Foldable scooter

Abstract

In one aspect, a foldable scooter is provided that includes footboards, a front axle, a head tube, a steering member having a front wheel, and a second wheel. The front axle is hingedly connected to the footboards for movement between a use position and a stowed front axle position, wherein the front axle ends are located forward of the front ends of the footboards in the use position, and the front axle ends are located rearward of the front ends of the footboards in the stowed front axle position. The head tube is hingedly connected to the front axle for movement between a use position and a stowed position, wherein the head tube is located rearward of the front ends of the footboards in the stowed position. The steering member extends through the head tube and is pivotable within the head tube about a steering axis.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 957,026, filed on January 3, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This specification relates generally to pedal-based vehicles, and more particularly to foldable scooters. Background Art

[0004] It is known to configure user-propelled scooters (also known as kick scooters) to be foldable to reduce the volume they occupy, either for storage or for transportation. However, typical foldable scooters do not fold very compactly and are therefore unwieldy even in their folded form, hindering their portability. Furthermore, some foldable scooters are difficult to fold and unfold, or take a long time to fold and unfold.

[0005] It would be beneficial to provide a scooter that addresses one or more of the above-mentioned problems or other problems with foldable scooters. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a foldable scooter. The foldable scooter includes a footboard, a head tube, a telescoping shaft, a first wheel, and a second wheel. The footboard has a first end and a second end and defines a channel. The head tube is hingedly coupled to the footboard. The telescoping shaft has a first end and a second end and has a locking hinge coupled to the first end of the telescoping shaft. The second end of the telescoping shaft is hingedly coupled to a connecting member extending from the head tube and rotatable within the head tube. A handle is slidably coupled to the locking hinge. The first wheel is rotatably coupled to the connecting member. The second wheel is rotatably coupled to the footboard. In a first mode, the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are configured to rotate to a first position, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are each received within the channel, and the handle and the telescoping shaft are each configured to rotate to a second position, wherein the handle and the telescoping shaft are each adjacent to the footboard and extend along the longitudinal length of the footboard. In the second mode, the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are configured to rotate to a third position in which the first wheel and the second wheel extend away from the footrests, and the handle and the telescopic shaft are each configured to rotate to a fourth position in which the handle and the telescopic shaft extend away from the footrests. The telescopic shaft and the connecting member are included in a steering member having a first end with the first wheel rotatably mounted thereto and a second end being an end of the telescopic shaft having a locking hinge thereon.

[0007] In another aspect, a foldable scooter is provided that includes a footboard, a front axle, a head tube, a steering member having a front wheel thereon, and a second wheel. The footboard has a front end, a rear end, a top surface, and a bottom area. The footboard defines a longitudinal axis of the foldable scooter. The front axle has a first front axle end and a second front axle end. The front axle is hingedly connected to the footboard at the second front axle end for movement between a front axle in-use position and a front axle stowed position. In the front axle in-use position, the first front axle end is located forward of the front end of the footboard, and in the front axle stowed position, the first front axle end is located rearward of the front end of the footboard. The head tube defines a steering axis. The head tube is hingedly connected to the front axle for movement between the head tube in-use position and the head tube stowed position. When the front axle is in the front axle in-use position and the head tube is in the head tube in-use position, the head tube is located forward of the footboard and oriented such that the steering axis is substantially perpendicular to the top surface of the footboard. In the head tube stowed position, the head tube is located rearward of the front end of the footboard. The steering member extends through the head tube and is pivotable within the head tube about a steering axis. The steering member has a first steering member end and a second steering member end. The first steering member end has a first wheel rotatably connected thereto, and the second steering member end has a handle for gripping by a user. The second wheel is coupled to the footrest. In the in-use mode of the foldable scooter, the front axle is in the front axle use position and the head tube is in the head tube use position, and the first and second wheels are positioned to support the footrest above the ground. In the folded mode of the foldable scooter, the front axle is in the front axle stowed position and the head tube is in the head tube stowed position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the steering member hinge includes a hinge link having a first hinge link end and a second hinge link end, the first hinge link end being pivotally connected to the first hinge portion of the steering member and the second hinge link end being pivotally connected to the second hinge portion of the steering member. In some other embodiments, the steering member further includes a hinge sleeve movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the hinge sleeve extends over some of the first hinge portion of the steering member and over some of the second hinge portion of the steering member, thereby maintaining the first and second hinge portions of the steering member aligned with the steering axis, and in the unlocked position, the hinge sleeve extends only along one of the first and second hinge portions of the steering member to allow the second hinge portion of the steering member to move between an articulated portion use position and an articulated portion stowed position.

[0009] In another aspect, a foldable scooter is provided that includes a footboard, a head tube, a steering member having a front wheel thereon, and a second wheel. The footboard has a front end, a rear end, a top surface, and a bottom area. The footboard defines a longitudinal axis of the foldable scooter. The head tube defines a steering axis and is at least indirectly connected to the footboard. A steering member passes through the head tube and is pivotable therein about the steering axis. The steering member has a first steering member end and a second steering member end. The first steering member end has a first wheel rotatably connected thereto, and the second steering member end has a handle for gripping by a user. The steering member includes a first hinged portion and a second hinged portion. The first hinged portion passes through the head tube, and the second hinged portion is hingedly connected to the first hinged portion via a steering member hinge for movement between an hinged portion in-use position and a hinged portion stowed position. In the hinged portion in-use position, the second hinged portion is aligned with the first hinged portion along the steering axis, and in the stowed position, the second hinged portion is folded adjacent to the first hinged portion. The second wheel is rotatably coupled to the footboard. In the foldable scooter's in-use mode, the front axle is in the front axle use position, the head tube is in the head tube use position, and the first and second wheels are positioned to support the footrests above the ground. In the foldable scooter's stowed mode, the second hinge portion is in the hinge portion stowed position. Optionally, the steering member hinge includes a hinge link having a first hinge link end pivotally connected to the first hinge portion of the steering member and a second hinge link end pivotally connected to the second hinge portion of the steering member.

