WO2021015629A1

WO2021015629A1 - A cycle

Info

Publication number: WO2021015629A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2020/050075
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael John Brown; Timothy Stephen COX; Mark Jason BANFIELD; Timothy Richard Hillsamer; Graham Christie; Warren PETTIGREW
Original assignee: Adaptabike Limited
Priority date: 2019-07-25
Filing date: 2020-07-24
Publication date: 2021-01-28

Abstract

Described herein is a cycle adapted for use by mobility-impaired users. More specifically, the cycle may include a frame, front and back wheels, and a seat. The cycle may also include a steering arrangement. The cycle may comprise a mounting system. The cycle may comprise a stabilisation system. The cycle may comprise members to secure and support a user on the bike. The cycle may be particularly adapted for use by a lower limb mobility-impaired user. This means a user with a partial or full loss of, or partial or full loss of the use of, one or both legs. In particular, lower limb mobility-impaired riders have a full or partial reduction in their ability to propel and/or stabilise a cycle with their legs, compared with an able-bodied rider.

Description

A CYCLE

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a PCT patent application deriving priority from USA provisional patent application number US62/878,586 filed on 25 July 2019, the contents of which are

incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

A cycle, particularly, a cycle adapted for use by mobility-impaired users. More specifically, a cycle with an adapted seat, and/or a mounting system and/or a stabilising system.

BACKGROUND

There have been attempts at providing motorcycles, bicycles, tricycles and quadracycles for use by those with mobility impairments. However, these vehicles present several problems. An able-bodied person can control their trunk and legs and easily mount a bicycle seat, and also transfer their energy through their legs and waist movement into the bicycle to control it. For a lower limb mobility-impaired rider, it may be difficult or impossible to mount a standard bicycle, let alone stay on the seat and transfer their energy into the bicycle frame to control it. Dismounting may also be difficult.

When traversing on sloping ground, stability is often poor, which can lead to falls or at least to a feeling of precariousness, especially at slow speeds. Stability of bicycles can be problematic on flat ground, particularly for those with impairments of the lower limbs. Stability when stationary is non-existent whether on sloping or flat ground.

The bicycle disclosed in US5465989 attempts to address these stability issues using wheeled outriggers controlled by the user. However, this system is unwieldy and unlikely to provide acceptable performance on uneven terrain. This system is also inherently vulnerable to causing a loss of control if deployed at the wrong time, and the manual deployment requires the use of the rider's hand which will further the potential to lose control. Tricycles and quadracycle configuration can be unwieldy and are too wide for manoeuvring in tight spaces and e.g. on single track trails. Due to their requirement to remain perpendicular to the terrain surface, they are inherently limited in ability to traverse a slope. They are therefore limited as to where they can be ridden. Further, the public perception of tricycles and quadracycles is that they are less 'serious' and for disabled people.

Prior efforts have been difficult for mobility-impaired riders to power with their remaining abilities. For example, the use of the hands in powering a tricycle or quadracycle is difficult. Some prior quadracycles have been designed solely for gravity use (i.e. where movement of the quadracycle is entirely under the influence of gravity).

Further, prior motorcycles, bicycles, tricycles and quadracycles have been difficult for the mobility impaired user to mount and/or dismount.

The above problems lead to a lack of independence of the user. Mobility-impaired users are often reliant on others to assist them in riding, especially when riding motorcycles or bicycles, and especially starting or stopping on these. This limits the opportunities for riding and maintains a disconnect between the intended experience of the bicycle and the actual experience for the mobility-impaired user.

The above problems have limited uptake and/or user enjoyment by mobility-impaired riders across the full range of cycling activities.

It would be desirable to provide improvements in cycles for mobility-impaired users, or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

Further aspects and advantages of the cycle will become apparent from the ensuing description that is given by way of example only.

SUMMARY

Described herein is a cycle adapted for use by mobility-impaired users. More specifically, the cycle may include a frame, front and back wheels, and a seat. The cycle may also include a steering arrangement. The cycle may comprise a mounting system. The cycle may comprise a stabilisation system. The cycle may comprise members to secure and support a user on the bike. In a first aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a frame; front and back wheels; a seat; a steering arrangement; one or more retractable stabilisers; one or more sensors arranged to sense one or more parameters indicative of current position, orientation and/or motion of the cycle; and a controller configured to automatically deploy and/or retract the one or more retractable stabilisers, based on data from the one or more sensors.

In a second aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a frame; front and back wheels; a seat; a steering arrangement; one or more retractable stabilisers, each including one or more ground engagement elements arranged to contact a ground surface.

In a third aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a cycle frame; front and back wheels; a seat movable between a mounting position and a riding position, the seat being mounted on a rider support subframe with a position adjustable relative to the cycle frame and the mounting position being lower than the riding position; and a steering arrangement.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a frame, front and back wheels, a seat, a steering arrangement, one or more foot supports configured to support a user's feet, and one or more lower leg supports configured to support and retain a user's lower legs, such that, in use, a lower- limb mobility impaired rider may adopt a substantially upright riding posture seated in the seat, with the user's feet supported by the one or more foot supports and lower legs supported and retained by the one or more lower leg supports.

Selected advantages of the above described cycle includes addressing issues in the art around mounting the cycle, rider stabilisation and rider securement to the cycle. More advantages will be described in the following description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As noted above, described herein is a cycle adapted for use by mobility-impaired users. More specifically, the cycle may include a frame, front and back wheels, and a seat. The cycle may also include a steering arrangement. The cycle may comprise a mounting system. The cycle may comprise a stabilisation system. The cycle may comprise members to secure and support a user on the bike.

For the purposes of this specification, the term 'about' or 'approximately' and grammatical variations thereof mean a quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, dimension, size, amount, weight or length that varies by as much as 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 9, 8, 7,

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1% to a reference quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, dimension, size, amount, weight or length.

The term 'substantially' or grammatical variations thereof refers to at least about 50%, for example 75%, 85%, 95% or 98%.

The term 'comprise¹ and grammatical variations thereof shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e. that it will be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non-specified components or elements.

In this specification the term 'cycle' or 'bike' and grammatical variations thereof may be used interchangeably and means a two-wheeled vehicle or bicycle, with the wheels arranged in line with each other such that the rear wheel follows the front wheel during forward linear motion of the cycle. As these cycles are particularly adapted for use by mobility-impaired riders, the term 'cycle' as used in this specification does not require any human-powering of the vehicle, whether by pedals or any other means. The term 'cycle' encompasses vehicles having two primary wheels and optionally one or more retractable stabiliser wheels (or other stabilisers). The term 'cycle' or 'bike' also encompasses unpowered vehicles (e.g. gravity cycles), motorcycles, electrically powered cycles, human powered cycles (e.g. through hand-power mechanisms) or vehicles powered by any two or more of the above power sources (e.g.

electrically powered cycles that also allow the application of human power).

Cycle with Stabilisers

In a first aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a frame; front and back wheels; a seat; a steering arrangement; one or more retractable stabilisers; one or more sensors arranged to sense one or more parameters indicative of current position, orientation and/or motion of the cycle; and a controller configured to automatically deploy and/or retract the one or more retractable stabilisers, based on data from the one or more sensors.

