USOO9694.

868B2

(12) United States Patent (10) Patent No.: US 9,694.868 B2

Delgatty et al. (45) Date of Patent: *Jul. 4, 2017
(54) FOLDABLE ELECTRIC VEHICLE (58) Field of Classification Search
None
(71) Applicant: URBAN626, LLC, Pasadena, CA (US) See application file for complete search history.
(72) Inventors: Grant Delgatty, Pasadena, CA (US); (56) References Cited
Sven Etzelsberger, Pasadena, CA (US) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(73) Assignee: URBAN626, LLC, Pasadena, CA (US) 3,486,765 A 12/1969 Turner
4,598,923 A 7, 1986 Csizmadia et al.
(*) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 4,653,767 A 3/1987 Gajewski
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 D338.433 S 8/1993 Crooks, Sr.
U.S.C. 154(b) by 0 days. D457,197 S 5, 2002 Becker
This patent is Subject to a terminal dis (Continued)
claimer. FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(21) Appl. No.: 14/957,322 DE 19516763 A1 11, 1996
FR 1249891 A 1, 1961
(22) Filed: Dec. 2, 2015 (Continued)
(65) Prior Publication Data OTHER PUBLICATIONS
US 2016/0083O39 A1 Mar. 24, 2016
International Search Report and Written Opinion for International
Related U.S. Application Data Application PCT/US2014/055033, Report Completed Nov. 16,
2014, Mailed Dec. 19, 2014, Dec. 19, 2014.
(63) Continuation of application No. 147483,064, filed on (Continued)
Sep. 10, 2014, now Pat. No. 9,227,687.
(60) Provisional application No. 61/876,124, filed on Sep. Primary Examiner — Keith J Frisby
10, 2013, provisional application No. 61/929,862, (74) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — KPPB LLP
filed on Jan. 21, 2014.
(57) ABSTRACT
(51) Int. Cl. Foldable electrical vehicles and related charging infrastruc
B62K I5/00 (2006.01) ture are described. The foldable electrical vehicle generally
B62K 5/027 (2013.01) includes three structural armatures (front and rear wheel
B62K 5/06 (2006.01) bearing armatures and a seat-bearing armature) that are
B62K 9/06 (2006.01) pivotally interconnected along their lengths such that they
B60K L/00 (2006.01) may be pivoted between a closed position wherein the three
B62, 7/04 (2006.01) armatures are disposed roughly parallel to each other in a
(52) U.S. Cl. compact folded configuration, and an open riding configu
CPC .............. B62K 15/008 (2013.01); B60K I/00 ration wherein an angular relation is formed between the
(2013.01); B62J 7/04 (2013.01); B62K5/027 armatures.
(2013.01); B62K 5/06 (2013.01); B62K 19/06
(2013.01) 22 Claims, 27 Drawing Sheets
 US 9,694.868 B2
Page 2

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U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 2004/0026147 A1 2/2004 Kao et al.
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D511,719 11/2005 Chung 2012/0273287 Al 11/2012 Song et al.
D513,629 1/2006 Sramek 2015.0068828 A1 3/2015 Delgatty et al.
D513,772 1/2006 Otis et al.
6,986,522 B2 1/2006 Sinclair et al. FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
D522,076 5/2006 Casey
D586,265 2/2009 Lin et al. WO 980 1334 A1 1, 1998
D641,667 7/2011 Ryan et al. WO 2011098887 A1 8, 2011
D650,724 12/2011 Chiang WO 2015.038674 A1 3, 2015
D654,403 2/2012 Kyu et al.
D668,586 10/2012 Golias et al.
D726,592 4/2015 Zhang OTHER PUBLICATIONS
D735,812 8/2015 Delgatty
D735,813 8/2015 Delgatty Extended European Search Report for European Application No.
D746,924 1/2016 Delgatty 14843829.4, Search completed Mar. 9, 2017, Mailed Mar. 16, 2017,
9,227,687 B2 1/2016 Delgatty et al. 10 Pgs.
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 1 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 2 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG, 1D
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U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 3 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG, 1G

FIG, 1H
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 4 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG, 2A

FIG. 2B
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 5 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG, 2E FIG. 2F
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 6 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

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U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 15 Of 27 US 9,694.868 B2
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 16 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2
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U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 18 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG 10C
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 19 Of 27 US 9,694.868 B2
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U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 22 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 23 Of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

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U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 25 Of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG, 12
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 26 of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

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FIG, 13A
U.S. Patent Jul. 4, 2017 Sheet 27 Of 27 US 9,694.868 B2

FIG 13B
 US 9,694,868 B2
1. 2
FOLDABLE ELECTRIC VEHICLE a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal
axes of the two wheel-bearing arms and the seat
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent applica bearing arm are roughly parallel.
tion Ser. No. 14/483,064, filed Sep. 10, 2014, which claimed In other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes a
priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/876,124. 5 steering mechanism interconnected with at least one of said
filed Sep. 10, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Application No. wheel-bearing arms and configured to change the directional
61/929,862, filed Jan. 21, 2014, the disclosures of each of orientation of at least one wheel assembly relative to the
which are incorporated herein by reference. vehicle. In some such embodiments the vehicle includes a
10
front wheel-bearing arm and a rear wheel-bearing arm, and
FIELD OF THE INVENTION wherein the steering mechanism is pivotably interconnected
with the wheel assembly of the front wheel-bearing armature
Compact, foldable electric vehicles and charging stations to move between at least two configurations:
for said vehicles are described. a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
15 of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering mecha
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
nism have angular offsets relative to each other, and
a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal
A common difficulty encountered in public transport is in axes of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering
trying to move people from a transportation hub, like a mechanism are roughly parallel.
railway station, bus stop, etc. to their desired destination, or In still other embodiments, the foldable vehicle includes
from their origination point to a transport hub. These prob a front wheel assembly lock configured to prevent changes
lems are referred to as the last mile or first mile problem, to the directional orientation of the wheel assembly of the
respectively. Where the population of a place is not dense, front wheel-bearing arm when in the folded configuration. In
like in areas where there are extensive suburbs and exurbs, Some such embodiments the front wheel-bearing arm defines
this difficulty can become chronic making public transport 25 an internal volume having an energy storage device disposed
impractical. A number of Solutions have been proposed to therein.
overcome this problem, including community transportation In yet other embodiments, the steering mechanism is at
Such as feeder transport and ride or car sharing programs, least one handlebar, and wherein the height and angle of the
however, these methods require a Social infrastructure that is handlebar relative to the vehicle is adjustable.
often either not available or not extensive enough to meet 30
In still yet other embodiments, the wheel-bearing pivot
commuter needs. Other solutions involve various forms of hinge brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are
portable transport, such as bicycles. Most of these personal disposed proximal to the first end of their respective arms.
forms of transportation are relatively bulky and present In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
challenges in storage at both ends of the commute, as well includes a pivot locking mechanism configured to disen
as transport within most public transport systems. 35
gageably lock the arms in one of the at least two configu
Accordingly, a need exists for personal transport devices
and infrastructure capable of addressing the last mile/first rations. In some Such embodiments, the pivot locking
mile challenge. mechanism includes a plurality of locking grooves and a
cooperative locking pin configured to engage said locking
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 40 grooves, said locking grooves being disposed on at least one
of the at least two wheel-bearing arms, and said cooperative
The application is directed to portable electric vehicles locking pin being disposed on at least another of the at least
and infrastructure for portable electric vehicles. two wheel-bearing arms such that when the cooperative
Many embodiments are directed to a foldable vehicle locking pin is engaged within the locking grooves the at least
including: 45 two wheel-bearing arms are prevented from pivoting relative
at least two wheel-bearing arms having first and second to each other.