[0010] In some embodiments, the second articulated portion includes a first telescopic portion and a second telescopic portion, wherein the second portion is telescopically connected to the first portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, the steering member further includes a hinge sleeve that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the hinge sleeve extends over some of the first articulated parts of the steering member and over some of the second articulated parts of the steering member, thereby keeping the first articulated part and the second articulated part of the steering member aligned with the steering axis, and in the unlocked position, the hinge sleeve extends only along one of the first articulated part and the second articulated part of the steering member so as to allow the second articulated part of the steering member to move between the articulated part use position and the articulated part retracted position. In some other embodiments, the hinge sleeve has a first hinge sleeve end and a second hinge sleeve end, and the hinge sleeve has a hinge sleeve abutment shoulder at one of the first hinge sleeve end and the second hinge sleeve end, the hinge sleeve abutment shoulder being positioned to abut a steering member abutment shoulder on one of the first hinge part and the second hinge part of the steering member, and the hinge sleeve has a hinge sleeve threaded area at the other of the first hinge sleeve end and the second hinge sleeve end, the hinge sleeve threaded area being positioned to engage with the steering member threaded area on the other of the first hinge part and the second hinge part of the steering member so as to drive the hinge sleeve abutment shoulder with sufficient force to abut the steering member abutment shoulder to place the hinge link in a tensioned state between the first hinge part and the second hinge part of the steering member, thereby eliminating any clearance between the hinge link and the first hinge part and between the hinge link and the second hinge part.

[0012] In any of the above aspects, the handle is optionally removable from the second end of the steering member.

[0013] Embodiments may include any suitable combination of the above features.

[0014] Other technical advantages will become readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following drawings and description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] For a better understanding of the embodiments described herein and to show more clearly how the embodiments may be practiced, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, by way of example only.

[0016] Figure 1 A side view of an exemplary collapsible scooter is shown in a deployed mode (also referred to as a use mode) including a handle, a locking hinge, a telescoping axle, another hinge, a head tube, footrests, a front wheel, and a rear wheel.

[0017] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of an exemplary foldable scooter.

[0018] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A bottom view of an exemplary foldable scooter is shown.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Front perspective view of the handle and telescopic shaft.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Front perspective view of the handle and locking hinge.

[0021] Figure 6 Is to connect the telescopic shaft with the Figure 1 A perspective view of the hinge connecting the connecting member of the head tube.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A side partial cutaway view of the hinge, telescopic shaft, head tube, and footrests.

[0023] Figure 8 is rotatably coupled to Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the bottom view of the front wheel of the foot pedal.

[0024] Figure 9 is rotatably coupled to Figure 1 Perspective view of the front wheel with pedals.

[0025] Figure 10 is a bottom view of the foldable scooter in the folded mode.

[0026] Figure 11 is a perspective view of another collapsible scooter according to another embodiment of the present disclosure in a use mode.

[0027] Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 15 、 Figure 16 、 Figure 17 and Figure 18 is a perspective view showing Figure 11 The collapsible scooter is shown in FIG, illustrating a transition between a use mode of the collapsible scooter and a stowed mode of the collapsible scooter.

[0028] Figure 19 It is in folded mode Figure 11 A perspective view of a foldable scooter is shown in FIG.

[0029] Figure 20 Is from Figure 11 A perspective view of the footboard of the foldable scooter shown in FIG. 1 to illustrate the channel included therein.

[0030] Figure 21 It is composed Figure 11 A cross-sectional side view of a portion of a steering member of a portion of a foldable scooter is shown in FIG.

[0031] Figure 22 Is from Figure 11 A perspective cross-sectional view of the handle of the foldable scooter shown in FIG.

[0032] Figure 23 Is from Figure 11 A perspective view of the front axle and head tube of the foldable scooter shown in FIG.

[0033] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 An enlarged perspective cross-section of the front axle and head pipe is shown in FIG.

[0034] Unless specifically noted otherwise, items depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated between the figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements, where deemed appropriate. In addition, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, processes, and components are not described in detail to avoid confusing the embodiments described herein. It should be understood from the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings and described below, any number of technologies may be used to implement the principles of the present disclosure, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary embodiments and technologies illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0036] The various terms used throughout this specification should be read and understood as follows, unless the context dictates otherwise: as used throughout, "or" is inclusive, as if written as "and / or"; as used throughout, singular articles and pronouns include their plural forms, and vice versa; similarly, gender pronouns include their corresponding pronouns, and thus the pronouns should not be construed as limiting anything described herein to use, practice, performance, etc. by a single gender. "Exemplary" should be understood to mean "illustrative" or "exemplary," and not necessarily to mean "preferred" over other embodiments. Further definitions of terms may be set forth herein; as will be understood from reading this specification, these may apply to prior and subsequent instances of those terms.

[0037] The terms "coupled to" and "connected to" can be used interchangeably. In addition, these terms are not intended to indicate a direct coupling or direct connection unless it is explicitly stated that it is a direct coupling or direct connection.

[0038] Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the systems, devices, and methods described herein may be modified, added to, or omitted. For example, the components of the systems and devices may be integrated or separated. Furthermore, the operations of the systems and devices disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components, and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, "each" refers to each component in a group or each component in a subgroup of a group.

[0039] The following description discloses a scooter that can be folded into a compact size without tools. A foldable scooter disclosed herein includes a footboard defining a channel. A head tube can be hingedly coupled to each of the footboard and the telescoping shaft. The telescoping shaft can have a locking hinge coupled to a first end of the telescoping shaft. A handle can be slidably and / or rotatably coupled to the locking hinge.

