Folding scooter
US6443470B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 3, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 8, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB62K3/002
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A scooter has a plurality of wheels, a steerer, a platform, and a steerer support. The steerer support connects the steerer to the platform. The steerer support can rotate with respect to the platform, allowing the scooter to be folded when not in use. The steerer support can nest within the platform, further allowing the scooter to collapse into a compact position. The steering axis, front wheel diameter, and fork geometry are arranged to provide stable steering. Specifically, the steering axis and the front wheel axis of rotation are both located aft of the centerline of the steerer. Further, the contact point between the front wheel and the ground and the axis about which the front wheel rotates are located aft of the steering axis about which the steerer rotates. The trail, measured between the steering axis and the front wheel contact point, is kept relatively small, between 0 and 75 mm. Also disclosed is a collapsing steerer, a parallel-rail support structure, and a compact braking element.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.