ends and defining a wheel-bearing arm longitudinal In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
axis, each of said wheel-bearing arms having at least includes a locking mechanism disengagement element dis
one wheel assembly interconnected to the second end posed on the seat-bearing arm and configured to disengage
thereof and a wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge bracket 50
the pivot locking mechanism when the seat-bearing arm is
disposed along the length thereof; pivoted upward relative to the axial alignment of the seat
at least one seat-bearing arm having first and second ends bearing arm in one of either the first riding configuration or
and defining a seat-bearing arm longitudinal axis, the the second folded configuration.
seat-bearing arm having a seating platform intercon
nected to the second end thereof and a seat-bearing 55 In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle
pivot hinge bracket disposed along the length thereof; includes a seat Support element pivotably engaged at a first
and end thereof along the length of the seat-bearing arm and
wherein the at least two wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge slidingly engaged at a second end thereof along the length of
brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are one of the at least two wheel-bearing arms such that a
configured to cooperatively interconnect to form a 60 roughly triangular configuration is formed between the
vehicle pivot hinge such that the arms are pivotably seat-bearing arm, the at least one wheel-bearing arm and the
interconnected about a single vehicle pivot point to seat Support element. In some Such embodiments, the axis of
move between at least two configurations: the seat Support element is roughly orthogonal with the axis
a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal of the seat-bearing arm. In some Such embodiments, the seat
axes of the two wheel-bearing arms and the seat 65 Support element slidingly engages a channel disposed along
bearing arms have angular offsets relative to each a portion of the wheel-bearing arm, the channel delineating
other, and a curvilinear path between at least two configurations:
 US 9,694,868 B2
3 4
a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes exemplary embodiments of the invention and should not be
of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm and construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the
the seat Support element have angular offsets relative to invention, wherein:
each other, and FIGS. 1a and 1b provide perspective views of a three
a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal wheeled foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configu
axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm ration (1a), and a compact folded configuration (1b) in
and the seat Support element are roughly parallel. accordance with embodiments of the invention.
In still yet other embodiments, the seat support element FIGS. 1c and 1d provide front views of a three-wheeled
comprises a resilient member. In some such embodiments foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1c),
the seat Support element is configured such that when the 10 and a compact folded configuration (1d) in accordance with
embodiments of the invention.
seat-bearing arm is pivoted into the second folded configu FIGS. 1e and 1f provide back views of a three-wheeled
ration the resilient member is placed into tension Such that foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (1e).
a resilient locking force is applied to the seat-bearing arm to and a compact folded configuration (1f) in accordance with
urge said seat-bearing arm into position in the second folded 15 embodiments of the invention.
configuration. FIGS. 1g and 1h provide top views of a three-wheeled
In still yet other embodiments, at least one additional foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration
resilient element is disposed in relation to said seat Support (1g), and a compact folded configuration (1h) in accordance
element to apply a force thereto, thereby urging said seat with embodiments of the invention.
support element into at least one of either the first riding FIGS. 2a and 2b provide perspective views of a two
configuration or the second folded configuration. wheeled foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configu
In still yet other embodiments, the vehicle includes two ration (2a), and a compact folded configuration (2b) in
wheel-bearing arms, a front wheel-bearing element having a accordance with embodiments of the invention.
front wheel assembly with a single wheel, and a rear FIGS. 2c and 2d provide front views of a two-wheeled
wheel-bearing element having a rear wheel assembly with at 25 foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2c),
least one wheel. In some such embodiments the rear wheel and a compact folded configuration (2d) in accordance with
assembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via embodiments of the invention.
a fixed axle. In still other such embodiments, the rear wheel FIGS. 2e and 2f provide back views of a two-wheeled
assembly comprises at least two wheels interconnected via foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (2e).
an axle pivotable about a point perpendicular to the axis of 30 and a compact folded configuration (2f) in accordance with
the rear wheel-bearing arm. embodiments of the invention.
In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle FIGS. 2g and 2h provide top views of a two-wheeled
includes at least one luggage rack disposed on at least one foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration
of the wheel-bearing arms, said luggage rack being pivot (2g), and a compact folded configuration (2h) in accordance
able between at least two configurations: 35 with embodiments of the invention.
a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes FIGS. 3a to 3d show side views of a foldable electric
of the wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack have vehicle and the front wheel assembly and handlebar in an
angular offsets relative to each other, and open riding configuration (3a & 3c), and a compact folded
a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal configuration (3b & 3d) in accordance with embodiments of
axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack are 40 the invention.
roughly parallel. FIG. 3e provides a perspective transparent view of a front
In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle of structural armature (3e) in accordance with embodiments of
claim 1, includes at least one electric motor disposed within the invention.
at least one of the wheel assemblies and an energy storage FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of a front wheel
device interconnected therewith. 45 assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
In still yet other embodiments, the foldable vehicle FIGS. 5a and 5b show side views of a foldable electric
includes an electronics interconnection disposed thereon, the vehicle in a compact folded configuration (5a), and an open
electronics interconnection in signal communication with at riding configuration (5b) in accordance with embodiments
least one sensor configured to deliver information on at least of the invention.
one vehicle parameter and deliver information from the at 50 FIG. 5c provides a perspective view of a rear structural
least one sensor to the personal electronic device. In some arm in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
Such embodiments, the at least one vehicle parameter is FIGS. 6a to 6d provide views of exemplary rear wheel
selected from the group consisting of vehicle speed, energy assemblies and components in accordance with embodi
consumption, energy reserve, mileage, and direction. ments of the invention.
Additional embodiments and features are set forth in part 55 FIGS. 7a and 7b provide perspective views of a seat
in the description that follows, and in part will become bearing arm (7a) and a seat resilient member (7b) in accor
apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the dance with embodiments of the invention.
specification or may be learned by the practice of the FIGS. 8a to 8e provide perspective views of cooperative
disclosure. A further understanding of the nature and advan main hinge components for a front wheel-bearing arm (8a),
tages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference 60 a rear wheel-bearing arm (8b), a seat-bearing arm (8c) in
to the remaining portions of the specification and the draw accordance with embodiments of the invention, a side
ings, which forms a part of this disclosure. assembly view (8d) of the main pivot hinge of the vehicle,
and a cross-sectional view (8e) of the main pivot hinge
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS assembly along view A1 of FIG. 8d in accordance with
65 embodiments of the invention.
The description will be more fully understood with ref FIGS. 9a and 9b provide side views of a three-wheeled
erence to the following figures, which are presented as foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration
 US 9,694,868 B2
5 6
(9a), and a compact folded configuration (9b) in accordance by leaning in the desired direction of the turn. It will be
with embodiments of the invention. understood that the rear wheel assembly may include a
FIGS. 9c and 9d provide side views of a two-wheeled single wheel or multiple wheels interconnected via an axle.
foldable electric vehicle in an open riding configuration (9c), The folding and locking mechanism of the vehicle, in
and a compact folded configuration (9d) in accordance with 5 many embodiments, interconnects the three arms of the
embodiments of the invention. vehicle in a configuration that allows the disengagement of
FIGS. 10a to 10k provide perspective views of a foldable the locking mechanism and the folding of the arms of the
electric Vehicle and the folding mechanism in an open riding vehicle via the manipulation of one of the arms of the
configuration (10a & 10b), in a series of intermediate vehicle. In some such embodiments, the locking mechanism
positions between an open riding configuration and a com 10 is disengaged by manipulating the seat-bearing arm of the
pact folded configuration (10c to 10h), and in a compact vehicle. In other embodiments the locking mechanism of the
folded configuration (10i to 10k) in accordance with vehicle includes a resilient member interconnected with the
embodiments of the invention. seat-bearing arm that urges the seat-bearing arm into the
FIGS. 11a and 11b show side views of a foldable electric open and closed positions when the vehicle is placed into
vehicle and the rear foldable luggage rack in a compact 15 Such configurations.