[0040] The first wheel may be coupled to the head tube, and the second wheel may be rotatably coupled to the foot pedals.

[0041] In a first mode, the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are configured to rotate to a first position, wherein the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are each (at least partially) received within a channel of a footboard. Furthermore, the handle and the telescoping shaft are each configured to rotate to a second position, wherein the handle and the telescoping shaft are each adjacent to and extend along the longitudinal length of the footboard. The first mode may be referred to as a stowed mode.

[0042] In the second mode, the first wheel, the second wheel, and the head tube are configured to rotate to a third position, wherein the first wheel and the second wheel extend away from the footrest. Furthermore, the handle and the telescopic shaft are each configured to rotate to a fourth position, wherein the handle and the telescopic shaft extend away from the footrest. The second mode may be referred to as a use mode.

[0043] The terms “connected” or “coupled to” may include direct coupling (where two elements coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (where at least one additional element is located between the two elements).

[0044] As used herein, the terms "substantially" or "approximately" may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related.

[0045] Figure 1 and Figure 2An exemplary foldable scooter 1 is shown. The foldable scooter 1 includes a footboard 2 having a first end 2a (which may be referred to as a front end 2a) and a second end 2b (which may be referred to as a rear end 2b). The footboard 2 may include a surface 2c configured to interface with a user during use of the foldable scooter 1 (i.e., positioned to support the user on the top surface 108). Surface 2c may be referred to as a top surface 2c. The footboard 2 may define a chassis 2d including a channel 14 configured to receive wheels 9a and 9b and a head tube 3. Wheels 9a and 9b may be referred to as front wheel 9a and rear wheel 9b, respectively.

[0046] The head tube 3 can be hingedly coupled to the footboard 2. In one embodiment, the head tube 3 is hingedly coupled to the footboard 2 via a double-hinged bracket 10 and a fastener 12. The double-hinged bracket 10 can include a locking pin 13 that can be biased to protrude through the double-hinged bracket 10 and be received by a hole 21 defined by the head tube 3 when the head tube 3 is at a desired angle relative to the footboard 2. When the locking pin 13 is received in the hole 21, the head tube 3 can be fixed in position at the desired angle relative to the footboard 2. The locking pin 13 can be manually withdrawn from the hole 21 by the user to allow the head tube 3 to rotate relative to the footboard 2.

[0047] Continuing with the above example, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in FIG, the telescopic shaft 6 may have a first end 2a and a second end 2b. The telescopic shaft 6 may include a plurality of telescopic sections. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG, the telescopic shaft 6 includes three sections; however, the telescopic shaft 6 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. The telescopic shaft 6 may be coupled to a locking hinge 7 at a first end 2a, and a second end 2b may be hingedly coupled to a connecting member 11b (eg, a portion of a portion of a head tube 3) rotatably held in the head tube 3. Figure 7 ). More specifically, the second end 2b can be connected to the hinge 5, and the hinge 5 can include a threaded area that can be threadably mounted to one end of the connecting member 11b. The telescoping shaft 6 can thus be mechanically connected to the wheel 9a to allow the wheel 9a to rotate (i.e., pivot) about the longitudinal axis of the telescoping shaft 6 to steer the foldable scooter 1 during use. In one embodiment, the connecting member 11b couples the swivel caster 11a (and wheel 9a) to the hinge 5 such that rotational movement of the telescoping shaft 6 will steer the wheel 9a.

[0048] The connecting member 11b and the universal caster 11a can be integrally formed into a one-piece structure. Figure 2As shown in , the connecting member 11b can be transverse to the interior of the head tube 3 for coupling the universal caster 11a with the female half of the hinge 5. The male half of the hinge 5 can be configured to rotate the telescopic shaft 6 relative to the head tube 3, for example, the telescopic shaft 6 can be rotated 180 degrees around the longitudinal axis of the head tube 3, which can cause a corresponding rotation of the wheel 9a. The hinge 5 may include a locking mechanism 5a (for example, a pin received in a hole (not shown) defined by the telescopic shaft 6) to lock the relative movement of the male half of the locking hinge 5 relative to the female half of the locking hinge 5 to fix the telescopic shaft 6 at a desired angle 30 relative to the head tube 3. As shown in Figure 1 As shown in the exemplary foldable scooter of FIG. 1 , the telescopic shaft 6 is fixed along the same longitudinal axis as the head tube 3 .

[0049] Although the term "swivel castor" is used to describe element 11a, it will be understood that the wheel 9a retained therein is not free to pivot about the axis of the connecting member 11b. The wheel 9a is steered by pivoting the telescopic shaft 6, the angular position of which is controlled by the user via the handle 8.

[0050] The handle 8 can be slidably coupled to the locking hinge 7 and can rotate about the locking hinge 7. The handle 8 can define a handle channel 17 that can receive the telescoping shaft 6 and / or the locking hinge 7. In one embodiment, the locking hinge 7 includes a locking hinge pivot 20 that is received in a handle slot 16 defined by the handle 8. The handle slot 16 can extend along the length of the handle 8. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the handle slot 16 may extend along approximately half the length of the handle 8 so that the locking hinge pivot 20 may be located at the center point of the handle 8 ( Figure 4 ) and the lateral ends of the handle 8 ( Figure 5 As shown in FIG), the handle channel 17 can receive the telescopic shaft 6 and the handle 8 can be positioned adjacent to the telescopic shaft 6. Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the handle 8 and the telescopic shaft 6 generally share a common longitudinal axis, thereby reducing the volume occupied by each element. The locking hinge 7 may include a bit member 15 biased by a biasing member (not shown) such as a coil spring, leaf spring or similar element to bias the bit member 15 to Figure 4 and Figure 5, shown in the extended position. The restraining member 15 can be configured to be received in the handle slot 16 so as to secure the handle 8 in a position substantially perpendicular to the telescoping axis 6. When the restraining member 15 is received in the handle slot 16, the restraining member 15 can be biased by the biasing member to extend through the handle slot 16 to limit rotation of the handle 8 about the locking hinge pivot 20. In one embodiment, the restraining member 15 can include an angled surface 15a that is disposed at an angle relative to a corresponding surface 8a of the handle 8. When the handle 8 and its corresponding surface 8a are rotated into contact with the angled surface 15a, the restraining member 15 is pushed into the locking hinge 7, axially compressing the biasing member until the restraining member 15 is aligned with the handle slot 16, as shown. Figure 4 The alignment of the restraining member 15 with the handle slot 16 limits the rotational movement of the handle about the locking hinge pivot 20 .

