Two-wheeled vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle can include a deck including a standing surface and aligned with a longitudinal axis. The vehicle can include a rear wheel coupled within the vehicle toward a rear end of the deck. The vehicle can include a front wheel coupled to a front end of the deck via a swivel assembly. The vehicle can include the swivel assembly including a bi-directional biasing member configured to bias alignment of the front wheel along the longitudinal axis of the deck.

Description

Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 557,240, filed February 23, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0002] Many models of scooters and skateboards are available today. Scooters include a deck with front and rear wheels. A rider stands facing forward on the scooter and turns by rotating a high handlebar connected to the front wheel. Skateboards include a deck with two sets of wheels attached below, each set coupled to a pivoting truck. Skateboards are ridden by standing on the foot with the foot substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel, and can turn by leaning the toeside or heelside. SUMMARY

[0003] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle comprising a board including a standing surface and aligned with a longitudinal axis, a rear wheel coupled within the vehicle toward a rear end of the board, a front wheel coupled to a front end of the board via a turning assembly, and the turning assembly including a bi-directional biasing member configured to bias alignment of the front wheel along the longitudinal axis of the board.

[0004] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a turning assembly comprising a housing, a steering shaft operable to rotate within a bore of the housing, and a bi-directional biasing member including a first end coupled to the housing and a second end coupled to the steering shaft, the bi-directional biasing member operable to restore rotational alignment of the steering shaft relative to the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 A left view of a two-wheeled vehicle operated by a rider is depicted in accordance with examples described throughout this disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 A perspective view of a two-wheeled vehicle is depicted in accordance with examples described throughout this disclosure.

[0007] Figure 3 A left view of a two-wheeled vehicle is depicted in accordance with examples described throughout this disclosure.

[0008] Figure 4 A top view of a two-wheeled vehicle is depicted in accordance with examples described throughout this disclosure.

[0009] Figure 5A front view of a two-wheeled vehicle, based on examples described throughout this disclosure, is depicted.

[0010] Figure 6 Examples described throughout this disclosure are depicted. Figure 4 The cross-sectional view AA of the two-wheeled vehicle depicted in the image, along with details of the rotating components.

[0011] Figure 7 An exploded view of a two-wheeled vehicle based on examples described throughout this disclosure is depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0012] Many models of scooters and skateboards exist in the current technology. However, none replicate the intuitive feel and stability of riding a ski or surfboard, especially at high speeds or during sharp turns. Skateboards are characterized by leaning frames, each fixedly attached to the two wheels at the bottom of the skateboard. However, skateboards require a great deal of balance to ride, and the leaning frames feel unstable at high speeds or when turning. Scooters sometimes feel more stable due to their forward foot position and handlebars; however, instead of leaning the body, scooters rely on handlebar engagement for turning.

[0013] This application describes a two-wheeled vehicle for transportation and recreation, designed for riding on roads and soil. Figure 1 A rider operating a two-wheeled vehicle 100 according to an example is depicted. As can be seen in the figure, similar to a ski, skateboard, or surfboard posture, the rider can stand in a sideways standing position 104 on the two-wheeled vehicle 100. The two-wheeled vehicle includes two wheels positioned at opposite ends of a board. The front wheel is coupled to the board via a rotating assembly that allows the wheel to rotate left and right relative to the board (in... Figure 2 (As depicted in the image), thus enabling the two-wheeled vehicle to steer by tilting. Utilizing the lateral stance 104 and the rotation component, the rider initiates a turn by tilting the toe or heel side of the board, causing the front wheel to rotate in the direction of the tilt.

[0014] One technical problem is that without handlebars, the steering components of a two-wheeled vehicle may over-rotate or the rotation may be difficult to guide, making the steering of the two-wheeled vehicle difficult to control.

[0015] The present disclosure describes a technical solution that includes a turning assembly having a biasing member operable to restore the front wheel back into alignment with the board, for example, when the rider is no longer initiating a turn, thereby creating a more stable and smooth turning experience that feels much like carving on a snowboard. The present disclosure describes further technical solutions of a turning assembly having a damping member operable to remove the sensation of high speed oscillation and / or prevent the turning assembly from reacting too much to the rider’s tilting movements. The biasing member and / or damping member can provide a smoother, more stable, intuitive, and safe riding experience for the two-wheeled vehicle.