folded configuration (11a), and an open riding configuration As shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b, in many embodiments a
(11b) in accordance with embodiments of the invention. three-wheeled foldable vehicle is provided comprising at
FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of a foldable electric least three arms: a front wheel-bearing arm (12) having
vehicle having a personal electronic device docking station disposed at the distal end thereon at least a front wheel
in accordance with embodiments of the invention. assembly (13), a rear wheel-bearing arm (14) having dis
FIGS. 13a and 13b provide schematic views of an exem posed at the distal end thereon at least a rear wheel assembly
plary charging station for use in association with an exem (15), and a seat-bearing arm (16) for supporting a rider while
plary foldable electric vehicle in accordance with embodi operating the vehicle. These arms are pivotally connected
ments of the invention. about a single pivot hinge (18) that allows movement of the
25 arms from an open riding configuration, shown in one
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1a, to a folded compact
INVENTION configuration, shown in one exemplary embodiment in FIG.
1b.
Turning now to the drawings, foldable electric vehicles As shown, in FIG. 1a, the relative arrangement of the
and devices for charging Such electric vehicles are 30 arms of the vehicle in these configurations may be defined
described. In many embodiments, the foldable electric by the axial arrangement of the arms around the pivot hinge
vehicle generally comprises a plurality of arms all coopera (18), wherein each arm is defined by an axis (20, 22 and 24).
tively moveable between a folded position wherein the arms In some embodiments in the open riding configuration the
are in a compact configuration Suitable for storing and front and rear arms (12 & 14) are positioned such that a
transporting the vehicle, and an open position wherein the 35 downward acute angle (26) is created between the axes (20
arms are in a riding configuration Suitable for the operation & 22) of the two wheel-bearing arms. Although a particular
of the vehicle. In many such embodiments the pivotable angular arrangement is provide in FIG. 1a, it should be
arms may have disposed thereon wheels, motors, charge understood that any angle Suitable to form a usable riding
storage devices, power distribution and control circuits, configuration may be formed depending on the specific
motor and vehicle controls and instruments, accessories and 40 arrangement and geometry of the wheels and armatures
all other necessary devices and structures for the operation desired. For example, a Suitable angle may be determined by
of the vehicle. factors such as the distance between the wheels of the
In some embodiments, the vehicle comprises two struc vehicle, the height of the seat to the ground, etc.
tural wheel-bearing armatures (front and rear arms), and a In addition, in some embodiments of this open riding
seat arm that are all pivotally interconnected along their 45 configuration the seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted Such that
lengths such that they may be moved between a closed its axis (24) is disposed at an angle relative to the ground
position wherein the three arms are disposed roughly par such that a riding platform (28) is formed on which a rider
allel to each other in a compact folded configuration, and an may be seated to operate the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 1a,
open riding configuration wherein a downward acute angle in some embodiments the riding platform (28) may be
is formed between the two structural wheel-bearing arms, 50 configured Such that its axis (24) is roughly parallel to the
and the seat arm is disposed in a position to Support a rider ground. In other embodiments adjustment mechanisms may
atop the vehicle. be provided to adjust the position of the riding platform
In many embodiments, the pivot point between the three relative to the wheel-bearing arms as desired by the rider. In
arms is disposed at the upper ends of the arms distal to the Such embodiments adjustments might include height relative
wheels and seat bearing ends thereof, to form an overall 55 to the ground, distance relative to the handlebars, angle
A-frame configuration for the vehicle. In many other relative to the pivot hinge (18), etc. Although one embodi
embodiments one of the structural arms is configured to ment of a riding platform (28) comprising a bicycle-style
enclose a power Source. Such as, for example, a battery or seat is shown in FIG. 1a, it will be understood that the riding
plurality of batteries. In many embodiments this power platform may take any form, style or shape Suitable to
Source enclosing arm is disposed as the front arm of the 60 Support a rider.
vehicle, and bears the front wheel thereof. In many embodi As shown in FIG. 1b, in many embodiments, in the
ments, the pivotable second wheel-bearing arm includes one compact folded configuration the front, rear and seat arms
or more rear wheels at the distal end thereof. In some (12, 14 & 16) are all pivoted about the pivot hinge (18) such
embodiments these wheels may be interconnected to the arm that their axes (20, 22, &24) are disposed roughly parallel to
on either end of a truck assembly that is pivotable about a 65 each other. In some embodiments of the vehicle, such as the
horizontal axis perpendicular to the axis of the rear arm Such one shown in FIG. 1b, the axes (20, 22, &24) of the arms are
that the rider of the vehicle is capable of steering the vehicle disposed parallel on to the other, and the arms (12, 14 & 16)
 US 9,694,868 B2
7 8
themselves are moved into a configuration in which they are shown in FIGS.3a to 3e, having handles (37) that extend out
positioned adjacent to one another. In one such embodiment, from the sides of framework, such as in a “T” configuration
the pivoting of the arms comprises a Scissoring motion about the handle extensions may retract or fold into a more
the pivot hinge such that the distal ends of each of the arms compact form.
(30, 31, &32) come together to face in a single direction, In many embodiments, as shown schematically in FIGS.
again as shown in FIG. 1b. 3a to 3d, the steering mechanism (34) may be pivoted
Additional views of the vehicle (10) of FIGS. 1a and 1b, between an open position (FIGS. 3a and 3c), in which the
in open and closed positions, including: front views (1c & axis (38) of the steering mechanism is angled away from the
1d), rear views (1e and 1f), and top views (1g and 1h) are axis (20) of the front wheel-bearing arm (12), and a closed
provided showing the elements described above. 10 compacted position (FIGS. 3b and 3d), in which the axis of
Although the above description and the embodiments of the steering mechanism is aligned along the vertical axis of
the vehicle shown in FIGS. 1a to 1h, describe an electric the front wheel-bearing arm. In many embodiments, as
vehicle having a three-wheel configuration (in which the shown in detail in FIGS. 3c and 3d, the steering mechanism
front wheel assembly (13) comprises a single wheel and the (34) may be moved between the open and closed positions
rear wheel assembly (15) comprises two wheels), it will be 15 by sliding the lower end (40) of the steering mechanism
understood that other wheel configurations maybe provided along a locking channel (42) disposed on the wheel assem
that have considerably the same elements and operate in a bly (13) of the front wheel-bearing arm (12). In some such
manner commensurate to that described above. For example, embodiments, the steering mechanism (34) may be inter
FIGS. 2a to 2h provide perspective views (2a and 2b), front connected with the wheel assembly (13) via an upper pivot
views (2c and 2d), rear views (2e and 2f), and top views (2g pin (44) that is disposed within a pivot channel (46) formed
and 2h) of an electric vehicle (10) having substantially the in the steering mechanism, and a lower locking pin (48)
same structure and function as described above with respect disposed on the steering mechanism that moves within the
to FIGS. 1a to 1h comprising a two-wheel configuration (in locking channel (42) of the wheel assembly. Although the
which both the front (13) and rear (15) wheel assemblies pins and channels are disposed in the illustrated embodiment
comprises a single wheel). 25 in a particular configuration, it should be understood that
Turning now to the detailed construction of the vehicle, pins and channels may be distributed between the wheel
several of the elements comprising the vehicle will be assembly and steering mechanism Such that there is a
described, including the front and rear wheel-bearing arms, constrained pivotable interconnection therebetween. In
and the seat-bearing arm and all attendant structures and many embodiments, the lower locking pin (48) is configured
accessories. Examining first the front wheel-bearing arm, 30 to slide within the locking channel (42) and move up and
FIGS. 3a to 3e provide illustrations of embodiments of the down therein between various positions therealong thus
vehicle (10) and the front wheel-bearing arm (12). causing the steering mechanism (34) to pivot about the
As shown in FIGS. 3a to 3d, in many embodiments the upper pivot pin (44) relative to the wheel assembly (13) and
vehicle (10) comprises a front wheel-bearing arm (12) the front wheel-bearing arm (12), as shown by the dashed
having at least one front wheel assembly (13) mounted 35 arrows (45) in FIG. 3a.
