Step actuated scooter reaching similar speeds as bicycles

Abstract

The invention relates to a scooter of a size similar to a regular scooter pedaled by natural stepping or striding and capable of reaching speeds similar to those of a regular bicycle, specifically up to four times faster than walking. This performance is achieved by a front arrangement of the drive system comprising a toothed disc coupled to a custom designed fork, a likewise specially designed curved arm connected by a ball joint, and an optimized transmission mechanism. The efficiency of the assembly stems from the relative position, geometry, and proportions between the pedals, curved arm, ball joint, linear bearing, toothed disc, drive sprocket, counter sprocket, chain, and wheel. The front wheel serves as the drive wheel, while the rear wheel is a free wheel. Compactness, low weight, easy transport, and storage make the invention ideal for urban travel and mixed-mode commuting, offering superior ergonomics, efficiency, and performance to regular scooters and occupying less space than a bicycle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Suitable for urban commuting, leisure activities, and outdoor physical exercise. Especially suitable for short to medium distance travel, and for use with other modes of transportation (such as public transport buses or private cars), as the invention is easier to store and transport than a bicycle. Background Technology

[0002] Various pedal-powered scooters have been patented, such as ES 1079021U (see also EP 2786923A1), ES 1205213U, EP 3412549A1, GB 2343870A, CN201777366U, KR 101761017B1, US8128111B2, US 2007 / 0024019A1, or US 2008 / 0088109A1; however, some of these designs are overly complex and bulky, neither ergonomic nor easy to operate. This results in oversized vehicles that are difficult to transport and store, making them hard to compete with conventional scooters. Furthermore, other designs appear unable to achieve speeds comparable to bicycles because the pedals transmit motion through small-diameter sprockets or drive wheels, resulting in a low gear ratio. This invention addresses these limitations with an optimized articulated boom system that provides the necessary torque to efficiently drive a large-diameter sprocket combined with a small sprocket, significantly increasing travel speed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of other pedal-driven scooters. This invention relates to a mechanical device that occupies a space similar to that of a conventional scooter while achieving speeds close to those of a bicycle. Furthermore, the vehicle offers a more natural user ergonomic design because it is propelled by steps or strides similar to walking. This is more comfortable than the pedaling posture of a conventional bicycle, which requires an additional saddle, or the forced position of a conventional scooter, which requires one foot to be on the ground for propulsion. Overall, this vehicle combines the advantages of bicycles and non-motorized scooters while avoiding their major disadvantages, making it particularly suitable for urban commuting and outdoor exercise.

[0004] This invention relates to a scooter propelled by the action of two repetitive, stepping or striding foot pedals connected via a crank arm system to a front sprocket serving as the drive axis. The crank arm system (in which the foot pedals are housed) is supported by linear track bearings that allow sliding on a platform at the rear and rotation about the sprocket assembly at the front. The bearings slide on a track fixed to the platform, which has a reduced and compact size, made possible by the small size of the non-drive rear wheel. The front sprocket transmits rotational movement to the front drive wheel via a chain that connects the sprocket to a drive sprocket fixedly mounted on the axle of the wheel and through two free sprockets mounted on the fork, the function of which is detailed below.

[0005] A fundamental aspect of this design is that all components forming the rotary drive system are located at the front of the vehicle. This configuration is achieved through a set of five key features, detailed below:

[0006] 1. Sprocket mounted on the fork: The sprocket is mounted directly on the front fork, as close to the front frame as possible. This proximity reduces the risk of interference between the crank arm and the wheel during steering, helps keep the device compact, and minimizes stress on the bearings that connect the fork to the frame.

[0007] 2. Adaptive Geometry of the Crankarm: The crankarm system is characterized by an outwardly offset layout in both arms attached to the chainring; this offset, achieved through bending or turning, also exists in the linkage attached to the pedals. This allows for wider separation and avoids mechanical interference with other components during rotational movement and wheel reversals.

[0008] 3. Articulation via ball joints: The connection between crank arms, and the connection between the crank arms and the linear guide bearings, are both achieved using ball joints (spherical joints). These not only allow for normal rotation around the gear axis, but also allow for slight lateral articulation of the wheel during rotation, enabling three-dimensional movement without interference.

[0009] 4. The pedal and linkage assembly features controlled axial clearance at the ball joints: the pedal is supported by ball joints arranged perpendicular to the linkage's axis. These ball joints are threaded onto the linkage with limited tightening to allow for small axial displacement of the pedal / linkage assembly relative to the undercarriage during steering without compromising stability. This mechanical stop prevents accidental unscrewing.