Broadly, the above aspects relate to the presence of one or more stabilisers on the cycle that retract during riding and deploy when riding stops or slows to an extent that the rider may fall. The stabilisers in effect act like an able bodied rider's leg or legs might to halt a fall in the event of stopping riding when on a two wheel cycle. Sensors

The one or more sensors may comprise any one or more of: speed sensors, orientation sensors, position sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, steering sensors, braking sensors, drive power sensors, suspension or stabiliser position sensors, stabiliser movement sensors, GPS sensors, position sensors, elevation sensors, collision sensors, LIDAR sensors, RADAR sensors, ultrasonic distance sensors, and rate of change of orientation sensors.

The cycle may comprise one or more stabiliser sensors configured to sense a current position of each retractable stabiliser.

Two Stabilisers

The one or more retractable stabilisers may comprise two or more retractable stabilisers, including at least one retractable stabiliser on each side of the cycle.

Stabiliser Location

The one or more stabilisers may be mounted on the cycle frame, the cycle frame comprising the tubes forming the bike shape and the forks or steering arrangement. In one embodiment, the one or more stabilisers may be mounted on the steering arrangement. In this

embodiment, a stabiliser may be fixed to a front suspension fork and extended laterally from the fork away from the cycle when deployed.

Independent Deployment / Retraction

The controller may be configured for independent deployment and/or retraction of at least some of the retractable stabilisers.

Ground Engagement

In selected embodiments, each retractable stabiliser may comprise a ground engagement element arranged to contact a ground surface. The ground engagement element may and move over the ground surface. The ground engagement element may comprise a skid. The ground engagement element may comprise a wheel. Suspension Element

Each retractable stabiliser may comprise a suspension element configured to allow movement of the ground engagement element relative to the frame.

Stabiliser Actuators

The cycle may comprise one or more actuators configured to drive deployment and/or retraction of the one or more retractable stabilisers.

The one or more actuators may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically powered. Where pneumatic power is used, the one or more actuators may be pneumatically powered from a compressor or reservoir tank. This power source drives stabiliser deployment. This power source may also drive stabiliser retraction.

Deployment and Retraction

The stabiliser or stabilisers deploy in a manner that is relatively fast and with little force.

Deployment is the act of moving the stabiliser from a stowed position to a position touching the ground. To properly 'catch' a rider and bike before tipping over, this time period to deploy must be small, with the tip of the stabiliser in particular moving rapidly. The speed of deployment may be sufficiently fast to prevent any significant falling acceleration of a rider and cycle sideways in the event of stopping or slowing. The stabilisers may also deploy should a crash or excessive tipping of the rider and cycle be detected. The speed of deployment may be less than 2, or 1.5, or 1 second. As may be appreciated, this is fast enough to either 'catch' the rider and bike prior to any tipping sideways occurring or at least fast enough to prevent any significant acceleration of the rider and cycle sideways towards the ground but perhaps 'catch' the rider and cycle at a slight angle from a vertical plane e.g. at 1, or 2, or 3, or 4, or 5, or 6, or 7, or 8, or 9, or 10 degrees from a vertical plane. In embodiments tested by the inventor's any sideways fall is arrested before or by around a 5 degree tilt angle.

The one or more stabilisers may also retract in a similar relatively fast manner. In retraction, fast speed may be important to ensure the stabilisers are out of the way of the cycle path of motion and hence do not snag or get caught on obstacles about the cycle. The aspect of little force on deployment relates to rapidly reaching an equilibrium between supporting the rider and cycle from tipping over and acting against a tipping force of the rider and cycle and thereby over balancing the rider and cycle in an opposite direction to tipping.

The force required to accelerate the arm to moving quickly may be small because the mass of the stabiliser may be low (less than 5, or 4, or 3, or 2, or 1kg), especially when compared to the mass of the rider and cycle.

A complication in stabilising is catering for uneven ground. In a two stabiliser embodiment, the stabilisers may deploy on opposite sides of the cycle. A first stabiliser may strike the ground earlier than the opposing stabiliser for example due to being on sloped ground. The force required to move the arm is still present once the arm touches the ground and in effect there is now a reacting force trying to push the bike over in an equal but opposite in direction. The reacting force needs to be sufficiently low so that it slows any acceleration of the rider and cycle (relatively large mass) from the vertical to a leaning position before the stabiliser on the opposing side has travelled further and touched the ground to balance any reaction force.

For retraction, the force of retraction may be less of a design challenge however, it is still important that the force of the stabiliser as it retracts does not impact on the ride experienced by the rider of the cycle. A high force load retraction may cause the cycle to wobble or be thrown off balance. Ideally the force of retraction is relatively low compared to the rider and cycle mass so as to minimise any effects on cycle ride movement.

As noted above, the one or more stabilisers may be mounted to the cycle frame and in one embodiment mounted to the cycle front fork or forks. In this embodiment, the cycle comprises a steering arrangement lock that prevents turning of the handle bars and forks when the stabilisers commence deployment. The steering arrangement remains locked until the stabilisers at least partly or fully retract. Use of a steering arrangement lock may help to stabilise the cycle during deployment of the stabilisers and prevent falls.

Yield and Extent of Deployment

At least one of the one or more retractable stabilisers may be arranged to yield if it encounters an obstacle.

The extent of retractable stabiliser deployment may vary depending on where a stabiliser strikes a surface when deploying. For example, on uneven ground, the stabiliser may only partly deploy when the stabiliser end strikes a hill or rise adjacent the cycle path. Alternatively, the stabiliser may deploy beyond a normal point in the event of the cycle being positioned adjacent a ground surface that drops down away from the bike.

User Control

The cycle may include one or more actuators for user control of deployment and/or retraction of the one or more retractable stabilisers.

Timing of Retraction / Deployment

The controller may be configured to retract at least some of the one or more retractable stabilisers on sensing of a cycle speed above a threshold.

The controller may be configured to deploy at least some of the one or more retractable stabilisers on sensing of a cycle speed below a threshold.

Retracted Stabiliser Position

When retracted, the stabiliser(s) are held in a position towards the cycle frame so as to minimise items beyond the cycle profile when viewed end on. This may be important to avoid collisions between the stabiliser(s) and items on or about cycle path of travel. In one embodiment, the stabiliser(s) are held in a retracted form against a part or parts of the cycle frame.

Stabiliser Deployment Direction

The stabiliser(s) deploy in a direction generally orthogonal to the cycle path of travel. The stabiliser(s) may deploy outwards at a 90 degree angle to the cycle path of travel.

Deployment Motion Type

Stabiliser deployment may be via linear movement and/or via rotational movement.

Linear movement may for example be through use of a telescoping mechanism, the stabiliser being formed from multiple arms that telescope into one another when retracted. Rotational movement may for example be due to the stabiliser or a part thereof rotating about an axis away from the cycle.

The axis of rotation may be located on or about the cycle frame.

The axis of rotation may be located about the base of the cycle (e.g. about the base of the cycle front forks or in-line with the natural foot resting point when the rider is in a riding position on the cycle) and the stabiliser top rotates outwards form the cycle frame when the stabiliser is deployed and rotates back against the frame when the stabiliser is retracted.

Alternatively, the axis of rotation may be located about the top of the cycle (e.g. at or just below handle height) and the stabiliser top rotates outwards from the cycle frame when the stabiliser is deployed and rotates back against the frame when the stabiliser is retracted.

