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Powered single-wheeled self-balancing vehicle for standing user

DC CAFC
  • US 8,807,250 B2
  • Filed: 03/09/2011
  • Issued: 08/19/2014
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/09/2010
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A powered unicycle device, comprising:

  • a single wheel having an axis of rotation and defining a central vertical plane in the line of direction of travel that is rotatably coupled to a seatless frame;

    a motor which drives the wheel;

    an electronic fore-and-aft balance control system which controls said motor;

    first and second foot platforms coupled to the frame and each having a standing surface that is below the axis of rotation of the wheel;

    a first leg contact surface that in its entirety extends substantially longitudinally in the line of travel of the device and is configured to be readily contactable by the side of a user'"'"'s leg, at or below the knee, when that user is standing on the first foot platform; and

    a second leg contact surface that in its entirety extends substantially longitudinally in the line of travel of the device and is configured to be readily contactable by the side of a user'"'"'s leg, at or below the knee, when that user is standing on the second foot platform;

    wherein the first and second foot platforms extend in a direction perpendicular to the central vertical plane of the wheel further than the contact surfaces extend perpendicular to the central vertical plane, and further wherein the leg contact surfaces are configured so as to not substantially encircle a user'"'"'s leg.

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