[0016] The two-wheeled vehicle 100 can be driven by an electric motor positioned in, for example, the rear wheel. In an example, the motor can be controlled wirelessly with a handheld motor controller 102. Further potential features of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 are described further below.

[0017] While the present application describes a turning assembly in the context of a two-wheeled vehicle 100, this is not intended to be limiting. It will be appreciated that the turning assembly described herein can also be used with other vehicles and products to provide further technical advantages in other contexts.

[0018] According to an example, Figure 2 a perspective view of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted, Figure 3 a left side view of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted, Figure 4 a top view of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted, Figure 5 a front view of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted, Figure 6 a cross-sectional view A-A of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 depicted in Figure 4 a cross-sectional view B-B of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 depicted in Figure 7 an exploded view of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted.

[0019] In the drawings, it can be seen that the two-wheeled vehicle 100 can include any combination of the following: a front wheel 202; a turning assembly 602; a board 204; and a rear wheel 206.

[0020] In an example, the deck 204 can include any suitable platform operable to allow a rider to stand on a standing surface 205 on a top side of the deck 204 when the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is in an operating position with the feet spread apart and pointing substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 208. The deck 204 can be substantially planar, meaning it has a length and a width that define at least one standing surface 205 that is substantially longer than a height dimension. In an example, the deck 204 can have a uniform height within 5%, 10%, or 20% of a maximum height across a surface area of the standing surface 205. In an example, the deck 204 can be rectangular or substantially rectangular in shape. In an example, the deck 204 can have slight curves or deviations from a substantially rectangular shape.

[0021] In an example, the length of the standing surface 205 can be between 400mm-800mm. In an example, the length of the standing surface 205 can be 640mm. In an example, the width of the standing surface 205 can be between 100mm-350mm. In an example, the width of the standing surface can be 310mm. In an example, the size of the standing surface 205 can be set to accommodate an adult or child’s stance or any range therebetween. In an example, the standing surface 205 can be made of wood, aluminum, carbon fiber composite, and / or any other suitable material.

[0022] In an example, the deck 204 can include one or more footpads 207. In an example, the one or more footpads 207 can be wedge-shaped or any shape operable to allow a rider to have greater comfort or stability while standing on the two-wheeled vehicle 100 or turning the two-wheeled vehicle 100. In an example, the feel of the one or more footpads 207 under the feet can provide feedback to the user about whether their feet are in a desired position on the standing surface 205 without needing to look down. In an example, the one or more footpads 207 can be coupled to the standing surface 205 of the deck 204 using one or more fasteners or adhesives.

[0023] In an example, the deck 204 can include one or more surfaces or recessed seats for coupling other components to the deck 204. In an example, the deck 204 can include clamshell-type containers for additional components. In an example, the deck 204 can include pockets for other components to be seated and / or fastened into the pockets. Assembly of the deck 204 with other elements will be described below with respect to the motor and battery.

[0024] In the example, the front wheel 202 and the rear wheel 206 can include any type of wheel that can be attached to the plate 204. In the example, the front wheel 202 and the plate 204 can include rims that mount inflatable tires with or without tubes. In the example, the front wheel 202 and the rear wheel 206 of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 can be attached to the plate 204 to align with the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204. In the example, the front wheel 202 and the rear wheel 206 can have the same or different diameters. In the example, the wheel diameter can be 200mm-400mm. In the example, the wheel diameter can be 280mm.

[0025] In the example, the front wheel 202 can be driven via the rotating assembly 602 (see [link]). Figure 6 and 7 (The dashed circle in the details) is connected to plate 204. In the example, the rotating assembly 602 may include any combination of housing 604, steering shaft 606, bidirectional biasing member 608, first bearing 612, second bearing 614, clamping member 616, damping member 618, cover 620 and fork 622.