[0051] In one embodiment, lateral movement of the handle 8 relative to the locking hinge 7 can be limited by engagement of a locking member 19 and the first aperture 18. The locking hinge 7 can include a locking member 19 configured to extend into the first aperture 18 defined by the handle 8. When the handle 8 is rotated about the locking hinge pivot 20, the first aperture 18 can receive the locking member 19 to limit lateral movement of the handle relative to the locking hinge.

[0052] like Figure 1 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in , first wheel 9a can be coupled to head tube 3, such as via swivel caster 11a and fastener 12. In one embodiment, first wheel 9a and telescopic shaft 6 are in mechanical communication such that rotation of telescopic shaft 6 about its longitudinal axis results in corresponding rotation of first wheel 9a.

[0053] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown in , the second wheel 9b can be connected to the footrest 2. The second wheel 9b can be hingedly connected to the footrest 2 by a bracket. Figure 10 As shown in FIG, the second wheel 9b is rotatable about the footboard 2 and is configured to be received by the footboard channel 14.

[0054] In the first mode, the foldable scooter 1 is configured to be folded / folded into a reduced volume. Figure 10 As shown in Figure 1 The arrangement of the components of the foldable scooter 1 occupies a reduced volume compared to the foldable scooter 1 shown in its unfolded configuration. Figure 10), the first wheel 9a, the second wheel 9b, and the head tube 3 are configured to rotate to a first position in which the first wheel 9a, the second wheel 9b, and the head tube 3 are each received within the footrest channel 14. In one embodiment, in the first position, the double-hinged bracket 10 rotates about one hinge into the channel 14, and the head tube 3 rotates about the other hinge of the double-hinged bracket 10 so that the head tube 3 is superimposed on the double-hinged bracket 10 within the channel 14. The second wheel 9b may also rotate about its bracket into the channel 14.

[0055] Furthermore, in the first mode, the handle 8 and the telescopic shaft 6 are each configured to rotate to a second position, wherein the handle 8 and the telescopic shaft 6 are each adjacent to the footrest 2 and extend along the longitudinal length of the footrest 2. In one embodiment, the multiple segments of the telescopic shaft 6 are folded and rotated about the hinge 5 to be adjacent to the head tube 3 and extend along the longitudinal length of the head tube 3. When the head tube 3 is rotated to the first position within the channel 14, the telescopic shaft 6 may also be adjacent to the footrest 2 and extend along the longitudinal length of the footrest 2. In one embodiment, as Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the handle 8 can be rotated about the locking hinge pivot 20 to overlap the handle 8 on the telescopic shaft 6. Figure 10 As shown in , the telescopic shaft 6 can be defined within the handle channel 17 .

[0056] In the second mode, the first wheel 9a, the second wheel 9b and the head pipe 3 are configured to rotate to a third position. Figure 1 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the third position shown in FIG, the first wheel 9a and the second wheel 9b extend away from the footrest 2 so that the user can stand on the footrest 2 with the wheels 9a, 9b in contact with the ground. In one embodiment, the first wheel 9a and the head tube 3 can be rotated around the footrest 2 by a double-hinged bracket 10. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in , the double hinge bracket 10 may include a locking pin 13 that is biased to extend into the second hole 21 of the head tube 3 to prevent the head tube 3 from rotating about the double hinge bracket 10 .

[0057] Furthermore, in the second mode, the handle 8 and the telescopic shaft 6 are each configured to rotate to a fourth position, wherein the handle 8 and the telescopic shaft 6 extend away from the footrest. In the fourth position, the telescopic shaft 6 can rotate about the hinge 5 so that its longitudinal axis is aligned with the head tube 3. The head tube 3 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the footrest 2 (e.g., generally upward when the user stands on the footrest 2). Figure 4As shown in FIG, the handle 8 can be rotated about the locking hinge pivot 20 to be positioned generally perpendicular to the telescoping shaft 6. In one embodiment, the restraining member 15 can be configured to be received by the handle slot 16 to secure the handle 8 in a fourth position generally perpendicular to the telescoping shaft 6. In one embodiment, in the fourth position, the telescoping shaft is in mechanical communication with the first wheel, wherein rotation of the telescoping shaft about its longitudinal axis causes corresponding rotation of the first wheel 9a. The telescoping shaft 6, hinge 5, connecting member 11b, and swivel caster 11a can collectively be referred to as a steering assembly.

[0058] refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 A foldable scooter 100 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The foldable scooter 100 includes a footrest 102. The footrest 102 defines a longitudinal axis A of the foldable scooter 100 and has a front end 104, a rear end 106, a top surface 108, and a bottom region 110 (which may also be referred to as a chassis 110). The footrest 102 is positioned to support a user on the top surface 108 during use of the foldable scooter 100. The footrest 102 may optionally include a downwardly extending footrest shown at 112 ( Figure 20 ) that cooperate to define at least one longitudinally extending channel 114 on the bottom region 110. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four walls 112, and thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the bottom region 110 includes three longitudinally extending channels 114.

