Powered single-wheeled self-balancing vehicle for standing user

• US 20110220427A1
• Filed: 03/09/2011
• Published: 09/15/2011
• Est. Priority Date: 03/09/2010
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Shane Chen
• Original Assignee: Shane Chen
• Inventors: Chen, Shane
• Granted Patent: US 8,807,250 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 180/21
• CPC Class Codes: B62K 1/00 Unicycles
• CPC Class Codes: B62K 11/007 Automatic balancing machines with single main ground engaging wheel or coaxial wheels supporting a rider
• CPC Class Codes: B62K 2015/003 having a foldable crank or pedal

Abstract

A powered, gyroscopically balanced unicycle device to be used while standing, having leg contact surfaces which are made of a yielding, slightly soft material whose mild friction against the user'"'"'s legs allows stable, precise control of the device without restraining the legs in any way. In one embodiment a single hubless wheel is driven by a friction drive mechanism which transmits torque from a motor through a drive wheel positioned below the foot platforms and in contact with the inner rim of the wheel. Various structures are provided for supporting the wheel and keeping it in place as it spins; absorbing small vertical movements of the wheel to prevent them from being transmitted to the foot platforms; enabling folding of the foot platforms; and facilitating carrying of the device by hand. Other embodiments are described and shown.

Claims

3-1. The powered unicycle device of claim 1, wherein said foot platform or platforms are formed from the same piece of material as a case which partially encloses said unicycle device.