thereto, and a steering mechanism, such as a handlebar or In many embodiments, to allow the steering mechanism
other suitable structure (34) interconnected therewith. In to move within the channel and lock into a desired position,
Some such embodiments, the steering mechanism (34) can an internal tension spring (not shown) may be provided in
be used to alter the orientation of the front wheel assembly association with the steering mechanism (34) and one or
(13) relative to the vehicle, and thus to steer the vehicle 40 more of the pins (44 and 48) such that the steering mecha
when in the open/riding position (FIG. 3a), and to maneuver nism may be securely locked into a desired position. In some
the vehicle when in the closed/compact position (FIG. 3b). such embodiments, both locked positions of the handlebar
Although in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3a to 3d, the may be disengaged by either pressing downwards or pulling
wheel assembly (13) is pivotally interconnected to the front upwards on the handlebar, as appropriate for the design and
wheel-bearing arm (12) through a rotatable pivot intercon 45 arrangement of the locking channel and pins, and then
nection (36), in other embodiments the wheel assembly rotated to the desired lock position about the upper pivot pin
might be fixedly attached to the front wheel-bearing assem (44) along the locking channel (42). For example, in the
bly, and the entire front wheel-bearing assembly could be embodiments shown in FIGS.3a to 3d, the locking positions
pivotable relative to the remaining vehicle structure. of the locking channel (42) comprise a series of notches (50)
Regardless, in many embodiments the steering mechanism 50 formed along the lower edge of the locking channel. Accord
may be interconnected relative to the wheel assembly and ingly, in Such an embodiment a spring may be provided to
front wheel-bearing arm such that the orientation of at least resiliently urge the locking pin (48) into the notch (50) of the
the front wheel relative to the remainder of the vehicle may locking channel (42). Finally, although only a two-position
be altered. angular arrangement is shown between the steering mecha
Although a "T"-shaped handlebar steering mechanism 55 nism (34) and the front wheel-bearing arm (12), it should be
(34) is shown in the figures, it will be understood that the understood that other angles may be formed, or the angle of
steering mechanism may be of any shape Suitable and the steering mechanism relative to the vehicle may be made
dimension Such that a rider may use the mechanism to alter continuously or incrementally adjustable to allow the rider
the directional motion of the vehicle. For example, a “U”- to adjust the riding position of the vehicle. In many embodi
shaped handle bar steering mechanism may be contem 60 ments, such a function may be provided by forming different
plated. In addition, in some embodiments the height of the locking positions (50) along the locking channel (42).
steering mechanism may also be adjustable. Such as, for In many embodiments, it may be desirable to prevent
example, via a telescoping mechanism, for convenience and motion of the front wheel assembly relative to the vehicle in
comfort of use, and in Some embodiments to allow the the compact folded or closed position, i.e., to lock the
steering mechanism to be collapsed for storage Such that the 65 orientation of the wheel relative to the vehicle. In such
height of the handlebars do not extend above the height of embodiments a wheel locking mechanism may be provided
the remainder of the vehicle. In embodiments, such as those to prevent the wheel and/or wheel assembly (13) from
 US 9,694,868 B2
9 10
changing orientation relative to the vehicle in Such a folded may also comprise a steering mechanism interconnection
closed configuration. Although any Suitable wheel locking (74) that may be configured to allow the steering mechanism
mechanism may be provided, in Some embodiments a tab (34) to pivot about the wheel assembly, thereby allowing the
(52) is provided on the pivotable portion of the wheel or axis of the steering mechanism to be repositioned relative to
wheel assembly (13) such that in the close folded configu the front wheel-bearing arm, and in turn the other arms of the
ration (FIGS. 3b and 3d) the tab engages the adjacent rear vehicle. The front wheel assembly may also include front
wheel-bearing assembly (14) or other immobile portion of footrests (76), which may take any suitable form, such as,
the vehicle to prevent independent motion of the wheel or for example, a peg or pedal. Such a footrest may be foldable
wheel assembly, and thereby a change in the orientation of or retractable to reduce the profile of the footrest relative to
the wheel and/or wheel assembly relative to the vehicle. 10
the wheel assembly. Finally, the wheel assembly may
Turning now to the construction of the front wheel include other accessories, such as, for example, a fender or
bearing arm assembly (12), as shown in FIG. 3e, in many mud-flap (78) mounted about the wheel (70) to decrease
embodiments the front wheel-bearing arm is formed of an water or other debris from being splattered against the rider
elongated body that may be made hollow such that the body during operation. Although the motor or other propulsion
defines an interior volume (54). The arm may be formed 15
from any material suitable to provide sufficient structural means may be distributed across the vehicle and intercon
Support to the vehicle. Such as, for example, a metal, nected via Suitable drive interconnections, in many embodi
composite, or polymer. In many embodiments, as shown in ments the vehicle propulsion mechanism may be disposed
FIG. 3e, the weight of the front wheel-bearing arm (12) within the wheel assembly, such as within the hub (79) of the
maybe lightened by including fenestrations (56) along the wheel (70) to provide motive force to the vehicle. In many
elongated body. Although certain fenestrations are shown in Such embodiments the propulsion mechanism may include
the figures, the number and configuration of Such fenestra an electric motor (79') disposed within the hub of the wheel
tions may take any geometry or shape Suitable to lighten the (79) of the wheel assembly (13) and electrically intercon
arm while maintaining the structural integrity of the arm. nected with the energy storage elements disposed elsewhere
In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing arm (12) 25 in the vehicle.
may comprise, at its lower end (58), an interconnection point Examining now the rear wheel-bearing arm, FIGS. 5a to
(60) such that a wheel assembly may be interconnected 5fprovide views of embodiments of the vehicle (10) and the
therewith. In some Such embodiments, such an interconnec rear wheel-bearing armature (14). As shown in FIGS. 5a and
tion may be pivotable such that the wheel assembly may 5b, in many embodiments the vehicle (10) comprises a rear
pivot relative to the front wheel-bearing assembly. 30 wheel-bearing arm (14) having a seat-bearing arm (16)
In many embodiments, the front wheel-bearing arm (12) interconnected therewith. In such embodiments, the rear
may further comprise a front main pivot hinge bracket (62) wheel-bearing arm (14) and seat-bearing arm (16) are both
disposed along its length and configured such that the front pivotally interconnected at a first end (80) with the front
main pivot hinge bracket may be cooperatively coupled with wheel-bearing assembly (12) via a pivot hinge assembly
the main pivot hinge brackets provided on the rear wheel 35 (18) about which both of the wheel-bearing structural arms
bearing arm (14) and the seat-bearing arm (16) to form the and the seat-bearing post may all pivot relative to each other.
