 11 in a receiving housing 16 formed at one end of the column.

This housing 16 can be provided at the upper end of the column 10 or at the lower end thereof.

It further reduces the overall height of the scooter.

In the exemplary embodiment comprising a handlebar of cylindrical shape, it can be provided that the receiving housing 16 also includes inside it a second groove 17 extending vertically in the axis A2 of the column 10. In this illustrated variant in FIG. 8b, this groove 17 is dimensioned to receive the key 13. This ensures that the handlebars are prevented from rotating in the receiving housing 16.

In the example described here and as illustrated in FIG. 9, the directional column 10 is telescopic; it therefore comprises a plurality of male / female tubes l8a, 18b and l8c which slide into one another to fit together and thus reduce the overall height of the column 10.

The user can therefore activate the column 10 to fold it up so that it passes from a state C1 of use to a folded state C2 as illustrated in FIG. 9.

To further reduce the overall volume, it is provided as illustrated in figure

9 that:

the axis A2 of the directional column 10 is offset forward relative to the axis lb ’of the front wheel lb. Thus, in the folded state C2, the telescopic tubes l8a, 18b and l8c embedded between them are positioned in front of the front wheel lb, and / or the axis A2 of the directional column 10 is offset forward relative to the directional axis of rotation A3 of the front wheel 1a.

In the example described here, the user can pass from a state C1 to C2 (or vice versa) by actuating a system of rings 70-80.

In this example, a locking ring 70 is thus provided comprising a first lever 71 whose actuation in the locking position by the user causes the elbow 7lb of the lever 71 to engage in an opening 7lc formed on the female tube then the introduction of the latter into a notch 7ld formed on the male column.

The introduction of this portion 7lb of the lever 71 into this notch 7ld blocks in translation the tubes between them.

Automating the actuation of this lever 71 is one of the objectives of the present invention. Provision is therefore made for the use of a clamping ring 80 having a second lever 81, the actuation of which in the clamping position keeps the female tube and the male tube against each other by clamping.

In the example described here, the clamping and locking rings are able to cooperate together.

In an advantageous embodiment, there is therefore provided a transmission element 90 implemented between the clamping ring 80 and the locking ring 70.

Here, the user by actuating the second lever 81 of the clamping ring 80 causes the actuation of the first lever 71 of the locking ring 70, thus locking the tubes together simultaneously with the clamping operation. In this example, the transmission element 90 comprises a spring leaf 91, one end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the locking ring 70 and the other end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the clamping ring 80. Thus, manual actuation by P user of the second lever 81 of the clamping ring 80 in the clamping position actuates the spring leaf 91 constraining the locking ring 70 in the locking position.

One can alternatively provide an implementation mode in which there is no transmission element and in which it is the finger of the user who simultaneously actuates the two levers 71 and 81 to lock / unlock the tubes between them.

In the embodiment of Figure 11, there is provided on the rod 8 la of the second lever 81 an opening dimensioned 8 lb to receive the first gripping rod 7 la.

In this example, following the successive actuation of the first 71 and second 81 levers, the first gripping rod 7la is housed in the opening 8 lb guaranteeing a locking of the locking ring 70 in the locking position.

The design proposed here within the framework of the present invention makes it possible to reduce the overall volume of the scooter optimally.

This design thus makes it possible to have a scooter which has the distinction of being extremely compact and light, in order to be able to fit in a handbag or a backpack.

Users of such a scooter can, as they do with an umbrella, slip the umbrella into the bottom of their bag to move freely on foot and then take out their scooter when they need it.

Such a design therefore retains the advantages of a so-called classic scooter (speed, ease of use, compatibility with medium quality roads), without its disadvantages (mass, size) which often remain problematic in public transport or during everyday life.

Thus, in each of the exemplary embodiments described here and illustrated in the appended figures, the user has an easy-to-use scooter allowing him to move easily in urban areas and to fold semi-automatically, or even automatically.