[0059] The foldable scooter 100 has a first wheel 122 (which may also be referred to as a front wheel 122) that is at least indirectly rotatably connected to the footrest 102. In the embodiment shown, the foldable scooter 100 also includes a front axle 124 having a first front axle end 126 and a second front axle end 128. In the embodiment shown, the front axle 124 is hingedly connected to the footrest 102 at the second front axle end 128 to rotate in the front axle use position ( Figure 11-14 ) and front axle stowed position ( Figures 15-19 ), wherein in the front axle use position, the first front axle end 126 is located forward of the front end 104 of the footrest 102, and in the front axle stowed position, the first front axle end 126 is located rearward of the front end 104 of the footrest 102. As can be seen, when in the front axle stowed position, the front axle 124 can be positioned adjacent to one of the top region 108 and the bottom region 110 of the footrest 102. The hinge connection between the front axle 124 and the footrest 102 (at Figure 15 The front axle 124 may be supported in the front axle use position by engaging the front axle 124 with a support surface on the bottom region 110 of the footrest 102.

[0060] The foldable scooter 100 has a second wheel 130 (also referred to as a rear wheel 130) that is at least indirectly rotatably connected to the footrest 102. The foldable scooter 100 may optionally include a rear axle 131 having a first rear axle end 132 and a second rear axle end 134. The rear axle 131 may be hingedly connected to the footrest 102 at the second rear axle end 134 to rotate in the rear axle use position ( Figure 11-13 ) and rear axle stowed position ( Figures 14-19 ), wherein in the rear axle use position, the first rear axle end 132 is located behind the rear end 106 of the footboard 102, and in the rear axle stowed position, the first rear axle end 132 is located in front of the rear end 106 of the footboard 102. In the embodiment shown, the second wheel 130 is rotatably connected to the rear axle 131. The hinged connection (shown as 136) between the rear axle 131 and the footboard 102 can be a simple pin joint.

[0061] The front axle 124 and the rear axle 131 effectively extend the wheelbase of the foldable scooter 100 (i.e., the distance between the front wheel 122 and the rear wheel 130), which can aid in stability during riding of the foldable scooter 100 by the user. Furthermore, by allowing the front axle 124 and the rear axle 131 to move to their respective front axle stowed and rear axle stowed positions, the overall length of the foldable scooter 100 in the folded mode can be reduced compared to other prior art kick scooters, which aids in portability.

[0062] The front axle 124 is movable to its stowed position, which is particularly innovative because the front axle has a head tube 136 connected thereto with a steering member 137 therein. The head tube 136 is a tubular member that defines a steering axis As.

[0063] The steering member 137 passes through the head tube 138 and is pivotable therein about the steering axis As. The steering member 137 has a first steering member end 142 and a second steering member end 144. The first steering member end 142 has a first wheel 122 rotatably connected to the first steering member end 142, and the second steering member end 144 has a handle 146 positioned to be grasped by a user.

[0064] The head tube 138 may be hingedly connected to the front axle 124 to allow the front axle 124 to rotate in the head tube use position ( Figure 11-14 ) and the stowed head tube position ( Figures 15-19) between the front hinge 124 and the front end 104. When the front axle 124 is in the front axle use position and the head tube 138 is in the head tube use position, the head tube 138 is positioned in front of the footrest 102 and is oriented so that the steering axis As is generally perpendicular to the top surface 108 of the footrest 102. When the head tube 138 is in the head tube stowed position, the head tube 138 is located rearward of the front end 104 of the footrest 102 (so as to make the foldable scooter 100 more compact when in the stowed mode). The hinged connection (shown at 140) between the head tube 138 and the front hinge 124 can be a simple pin joint. The hinged connection 140 can be at the first front axle end 126. As shown in FIG. Figures 15-19 As can be seen in the figures, when the front axle 124 and the head tube 138 are in their respective stowed positions, they form a Z-shape with the footboard 102. In other words, when in their respective stowed positions, the front axle 124 extends generally rearwardly from the hinge connection 129, and the head tube extends generally forwardly from the hinge connection 140. As can be seen in the figures, in the front axle stowed position, the front axle 124 is positioned adjacent to the bottom region 110 of the footboard 102, and in the head tube stowed position, the head tube 138 is positioned such that the front axle 124 is located between (i.e., vertically between) the footboard 102 and the head tube 138.

[0065] To retain the head tube 138 in the head tube use position, the foldable scooter 100 may include at least one head tube locking pin 190 ( Figure 23 In the embodiment shown, there are two head tube locking pins 190 (see Figure 24 ). Each head tube locking pin 190 is biased toward a locked position in which it engages a corresponding use position locking hole 192 in the front axle 124. The head tube locking pins 190 may be biased toward their respective locked positions by a head tube locking pin biasing member 194. Figure 24 In the example shown in FIG, the head tube locking pin biasing member 194 is a coil compression spring extending between support structures 196 for the two head tube locking pins 190. The biasing member 194 may alternatively be any other suitable type of biasing member. To release the head tube 138 from the head tube use position, the user presses the head tube locking pins 190 inwardly toward each other, overcoming the biasing member 194, and then begins to pivot the head tube 138 out of the head tube use position toward the head tube stowed position. Figure 23 As shown in , the front axle 124 may further include a head tube stowed position locking hole 197 positioned to receive the head tube locking pin 190 and retain the head tube 138 in the head tube stowed position.

[0066] To support the head tube 138 in the head tube use position against the weight of the user on the footboards 102, the front axle 124 may include a front axle limiting surface 198 that engages a head tube limiting surface 199 on the head tube 138. The limiting surfaces 198 and 199 engage one another to limit the amount of weight supported by engagement of the head tube locking pin 190 with the head tube use position locking hole 192.