[0010] 5. Fork design: The front fork has been specifically designed to avoid any contact with the sprocket and crank arm during operation and to provide the necessary clearance to accommodate the sprocket at the front of the vehicle.

[0011] All of these are particularly relevant because not only does it allow for straight-line travel, but this arrangement also enables the sprocket assembly, fixed to the fork, to follow the steering movement of the front wheel during changes of direction without interfering with the crank arm or the wheel itself. In other words, these features make it feasible to place the drive system at the front of the scooter, as envisioned in this invention.

[0012] Also noteworthy is the reduced and compact size of the components, as the articulated arm system is supported on a linear track bearing support that serves not only to guide movement but also as the minimal structural basis of the scooter. This configuration allows the articulated arm to move freely within a very limited space. This is made possible by the front-mounted drive system, the small-sized non-drive wheels on the rear platform, and the overall compactness of the components.

[0013] Furthermore, this arrangement also contributes to multiplying the rotational speed of the pedaling motion. This multiplication is achieved through an appropriate ratio between the diameters of the drive sprocket and the drive chainring, combined with the diameter of the front wheel housing the chainring. The accompanying drawings illustrate these approximate proportions and arrangements. In summary, the present invention is a smaller and more compact vehicle propelled by steps or strides similar to natural walking, providing excellent ergonomics. Simultaneously, the transmission system of the present invention allows for a multiplication of the speed of movement, reaching speeds approaching those of a bicycle.

[0014] Finally, it's important to note that in some cities, the use of electric scooters on public transport is restricted or prohibited, and shared scooters, like some bicycles, pose road safety issues and encroach on pedestrian space without permission. The disorderly parking of these vehicles on sidewalks presents challenges for authorities and inconveniences pedestrians. This design helps address these shortcomings due to its smaller size compared to bicycles, allowing users to carry it without parking it on public roads, while also avoiding the risks associated with batteries in enclosed environments. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To supplement the ongoing description and to facilitate a better understanding of the features of the invention, a set of accompanying drawings is attached as an integral part of this document. These drawings illustrate the following by way of example and not limitation:

[0016] Figure 1 shows four side views of the invention, with the positions of the steps or strides as follows (in order following the depicted clockwise rotation direction):

[0017] ·1.a. – Step forward with your right foot or step back with your left foot.

[0018] 1.b. – Step forward with your right foot or step forward, and step down with your left foot.

[0019] ·1.d. – Step back with your right foot or step forward with your left foot.

[0020] ·1.d. – Step down with the right foot or step forward, and step up with the left foot.

[0021] Figure 2 shows two representative plan views of the present invention, wherein:

[0022] 2.a. – The right foot or step forward, and the left foot down.

[0023] 2.b. – Step forward with your right foot or step back with your left foot.

[0024] Figure 3 shows two plan views of the invention, illustrating the most extreme case when turning to the right (at least one crank arm extends forward):

[0025] ·3.a. – Step forward with your right foot or step back with your left foot.

[0026] 3.b. – Step back with your right foot or step forward with your left foot.

[0027] Figure 4 shows two plan views of the invention, illustrating the most extreme case when rotating to the left (at least one crank arm extends forward):

[0028] 4.a. – Step forward with your right foot or step back with your left foot.

[0029] 4.b. – Step back with your right foot or step forward with your left foot.

[0030] Figure 5. – Schematic diagram of two systems used to reverse the direction of rotation:

[0031] 5.a. – Use idler sprockets, as shown in Figures 1 to 4.

[0032] 5.b. – Using gears, which is the second alternative, not shown in Figures 1 through 4, but with the same function.

[0033] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams for illustrative purposes and do not necessarily reflect the exact scale, size, or relative positions of the components. Their purpose is to facilitate understanding of different embodiments of the device and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0034] Similarly, the dimensions shown in the diagram roughly correspond to equipment designed for use by adults of average build. To accommodate users of different sizes or adapt the equipment to various gait styles, the length of the crank arm can be adjusted, and the diameters of the drive sprocket, chainring, and sprocket can be adjusted proportionally accordingly. A longer crank arm allows for a wider stride and greater torque transmission, thus reducing the effort required by the user for a given sprocket-to-chainring ratio. This principle is similar to that of a bicycle, where the length of the crank arm is typically adjusted according to the user's size or desired pedaling style; similarly, different gear ratios can be adjusted.

[0035] Furthermore, it should be noted that the diagram shows the chainring, chain, and sprocket on the user's left side, whereas conventional bicycles typically place them on the right. This arrangement does not alter the operation of the system in any way, as all the principles described herein apply equally to components located on either side. Therefore, the fact that the drive assembly is shown on only one side does not limit the scope of the invention to any particular side.