vehicle main pivot hinge (18) to allow the front wheel The seat-bearing arm (16) in some such embodiments may
bearing arm (12) to pivot relative to the other arms (14 and be further interconnected with the rear wheel-bearing arm
16) that form the structure of the vehicle. Such a front main (14) through a fourth arm referred to herein as a seat Support
pivot hinge bracket (62) may also comprise front locking 40 element (82) to provide further weight-bearing support to
mechanism elements (64) for engaging a cooperative lock the seating platform (84) of the seat-bearing arm during
ing mechanism on one or more of the other arms (14 and 16) operation of the vehicle. The rear wheel-bearing arm (14)
of the vehicle to prevent unintended movement of the arms further comprises a rear wheel assembly (15) at a second end
relative to one another. In some embodiments, as shown in (86) distal from the pivot hinge assembly (18), as will be
FIG. 3e, the locking mechanism (64) comprises a series of 45 described in greater detail below.
locking grooves that are configured to engage with a coop Turning now to the construction of the rear wheel-bearing
erative locking pin disposed on the rear wheel-bearing arm arm assembly (14), as shown in FIG. 5c, in many embodi
(14). ments the rear wheel-bearing arm is formed of an elongated
The front wheel-bearing arm may also comprise certain body that may be made hollow such that the body defines an
accessories, such as, for example, lights (66), charging 50 interior volume (88). The arm (14) may be formed from any
connections (68), personal electronic docking connections, material suitable to provide sufficient structural support to
(not shown), etc. Although the energy storage and vehicle the vehicle. Such as, for example, a metal, composite, or
propulsion systems may be distributed across the various polymer. In many embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5c, the
arms and elements of the vehicle, in many embodiments the weight of the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may be lightened
energy storage elements (53), such as, for example, one or 55 by including fenestrations (90) along the body thereof.
more batteries may be disposed within the internal volume Although certain fenestrations are shown in the figures, the
(54) of the front wheel-bearing arm along with any required number and configuration of Such fenestrations may take
electronics, electric interconnections (147), etc. necessary any geometry or shape Suitable to lighten the arm while
for the operation of the electric vehicle. maintaining the structural integrity of the arm.
As shown in FIG. 4, the front wheel assembly (13) 60 As further shown in FIGS. 5a to 5c, in many embodi
generally comprises a wheel (70) rotatable interconnected ments, the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may comprise, at its
with the assembly, such as via an axle or other suitable lower end (92), an interconnection point (94) such that a
rotatable interconnection. As described in relation to FIGS. wheel assembly may be interconnected therewith. In some
3a to 3e, the wheel assembly in many embodiments may Such embodiments, such an interconnection may comprise a
also include a pivotable interconnection (72) to pivotally 65 pivot point (96) such that the wheel assembly may pivot
interconnect the wheel assembly to the front wheel-bearing relative to the rear wheel-bearing assembly, as will be
arm (12). In many embodiments, the wheel assembly (13) described in greater detail below.
 US 9,694,868 B2
11 12
In many embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5a to 5c, the wheel assembly (15) comprises an axle (110) fixedly
rear wheel-bearing arm (14) may further comprise a rear attached at the lower end (86) of the rear wheel-bearing arm
main pivot hinge bracket (98) disposed along its length and (14). In some embodiments this fixed axle may comprise a
configured such that the rear main pivot hinge bracket may plurality of wheels (112) as shown in FIG. 6a, or a single
be cooperatively coupled with the main pivot hinge brackets wheel as shown in FIG. 6d. In some embodiments the rear
on the other arms (12 and 16) to combine to form the vehicle wheel assembly (15) may include resilient members (114),
main pivot hinge (18) to allow the rear wheel-bearing arm Such as shock absorbing springs, to provide a shock damp
(14) to pivot relative to the other arms (12 and 16) that form ening to the vehicle. In some such embodiments, the wheels
the structure of the vehicle. Such a rear main pivot hinge of the rear wheel assembly may also be affixed to the rear
bracket (98) may also comprise a locking mechanism (99) 10 wheel-bearing arm (14) in a configuration that would allow
configured to engage a cooperative locking mechanism on the wheels to move relative to the rear wheel-bearing arm.
one or more of the other arms (12 and 16) of the vehicle to In one such embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 6b and 6c, the
prevent unintended movement of the arms relative to one rear wheel assembly (15) is pivotally interconnected to the
another. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5c, the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) via a rear wheel pivot hinge
locking mechanism (99) may comprise a movable pin (100) 15 (116) such that the wheels (112) of the rear wheel assembly
and arm (101) configured to engage cooperative locking are pivotable about a horizontal axis (117) perpendicular to
grooves on the rear wheel-bearing arm (103), front wheel the axis (24) of the rear arm such that the rider of the vehicle
bearing arm and cooperative locking portions on the seat is capable of steering the vehicle by leaning in the desired
bearing arm, as will be described in greater detail below. direction of the turn. (A cross section of such a pivotable
In many embodiments the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) interconnection is shown in FIG. 6c. This is cross-section
also comprises a seat-bearing arm Support groove (102) AL of FIG. 6b.)
configured to cooperatively and slidingly engage the seat Finally, it will be understood that in many embodiments
bearing arm Support (82). In some embodiments, as shown either the front or rear wheel assemblies may be configured
in FIG. 5c, the seat-bearing arm support groove (102) as a removable and/or interchangeable structure, Such that
delineates a curved path along which the seat-bearing arm 25 the wheels of the vehicle may be removed and the vehicle
support (82) may slidingly travel between a first position can be reconfigured between a single or dual-wheel design
(104) at which the seat-bearing arm (16) is locked into a as desired by the user. This interchangeability can be accom
riding position where the seat-bearing arm is extended plished by interconnecting one or both of the front or rear
outward away from the rear wheel-bearing arm, and a wheel assemblies (whether single or dual wheel design) via
second position (106) at which the seat-bearing arm is 30 removable bolts, or a quick-connect attachment, such as, for
locked into a compact position where the seat-bearing arm example, a spring-loaded pin, latch, or other coupling. In
is folded against or flush with the rear wheel-bearing arm. In embodiments where a two-wheel vehicle design is desired,
Some Such embodiments, the path includes locking posi the vehicle may further include a kickstand or otherwise
tions, formed for example of notches (108) at either end of retractable Support, such that the vehicle may stand when
the groove (102) where the riding position is engaged when 35 unattended by the user.
the Supporting member is locked into position in the slot Examining now the seat-bearing armature, FIGS. 7a and
higher up along the structural arm (104), and where the 7b provide perspective views of the seat-bearing arm (16)
compacted position is engaged when the Supporting member and the seat-bearing arm Support (82), respectively. As
is locked into position in the slot lower down along the shown in FIG. 7a, in many embodiments the seat-bearing
structural arm (106). As will be discussed in greater detail 40 armature (16) generally comprises an elongated arm having
below, the seat-bearing arm support (82) may be formed of at one end (118) a seat main pivot hinge bracket (120) and
a resilient member (125), and configured such that when said a seating platform (84) at an opposite end thereof. In some
seat-bearing arm (16) is pivoted into the locking position embodiments the seat main pivot hinge bracket (120) is
(106) of the groove (102) the resilient member is placed into configured to cooperatively interconnect with the main pivot
tension Such that a resilient locking force is applied to lock 45 hinge brackets of the front and rear wheel-bearing arms (12
the seat-bearing arm into position against the adjacent and 14) to form the main vehicle hinge pivot (18) to allow
wheel-bearing arm. In addition, although not shown, in the seat-bearing arm (16) to pivot relative to the other arms
Some embodiments a resilient spring may be provided to (12 and 14) that form the structure of the vehicle. Such a seat
restrain the seat-bearing arm Support within the groove and pivot hinge bracket (120) may also comprise a locking
notches and to assist in directing it along the groove during 50 mechanism configured to engage a cooperative locking
operation. mechanism on one or more of the other arms (12 and 16) of
Although not shown, other accessories may be included the vehicle to prevent unintended movement of the arms
with the rear wheel-bearing arm, including lights, charging relative to one another. In some embodiments, as shown in
connections, personal electronic docking connections, lug FIG. 7a, the locking mechanism may comprise a movable
gage racks, etc. Although the energy storage and vehicle 55 lock disengagement pin (122) configured to engage coop
propulsion systems may be distributed across the various erative locking arms on the rear wheel-bearing arm such that
arms and elements of the vehicle, in many embodiments the the engagement and disengagement of the locking mecha
energy storage elements (89), Such as, for example, one or nism is activated by manipulating the seat-bearing arm, as
more batteries may be disposed within the internal volume will be described in greater detail below.