Deployment Mechanism

In one embodiment, the one or more stabilisers may deploy via ratchet mechanism selectively increasing and locking the stabiliser position. In this embodiment, when retraction occurs the ratchet mechanism is disengaged.

In an alternative embodiment, the one or more stabilisers may deploy via a ram or piston arrangement.

Mounting System

In a third aspect, there is provided a cycle comprising: a cycle frame; front and back wheels; a seat movable between a mounting position and a riding position, the seat being mounted on a rider support subframe; and a steering arrangement.

Broadly in this aspect, a mounting system is described that allows the cycle seat to be positioned at a substantially lower position than it would be for riding of the cycle to allow a user to easily mount the cycle. Also described is the ability to change positions from a mount position to ride position. Seat Position Adjustment

In one embodiment, the seat is mounted on the subframe with a seat position adjustable relative to the cycle frame.

In an alternative embodiment, the seat is mounted on the subframe and the seat position is adjustable relative to the subframe.

Mount and Ride Positions

The seat height in the mounting position is lower than the seat position in the riding position.

Mounting Position

The seat position when in the mounting position may be backward of the seat position when in the riding position. In this embodiment, the seat may be arranged for pivoting movement between the mounting position and the riding position.

In an alternative embodiment, the seat position in the mounting position may be forwards of the seat position in the riding position. In this embodiment, the seat may be arranged for linear movement when moved between mounting position and riding position. In this embodiment, the seat tube may extend linearly from the subframe. Extension may be at an angle to cause the seat to move generally rearwards when the seat elevates from a mounting position to a riding position and to move generally forwards when lowering from a riding position to a mounting position.

Movement Actuation

The cycle may include an actuator configured to drive the seat movement between the mounting position and the riding position and/or from the riding position to the mounting position.

The actuator may be powered by a power supply. The power supply may be a battery. The battery may be located on the cycle.

In an alternative embodiment, the actuator may be powered by a hydraulic or pneumatic source. For example, a ram, piston or other drive mechanism urged to move by a change in hydraulic or gas pressure. In one embodiment, a pneumatic ram is used, the ram not having a piston. This use of a ram with no piston allows for a greater range of seat post travel than would be the case if a piston were used. An increase in pressure may result in movement from a mounting position to a riding position while a decrease in pressure may result in movement form a riding position to a mounting position.

Ride Position

The riding position may be adjustable between at least two selected positions being a riding position and lower intermediate riding position. These riding positions may be different to and substantially higher than the mount position. The mount position may be too low for riding of the cycle or at least to low to be practical to ride the cycle.

By manipulating the seat post actuator, the seat height can be manipulated to three modes of operation being: a lowered mounting position; a fully raised locked out riding position; an intermediate raised position part way between the mounting and riding positions.

The seat post may in the above embodiment comprise a first stage and second stage of extension. In the riding position above, a first stage of extension is locked out and the second stage is fully sprung incorporating full adjustable compression and rebound dampening system. In the intermediate stage, the first stage is locked out however the second stage is not fully sprung.

Mount and Ride Position Dimensions

The mounting position may be arranged such that a lower limb mobility impaired user may mount the seat from a wheelchair having a seat 500 to 600mm above ground level.

In the mounting position, the seat may be positioned 400 to 600mm above ground level.

Cycle Suspension Variation

Cycle suspension may be adjusted to cater for a mounting position and riding position. In one embodiment, the cycle may have a normal or default suspension position that would be used when riding the cycle. The suspension may be adjusted when the cycle seat is lowered to a mounting position. For example, the front forks may be suspension forks and the suspension operate like a regular cycle during riding. When the cycle seat is moved to a mounting position, the front fork suspension may drop to also lower the front of the cycle height relative to the ground. Similarly, the cycle may include a rear suspension mechanism that also adjusts according to whether the cycle is in a riding or mounting position.

Securement System

In this embodiment, the cycle is configured to have a securement system to correctly position and retain the rider on the cycle during riding and when stopped, yet still on the cycle. In this manner, the cycle (of any of the above embodiments) may be adapted for use by a lower limb mobility-impaired user.

Lateral User Supports

One or more lateral user-supports may be arranged to limit side to side movement of a user on the seat in the riding position.

Harness

A harness with one or more support straps may be arranged to support a user and/or their legs or thighs on or about the seat when the seat is in the riding position. Support via the harness or support strap(s) may also occur when the seat is in the mounting position although it is envisaged that when in the mounting position, the user may be attaching or detaching the harness / support strap(s).

Leg Supports / Footrests

The cycle may include one or more leg supports and/or footrests also mounted on the rider support subframe.

In one embodiment, the rider's feet rest on pedals, both feet and pedals directionally facing forwards in the direction of cycle travel and not rotating. The rider's feet are releasably fixed to the pedals to prevent foot movement during riding. This is important from a physiological point of view particularly for a disabled rider.

Hip Guards

One or more hip guards may be configured to protect the hips of a user on the seat in the riding position. The hip guards may be integrated into the seat. The seat may for example have a concave shape and the up turned sides support the buttocks and optionally the upper thighs of the rider.

Upper Leg / Thigh Supports

The cycle may include one or more upper leg supports configured to support the user's upper legs.

In one embodiment, the cycle may comprise a thigh support connected to the seat and centrally located between the rider's upper thighs when seated in a riding position.

At least part of the thigh support may contact and support part of the inside of the rider's legs, typically about the upper thigh region. The thigh support may provide an inner side support for the riders thighs that complements or is located opposite an opposing thigh support on the seat sides. The thigh support may also act as a stop or physical barrier to prevent the rider's body sliding forwards off the seat.

In selected embodiments, the thigh support may be moveable from a thigh engaged position to a thigh disengaged position to open and close rider access to the seat. For example, the thigh support may rotate between a thigh engaged position and thigh disengaged position. Rotation may be under or at least partly away from the seat. Movement of the thigh support in this manner may be useful to allow clear access for the rider onto and off the seat. A permanently position thigh support may interfere with rider movement onto the seat or require the rider to lift themselves over the thigh support. For a rider with limited mobility, sliding is an easier action than lifting.

Seat Movement Between Positions

The seat, and/or the foot supports and/or the leg supports where used may be movable between a mounting position and a riding position.

The seat and supports may for example be mounted on the subframe and move with the seat at least to some extent as the seat position changes. This may be useful to allow the rider to set themselves up while in a mounting position and then move to a riding position without having to re-position supports to reflect the new position and vice versa.

Drive Arrangements

The cycle of any of the above embodiments may include a drive arrangement. The drive arrangement may include an electric motor. The electric motor may be actuated via at least one hand grip on the cycle steering arrangement. The steering arrangement may comprise a flat bar and one or both bard ends comprise a throttle grip that is turned to apply drive power Where two throttle grips are used, each grip works independent of the other. Dual controls may be useful to allow a rider to choose which hand to use for driver actuation.