[0036] The following is a list of the main components that form part of this invention, as shown in the figure:

[0037] 1. Scooter frame

[0038] 2. Drive gear disc

[0039] 3. Crank arm connecting rod assembly

[0040] 4. Ball joint / hinged joint connecting the connecting rod to the crank arm and linear bearing.

[0041] 5. Foot pedal

[0042] 6. Front drive wheels

[0043] 7. Non-drive wheels supporting the rear section (platform)

[0044] 8. Drive sprocket, fixed to drive wheel

[0045] 9. Idler sprocket used to reverse the direction of rotation

[0046] 10. Drive chain

[0047] 11. Linear track bearings

[0048] 12. Connect the ball joint to the support of the linear track bearing.

[0049] 13. Custom-designed fork to accommodate sprocket and idler sprocket.

[0050] 14. Standard handle (optionally foldable)

[0051] 15. Linear orbit

[0052] 16. A chain tensioner fixed to one of the idler sprockets. Detailed Implementation

[0053] As described above and as shown in the figure, the present invention relates to a scooter propelled by the action of two pedals (5), each pedal being connected to a corresponding crank arm linkage assembly (3), which combines linear movement at one end with rotational movement at the other end. Specifically, the components of the rotational drive system—drive sprocket (2), drive sprocket (8), idler sprocket (9), and drive chain (10)—are all arranged at the front of the vehicle. This allows the rear portion to remain free and compact, similar to a conventional scooter. This configuration is achieved through a series of structural features that prevent interference between the various components, particularly during steering maneuvers of the front wheel (6) when changing direction or turning:

[0054] • The drive sprocket (2) is directly attached to the front wheel fork (13) in a position as close as possible to the front frame of the chassis (1). This arrangement is intended to avoid interference between the link (3) and the wheel (6) during rotation, maintain a compact assembly, and reduce the load transmitted to the bearings that connect the front frame (1) to the fork (13). It should be noted that if the sprocket (2) is attached to the chassis (1)—even in the front portion of the chassis—instead of to the fork (13), the drive chain (10) connected to the drive sprocket (8) attached to the front wheel (6) will collide with the wheel during steering.

[0055] • The crank arm (3) fixed to the gear (2) presents an outward curve or an angled deviation in the plan view (top view). This can be achieved by a bend or outward lateral angle deviation of approximately 7° to 17°, depending on the size of the equipment, so that the crank arm is not parallel to each other, unlike conventional crank arm systems. This geometry avoids interference with other parts of the assembly, especially with the front wheel (6) and fork (13), during operation and changes of direction.

[0056] The connections between the articulated boom link assemblies (3) and between the link (3) and the linear track bearing (11) are formed by ball joints (4) (spherical geometry articulated joints). These joints allow for three-dimensional movement freedom, providing greater articulation than conventional two-dimensional bearings. This configuration facilitates the rotation of the articulated boom link assembly (3) around the gear plate (2) to transmit motion to the front wheel (6), while also enabling lateral articulation of the drive assembly during rotation to allow for changes in direction without mechanical interference or locking between components.

[0057] • The pedal (5) of the link (3) is supported on ball joints (4) arranged perpendicular to the axis of the pedal itself. These ball joints (4) are threaded to the axis of the pedal but not fully tightened, allowing for a certain controlled axial clearance. This configuration allows the pedal-link assembly (5 / 3) to be adapted by slightly relative to the base (1) when the front wheel (6) rotates to change direction. The connection is characterized by sufficient thread length and mechanical stops that limit the opening, ensuring functionality without compromising the stability of the assembly.

[0058] In a preferred embodiment, the front fork (13) includes one or two supports, which may be straight or curved and may be arranged at an angle relative to the horizontal plane in a side view. This angle is understood to be the angle formed between the horizontal plane and the line connecting the axle to the upper end of the fork arm adjacent to the wheel. Unlike conventional supports that descend directly from the underframe to the axle in a substantially vertical arrangement (approximately 90° relative to the ground), this particular configuration is adapted to create sufficient space to accommodate the sprocket (2) and avoid interference with the sprocket (2) and the crank arm linkage assembly (3).

[0059] All of the above is particularly important because it not only allows for linear displacement of the scooter, but it also enables the vehicle to rotate via the lateral orientation of the front wheel (6), which is fixedly mounted to the front drive assembly including the sprocket (2), without interference or collision with the linkage (3) or the wheel (6) itself. These features make it feasible to arrange the drive system in the front part of the vehicle. To demonstrate its effectiveness, Figure 3.a , Figure 3.b , Figure 4.a and Figure 4.b The most prominent scenarios are illustrated, including configurations where one side of the crank arm (3) is in its maximum forward extension position, as well as configurations for right and left turns. In all these cases, it has been demonstrated that the system allows sufficient steering angles without compromising functionality.