(88) of the rear wheel-bearing arm along with any required 60 In many embodiments, the seat-bearing arm (16) also
electronics, electric interconnections, etc. necessary for the comprises a seat-bearing arm Support bracket (124) for
operation of the electric vehicle. pivotally interconnecting the seat-bearing arm with a seat
As described above a rear wheel assembly (15) is bearing arm Support member (82). In some embodiments the
mounted to the lower end (86) of the rear wheel-bearing arm seat-bearing arm Support member may be formed of a
(14). As shown in FIGS. 6a to 6d, this rear wheel assembly 65 resilient member (125), such as, for example, a shock
may comprise one or multiple wheels in accordance with absorber, as shown in FIG. 7b. In such embodiments, the
embodiments of the vehicle. In many embodiments the rear resilient seat-bearing arm Supporting member (82) is pivot
 US 9,694,868 B2
13 14
ally interconnected with the seat-bearing arm (16) at one end may be reordered without effecting the operation or function
through a seat-bearing Support pin (126) (or other Suitable of the folding function of the vehicle. The main pivot pin
cooperative pivotable interconnection element), and slid (132) is inserted through the hollow pivot passage (134) to
ingly interconnected with the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) at interconnect the three arms in a pivotable arrangement.
its second end through a sliding pin (128) (or other suitable In many embodiments, as will be described in relation to
cooperative sliding interconnection element), to form a FIGS. 8c to 8e, the main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18)
triangulated Support structure that cantilevers the seat-bear may further comprise a cooperative locking mechanism
ing arm (16) into a riding position in the open/riding configured to be moved between a first locking position
configuration of the vehicle to dampens the shocks or bumps where the vehicle, including structural arm and seat-bearing
of the road such that the rider experiences a smoother ride. 10
post, are disposed and secured in the open/riding position,
In addition, as will be discussed in greater detail below, the and a second locking position where the vehicle is disposed
resilient member (125) of the seat-bearing arm support (82) and secured in the closed/compacted position. Although
may also be configured Such that when said seat-bearing arm Such a cooperative locking mechanism may take any Suit
(16) is pivoted into the locking position the resilient member
is placed into tension Such that a resilient locking force is 15 able form, in some embodiments, as shown in the figures,
applied to lock the seat-bearing arm into position against the the mechanism may take the form of a pin and groove
adjacent wheel-bearing arm. arrangement. In one such embodiment, a pivotable arm
The seat-bearing armature (16) may also comprise certain (100) and pin (101) disposed in association with the rear
accessories, such as, for example, lights, charging connec pivot hinge bracket (98) is configured to disengage and
tions, personal electronic docking connections, (not shown), engage locking grooves (64) formed into the front pivot
etc. Although the energy storage and vehicle propulsion hinge bracket (62) through the action of seat lock disen
systems may be distributed across the various arms and gagement pin (122) disposed on the seat-bearing arm (16)
elements of the vehicle, in many embodiments the energy such that the arms (12 and 14) are prevented from pivoting
storage elements (129). Such as, for example, one or more in relation to each other while the pin (101) is engaged in one
batteries may be disposed within the internal volume (130) 25 of the locking grooves (64). As shown, two positions are
of the seat-bearing arm along with any required electronics, described (64a and 64b). As will be described in greater
electric interconnections, etc. necessary for the operation of detail below, in embodiments the locking pin (101) is
the electric vehicle. The arm may be formed from any disengaged from the open/riding position (groove 64a) and
material suitable to provide sufficient structural support to the closed/compacted position (groove 64b) by pulling up on
the vehicle, such as, for example, a metal, composite, or 30 the seat-bearing arm (16) Such that disengagement pin (122)
polymer. Although not shown, in many embodiments the engages arm (100), thereby lifting pin (101) out of groove
weight of the seat bearing arm may be lightened by includ (64). In some such embodiments, the locking pin (101)
ing fenestrations along the elongated body thereof. Any moves between the locking positions (64a and 64b) by
number and configuration of Such fenestrations may take sliding along the top edge (136) of the rear pivot hinge
any geometry or shape Suitable to lighten the arm while 35 assembly (62). Again, it should be understood that although
maintaining the structural integrity of the arm. The position a specific arrangement of cooperative locking elements are
of the seat-bearing arm (16) and/or the seat platform (84) described, any Suitable locking mechanism and arrangement
may be adjustable relative to the remainder of the vehicle. In of elements may be provided. In many embodiments, such
Such embodiments adjustments might include height relative locking mechanisms and arrangements are configured Such
to the ground, distance relative to the handlebars, angle 40 that the locking mechanism is disengaged by lifting the
relative to the main vehicle pivot hinge (18), etc. Although seat-bearing arm. Likewise, although only two locking posi
one embodiment of a seating platform (84) comprising a tions are described above, it will be understood that inter
bicycle-style seat is shown in FIG. 7a, it will be understood mediary locking positions may be defined Such that desir
that the riding platform may take any form, style or shape able vehicle configurations may be stably formed.
Suitable to Support a rider. 45 FIGS. 9a to 9d provide schematics showing the move
As shown in FIGS. 8a to 8e, in many embodiments the ment (arrows) of the various elements of the vehicle (10)
vehicle (10) includes a main vehicle pivot hinge assembly relative to one another. As shown, in addition to the wheel
(18) about which both of the wheel-bearing structural arms and seat-bearing arms (12, 14 & 16), other elements of the
(12 and 14) and the seat-bearing (16) arm are pivotally vehicle may be provided which cooperate in forming the
connected. In addition, the seat-bearing arm Support (82) 50 open and compacted forms of the vehicle, including steering
may also be configured Such that when said seat-bearing arm mechanism (34), in which the axis (38) of the handlebars
(16) is pivoted into the locking position the resilient member may be pivoted between a position having an angular offset
is placed into tension Such that a resilient locking force is (39) from the axis (20) of the front wheel-bearing arm (12),
applied to lock the seat-bearing arm into position against the and a position where the axis of the handlebars is parallel to
adjacent wheel-bearing arm. 55 the axis of the front wheel-bearing arm. The seat-bearing
As shown in detail in FIGS. 8b to 8e, each of the arms arm (16), which may also be configured Such that when said
includes a cooperative pivot hinge bracket (62.98 and 120), seat-bearing arm Support (82) is pivoted into the locking
each of which engage and pivot about a main pivot pin position the resilient member (125) is placed into tension (as
(132). An exemplary embodiment of the assembly of these shown by arrows in FIGS. 9b and 9d) such that a resilient
elements into the main vehicle pivot hinge assembly (18) is 60 locking force is applied to lock the seat-bearing arm into
shown in cross-section in FIG. 8b. As shown, in many position against the adjacent wheel-bearing arm. Addition
embodiments the cooperative pivot hinge brackets are dis ally, a storage rack (140) or other similar accessories could
posed in a nested arrangement forming a hollow pivot be provided that would be pivotable between an open
passage (134), wherein the seat pivot hinge bracket (120) position where a platform is provided suitable for holding
forms the innermost element, the rear pivot hinge bracket 65 objects, and a compacted position where the platform is
(98) the outermost element, and the front pivot hinge bracket folded against the body of the vehicle. It should be under
(62) is disposed therebetween, although this configuration stood that though the luggage rack is shown disposed on the
 US 9,694,868 B2
15 16
rear wheel-bearing arm, a similar structure could be dis formed into the rear wheel-bearing arm (14), said channel or
posed on other portions of the vehicle. slot delineating a path between closed and open positions of
Turning now to the operation of the folding mechanism of the mechanism.