[0026] The rotating assembly 602 is configured to pivot the front wheel 202 along a rotating assembly axis 626 located within a vehicle plane 624 aligned with the longitudinal axis 208. The rotating assembly 602 is operable to rotate the front wheel relative to the vehicle plane 624 along the rotating assembly axis.

[0027] A wheel plane 625 is orthogonal to the front wheel axis 209 and traverses the front wheel 202. The front wheel 202 includes a rim 629 that rotates parallel to the wheel plane 625 and is axially centered on the wheel plane 625. When the front wheel 202 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 208, the vehicle plane 624 is aligned with the wheel plane 625. When the front wheel 202 pivots via the rotating assembly axis 626, the wheel plane 625 rotates to become misaligned with the vehicle plane 624.

[0028] The swivel assembly 602 is designed to allow the front wheel 202 to align with the direction of travel determined by the rider's tilt on the plate 204. In other words, when the rider initiates a turn of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 by tilting to the toe side or heel side, the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204 is rotated. The swivel assembly 602 allows the front wheel 202 to pivot in a downward angled direction on the plate 204, thereby providing stability to the rider to maintain the rotated position of the plate 204 during a turn without over-rotation.

[0029] The example two-wheeled vehicle 100 provided does not include the handlebars found on existing scooters for controlling the pivoting of the front wheel 202. Without handlebars, preventing the front wheel 202 from over-rotating or spinning too fast along its axis can be challenging for a rider using only balance. Similarly, when needed, the rider may find it difficult to reverse the direction of rotation and / or return the front wheel to a neutral steering position aligned with the longitudinal axis 208. If the rotation of the steering assembly 602 does not feel smooth and controlled, the rider will not feel safe using the two-wheeled vehicle 100 at higher speeds.

[0030] In the example, the rotating assembly 602 may therefore include a bidirectional biasing member 608 that is operable to bias the rotational alignment of the front wheel 202 along the rotating assembly axis 626 to align with the vehicle plane 624 and the longitudinal axis 208.

[0031] Aligning the front wheels 202 with the vehicle plane 624 may cause the two-wheeled vehicle 100 to resume or maintain travel in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204. When a force is applied to turn the front wheels 202 away from the alignment with the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204, the bidirectional bias member 608 can provide bidirectional resistance. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can provide resistance to the turning force proportional to the rotational displacement of the front wheels 202 away from the vehicle plane 624, thereby slowing down left or right turns. When no steering force is applied to rotate the front wheels 202 away from the vehicle plane 624, the bidirectional bias member 608 can apply a restoring force operable to rotate the front wheels 202 back into alignment with the vehicle plane 624.

[0032] In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may include a spring, such as a bidirectional torsion spring concentrically positioned with the steering shaft 606, as further described below. A torsion spring is a mechanical device that applies a rotational force (torque) in response to angular displacement. A torsion spring stores energy when twisted and releases energy when allowed to return to a neutral position. Depending on the direction of the applied rotation, a bidirectional torsion spring can provide restoring torque in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may be a double-coil torsion spring. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may include a double helical coil. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may be equally balanced in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may apply opposing spring forces when rotated from the two helical or coil elements, wherein the first element applies a compressive force and the second element applies an expansive force, and vice versa in opposite directions.

[0033] The bidirectional biasing member 608 can bidirectionally bias the front wheel 202 toward a position aligned with the longitudinal axis 208, causing the two-wheeled vehicle 100 to move in the direction aligned with the longitudinal axis 208 unless the rider leans left or right to overcome the force of the bidirectional biasing member 608. In other words, the bidirectional biasing member 608 can restore the two-wheeled vehicle 100 to travel in a straight direction aligned with the longitudinal axis 208 unless the rider leans left or right while traveling and overcomes the bias.

[0034] The bidirectional bias member 608 can further prevent the rotating assembly 602 from tipping over and cause the front wheel 202 of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 to “fold” (which could cause a rider collision).