[0060] Furthermore, the diameter of the drive sprocket (2) is several times that of the drive sprocket (8), and the crank arm (3) is significantly longer than those typically used in conventional bicycles for users of similar height. This configuration allows the user's stride linear speed to be multiplied by up to approximately four times under moderate force, thanks to the greater torque generated by the increased lever arm. The length of the crank arm linkage assembly (3) is limited for each model according to the user's height to allow the drive system to adapt to different users without compromising the vehicle's safety, efficiency, or compactness.

[0061] It is important to emphasize that the rear assembly of the scooter has almost no mechanical components, similar to a conventional scooter, providing the user with greater comfort and freedom. The foot pedals (5) are supported by bearings (11) mounted on a linear track (15), which is integrated into a compact support structure (or platform). This structure is supported by one or more small non-drive wheels at the rear, depending on the user's skill level. This configuration ensures a reduction in overall size and a very compact volume in the folded position.

[0062] Furthermore, it should be noted that two idler sprockets (9) are fixed to the fork (13) of the front wheel (6), and there is one idler sprocket on each side of the drive sprocket (8). The function of the idler sprockets is to reverse the direction of rotation transmitted from the sprocket (2). This is necessary because the sprocket (2) rotates in the opposite direction to the forward motion of the vehicle due to the slippage of the linear track (11) and the natural movement of the crank arm linkage assembly (3). With this double idler sprocket (9) configuration, the rotation is reversed, ensuring that the drive sprocket (8) and the front wheel (6) rotate in the direction of travel, thereby allowing for efficient propulsion of the scooter. Alternatively, the same effect can be achieved with a chainless direct gear system. In this embodiment, the drive assembly includes a larger diameter gear fixed to the fork (13) as a sprocket, which meshes with a smaller gear coupled to the drive wheel (2) as a sprocket. This configuration eliminates the need for a chain (10) and idler sprockets (9), although its implementation may involve greater technical complexity.

[0063] It should also be noted that the support bracket (12) connecting the second ball joint (4) to the linear track bearing (11) serves a dual purpose: on the one hand, it provides a structural connection between the two components, and on the other hand, it ensures the vertical alignment of the ball joint (4). Thanks to this arrangement, the foot pedal / link assembly (5 / 3) remains in a straight and stable position, preventing lateral tipping.

[0064] As described and as can be seen in the diagram, the drive chainring (2) must be fixed to the connection point with the fork (13) as close as possible to the front frame of the chassis (1). This provides two fundamental advantages:

[0065] 1. Preventing mechanical interference: Minimizing the distance between the gear (2) and the front frame (1) reduces the risk of interference between the linkage (3) and the front wheel (6) during rotation or maneuvering.

[0066] 2. Reduce structural load: If the sprocket (2) is fixed away from the front frame (1), the stress generated during pedaling will cause a significant bending moment on the bearings that connect the fork (13) to the handlebars (14) and the base frame (1), impairing their durability. By keeping the sprocket close to the frame, this bending moment is minimized, and thus the service life of these components is extended.

[0067] Furthermore, in order to absorb residual stress and improve the overall strength of the assembly, a stress damper or flexible element is incorporated in the section of the fork (13) located between the attachment point of the toothed disc (2) and the front frame (1). Although such a flexible configuration is shown in the figures, no separate reference numerals are assigned to this flexible configuration in order to avoid unnecessary confusion as the illustrations are already detailed enough to understand the invention.

[0068] The industrial implementation is no more complex than manufacturing a conventional bicycle, but it offers significant advantages in ergonomics and compactness. Due to its reduced size, this invention is easier to transport and store in spaces such as those typically complex for bicycles entering homes, offices, commercial premises, public transport, or private vehicles.

[0069] Furthermore, this invention provides a more comfortable and ergonomic experience than conventional bicycles or non-motorized scooters. The natural stride drive system offers a more user-friendly and comfortable posture, eliminating the need to remain seated as on a bicycle, or to propel oneself with one foot as on a non-motorized scooter (which is also slower). In summary, the main advantages are:

[0070] • Compared to non-motorized scooters: superior ergonomics and speed.

[0071] Compared to bicycles: improved ergonomics and reduced size and weight.

[0072] In summary, this invention has clear industrial potential by combining the advantages of bicycles and non-motorized scooters, eliminating their major disadvantages without introducing new ones.