the electric vehicle (10), as described above, and as will be As shown in FIGS. 10i to 10k, once the arms reach their
discussed in relation to FIGS. 10a to 10k, in many embodi terminus in the closed/compact configuration wherein the
ments the two wheel-bearing arms (12 and 14), and the arms are adjacent in a roughly parallel alignment, the
seat-bearing arm (16) of the vehicle (10) are all pivotally locking mechanism (99) reengages to lock the wheel-bear
interconnected at the same pivot point (18) such that a single ing arms into the closed configuration. In particular, as
folding mechanism operates to moveably reposition all the shown in the figures, in many embodiments the seat locking
arms of the vehicle cooperatively. As shown, in many 10 pin (122) disengages the arm (100) allowing the rear locking
embodiments the folding mechanism comprises a central pin (101) to engage the second locking groove (64b) on the
hinge pin (18) about which each of the arms (12, 14 and 16) front pivot hinge bracket (62), as shown in FIG. 10k. The pin
(101) also reengages the rear locking groove (103) on the
are pivotally interconnected. A locking mechanism (99) rear wheel-bearing arm (14) thereby locking the front and
comprising, in many embodiments, a pin and groove 15 rear wheel-bearing arms in the closed configuration where
arrangement, disposed at the proximal end of the rear the axes of the arms are roughly parallel such that a compact
wheel-bearing arm (14) may also be provided to lock the form is obtained. The seat-bearing arm Support element (82),
arms of the vehicle into open and compact configurations. In may also be configured Such that when said seat-bearing arm
many such embodiments the locking mechanism (99) is (16) is pivoted into the locking position (106) along the
disengaged by manipulating the seat-bearing arm (16). Such locking groove (102), the resilient member (125) is placed
as, for example, by lifting upward on the arm. into tension (as shown by arrows in FIG. 9d) such that a
As shown in FIGS. 10a and 10b, in many embodiments resilient locking force is applied to lock the seat-bearing arm
the seat-bearing arm (16) may also be pivotally connected into position against the adjacent wheel-bearing arm. In
with a resilient Supporting member (82). Such as, for addition, in some embodiments a resilient spring (143) may
example, a shock absorber to form a triangulated Support 25 be provided in association with the pivoting interconnection
structure that cantilevers the seat post into a riding position (126) to apply a resilient guiding force to the pivoting
and dampens the shocks or bumps of the road Such that the interconnection of the seat-bearing arm Support (82) thereby
rider experiences a Smoother ride. In Such embodiments, the assisting in locking the seat-bearing arm Support into a
resilient Supporting member may be pivotally intercon closed position within the body of the rear wheel-bearing
nected (126) with the seat arm (16) at one end, such as, for 30 arm (14) and, in turn, the seat-bearing armature into a closed
example, via a pivot pin, and slidingly interconnected (128) position against the adjacent rear wheel-bearing arm (14)
with the rear wheel-bearing arm (14) at its second end. In during a folding operation.
Such embodiments, the resilient Supporting member (82) It should be understood that although the illustrated
may slide within a channel or slot (102) formed into the rear embodiments show specific configurations of locking
wheel-bearing arm between upper (108) and lower (106) 35 mechanisms, including particular geometries, dispositions
locking positions. and configurations of pins, channels, grooves, notches, etc.
During operation of Some embodiments, the locking that these elements could be modified substantially while
mechanism (99) is disengaged from both the open/riding maintaining the functionality of the vehicle folding mecha
position and the closed/compacted position by pulling up on nism Such that a single cooperative pivot point and locking
the seat-bearing post (16), as shown in FIGS. 10c to 10e. In 40 mechanism is provided capable of being engaged and oper
some such embodiments, the locking mechanism (99) ated to simultaneously fold the arms of the vehicle from an
includes a pin and groove mechanism, wherein the seat lock open/riding position Such that the seat is extended outward
disengagement pin (122) of the seat-bearing arm (16) away from the structural arm, and a second/closed position
engages the armature (100) on the rear locking mechanism at which the seat is locked into a compact position where the
to lift the rear locking pin (101) out of engagement with the 45 seat is folded against or flush with the second structural
locking grooves (64 and 103, not shown) on the front and armature, via the manipulation of one of the arms of the
rear arms to allow the armatures to move between the vehicle. Such as, for example, the seat-bearing arm.
locking positions. In addition, in Some embodiments the An optional element that may be provided on the vehicle
sliding interconnection (128) on the seat-bearing Support (10) is a luggage rack (140). In many embodiments, the
(82) is lifted free of notch (108) on the locking groove (102) 50 luggage rack comprises an elongated platform that may be
to allow the sliding interconnection to slide along groove disposed in any Suitable location on the vehicle. In some
(102). In addition, in Some embodiments a resilient spring embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b, the luggage
(142) may be provided to apply a resilient guiding force to rack (140) may be disposed along the length of the rear
the sliding interconnection (128) of the seat-bearing arm wheel-bearing arm (in many embodiments at the lower end
support within the groove (102) and notches (106 and 108), 55 (86) of the armature (14). Such a rack, in many embodiments
thereby assisting in directing it along the groove during may also be configured Such that it is repositionable between
operation, thereby advancing the movement and operation open and compact configurations. In some embodiments the
of the folding mechanism of the vehicle. luggage rack may be pivotable between a closed position
As shown in FIGS. 10f to 10h, once the locking mecha (shown in FIG.11a) where the luggage rack is folded against
nism (99) and the seat-bearing Support (82) are disengaged 60 the rear wheel-bearing arm, and an open position (shown in
by raising the seat up, the arms may be pivoted from the FIG. 11b) where the luggage rack forms a platform suitable
open configuration to the closed configuration. In some for the Support of objects placed thereon, such an action may
embodiments, as the arms (12, 14 and 16) pivot downward be mechanically coupled to the folding of the arms or may
(as indicated by the arrow) the locking pin (101) slides along be independently actuated. In some Such embodiments, the
the top edge (136) of the front pivot hinge bracket (62). 65 position of the luggage rack (140) relative to the rear
Likewise, in many embodiments, the resilient Supporting wheel-bearing arm (14) may be defined by the axis (144) of
member (82) slides within locking channel or slot (102) the luggage rack. In one such embodiment, in the open
 US 9,694,868 B2
17 18
position (FIG.11b) the axis (144) of the luggage rack forms Accordingly, although the present invention has been
an angle relative to the axis (22) of the rear wheel-bearing described in certain specific aspects, many additional modi
arm, while in the closed position (FIG. 11a) the axis of the fications and variations would be apparent to those skilled in
luggage rack is Substantially parallel to the axis of the rear the art. It is therefore to be understood that the present
wheel-bearing arm. It should be understood that, although invention may be practiced otherwise than specifically
the luggage rack (140) is disposed on the rear wheel-bearing described. Thus, embodiments of the present invention
arm (14) of the vehicle, it may be positioned anywhere along should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not
the vehicle Such a suitable object Supporting platform may restrictive.
be formed.