[0067] In the use mode of the foldable scooter 100 ( Figure 11 ), the front axle 124 is positioned in the front axle use position and the head tube 138 is positioned in the head tube use position, and the first wheel 122 and the second wheel 130 are positioned to support the footrest 102 on the ground (at Figure 11 In the folded mode of the foldable scooter ( Figure 19 ), the front axle 124 is in the front axle stowed position, and the head tube is in the head tube stowed position.

[0068] Several optional features may be provided for the steering member 137. For example, the steering member 137 may include a first telescoping portion 148 and a second telescoping portion 150 telescopically connected to the first telescoping portion 148. For example, the first telescoping portion 148 may be tubular, and the second telescoping portion 150 may be slidable within the first telescoping portion 148 so as to be retractable and extendable relative to the first telescoping portion 148. Alternatively, the second telescoping portion 150 may be tubular and slidable over the first telescoping portion 148 so as to be retractable and extendable relative to the first telescoping portion 148. In the illustrated embodiment, the first telescoping portion 148 comprises the portion of the steering member 137 that passes through the head tube 138 and is thereby pivotally connected thereto. The handle 146 is disposed on the second telescoping portion 150. In other words, the second telescoping portion 150 has the second steering member end 144 thereon.

[0069] In order to lock the second telescopic portion 150 in the extended or retracted position, a collar clamp 151 may be provided, as is known in the art of foot scooters.

[0070] Another optional feature is that the steering member 137 includes a first hinged portion 152 and a second hinged portion 154. The first hinged portion 152 passes through the head tube 138. In other words, the portion of the steering member 137 that is pivotally connected to the head tube 138 is on the first hinged portion 152. The second hinged portion 154 is hingedly connected to the first hinged portion 152 by a steering member hinge 156 so that the steering member 137 can be rotated in the hinged portion use position ( Figures 11-16 ) and hinged part stowed position ( Figure 19) moves between the hinged portion 154 and the first hinged portion 152, wherein in the hinged portion use position, the second hinged portion 154 is aligned with the first hinged portion 152 along the steering axis As, and in the hinged portion stowed position, the second hinged portion 154 is folded to be adjacent to the first hinged portion 152. Figure 17 and Figure 18 The second hinge portion 154 is shown to be oriented relative to the first hinge portion 152. Figure 19 In an embodiment where both a steering member hinge 156 and a telescoping connection are provided, the second articulated portion includes a first telescoping portion 148 and a second telescoping portion 150 .

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the steering member hinge 156 may be what is known as a double hinge and, therefore, includes a hinge link 158 having a first hinge link end 160 ( Figure 16 and Figure 21 ) and a second hinge link end 162, the first hinge link end 160 is pivotally connected (e.g., via a pin joint) to the first hinge portion 152 of the steering member 137, and the second hinge link end 162 is pivotally connected (e.g., via a pin joint) to the second hinge portion 154 of the steering member 137.

[0072] In some embodiments, the second hinge portion 154 is generally cylindrical and has a diameter D ( Figure 21 ), and when the steering member hinge 156 is in the hinge portion use position, the entire steering member hinge 156 (particularly in the embodiment in which it employs the hinge link 158) remains within the diameter D of the second hinge portion 154. This allows the steering member 137 to employ the hinge sleeve 163 to lock the second hinge portion 154 in the hinge portion use position. The hinge sleeve 163 can be locked in the locked position ( Figure 11-Figure 15 ) and unlocked position ( Figure 16-Figure 19 ), wherein in the locked position, the hinge sleeve 163 extends over some of the first hinge portion 152 of the steering member 137 and over some of the second hinge portion 154 of the steering member 137 to maintain the first hinge portion 152 and the second hinge portion 154 aligned with the steering axis As, and in the unlocked position, the hinge sleeve 163 extends along only one of the first hinge portion 152 and the second hinge portion 154, thereby allowing the second hinge portion 154 to move between the hinge portion use position and the hinge portion stowed position. In the illustrated embodiment, when the hinge sleeve 163 is in the unlocked position, the hinge sleeve extends only along the second hinge portion 152.

[0073] like Figure 21As can be seen in the figure, the hinge sleeve 163 may have a first hinge sleeve end 164 and a second hinge sleeve end 165, and a hinge sleeve abutment shoulder 166 at one of the first hinge sleeve end 164 and the second hinge sleeve end 165 (in the example shown, the first hinge sleeve end 164), which is positioned to abut the steering member abutment shoulder 168 on one of the first hinge part 152 and the second hinge part 154 (in the example shown, the first hinge part 152). The hinge sleeve 163 also includes a hinge sleeve threaded region 170 at the other of the first hinge sleeve end 164 and the second hinge sleeve end 165 (in the example shown, the second hinge sleeve end 165), which is positioned to engage a steering member threaded region 172 on the other of the first hinge portion 152 and the second hinge portion 154 (in the example shown, the second hinge portion 154). The threaded regions 170 and 172 are arranged so that engagement of the threaded region 170 with the threaded region 172 drives the hinge sleeve abutment shoulder 166 to abut the steering member abutment shoulder 168 with sufficient force to place the hinge link 156 in tension between the first hinge portion 152 and the second hinge portion 154 so as to eliminate any play between the hinge link 156 and the first hinge portion 152 and between the hinge link 156 and the second hinge portion 154. An optional steering member alignment surface is also provided on the steering member 137, shown at 174, which is positioned to engage a hinge sleeve alignment surface 176 on the hinge sleeve 166 when the hinge sleeve 166 is in the locked position to ensure that the hinge sleeve 156 remains concentric about the steering axis As and does not inadvertently disengage from the steering member abutment shoulder 168, for example, if the hinge sleeve 166 is struck by something. The steering member alignment surface 174 is shown as a radially outer surface, while the hinge sleeve alignment surface 176 is shown as a radially inner surface, however, alternatively, the steering member alignment surface 174 is a radially inner surface, while the hinge sleeve alignment surface 176 is a radially outer surface.