It should be observed that this detailed description relates to several specific embodiments of the present invention, but that in no case does this description have any limiting character to the subject of the invention; on the contrary, it aims to remove any possible inaccuracy or misinterpretation of the claims which follow.

Claims

1. Collapsible scooter (100) with reduced overall dimensions comprising at least two wheels (la, lb) including a rear wheel (la) and a front wheel (lb), a steering column (10) equipped with a handlebar (11) and connected to a platform (20) via T via a connecting member (30),

wherein said platform (20) comprises a foldable upper plate (21) and at least a first (22a) and a second (22b) telescopic portions serving as a frame (22) and able to slide in relation to each other to allow the passage from a deployed position (Pl) in which the upper plate (21) is unfolded and used to receive the feet of a person to a storage position (P2) in which the upper plate (21) is folded and the first (22a) and second (22b) portions are at least partially fitted one into the other for a reduced bulk, and vice versa.

2. A scooter (100) according to claim 1, in which the upper plate (21) comprises a first (23) and a second (24) plates each having a distal end (23a, 24a) and a proximal end (23b, 24b )

wherein the proximal ends (23b, 24b) of the first (23) and second (24) plates are mounted between them according to a pivot connection having a pivot axis extending perpendicularly to the displacement tax (Al) of said scooter (100 ), and

in which the distal ends (23a, 24a) of the first (23) and second (24) plates are mounted respectively on said at least a first (22a) and second (22b) portions according to a pivot link having a pivot axis s' extending perpendicularly to the displacement tax (Al) of said scooter (100), so that, when passing from the deployed position (Pl) to the storage position (P2), the sliding of the first (22a) and second (22b) portions causes by successive pivoting a bringing together of the distal ends (23a, 24a) of each of the plates (23, 24) and a folding of the plates (23, 24) Tune towards the other.

3. Scooter (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one rear wheel (la) is integrally mounted on a distal telescopic portion (22b, 22c) of the platform (100), said distal telescopic portion ( 22b, 22c) being for example the second portion (22b) or a third portion (22c).

4. Scooter (100) according to claim 3, wherein Tax (la ’) of the rear wheel (la) is located in the extension of said platform (20).

5. A scooter (100) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the second (22b) and third (22c) portions are telescopic to each other so that, when the third portion (22c) fits into the second portion (22b), the rear wheel (la) retracts at least partially into the volume of the chassis (22).

6. Scooter (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which comprises locking / unlocking means (40) configured to ensure locking / unlocking of the platform (20) in the deployed position (Pl).

7. Scooter (100) according to claim 6, wherein the locking / unlocking means (40) comprise at least one spring leaf (41) integral with the upper plate (21) and on which is mounted at least one stud (42 ) able to engage in a light (43) formed on the frame (22) so that, when passing into the deployed position (Pl), the spring leaf (41) constrains said at least one stud (42 ) engaging in said at least one lumen (43) ensuring the blocking in position of the upper plate (21) against said portions (22a, 22b) of the platform (20).

8. Scooter (100) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the actuation of the rear wheel (la) in the direction of the connecting member (30) forces the locking / unlocking means (40) to deactivate to authorize the folding of the upper plate (21).

9. Scooter (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least a first (22a) and second (22b) telescopic portions include guide means (50) whose implementation allows to guide the sliding of the first ( 22a) and second (22b) portions between them.

10. A scooter (100) according to claim 9, in which the guide means (50) comprise at least one elongated slot (51) formed on at least one of the lateral flanks of said at least one first (22a) and / or second (22b) portions and at at least one guide finger (52) formed on at least one of the lateral flanks of said at least a second (22b) and / or first (22a) portion, said at least one guide finger (52) being engaged in said at least one elongated slot (51) so that, when passing from one position to the other (Pl, P2), said at least one guide finger (52) slides along said elongated slot (51 ) to guide the portions (22a, 22b) together.

11. Scooter (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting member (30) comprises means for rotating (31) the platform (20) for folding the platform (20) against the directional column (10).