Advantages

As may be appreciated from the above, the Applicant's cycle may be particularly adapted for use by a lower limb mobility-impaired user. This means a user with a partial or full loss of, or partial or full loss of the use of, one or both legs. In particular, lower limb mobility-impaired riders have a full or partial reduction in their ability to propel and/or stabilise a cycle with their legs, compared with an able-bodied rider. Such impairments may include impairments from any cause, including (without limitation) congenital impairment (e.g. spina bifida), impairments resulting from accident or illness (e.g. multiple sclerosis), impairments in the lower limb (e.g. leg amputations or loss of movement), and/or impairments in the upper body resulting in lower limb impairment (e.g. paralysis of the legs resulting from damage to the spinal cord). Selected further advantages of the above described cycle includes addressing issues in the art around mounting the cycle, rider stabilisation and rider securement to the cycle.

The embodiments described above may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features.

Further, where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the embodiments relate, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the cycle will become apparent from the following working examples that are given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a side view of a cycle of one embodiment, in a mounting position;

Figure 2 is a side view of the cycle of Figure 1, in an intermediate position;

Figure 3 is a side view of the cycle of Figure 1, in a riding position;

Figure 4 shows a rider next to the cycle of Figure 1;

Figure 5 shows the rider in the process of mounting the cycle;

Figure 6 shows the rider having mounted the cycle;

Figure 7 shows the rider attaching a harness;

Figure 8 shows the rider on the cycle with the harness attached;

Figure 9 is a side view in the position of Figure 8;

Figure 10 shows the rider on the cycle, in the intermediate position of Figure 2;

Figure 11 shows the rider on the cycle, in the riding position of Figure 3;

Figure 12 is a side view in the position of Figure 11;

Figure 13 is an enlarged view of the foot rests and lower leg supports;

Figure 14 is a side view of a cycle including a retractable stabiliser;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of the cycle of Figure 14;

Figure 16 is an enlarged view of a mounting element of the cycle of Figure 14; Figure 17 is a perspective view of the stabiliser foot, of the cycle of Figure 14;

Figure 18 is a side view of the stabiliser foot of Figure 17;

Figure 19 is a front view of a cycle, showing a stabiliser in a first position;

Figure 20 is a front view of the cycle of Figure 19, with the stabiliser in a second position; Figure 21 shows the cycle of Figure 14, with the stabiliser partially retracted;

Figure 22 shows the cycle of Figure 14, with the stabiliser further retracted;

Figures 23A to 23D show a cycle with its stabiliser yielding to pass an obstacle;

Figure 24 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of cycle;

Figure 25 shows a detail side view of the alternative embodiment of cycle with the seat in a mounting position;

Figure 26 shows a detail side view of the alternative embodiment of cycle with the seat in a mid-position;

Figure 27 shows a detail side view of the alternative embodiment of cycle with the seat in a riding position;

Figure 28 shows a detail front view of an alternative embodiment of stabiliser in a deployed position;

Figure 29 shows a detail side perspective view of the alternative embodiment of stabiliser in a retracted position;

Figure 30 shows a detail side view of an alterative seat and thigh support arrangement; and

Figure 31 shows a detail view from above of the alterative seat and thigh support arrangement.

WORKING EXAMPLES

The above described cycle is now described by reference to specific examples.

EXAMPLE 1

Figures 1 to 13 show a cycle 1 according to one embodiment, including a mounting

arrangement that facilitates the mounting and/or dismounting of a lower limb mobility impaired user 2. In the embodiment shown the cycle 1 may be electrically powered, and may be connected by a cable 4 to a charger 5. The cable 4 may connect to the cycle battery 6 and be disconnected or stowed for riding. Charging arrangements do not form part of the invention, and various other charging arrangements may be used.

In general, the cycle 1 may include a frame 8, wheels 9, 10, a steering arrangement such as handlebars 11 steering front fork 12 and wheel 10, and brakes actuated by brake lever 13. All of these may function as in any standard cycle and need not be described in detail in this specification. Further, any other suitable components or devices used in standard cycles may be included.

As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3, the cycle includes a seat 15 that is moveable between a mounting position (Figure 1) and a riding position (Figure 3). Figure 2 shows an intermediate position as the seat is moving through its range of motion. The motion of the seat may be driven in any suitable manner, including manual and powered movement, though powered movement may be preferred. In the cycle shown, movement of the seat is driven by a powered linear actuator 16. Any suitable linear actuator 16 may be used, including e.g.

pneumatic, hydraulic or electro-mechanical actuators. The seat movement may be driven by an electric actuator. The seat may also be adjustable allowing for adjustment of the rider's centre of gravity to suit a variety of riding conditions.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 4 to 8, a user 2 may mount the cycle with the seat in the mounting position as follows. The user may be in a wheelchair 3 positioned beside the cycle 1. The cycle 1 may be supported in this substantially vertical position by any suitable support arrangement. In one embodiment the cycle may be supported in this position by the extension of one or more retractable supports such as those described below (but not shown in Figures 1 to 13).

As shown in Figures 1 and 4, in the mounting position the seat 15 may be positioned lower than in the riding position. In the mounting position the seat may also be backward of the riding position. In the embodiment shown the mounting position has the seat relatively low and backward, over the rear wheel 9. In this position the user 2 is able to swing one leg over the frame 8 and seat 15. Figure 5 shows a user assisting this movement with their left hand. The user may then use their hands to help manoeuvre their body onto the seat 15, into the position shown in Figure 6. In this mounting position a portion of the seat may cover the wheel to help the rider climb on and off. This also limits contact between the rider and the wheel, which could result in the rider getting dirty or even an injury. Figure 6 also shows how foot supports 18 and lower leg supports 19 may be used to support and/or restrain the user's lower legs and/or feet. Each foot support may include a base or pedal 20 and one or more support elements 21, such as straps. Each lower leg support 19 may include a shaped retention element in which the user's lower leg is retained and supported. One or more straps 25 may also be provided (as shown e.g. in the enlarged view of Figure 13). Further lower limb retention and/or support elements may be provided. For example, further retention and support elements may be provided around the user's upper leg.

In Figure 7 the user 2 is about to attach a harness 23, which is arranged to retain the user 2 in the seat 15. The harness may include one or more straps, buckles etc that may be secured around the user 2. Figure 8 shows the user on the seat 15, with the seat in the mounting position and the harness 23 secured. Figure 9 is a side view in the same position of the rider and seat.

Figures 10 and 11 illustrate the movement of the seat 15 into the riding position. Figure 10 shows the seat 15 and rider 2 having moved upwards, with Figure 11 showing the rider and seat fully raised in the riding position. Figure 12 is a side view showing the rider and seat in the raised, riding position. This movement may be driven by the linear actuator 16. The movement may be controlled by any suitable controller and any suitable user input device, such as a switch, button, dial or the like.

Further, comparison between Figures 9 and 12 shows how the user's body position changes on movement between the mounting and riding positions. The seat 15 has moved up and forwards. The foot rests 18 and/or lower leg supports 19 may also move between mounting and riding positions. In the embodiment shown the seat 15, foot rests 18 and lower leg supports 19 may be mounted on a rider support subframe which is mounted for movement relative to the main frame 8. This results in movement of the footrests 20 from the forward, mounting position of Figure 9 backwards to the riding position of Figure 12. The leg supports 19 also move and rotate somewhat to accommodate the change in the rider's position. As shown in Figure 12, the user's riding position may be higher and more forward leaning than the mounting position of Figure 9. The rider is in a relatively natural upright riding position, which many will prefer to the reclining position of some prior designs (e.g. of some prior tricycles and quadracycles).