[0035] exist Figure 7 In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 is a torsion spring. The bidirectional bias member 608 can have a straight and unloaded "relaxed" position. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can have a fault-tolerant design to resist spring failure, such that if the bidirectional bias member 608 fails, it allows the rider to remain straight. This can provide advantages over elongated and preloaded tension, compression, or torsion springs, because if those spring types break, it can cause the wheel to turn suddenly, potentially causing a collision and injury to the rider. In this example, the bidirectional bias member 608 is a machined torsion spring. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can be a double helical spring. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can include other arrangements, such as one or more: a torsion bar, a torsion spring, a flexural hinge, a helical spring, a magnetic torsion spring, an electromagnetic torsion actuator, a magnetically limiting material, a bidirectional servo motor with a spring coupling, a voice coil actuator with a rotary suspension, a pneumatic rotary actuator with a centering spring, a shape memory alloy spring, or a dielectric elastomer actuator.

[0036] In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can help the two-wheeled vehicle 100 feel more stable (especially at higher speeds). The bidirectional bias member 608 can help the two-wheeled vehicle 100 ride more like a ski, which slides straight unless the rider tilts the drag side or heel side enough to grip the edge.

[0037] In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can be selected based on the rider's weight to allow for optimal steering. For instance, a bidirectional bias member 608 designed for an 80-pound child might require half the stiffness of a bidirectional bias member 608 designed for an adult. In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 can be adjustable to accommodate riders of various weights and sizes.

[0038] Figure 6 and 7A more detailed view is provided of the stack of parts designed and assembled to form the rotating assembly 602.

[0039] In the example, the rotating assembly 602 may include a housing 604. The housing 604 includes a structure operable to rotatably couple the steering shaft 606 to the plate 204 via a bidirectional biasing member 608. In the example, the housing 604 may be integrated into or coupled to the front wheel coupling member 628.

[0040] Example front wheel coupling member 628 has a gooseneck shape, wherein the head provides a surface integrated into the rotating assembly 602, and the opposite end provides a surface coupled to the front end 630 of the plate 204.

[0041] Example rotating assembly 602 includes a steering shaft 606. A first end 640 of the steering shaft 606 may be coupled to or integrated into a fork 622. Fork 622 may include any wheel coupling mechanism operable to attach one side of a rotatable hub to a steering tube. In the example, fork 622 may include a pawl for coupling the front wheel 202 to rotating assembly 602 via, for example, an axle passing through the hub.

[0042] In the example, the outer surface of the steering shaft 606 may have a stepped shape with two annular surfaces for housing bearings. For example, the steering shaft 606 may include a first annular surface 641 operable to house a first bearing 612 on a first end 640 of the steering shaft 606. The steering shaft 606 may also include a second annular surface 643 having a smaller radius than the first annular surface 641, operable to house a second bearing 614 on a second end 645 of the steering shaft 606 opposite to the first end 640. The bore 638 of the steering shaft 606 may also be stepped to provide abutting surfaces for the first bearing 612 and the second bearing 614 when the steering shaft 606 is assembled within the housing 604.

[0043] In the example, the first bearing 612 and the second bearing 614 can be positioned on the first annular surface 641 and the second annular surface 643 of the steering shaft 606, respectively. Next, the steering shaft 606 can be inserted into the bore 638 of the housing 604 via the first surface 647. The first bearing 612 and the second bearing 614 rotatably connect the steering shaft 606 within the bore 638 of the housing 604.

[0044] In this example, the bidirectional biasing member 608 may be housed within the housing 604. In this example, the housing 604 may include a second surface 646 on the end of the housing 604 opposite to the first surface 647, through which the hole 638 also passes. The second surface 646 may also include a recess 648 having a hollow cylindrical shape, positioned concentrically with the hole 638. The recess 648 may be shaped to house the bidirectional biasing member 608.

[0045] In the example, the bidirectional bias member 608 may include a second alignment feature 650 (see [reference]). Figure 7 (Perspective view of bidirectional bias member 608 in the middle), and the annular inner surface 652 of recess 648 may include a first alignment feature 651 (see cross-section). Figure 6 The first alignment feature 651 can be disposed together with the second alignment feature 650 to fix the orientation of the bidirectional bias member 608 within the recess 648. In the example of the figures, the second alignment feature 650 is a series of square tab-shaped teeth, and the first alignment feature 651 includes a notch of a similar shape. The second alignment feature 650 and the first alignment feature 651 help maintain the rotational alignment of the bidirectional bias member 608 within the housing 604, such that when the rider is not tilted on the plate 204 to turn, the bidirectional bias member 608 restores the alignment of the front wheel 202 to parallel to the longitudinal axis 208.