Claims

1. A pedal-driven scooter propelled by the action of two foot pedals (5), the pedal-driven scooter having a size compatible with the maneuverability of a scooter and a speed comparable to that of a bicycle, characterized in that, The pedal-driven scooter includes: • Front drive wheels (6); A rotating system comprising a drive sprocket (2), a drive sprocket (8), a transmission chain (10), and two idler sprockets (9) arranged on both sides of the drive sprocket (8), the rotating system being fixedly mounted on a fork (13); wherein the drive sprocket (2) is attached to the fork (13) to allow the transmission chain (10) to maintain its alignment with the drive sprocket (8) during turning; and wherein the idler sprocket system (9) reverses the rotation direction of the drive sprocket (2), thereby ensuring that the drive sprocket (8) rotates in the same direction as the forward motion, and the drive sprocket rotates in the opposite direction to the forward motion due to the reciprocating movement of the crank arm linkage assembly (3); • A front wheel fork (13) that connects the base frame (1) to the axle of the front drive wheel (6), wherein the path and geometry of at least one support of the front wheel fork are configured to avoid the volume occupied by the drive sprocket (2) to allow the drive sprocket to be accommodated without interfering with the front drive wheel (6), the linkage (3) or the base frame (1) during operation and steering maneuvering; • Two sets of crank arm and connecting rod assemblies (3) connecting the front rotary system and the rear linear system, wherein the crank arm (3) at least attached to the drive gear (2) presents a path of lateral offset toward the outside, the path being defined between the connection point with the drive gear (2) and the connection point between the crank arm and the connecting rod, such that the crank arm is divergently oriented relative to the longitudinal axis, regardless of whether the offset is obtained through one or more straight segments, curved segments or angled segments or combinations thereof, to prevent interference during operation; • Two bearings (11) with linear tracks or slide rails (15), which allow sliding movement at the rear of the scooter to simulate a natural stride through elliptical movement, and the bearings are supported on the support structure of the base frame (1); • Ball joint (4), which provides connection between the ends of the crank arm linkage assembly (3) and between the crank arm linkage assembly and the linear track bearing (11) in place of a conventional two-dimensional bearing; the ball joint allows hinge in all directions for both motion transmission and lateral hinge of the drive assembly when the front drive wheel (6) rotates; • Two foot pedals (5) are mounted on a set of links (3) connected to the rear of the vehicle; wherein the links are connected to the linear track bearing (11) by means of ball joints (4), the ball joints being arranged substantially perpendicular to the foot pedals and the directional alignment of the ball joints being maintained by means of a support (12); wherein the ball joints for connection with the bearing (11) are threaded to the links with a limited axial clearance, such that during steering maneuvers, the foot pedal / link assembly (5 / 3) is able to perform a slight rotation following the orientation of the front drive wheel (6), and the arrangement itself prevents the ball joints from accidentally unscrewing during operation.

2. The foot-driven scooter propelled by the movement of two foot pedals (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rear portion of the vehicle includes two separate slide rails (15) each with a linear track bearing (11); the slide rails (15) on which the foot pedal (5) is mounted and are directly fixed to the chassis (1) and configured such that no additional transmission or drive elements are incorporated in the area of ​​the slide rails.

3. The foot-driven scooter propelled by the movement of two foot pedals (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameter of the drive sprocket (2) is significantly larger than that of the drive sprocket (8), providing a gear ratio that doubles the linear speed of the user's stride, and wherein the length of the crank arm (3) used to drive the drive sprocket (2) is greater than that of the crank arm typically used in conventional bicycles designed for users of similar height, and the axis of the drive sprocket (2) is substantially aligned with the axis of the front drive wheel (6) in a vertical plane. This configuration allows the use of the long crank arm (3) without the risk of interference with the ground, as the crank arm remains within the protection range of the radius of the front drive wheel; this assembly allows for moderate actuation force due to the high torque generated by the increased lever arm, while maintaining the reduced overall size of the vehicle.

4. The foot-driven scooter propelled by the movement of two foot pedals (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that, In a construction variant that eliminates the drive chain (10) and the idler sprocket (9), the reversal of the rotational direction required for the drive sprocket (8) to transmit motion in the same direction as the vehicle's travel is performed by a double direct gear system, wherein a first larger diameter gear fixed to the fork (13) serves as a drive element equivalent to the drive sprocket, and a second smaller diameter gear fixedly mounted to the shaft of the front drive wheel (6) serves as a driven element equivalent to the drive sprocket, thus reversing the rotational direction.

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