In use, a rider may therefore mount the cycle, which is supported in an approximately vertical orientation with the seat in the mounting position. As the seat is relatively low in this position, this can be achieved by transferring from a wheelchair. A locking mechanism may be provided to ensure that the seat remains in the mounting position until the rider has fully mounted.

Once mounted the user may use any suitable arrangement of harness and/or straps for retention of the user in the seat 15, leg supports and/or foot rests. The user may actuate the movement of the rider support subframe and/or seat and/or footrests and/or leg supports into the riding position. To dismount the cycle, the process may be reversed.

With the seat in its fully lowered position it may contact the wheel thereby braking it and so preventing the cycle moving during mounting.

In some embodiments a stowable or portable platform or similar structure may be provided and may be stowed on the cycle. A rider may mount the platform from the ground, before mounting the cycle from the platform. This has the advantage that the rider can mount the cycle without a wheelchair, for example in the event of a crash the rider can remount by this method.

The movement of the seat and/or rider support subframe between mounting and riding positions may be achieved by any suitable mechanical arrangement. For example, this movement may be achieved by actuators driving a pivoting arrangement (e.g. as shown in the drawings) or actuators driving movement of any other suitable arrangement, or by movement of the seat and/or subframe along a track.

In alternative embodiments, movement of the seat between mounting and riding positions may be achieved by the rider applying a force to the seat. For example, in one embodiment the rider may mount and then pull forward and force the seat to pivot and swing forward.

The design of the cycle frame may include a low top tube to allow movement of the seat into the significantly lowered mounting position, and so that the top tube is out of the way during mounting.

Any suitable latches or other locking mechanisms may be provided to lock the seat and/or rider support subframe into the mounting and/or riding position.

Preferably the above arrangement may allow a lower-limb mobility impaired rider to mount from the seat of a wheelchair of between 500-600mm above ground level.

In further embodiments, mounting may be possible from still lower levels, or even directly from the ground.

The vehicle seat may have any suitable shape or configuration. For riders with mobility impairment of the lower trunk, the seat may capture and surround the rider's hips and/or lower torso. To limit the tendency for a rider to slide off the seat lateral 'stops' or lips may be provided, giving lateral seating stability and a suitable mounting point for a harness strap. The rear of the seat may be shaped such that when lowered, smooth mounting over the rear wheel is enabled and to provide a back rest and harness mounting point for those with reduced core stability.

The seat is preferably designed so as to reduce the risk of skin pressure injury.

Turning now to Figures 14 to 23D, these drawings show a cycle substantially similar to that of Figures 1 to 13, but also showing a stabiliser 30. For clarity of illustration only one stabiliser 30 is shown, extending to the right-hand side of the cycle. Flowever, in practice a matching stabiliser may be similarly mounted, extending to the left-hand side of the cycle. This configuration of stabilisers forms a stable triangular platform between the ground engagement points of the stabilizers and the contact patch of the rear wheel. The front wheel remains on the ground.

Further stabilisers may be provided, mounted to other parts of the frame. In some

embodiments one or more stabilisers may be positioned on each side of the frame. In some embodiments two stabilisers may be used, one on each side of the frame.

In the example shown, a stabiliser 30 may be attached to the frame via a first mounting element 31 above the front fork. One or more further mounting elements 32 may attach the stabiliser to one or more other points on the frame. At least some of the mounting elements may be adjustable to allow adjustment of the orientation of the stabiliser 30 relative to the cycle frame 8. In the example shown, the mounting element 32 may be in the form of a toggle link including first and second bracket portions 33, 34 connected to each other at a pivoting joint 35. The mounting element 32 may toggle into the extended position. As discussed elsewhere in this specification, the mounting element may not lock into the extended position, but may be capable of movement to allow yielding of the stabiliser mechanism if it encounters an obstacle.

In some embodiments the stabilisers and/or mounting elements may be biased, e.g. by an elastic element such as a spring or bungee cord, or by any other suitable mechanism. In one embodiment a cord or wire may be secured to the stabiliser arm (preferably near the stabiliser foot). This cord or wire may run up the stabiliser arm (preferably inside the arm) through a pulley or other redirecting element and to the mounting element 32. The cord or wire may be attached to the mounting element such that it pulls on the pivoting joint 35 when the stabiliser is activated, causing movement in the mounting element to extend the stabiliser arm outwards. A spring or other elastic element may be provided inline with the cord or wire to allow yielding of the stabiliser arm should it encounter an obstacle.

A further wire, cord, spring, bungee cord or other elastic element may be attached to the mounting element 32 to pull the stabiliser arm back in when it is to be retracted.

Thus, the stabiliser arms may be extended by driving the arms down (e.g. by an electric motor) and also driving the arms out by way of the mounting element 32.

The mounting element 32 may be adjustable by any suitable mechanism between the extended position of Figure 14 and a stowed position of Figure 16, and any intermediate position between the two. The mounting element 31 may allow pivoting movement of the stabiliser such that the above movement of the stabiliser is allowed.

In the position of Figure 14, the mounting elements are adjusted such that the stabiliser 30 is generally extended somewhat to the side and forwards, relative to the cycle frame 8. In some embodiments the angle of the stabiliser relative to the top mount/pivot point may be such that the stabiliser arm is slightly trailing the top mount/ pivot point. If it hits an object the arm may in this configuration deflect rather than throw the bike.

Depending on the lean of the cycle frame and the slope of the ground, the stabiliser foot 37 may extend to contact the ground surface, as will be explained further below. The stabiliser foot may include one or more ground engagement elements. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 14, 17 and 18, the stabiliser foot 37 may include both a ground engaging wheel 38 and a ground engaging skid 39. In other embodiments the foot may have only one ground engagement element (e.g. a wheel or skid) or any other suitable number of such elements. The use of a wheel 38 allows the stabiliser leg to roll over terrain without throwing the cycle abruptly or making the rider uncomfortable.

In the embodiment shown the skid 39 may be formed as a curved member extending from an attachment 40 to the lower stabiliser leg section 41, around to the ground engagement surface 42 and wheel mount 43. By suitable choice of material (e.g. using a composite material with the required resilience, or formed spring steel or similar) the skid 39 may act as a suspension element, flexing to allow movement of the ground engagement element or elements relative to the stabilizer and cycle. In other embodiments the suspension element may be formed separately from the skid. Other suitable suspension arrangements (including e.g. springs, pneumatic suspension elements etc) may be used. The stabilizer wheel may be mounted in a trailing configuration. Comparison of Figures 14 and 15 shows how the length of the stabiliser 30 may also be adjusted. In this embodiment the stabiliser may include a lower leg section 41 and an upper leg section 45. The two leg sections may be arranged for sliding movement relative to each other, allowing the overall length to be adjusted. In the embodiment shown the lower section 41 slides within the upper section 45. Figure 14 shows a shorter and Figure 15 a longer overall length of the stabiliser. This movement may be driven by any suitable actuator, preferably a linear actuator (such as a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder or electro-mechanical linear actuator).

Figures 19 and 20 are front views illustrating how the length of the stabiliser 30 may be adjusted for different slopes of the ground. Figure 19 shows the stabiliser with a relatively short overall length to contact a ground surface 50 that is upslope or higher than the ground surface immediately beneath the cycle wheels. Figure 20 shows the stabiliser with a relatively long overall length to contact a ground surface 51 that is downslope or lower than the ground surface immediately beneath the cycle wheels.