[0046] With the steering shaft 606 rotatably connected to the housing 604 and the bidirectional bias member 608 inserted into the recess 648, it may then be possible to connect the steering shaft 606 to the second end 636 of the bidirectional bias member 608.

[0047] In the example, clamping member 616 can be used to engage a second end 645 of steering shaft 606 to a first end 634 of bidirectional bias member 608. In the example, clamping member 616 can include any structure operable to engage steering shaft 606 to bidirectional bias member 608. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The example clamping member 616 depicted is basically disc-shaped, covers the second end 645 of the steering shaft 606 and extends radially to also contact the bidirectional biasing member 608.

[0048] As in Figure 7 As can be seen, the steering shaft 606 may include a first alignment feature at the second end 645, such as a tooth (see...). Figure 7The first alignment feature is configured to align with a second alignment feature, such as a notch (not depicted), on the underside of the clamping member 616. The alignment features of the steering shaft 606 can center and / or align the clamping member 616 relative to the steering shaft 606, such that the hole in the clamping member 616 aligns with the fastener 654 (see [reference]) in the second end 645 of the steering shaft 606. Figure 6 The drill hole alignment. However, in other examples, a further method enables the clamping member 616 to be coupled to the steering shaft 606.

[0049] In this example, the clamping member 616 may also be configured to engage with the second end 636 of the bidirectional biasing member 608. In this example, a peripheral region of the clamping member 616 contacts the second end 636 of the bidirectional biasing member 608. To secure the second end 636 of the bidirectional biasing member 608 relative to the clamping member 616, one or more alignment features may be used. For example, the second end 636 of the bidirectional biasing member 608 may include a first alignment feature 653. In this example, the alignment feature 653 at the first end 634 of the bidirectional biasing member 608 may be similar to the alignment feature 651 at the second end 636 of the bidirectional biasing member 608.

[0050] The clamping member 616 may include a second alignment feature 655 configured to be disposed together with a first alignment feature 653 of the bidirectional biasing member 608 to fix the rotational orientation of the bidirectional biasing member 608 relative to the clamping member 616. In this example, it can be seen that the second alignment feature 655 of the clamping member 616 is a set of notches formed to fit tightly around the first alignment feature 651 of the bidirectional biasing member 608.

[0051] The alignment feature described herein can fix the clamping member 616 relative to the steering shaft 606 and the bidirectional bias member 608, such that the steering shaft 606 and the housing 604 interact rotatably through the bidirectional bias member 608.

[0052] In the example, the rotating assembly 602 may also include a damping member 618. The damping member 618 may be operable to dissipate the rotational motion of the rotating assembly. By damping the rotation of the rotating assembly 602, it is possible to make the steering of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 more rigid and provide a more stable ride at higher speeds.

[0053] In the example, the damping member 618 may be a fluid damper, such as a viscous fluid damper. For example, the clamping member 616 may include an annular notch 656 configured to receive viscous damping grease. The rotating assembly 602 may also include a cover 620 configured for engagement with a surface adjacent to the clamping member 616 of the housing 604. Figure 6As can be seen, the cover 620 may include an annular protrusion 657 on the side of the cover 620 facing the rotating assembly. The annular protrusion 657 may fix and / or compress the damping member 618 within the annular recess 656, thereby shearing the fluid between the rotating surfaces within the assembly, thereby removing rotational energy from the rotating assembly 602.

[0054] In the example, damping member 618 may be an eddy current damper composed of permanent magnets that induce eddy currents, thereby damping the motion. In the example, damping member 618 may include a velocity-dependent damping mechanism.

[0055] In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may include speed-dependent steering. For example, the steering assembly 602 may include a motor or electrically controllable brake that is operable to change the stiffness of the steering axis, thereby allowing the steering to move more easily at slow speeds and become more rigid at high speeds.