[0074] The handle 146 can be connected to the second steering member end 144 in any suitable manner. In the embodiment shown, the handle 146 includes a handle rod 178 having a ball plunger 180 ( Figure 22). The handle 146 is thus removably mounted to the steering member 137. To mount the handle 146 to the steering member 137, the handle rod 178 is inserted into the receiving hole 179 in the steering member 137 until the ball from the ball plunger 180 protrudes into the hole 182 in the steering member 137. To remove the handle 146 from the steering member 137, the ball from the ball plunger 180 is pushed inward by the user, thereby allowing the user to move the handle so as to move the ball plunger 180 away from the receiving hole 179, thereby allowing the user to pull the handle 146 out of the receiving hole 179. In other embodiments, the handle 146 can be fixedly mounted to the steering member 137. In such embodiments, the handle 146 can employ a movable portion (such as a rod end) that can be folded down to take up less space. In yet another example, the handle 146 may be similar to the handle 8 and thus may be slidably coupled to and rotatable about a locking hinge similar to the locking hinge 7 , which itself is connected to the second end 144 of the steering member 137 .

[0075] The handle 146 is shown as comprising two rod ends extending laterally outward from the steering member 137. However, alternatively, other shapes, such as an annular shape, may be provided. As another alternative, the handle may simply be the second end 144 of the steering member 137, optionally with a rubberized gripping sleeve disposed thereon.

[0076] like Figure 19 As can be seen in the figure, when the foldable scooter 100 is in the folded configuration, the foldable scooter 100 occupies a smaller volume than some prior art kick scooters. As can be seen, the front axle 124 in the front axle stowed position, the rear axle 131 in the rear axle stowed position, and the head tube 138 in the head tube stowed position are all at least partially positioned within the at least one channel 114. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the steering member 137 (and in particular the second hinge portion) is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel 114 when the second hinge portion 154 is in the hinge portion stowed position. Furthermore, in embodiments in which the steering member 137 includes both the steering member hinge 156 and is telescopic, the second telescopic portion 150 can be retracted such that the second steering member end 144 does not extend rearward of the rear end 106 of the footboard 102 (i.e., the second steering member end 144 is positioned between the front end 104 and the rear end 106).

[0077] Furthermore, when the foldable scooter 100 is in the folded mode, the handle 146 can also be at least partially located within the at least one channel 114. In the illustrated embodiment, when removed from the second steering member end 144, the handle 146 fits snugly within the handle receiving area 184 of the at least one channel such that the handle 146 is captured and cannot simply fall out of the at least one channel under its own weight.

[0078] Figures 11 to 19 The process can be described as follows:

[0079] As mentioned above, Figure 11 The foldable scooter (CS) 100 is in the use mode. Figure 12 Similar to Figure 11 , but the handle 146 is shown having been removed from the steering member 137, and the handle 146 is inserted into its position on the footrest 102. Alternatively, the handle 146 may remain on the steering member 137 until later in the stowing process.

[0080] Figure 13 The second telescoping portion 150 is shown having been moved to its retracted position. Figure 14 The rear axle 131 is shown having been moved to the rear axle stowed position.

[0081] Figure 15 The front axle 124 is shown having moved to the front axle stowed position, and the head tube 138 is shown having moved to the head tube stowed position.

[0082] Figure 16 Hinge sleeve 163 is shown having been unscrewed and moved to an unlocked position, exposing steering member hinge 156 . Figure 17 and Figure 18 The movement of the second hinged portion 154 toward being fully collapsed is shown. Figure 19 The second hinged portion 154 is shown fully folded. Figure 19 , the foldable scooter 100 is in the folded mode.

[0083] On the contrary, by Figure 19 to Figure 11 The process of unfolding the foldable scooter 100 from the folded mode to the use mode is described by the reverse process of FIG. Figure 18 and Figure 17 The second hinge portion 154 is shown facing Figure 16 The articulated portion shown in FIG. 1 uses positional motion. Figure 15 The movement of the hinge sleeve 163 from the unlocked position to the locked position where it is tightened down to create tension in the hinge link 158 is shown. Figure 14 The front axle 124 is shown having been moved to the front axle deployment position, and the head tube 138 is shown having been moved to the head tube deployment position. Figure 13The rear axle 131 is shown having been moved from the rear axle stowed position to the rear axle deployment position. Figure 12 The second telescoping portion 150 is shown having been extended. Figure 11 The handle 146 is shown installed in the receiving hole 179 of the second telescoping portion 150. As mentioned above, the foldable scooter 100 is in Figure 11 In the usage mode.

[0084] In the embodiment shown, the foldable scooter 100 has a partially folded mode. In the partially folded mode, the front axle 124 can be in the front axle folded position, and the head tube 138 can be in the head tube folded position. However, the steering member 137 can remain deployed (i.e., the second articulated portion can remain in the articulated portion use position), and thus can be used as shown. Figure 15 , extending forward of the front end 104 of the footrest 102. Optionally, the handle 146 can remain retained in the second steering member end 144 of the steering member 137. Alternatively, if the steering member 137 includes a first telescoping portion 148 and a second telescoping portion 150, the second telescoping portion 150 can be retracted or can remain extended. The partially stowed mode of the foldable scooter 100 allows a user to quickly partially fold the foldable scooter 100 when time does not permit full folding, such as when the user is in a hurry to catch a subway, bus, or other public transportation. In embodiments where the foldable scooter 100 includes a handle 8 instead of the handle 146, when the foldable scooter 100 is in the partially stowed position, the handle 8 can be in either the handle-in-use position or the handle-stowed position. In some embodiments, when the foldable scooter 100 is in the partially stowed mode, the front axle 124 can be in the front axle-in-use position, and the head tube 138 can be in the head tube-stowed position. As a result, the steering member 137 will extend rearwardly and adjacent the top surface 108 of the footrest 102, rather than Figure 15 1 and 2. The rear axle 131 is shown extending forwardly away from the footrest 102. In embodiments where a rear axle 131 is provided and movable, the rear axle 131 may be in a rear axle stowed position or in a rear axle use position when the foldable scooter 100 is in the partially stowed mode.