10 What is claimed is:
In still other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 12, the 1. A foldable vehicle comprising:
vehicle (10) may include other electrical components includ at least two wheel-bearing arms each having first and
ing lights (146) and interconnections (147) for accessories second ends and each defining a wheel-bearing arm
(148), such as, for example, mobile handsets or other longitudinal axis, each of said wheel-bearing arms
personal electronics. The electronics interconnection (147) 15 having at least one wheel assembly interconnected to
may be disposed anywhere on the vehicle suitable for use. the second end thereof and a wheel-bearing arm pivot
In some embodiments the electronics interconnection (147) hinge bracket disposed along the length thereof;
is placed in signal communication at least one seat-bearing arm having first and second ends
with at least one sensor configured to deliver information on and defining a seat-bearing arm longitudinal axis, the
at least one vehicle parameter and deliver information from seat-bearing arm having a seating platform intercon
the at least one sensor to the personal electronic device. In nected to the second end thereof and a seat-bearing
Some such embodiments the at least one vehicle parameter pivot hinge bracket disposed along the length thereof;
is selected from the group consisting of vehicle speed, a seat Support element pivotably engaged at a first end
energy consumption, energy reserve, mileage, and direction. thereof along the length of the seat-bearing arm and
In embodiments, the disclosure is also directed to a 25 slidingly engaged at a second end thereof along the
charging station configured to electrically interconnect to the length of one of the at least two wheel-bearing arms
vehicle such that electrical power can be introduced to the Such that a triangular configuration is formed between
power source via one or more electrical connectors disposed the seat-bearing arm, the at least one wheel-bearing arm
on a portion of the external structure of the vehicle. In some and the seat Support element; and
embodiments, the electrical connectors are disposed on the 30 wherein the at least two wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge
front structural arm of the vehicle and the charging station brackets and the seat-bearing pivot hinge bracket are
is configured to engage the vehicle in a closed/compact configured to cooperatively interconnect to form a
configuration. In other embodiments, the charging station vehicle pivot hinge Such that the wheel-bearing arms
further includes vehicle securing assemblies for securely and seat-bearing arm are pivotably interconnected
attaching and locking the vehicle into a charging position 35 about a single vehicle pivot point.
where the electrical connectors on the charging station and 2. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a
vehicle are electrically interconnected. An exemplary charg steering mechanism interconnected with at least one of said
ing station (150) for use with a foldable electric vehicle is wheel-bearing arms and configured to change the directional
also shown in FIGS. 13a and 13b, in many embodiments the orientation of at least one wheel assembly relative to the
charging station generally comprises a framework (152) 40 vehicle.
having one or more charging contacts (154) that are con 3. The foldable vehicle of claim 2, wherein the vehicle
figured to electrically interconnect with a foldable electric comprises a front wheel-bearing arm and a rear wheel
vehicle (156) to provide a power recharging source. bearing arm, and wherein the steering mechanism is pivot
Although one configuration of a charging station is shown in ably interconnected with the wheel assembly of the front
the figures, it will be understood that the location, number 45 wheel-bearing arm to move between at least two configu
size and configuration of the charging contacts and vehicle rations:
interconnection may be altered to Suit the specific design of a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
the vehicle. In addition, although a single unit is described, of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering mecha
in embodiments multiple charging stations can be provided nism have angular offsets relative to each other, and
and interconnected through a single central kiosk for con 50 a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal
trolling the stations, payments and control charging/avail axes of the front wheel-bearing arm and the steering
ability. mechanism are parallel.
4. The foldable vehicle of claim 3, further comprising a
DOCTRINE OF EQUIVALENTS front wheel assembly lock configured to prevent changes to
55 the directional orientation of the wheel assembly of the front
As can be inferred from the above discussion, the above wheel-bearing arm when in the folded configuration.
mentioned concepts can be implemented in a variety of 5. The foldable vehicle of claim 3, wherein the front
arrangements in accordance with embodiments of the inven wheel-bearing arm defines a internal volume having an
tion. For example, though the foldable vehicle has been energy storage device disposed therein.
described in relation to an electric vehicle, it will be under 60 6. The foldable vehicle of claim 2, wherein the steering
stood that the construction and folding mechanism described mechanism is at least one handlebar, and wherein the height
could be adapted for use with other propulsion types, and angle of the handlebar relative to height of the remainder
including, for example, a gasoline powered internal com of the vehicle is adjustable.
bustion engine. Likewise, although the vehicle has been 7. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein each of the at
described in relation to two wheel-bearing armatures, it will 65 least two wheel-bearing arm pivot hinge brackets and the
be understood that any number of armatures could be used seat-bearing arm pivot hinge bracket are disposed proximal
along with the proposed vehicle folding mechanism. to the first end of their respective arms.
 US 9,694,868 B2
19 20
8. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a 14. The foldable vehicle of claim 13, wherein the seat
pivot locking mechanism configured to disengageably lock Support element comprises a resilient member.
the at least two wheel-bearing arms in one of at least two 15. The foldable vehicle of claim 14, wherein the seat
configurations. Support element is configured such that when the seat
9. The foldable vehicle of claim 8, wherein the pivot bearing arm is pivoted into the second folded configuration
locking mechanism comprises a plurality of locking grooves the resilient member is placed into tension such that a
and a cooperative locking pin configured to engage said resilient locking force is applied to the seat-bearing arm to
locking grooves, said locking grooves being disposed on at urge said seat-bearing arm into position in the second folded
least one of the at least two wheel-bearing arms, and said configuration.
cooperative locking pin being disposed on at least another of 10 16. The foldable vehicle of claim 13, further comprising
the at least two wheel-bearing arms such that when the at least one additional resilient element disposed in relation
cooperative locking pin is engaged within the locking to said seat support element to apply a force thereto, thereby
grooves the at least two wheel-bearing arms are prevented urging said seat support element into at least one of either the
from pivoting relative to each other. first riding configuration or the second folded configuration.
10. The foldable vehicle of claim 9, further comprising a 15 17. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the vehicle
locking mechanism disengagement element disposed on the comprises two wheel-bearing arms, a front wheel-bearing
seat-bearing arm and configured to disengage the pivot element having a front wheel assembly with a single wheel,
locking mechanism when the seat-bearing arm is pivoted and a rear wheel-bearing element having a rear wheel
upward relative to the axial alignment of the seat-bearing assembly with at least one wheel.
arm in one of either a first riding configuration or a second 18. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear
folded configuration. wheel assembly comprises at least two wheels intercon
11. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the wheel nected via a fixed axle.
bearing arms and seat-bearing arm move between at least 19. The foldable vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear
two configurations comprising: wheel assembly comprises at least two wheels intercon
a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes 25 nected via an axle pivotable about a point perpendicular to
of the at least two wheel-bearing arms and the seat the axis of the rear wheel-bearing arm.
bearing arm have angular offsets relative to each other, 20. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising at
and least one luggage rack disposed on at least one of the
a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal wheel-bearing arms, said luggage rack being pivotable
axes of the two wheel-bearing arms and the seat 30 between at least two configurations:
bearing arm are parallel. a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes
12. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the axis of of the Wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack have
the seat support element is orthogonal with the axis of the angular offsets relative to each other, and
seat-bearing arm. a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal
13. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, wherein the seat 35 axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the luggage rack are
Support element slidingly engages a channel disposed along parallel.
a portion of the wheel-bearing arm, the channel delineating 21. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising at
a curvilinear path between at least two configurations: least one electric motor disposed within at least one of the
a first riding configuration wherein the longitudinal axes wheel assemblies and an energy storage device intercon
of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm and 40 nected therewith.
the seat support element have angular offsets relative to 22. The foldable vehicle of claim 1, further comprising an
each other, and electronics interconnection disposed thereon, the electronics
a second folded configuration wherein the longitudinal interconnection configured to electrically interconnect the
axes of the wheel-bearing arm and the seat-bearing arm foldable vehicle to a personal electronic device.
and the seat support element are parallel.