12. A scooter (100) according to claim 11, which comprises an automatic unlocking mechanism (60) of the rotation means (31) comprising a set of deformable blades (61) capable of having two positions including:

a locking position in which the blades (61) are engaged against the rotation means (31) preventing the folding of the platform (20) against the directional column (10), and

- An unlocking position in which the blades (61) are disengaged releasing the rotation means (31) to allow the folding of said platform (20) against the directional column (10).

13. A scooter (100) according to claim 12, in which the chassis (22) comprises disengagement legs (62) each having an inclined slope (62a) forming a cam so that, when passing from the deployed position (Pl) in the storage position (P2), the cams bear on the blades (61) to deform them in order to release the means of rotation (31) in the unlocked position.

14. Scooter (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the handlebar (11) is removably attached to said directional column (10).

15. A scooter (100) according to claim 14, in which the handlebar (11) comprises a main body (1a) of elongate shape able to be introduced into a lateral reception opening (12) formed on the upper portion (10a) of the directional column (10).

16. A scooter according to claim 15, in which said main body (la) is of cylindrical shape and said lateral reception opening (12) is of complementary shape, and in which said main body (la) is provided on its portion median (l '') of a key (13) able to be introduced into a first groove (14) formed on said receiving opening (12) for locking in rotation the handlebar (11) relative to the directional column (10 ).

17. A scooter (100) according to claim 15 or 16, wherein said main body (1a) comprises a spring cleat (15) whose implementation on the directional column (10) during the introduction of the body ( l) in the receiving opening (12) ensures a locking in translation of the handlebars (11) relative to the directional column (10).

18. Scooter (100) according to one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the directional column (10) comprises a receiving housing (16) formed at one of the ends of said column (10) and dimensioned to receive the handlebars ( 11).

19. A scooter (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the directional column (10) is a telescopic column comprising at least one male and female tube (18a, 18b, 18c) capable of sliding one inside the other to reduce the overall height of said column (10) in the folded state (C2).

20. Scooter (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which Tax (A2) of the directional column (10) is offset forward with respect to Tax of directional rotation (A3) of the front wheel (la) so that, in the folded state (C2), the telescopic tubes (18a, 18b, 18c) embedded between them are positioned in front of the front wheel (lb).

21. A scooter (100) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the directional column (10) is equipped with at least one locking ring (70) comprising a first lever (71) having a first gripping rod (71a ) and an elbow (7 lb), opposite to said first gripping rod (7 la), the actuation of said first handle (71) in the locking position causing the engagement of said elbow (7 lb) in an opening (7 le) formed on the female tube and then the introduction of said elbow (7 lb) in a notch (7 ld) formed on the male column in order to block the tubes between them in translation.

22. A scooter (100) according to claim 21, in which the directional column (10) is equipped with a clamping ring (80) comprising a second lever (81) whose actuation in the clamping position maintains the female tube and the tube. male against each other by clamping.

23. A scooter (100) according to claim 22, wherein the second handle (81) comprises a second gripping rod (8 la) provided with a dimensioned opening (81 b) to receive the first gripping rod (7 la) so that, following the successive actuation of the first (71) and second (81) levers, the first gripping rod (7 la) is housed in said opening (8 lb) ensuring a blocking of the locking ring (70) in the locked position.

24. A scooter (100) according to claim 22 or 23, which comprises a transmission element (90) implemented between the clamping ring (80) and the locking ring (70) _so that the actuation of the second handle (81) of the clamping ring (80) causes the actuation of the first handle (71) of the locking ring (70).

25. A scooter (100) according to claim 24, wherein said transmission element (90) comprises a spring leaf (91) one end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the locking ring (70) and the other end of which is connected directly or indirectly to the clamping ring (80) so that the actuation of the second lever (81) of the clamping ring (80) in the clamping position actuates the spring blade (91) constraining the locking ring (70) in the locking position, and vice versa.