[0085] While the foldable scooter 100 is shown to include a steering member hinge 156, it is alternatively possible that the foldable scooter 100 includes Figures 1-10 Any suitable means for locking the hinge 5 so as to retain the second hinge part 154 in the hinge part use position may be used, such as the locking mechanism 5a described above.

[0086] While the above-described embodiments of the foldable scooters 1 and 100 are pedal scooters (i.e., human-powered), it is alternatively possible for the foldable scooters 1 and / or 100 to be electric scooters. This can be achieved, for example, by providing a battery pack in a compartment in the footboard 2, 102 and by providing an electric motor as a hub motor in the rear wheel 9b, 130, connected to the battery pack via a rear axle 131 via suitable circuitry. A suitable control interface can be provided on the handle 8, 146 to allow the user to control the operation of the electric motor.

[0087] While specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include some, all, or none of the enumerated advantages.

[0088] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many more alternative embodiments and variations are possible, and the above examples are merely illustrations of one or more embodiments. Accordingly, the scope is limited only by the appended claims and any amendments thereto.

Claims

1. A foldable scooter, comprising: a footrest having a front end, a rear end, a top surface, and a bottom area, wherein the footrest defines a longitudinal axis of the foldable scooter; a front axle having a first front axle end and a second front axle end, wherein the front axle is hingedly connected to the footrest at the second front axle end so as to be movable between a front axle use position and a front axle stowed position, wherein in the front axle use position the first front axle end is located forward of the front end portion of the footrest, and in the front axle stowed position the first front axle end is located rearward of the front end portion of the footrest; a head tube defining a steering axis, wherein the head tube is hingedly connected to the front axle for movement between a head tube use position and a head tube stowed position, wherein when the front axle is in the front axle use position and the head tube is in the head tube use position, the head tube is located forward of the footboard and is oriented such that the steering axis is generally perpendicular to the top surface of the footboard, and wherein in the head tube stowed position, the head tube is located rearward of the front end of the footboard; a steering member passing through the head tube and pivotable in the head tube about the steering axis, wherein the steering member has a first steering member end having a first wheel rotatably connected thereto and a second steering member end having a handle for gripping by a user; a second wheel rotatably coupled to the footrest; as well as a rear axle having a first rear axle end and a second rear axle end, wherein the rear axle is hingedly connected to the footrest at the second rear axle end for movement between a rear axle use position and a rear axle stowed position, wherein in the rear axle use position the first rear axle end is located behind the rear end portion of the footrest, and in the rear axle stowed position the first rear axle end is located in front of the rear end portion of the footrest, wherein the second wheel is rotatably connected to the rear axle, wherein in the use mode of the foldable scooter, the front axle is in the front axle use position and the head tube is in the head tube use position, and the first wheel and the second wheel are positioned to support the footrest above the ground; wherein in the stowed mode of the foldable scooter, the front axle is located in the front axle stowed position and the head tube is located in the head tube stowed position, and When the front axle is in the front axle stowed position, the rear axle is in the rear axle stowed position, and the head tube is in the head tube stowed position, the front axle, the rear axle, and the head tube are all located below the bottom area of ​​the footrest.

2. The foldable scooter according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the front axle stowed position, the front axle is positioned adjacent the bottom region of the footboard, and in the head tube stowed position, the head tube is positioned such that the front axle is located between the footboard and the head tube.

3. The foldable scooter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The steering member includes a first telescopic portion and a second telescopic portion telescopically connected to the first telescopic portion.

4. The foldable scooter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The steering member includes a first articulated portion and a second articulated portion, wherein the first articulated portion passes through the head tube and the second articulated portion is hingedly connected to the first articulated portion by a steering member hinge to move between an articulated portion use position and an articulated portion stowed position, wherein in the articulated portion use position the second articulated portion is aligned with the first articulated portion along the steering axis, and in the articulated portion stowed position the second articulated portion is folded adjacent to the first articulated portion.

5. The foldable scooter according to claim 4, characterized in that: The second hinged portion includes a first telescopic portion and a second telescopic portion telescopically connected to the first telescopic portion.

6. The foldable scooter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom region of the footboard includes at least one longitudinally extending channel, and when the foldable scooter is in the folded mode, the front axle in the front axle stowed position, the rear axle in the rear axle stowed position, and the head tube in the head tube stowed position are at least partially located in the at least one channel.

7. The foldable scooter according to claim 3, characterized in that: The handle is coupled to the locking hinge via a locking hinge pivot, the handle being configured to rotate about the locking hinge pivot, wherein the locking hinge pivot is laterally slidable within the handle slot.

8. The foldable scooter according to claim 7, characterized in that: The locking hinge includes a restraining member configured to be received in a handle slot to secure the handle in a position generally perpendicular to the first and / or second telescoping sections.

9. The foldable scooter according to claim 8, characterized in that: The restraint member is configured such that, when the restraint member is received within the handle slot, the restraint member is biased by a biasing member to extend through the handle slot to restrict rotation of the handle about the locking hinge pivot.

10. The foldable scooter according to claim 4, characterized in that: The foldable scooter has a partially stowed mode in which the head tube is in the head tube stowed position and the second articulated portion of the steering member is in the articulated portion engaged position.

11. The foldable scooter according to claim 10, characterized in that: In the partially stowed mode, the front axle is in the front axle stowed position.

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