The stabiliser, when deployed and toggle link locked, may be oriented in such a way and designed with enough reach that the engagement point with the terrain can be much lower than that of the contact patch of the wheels. This enables it to be used on very uneven terrain or, for example, to stabilize the cycle on off-camber terrain. Further to this, the toggle link deploys and locks with the linear actuator in a position such that the engagement point can be much higher than the contact patch of the wheels. Thus, both stabilizers can be used to hold the cycle and rider upright if the need arises to stop while traversing a cambered terrain element.

The adjustment of the stabilisers may be actuated manually or automatically. Automaticity could be determined by vehicle velocity, or other conditional parameters. Automaticity may be optionally overridden by controls that can be set before riding, or during riding. Manual actuation may involve user actuation via a switch, button, lever or other user input device. This input may be linked as required by any suitable physical (e.g. cable) link or by a data link such as a wired or wireless data connection, or by any other suitable mechanism.

Automated actuation may involve a controller automatically adjusting the length and/or orientation (and/or any other adjustable parameter of the stabiliser) in response to data from one or more sensors. In such automated systems a manual override may be provided using any of the above manual actuation mechanisms. In one embodiment a controller may receive data from any one or more, or any combination, of: speed sensors, orientation sensors, force/pressure sensors, steering sensors (e.g. sensors of front wheel or handlebar position), braking sensors, drive power sensors, suspension or stabiliser position sensors, stabiliser movement sensors, GPS sensors, position sensors, elevation sensors, collision sensors, LIDAR sensors, RADAR sensors, and/or ultrasonic distance sensors. Orientation sensors may include any suitable sensors of transverse orientation (tilt or roll), sensors of longitudinal orientation (pitch) and sensors of directional orientation (bearing), as well as rate of change of orientation sensors. Speed sensors may include a sensor arranged to provide data indicative of a speed of the cycle, such as any suitable current speed sensor technology. Pressure or force sensors may include sensors of pressure or force exerted in or on the stabilisers. Other suitable sensors may also be used.

The controller may also receive data from one or more stabiliser sensors, this data being indicative of a current position and/or orientation of each stabiliser.

In determining automatic adjustments of the stabilisers, the controller may also use any suitable stored and/or historic data including track data relating to the route being ridden.

Based on the received sensor data, the controller may determine whether adjustments in the position of any stabiliser are required. This may be done by suitable processing of the stabiliser data according to any suitable algorithm, rule set, look up table etc.

On determining that an adjustment in the position and/or orientation of a stabiliser is needed, the controller may actuate one or more actuators to effect the change. The actuators may include any suitable devices, however powered. In some embodiments electrically powered linear actuators may be used. In the embodiment shown in the drawings such actuators may adjust at least the mounting element 32 and position of the lower leg section 41 relative to the upper leg section 45 to adjust the orientation and length of the stabiliser.

In some embodiments, adjustment may be based on the following considerations. However, other arrangements may be suitable. From a starting position in which stabilisers are extended to support the cycle during mounting, the stabilisers may be controlled such that they remain in ground contact until the cycle speed exceeds a threshold in which normal stability is assumed. The stabilisers may be retracted by reduction in their length and/or adjustment of the stabiliser orientation.

The stabilisers may be controlled such that one or both stabilisers extend into ground contact again if the cycle speed drops below a threshold, e.g. by an increase in their length and/or adjustment of the stabiliser orientation. The stabilisers may be controlled such that they must be extended while the cycle is stationary.

Further, the stabilisers may be controlled based on any suitable set of sensor data. For example, in one embodiment a stabiliser may extend to one side of the cycle when the cycle tilt exceeds a tilt or lateral acceleration threshold. That tilt threshold may depend on the cycle speed. Thus, a fast-moving cycle may be permitted to tilt to a greater extent without requiring extension of the stabiliser, while a slow-moving cycle may have a lower tilt threshold.

Automated control of the one or more stabilisers may be combined in some embodiments with automated control of one or more other cycle functions. For example, the controller may also be arranged to control any of: cycle brakes, electric cycle drive power, handlebar position, seat position. The control arrangement may be altered in the event of low battery power in order to preserve power for the more important functions.

Cycle stabilisers may be controlled (deployed / extended, or stowed / retracted) independently or together. In one embodiment, stabilisers may be retracted together, but may extend independently.

The mechanism used to deploy the stabiliser may cause simultaneous linear and 'swinging' motion of the stabiliser as it is swung about the top mounting element out to a locked position, without having synchronized but separate controls for linear motion and swinging motion.

The outward swing of the stabiliser may be accomplished by using the motion of the linear actuator to pull a cable which operates a toggle linkage. The toggle linkage may lock the stabiliser into the deployed position only after the stabiliser is mostly deployed.

In line with the cable (i.e. as part of the cable) a deflective extension element (such as an extension spring, pneumatic spring or elastic cord) may be provided. This extension element may stretch if the stabiliser strikes an obstacle anytime during deployment - but before the toggle linkage is locked - and needs to swing back into or towards the stowed position. It may stretch to allow this deflective action even if the rider continues to deploy the stabilizer.

Further, the deflective extension element may allow an aggressive pull ratio of the linear actuator on the toggle linkage so that the stabiliser swings to the deployed position during the early part of the linear actuator travel from the stowed position, at which point the linear actuator simply extends the extension element during the remainder of the extension of the stabiliser.

The toggle link, when locked, is rigid in the plane of the swinging motion of the stabiliser. To supplement this, a tensile element supple in all directions except tension (e.g. a cable or rope) may be attached to the stabiliser at the same point as the toggle linkage, and to the frame of the cycle at its other end. This supple tensile element may have a length such that it becomes taut when the toggle link is locked. This may provide further rigidity to the stabiliser arrangement.

In another possible embodiment, two or more toggle links may operate in unison to form a structure rigid in all directions when both or all links are locked. One link may lock before the others on deployment. On retraction the toggle links may unlock in reverse sequence or opposite sequence.

In other embodiments, all motion of the stabilisers may be automated (rather than relying on the mechanical advantages of deflective elements working for or against each other during deployment, strike and retraction motions as in the above embodiment). Any other suitable arrangement may be used, including any suitable combination of stabilizer cable, pneumatics, hydraulics, electrical actuators, manual and automated control etc.

Figures 14 and 15 show the cycle with the rider support subframe, seat, leg supports and footrests in the riding position. However, the mechanism described above with reference to Figures 1 to 13 allows movement of the seat between mounting and riding positions. Further, the stabilisers 30 may be used to maintain the cycle in a generally upright or vertical position when the rider is mounting or dismounting. Using one or more stabilisers on each side of the cycle provides a stable position allowing the rider to mount or dismount safely.

Figure 21 shows the cycle 1 with the stabilisers in a somewhat retracted position, with the length of the stabiliser 30 having been retracted and the stabiliser 30 generally rotated backwards to lie generally backward of the front wheel. Figure 22 shows a further position in which the stabiliser 30 has been further retracted. In further embodiments the entire stabiliser assembly may retract inboard of the frame and bodywork of the cycle.