[0056] In the example, damping member 618 may include an electronically controlled particle brake capable of operating to dissipate rotational motion of rotating component 602 based on a signal representing the vehicle's speed. In the example, two-wheeled vehicle 100 may include a speed sensor and electronics capable of operating to provide this signal to the electronically controlled particle brake. This can be advantageous because sudden changes in direction, typically at high speeds, can cause accidents.

[0057] In this example, the steering assembly 602 may include electronic steering. The steering motor may be operable to rotate the front wheel 202 based on a signal representing the angle of rotation of the plate 204 about its longitudinal axis 208. For example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may include a gyroscope or IMU sensor operable to measure the angle of the plate 204 and electronics operable to provide that signal to the steering motor. The electronic steering can then use a signal representing the angle of the plate caused by the rider's tilt to operate the direction of the front wheel 202 via the motor. In this example, the electronic steering may also be speed-dependent, where the steering angle rotates faster at slow speeds and slower at high speeds.

[0058] The rear wheel 206 can be connected to the plate 204 via the rear wheel coupling bracket 214. In the example, the rear wheel coupling bracket 214 can be configured to hold the rear wheel 206 in a non-pivoting position relative to the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204.

[0059] In the example, the rear wheel coupling bracket 214 can support the fender 658 via a support 661 extending from the hub of the rear wheel 206 to prevent water from splashing upward toward the rider.

[0060] In the example, the rear wheel coupling bracket 214 may include a rear handlebar 659. In the example, the rear handlebar 659 may be coupled to or extend from the support portion 661 of the rear wheel coupling bracket 214. When combined with a front handlebar 660 that may extend from the housing 604 on the front of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 or the front wheel coupling member 628, the rear handlebar 659 allows the rider to lift and store the two-wheeled vehicle 100.

[0061] In the example, the rear wheel 206 may include an in-wheel motor (not depicted). For example, the rear wheel 206 may include a variable-speed direct-drive or geared electric motor to generate forward speed for the rider. The rear wheel 206 may also provide drag braking to slow and stop the two-wheeled vehicle 100. The rear wheel 206 motor may be able to be operated wirelessly via a handheld motor controller 102.

[0062] The rear wheel coupling bracket 214 can also provide wiring between the motor inside the rear wheel 206 and the battery or controller located on the plate 204. For example, Figure 7 An exploded view of board 204 is depicted. As can be seen, board 204 may include a stack comprising: a standing surface 205; a battery 664; electronic components 670; a gasket 666; a bottom deck 668; and a slide plate 672. The standing surface 205 and the bottom deck 668 may be formed from CNC-machined wood with compartments for housing the electronic components. When joined together, the standing surface 205 and the bottom deck 668 may form a 37mm-39mm thick clamshell-like shell to house the battery 664 and electronic components 670. The gasket 666 provides a tight, sealed fit around the electrical components.

[0063] The examples in the accompanying drawings are not intended to be limiting. In the examples, battery 664 and electronics 670 may be mounted in one or more locations on the top, bottom, or interior of the standing surface 205. The battery may include a lithium battery. The speed controller may include a processor, a wireless communication interface, and a memory configured with instructions operable to sequentially actuate one or more motors (including a motor integrated into the rear wheel 206) using power from the battery when wirelessly commanded via a handheld motor controller 102.

[0064] In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may include motors in both the front wheel 202 and the rear wheel 206, which would provide the benefit of higher torque for acceleration and deceleration. For example, a dual-motor two-wheeled vehicle might be helpful on steep terrain.

[0065] In the example, the front wheel 202 may include a front hub 674 with a front axle 209, and the rear wheel 206 may include a rear hub 676 with a rear axle. The front and rear axles may intersect in a plane 678, which may be parallel to the ground when the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is in the operating position. In the example, the plane 678 may be positioned at or above the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204. In other words, when the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is in the operating position, the front hub 674 and rear hub 676 may overlap with or be positioned above the plate 204. Placing the plane 678, which includes the front hub 674 and rear hub 676, slightly above the longitudinal axis 208 of the plate 204 may provide greater ground clearance. In another example, the longitudinal axis 208 may be positioned slightly below the plane 678 with the front hub 674 and rear hub 676 to provide increased stability.