Figures 23A to 23D illustrate how the stabiliser 30 may be arranged to yield in the event that it contacts an obstacle of any kind. Figure 23A shows the stabiliser 30 approaching an obstacle in the form of a rock 45, the foot 37 of the stabiliser having not yet contacted the obstacle 45. Figure 23B shows the foot 37 of the stabiliser 30 having contacted the obstacle 45, and shows how the mounting element or bracket 32 is arranged to yield when the force on the stabiliser exceeds a threshold. This allows the stabiliser to yield, rotating backwards from the position of Figure 23A to the position of Figure 23B. Figure 23C shows the stabiliser having yielded sufficiently to ride over the top of the obstacle 45. Figure 23D shows the cycle having moved beyond the obstacle 45 and the mounting element 32 having returned to its extended position such that the stabiliser 30 once again extends to ground contact. This mechanism allows the stabiliser to pass over any obstacles on the ground and changes in the ground surface (such as ridges, ruts etc) that are too large to be accommodated by the suspension in the stabiliser 30. This not only improves the rider experience by allowing such obstacles to be passed, but also limits damage to the cycle through impact from such obstacles. This stabilizer behaviour may also provide an element of safety in that the stabilizer may be manually deployed at an inappropriate time, such as when learning to use the cycle, or during emergency scenarios where coming to a quick stop while remaining stable is necessary.

Further, the mounting element 32 may be biased to extend into the deployed or extended position. This allows the stabiliser to toggle into the extended position, allowing quick deployment. In some embodiments this may allow full deployment of the stabiliser (i.e. the stabiliser orientation controlled by mounting element 32) in advance of full extension of the length of the stabiliser.

In some embodiments, a sacrificial component may be provided at the head of the stabiliser where it mounts to the cycle. This component may fail if loaded with a force above a threshold. In some embodiments this component may be replaceable in the field. For example, in one embodiment the head of the stabiliser may have a bolt mounted inside a rubber sleeve, which may dampen the shock of any impact and may break on experiencing a force beyond a threshold. It may also allow slight, limited deflections out-of-plane to the intended deployment plane which may occur during obstacle strike during deployment.

Other configurations of stabiliser may also be used. For example, in one embodiment a linear actuator may be used as a stabiliser and may be deployed by using the linear motion of the actuator to pull a stretchy cable which works on a toggle linkage to swing the linear actuator out and lock it into position quickly, then uses the cable stretch to allow a large range of linear motion to accommodate terrain height variations above or below the contact patches of the cycle wheels.

In some embodiments the cycle may be electrically powered. Any suitable e-bicycle technology may be used to provide power to one or both of the cycle wheels. A mid drive motor may be used.

In preferred embodiments the electrical drive system may be capable of launching from a stationary position on a steep incline. The electrical drive system may be capable of achieving a speed comparable to a pedalled MTB over similar terrain. The stabilisers and seat movement mechanisms may be powered by hydraulic or pneumatic systems, but in preferred embodiments may be powered electrically. These mechanisms and the cycle movement may all be powered from the same electrical power source.

Any suitable rider-protection elements may be included, including protectors for the knees, feet, hips etc. These may include soft pads and/or rigid protective elements. They may include hip guards, knee pads, side bars, toe caps and/or any other suitable protective elements for protecting the mobility-impaired rider, e.g. in the event of a fall. A padded seat, or padded structures around the seat may also be provided to prevent injury and/or pressure sores etc. Any of these elements may also assist in maintaining the rider in position while riding.

Further, any suitable combination of foot and/or leg supports and devices to prevent them from being jarred or bounced free may be provided. An able-bodied person who can control their legs can drive pedals, control their foot and leg position and transfer their energy from their upper body through their legs to help control the cycle. The Applicant's foot and/or leg supports assist lower limb mobility impaired riders to restrain their lower limbs to prevent injury, protect the rider in the event of a crash and also to transfer their available upper body energy into the frame.

Further, the movement of the foot and/or leg supports with the seat allows these rests to vary in position between the mounting and riding positions. This significantly assists a lower limb mobility impaired rider to position their feet and/or legs in the supports.

Various possible aspects of a cycle for lower limb mobility-impaired users are described herein. For clarity of illustration, some features are not shown in all drawings. Flowever, a cycle may include any of these features that are compatible with each other. For example, a cycle may include the moveable seat of Figures 1 to 13 and the retractable stabilisers of Figures 14 to 23D. Any other suitable combination of the disclosed features may be used.

The Applicant's independently operated telescoping stabilisers fold out of the way of a rider's lower limbs when retracted. The stabilisers deploy quickly to provide timely stability and establish a wide stable base on a variety of terrain. The stabilisers can withstand an impact and have a repairable failure point (preferably repairable in the field) to preserve the expensive components.

The easy to use control system for deploying and retracting the stabilisers makes the rider experience close to the natural subconscious state of moving a limb. This also raises the enjoyment of the ride and removes the cognitive load associated with worrying about falling over while stopping and starting. Manual and automatic deployment modes may be provided. The automatic mode may retract and/or deploy when predetermined speed thresholds are reached. It may also have proximity and load sensing to prevent overload and the cycle becoming out of level when in the stopped position.

The manual mode may provide one or more up-down switches in pods accessible by the rider, for example, one on each respective side of the handlebar for each stabilizer. In further embodiments a hybrid manual / automatic control arrangement may be provided.

EXAMPLE 2

An alternative embodiment of cycle is now described.

With reference to Figures 24, 25, 26, and 27, side views are shown of a cycle 100 with a modified seat 102 and seat subframe 101.

The seat subframe 101 may be mounted on the cycle 100 frame about or forwards of the position a crank would normally be located on a cycle 100 frame. Figure 24 shows the subframe 101 as comprising a lower base 103 and a telescoping linearly extending seat post 104 and seat 102 extending from the base 103. A gas reservoir 120 is shown in Figure 24 which may be used to drive the seat post 104 movement. Figures 25-27 show the seat post 104 of the subframe 101 in varying positions with the subframe 101 base 103 removed for clarity. Figure 25 shows the seat 102 in a lowered mounting position, the seat 102 itself being around 400-600mm above the ground (not shown but corresponding to the lower region of the wheels 105). In the example shown in Figure 25, the seat 102 in the mounting position sits below the wheel 105 height 106 and about a centre of gravity position (marked via arrow 107) that sits slightly above the wheel 105 centres 108 but below the wheel 105 height or top 106. In the mounting position, the seat post 104 is withdrawn and at a minimum length. As shown in Figures 25-28, the cycle 100 frame itself may be somewhat modified to have a reduced height top tube 109. Figure 26 shows the seat 102 in a mid-position rising and Figure 27 shows the seat 102 in a riding position at a fully seat post 104 extended height. The riding position may locate the seat 102 at a position greater than 650mm above the ground. As can be seen in Figures 25 and 27 particularly, the seat 102 position in the mounting position is forward of the seat position in the riding position.

Batteries 130 to drive cycle movement may be mounted to the cycle frame centrally or on either side of the frame. An example location is shown on Figure 24. Figure 28 and Figure 29 show a detail front view and side view of an alternative embodiment of stabiliser 202, 203. Figure 28 shows the stabilisers 202, 203 (one on each side of the cycle) in a deployed position. Figure 29 shows the stabilisers 202, 203 in retracted position. In this embodiment, the stabilisers 202, 203 are attached to the cycle front tubes 201 and, as best seen in Figure 28, move from a retracted position 202 to a deployed position 203. Deployment in this example is rotationally in a vertical plane and in a direction orthogonal to the cycle frame direction of travel, rotation being about axis 204. Axis 204 may be mounted on the lower portion or end of the cycle front tube 1. An actuator or actuators (not shown) may drive movement, the actuators automatically or manually deploying and retracting the stabilisers 202, 203. The actuators may be powered electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically. Where pneumatic source is used, pressurised gas may be held in a reservoir on the cycle frame (not shown).

When a stabiliser 202, 203 is deployed, the stabiliser 202. 203 may describe a circular path during deployment shown by arrow A in Figure 28. During this path of travel, if a part or end of the stabilisers 202, 203 strikes an object such as the ground 206, stabiliser 203 movement halts and the stabiliser 203 thereby provides a force against the cycle tipping over sideways. As shown in Figure 28, the ground 206 may be uneven and yet the stabiliser(s) 202, 203 still act to keep the cycle from tipping sideways since the circular path A taken by the stabiliser 202, 203 on deployment can accommodate a wide variety of terrain 206 scenarios. As shown in Figure 29, the stabilisers 202 in a retracted position may be located about the front forks 201 of the cycle and in doing so prevent the stabilisers 202, 203 striking objects outside the cycle envelope when the cycle is ridden.

During deployment of the one or more stabilisers 202, 203, the steering arrangement 207, in this case being the flat handle bar and forks, may be locked in place. This ensures that the stabilisers 202, 203 extending orthogonally from the cycle forks 201 in this example and also prevents the handle bars 207 turning to one side when the stabilisers 202, 203 are deployed and hence moving the rider and cycle off balance.

Figure 30 and Figure 31 shows a detail side view and detail view from above of an alternative seat 300 and thigh support 302 arrangement. The seat 300 in this embodiment comprises a concave form that cups the riders buttocks. The seat 300 has upturned sides and rear 307 to help provide support and locate the rider's body in the desired position on the seat 300. At the seat 300 front 308, an opening 309 in the concave form is created with a downward shaped lip. This opening 309 is used by the rider to slide into or out of the seat 300 during mounting of the cycle. Intermediate where the rider's legs 306 are positioned during riding (shown in Figure 31) is a thigh support 302. The thigh support 302 may comprise a planar form located in a generally vertical plane that in a riding position (the solid outline in Figure 30), and is located between the rider's legs 306 and which supports at least part of the rider's leg 306 sides. The thigh support 302 may extend forwards of the seat 302. The thigh support 302 when in the riding position may act as a stop to movement forwards off the seat 300 opening 309 during riding. The thigh support 302 may however rotate downwards (shown as a dashed line in Figure 30) about axis 304 relative to the seat 300. Movement down allows the thigh support 302 to be moved away from the seat 300 opening 309 and hence allowing the rider to slide into or from the seat 300 during cycle mounting. As shown in Figure 31, a strap 305 may be located over the rider's legs 306 when in the riding position to further secure the rider's body and legs 306 in place on the seat 300.

Aspects of the cycle have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cycle comprising: a frame; front and back wheels; a seat; a steering arrangement; one or more retractable stabilisers; one or more sensors arranged to sense one or more parameters indicative of current position, orientation and/or motion of the cycle; and a controller configured to automatically deploy and/or retract the one or more retractable stabilisers, based on data from the one or more sensors.

2. A cycle as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors comprise any one or more of: speed sensors, orientation sensors, position sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, steering sensors, braking sensors, drive power sensors, suspension or stabiliser position sensors, stabiliser movement sensors, GPS sensors, position sensors, elevation sensors, collision sensors, LIDAR sensors, RADAR sensors, ultrasonic distance sensors, and rate of change of orientation sensors.

3. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising one or more stabiliser sensors configured to sense a current position of each retractable stabiliser.

4. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cycle comprises two or more retractable stabilisers, including at least one retractable stabiliser on each side of the cycle.

5. A cycle as claimed in claim 4 wherein the controller is configured for independent deployment and/or retraction of at least some of the retractable stabilisers.

6. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each retractable stabiliser includes a ground engagement element arranged to contact a ground surface.

7. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim including one or more actuators configured to drive deployment and/or retraction of the one or more retractable stabilisers.

8. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the extent of retractable stabiliser deployment varies depending on where a stabiliser strikes a surface when deploying.

9. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the controller is configured to retract at least some of the one or more retractable stabilisers on sensing of a cycle speed above a threshold.

10. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the controller is configured to deploy at least some of the one or more retractable stabilisers on sensing of a cycle speed below a threshold.

11. The cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the one or more stabilisers deploy in a direction generally orthogonal to the cycle path of travel.

12. The cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the one or more stabilisers deploy via linear movement.

13. The cycle as claimed in any one of claims 1-11 wherein the one or more stabilisers deploy via rotational movement.

14. The cycle as claimed in claim 13 wherein the axis of rotation is located on or about the cycle frame.

15. The cycle as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14 wherein the axis of rotation is located about the base of the cycle frame.

16. A cycle comprising: a frame; front and back wheels; a seat; a steering arrangement; one or more retractable stabilisers, each including one or more ground engagement elements arranged to contact a ground surface.

17. The cycle as claimed in claim 16 wherein the one or more stabilisers deploy via linear movement.

18. The cycle as claimed in claims 16 wherein the one or more stabilisers deploy via rotational movement.

19. A cycle comprising: a cycle frame; front and back wheels; a seat movable between a lower mounting position and an upper riding position, the seat being mounted on a rider support subframe; and a steering arrangement.

20. The cycle as claimed in claim 19, wherein the mounting position is backward of the riding position and wherein the seat is arranged for pivoting movement between the mounting position and the riding position.

21. The cycle as claimed in claim 19, wherein the seat position in the mounting position is forwards of the seat position in the riding position wherein the seat is arranged for linear movement when moved between mounting position and riding position.

22. The cycle as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 wherein the cycle includes an actuator configured to drive the seat movement between the mounting position and the riding position and/or from the riding position to the mounting position.

23. A cycle as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 22 wherein, in the mounting position, the seat is positioned 400 to 600mm above ground level.

24. A cycle comprising: a frame, front and back wheels, a seat, a steering arrangement, one or more foot supports configured to support a user's feet, and one or more lower leg supports configured to support and retain a user's lower legs, such that, in use, a lower- limb mobility impaired rider may adopt a substantially upright riding posture seated in the seat, with the user's feet supported by the one or more foot supports and lower legs supported and retained by the one or more lower leg supports.

25. The cycle as claimed in claim 24 wherein the comprises a thigh support connected to the seat and centrally located between the rider's upper thighs when seated in a riding position, the thigh support contacting and supporting part of the inside of the rider's legs.

26. The cycle as claimed in claim 25 wherein the thigh support provides a physical barrier to prevent the rider's body sliding forwards off the seat.

27. The cycle as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26 wherein the thigh support is moveable from a thigh engaged position to a thigh disengaged position to open and close rider access to the seat.

28. A cycle as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the cycle comprises an electric motor that acts as a drive arrangement.