[0066] In the example, the front wheel 202 can be positioned such that it is outside the periphery of the plate 204. In the example, the front wheel 202 is connected to the plate 204 via a rotating assembly 602 having a steering axis angle 304 greater than 10 degrees, between 10 and 75 degrees, between 60 and 80 degrees, and between 65 and 72 degrees. In the example, the steering axis angle 304 can be 68 degrees.

[0067] The layout and / or positioning of the board 204 relative to the front wheel 202 and the rear wheel 206 allows the two-wheeled vehicle 100 to intuitively feel steering and / or provide a sense of stability for the rider. In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 can feel very much like a skateboard or ski.

[0068] In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 can be configured such that when in the operating riding position, the plate 204 is 65 mm above the ground.

[0069] exist Figure 3The geometry of the two-wheeled vehicle 100 is depicted, including: a steering axis angle 304; a fork offset 306; and a track 308. The steering axis angle 304 is the angle between the axis of the rotating assembly 626 and a horizontal surface. In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may have a steering axis angle 304 between 66 and 70 degrees. In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may have a steering angle of 68 degrees. The fork offset 306 is the offset of the central axis of the front hub 674 relative to the axis of the rotating assembly 626 of the rotating assembly 602. In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may have a fork offset 306 of zero or between 10 mm and 40 mm. In the example, the two-wheeled vehicle 100 may have a fork offset 306 of 23 mm, where the tire has a diameter of 280 mm. The track 308 is the distance between the steering axis of the rotating assembly axis 626 and the tire segment in contact with the ground surface, and is determined by the steering axis angle 304, the fork offset 306, and the wheel diameter. In the example, track 308 can be between 8mm and 58mm. In the example, track 308 can be 33mm.

[0070] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the bidirectional biasing member is a torsion spring.

[0071] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the rotating assembly further includes a damping member operable to dissipate rotational motion of the rotating assembly.

[0072] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the damping member is a viscous fluid damper.

[0073] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the damping component is an electronically controlled particle brake capable of operating to dissipate the rotational motion of the rotating assembly based on a signal representing the speed of the vehicle.

[0074] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the rotating assembly further includes: a connecting member connected to a front end of the plate and a first end of the bidirectional biasing member; and a steering shaft connected to a second end of the bidirectional biasing member opposite to the first end of the bidirectional biasing member.

[0075] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle, which also includes a motor configured to rotate the rear wheels.

[0076] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the motor is configured to be wirelessly commanded.

[0077] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle, which also includes a motor configured to rotate the front wheels.

[0078] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle, further comprising, wherein the motor is operable to rotate the rotating assembly based on a signal representing a rotational angle of the plate about a longitudinal axis of the plate.

[0079] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a vehicle in which the front wheels include a front axle and the rear wheels include a rear axle, wherein when the vehicle is in an operating position, the front axle and the rear axle overlap with or are positioned above the plate in a direction perpendicular to the standing surface.

[0080] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, further comprising: a fork coupled to the steering shaft; and a wheel coupled to the fork.

[0081] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly in which a first bearing and a second bearing connect the steering shaft to the bore in the housing.

[0082] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, wherein the housing further includes a first surface through which the hole passes, and the first surface further includes a recess having a hollow cylindrical shape and positioned concentric with the hole, the recess being operable to accommodate the bidirectional biasing member.

[0083] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly in which the bidirectional biasing member includes a first alignment feature and the recessed surface includes a second alignment feature disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the bidirectional biasing member within the recess.

[0084] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, further comprising: a clamping member configured to connect a second end of the bidirectional biasing member to the steering shaft.

[0085] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly in which a second end of the bidirectional biasing member includes a first alignment feature, and the clamping member includes a second alignment feature in a peripheral region, the second alignment feature being disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the clamping member relative to the bidirectional biasing member.

[0086] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, wherein the clamping member includes a first alignment feature at a central region, and a second end of the bidirectional biasing member includes a second alignment feature disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the clamping member relative to the steering axis.

[0087] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, wherein the clamping member includes an annular recess configured to receive a fluid damper.

[0088] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a rotating assembly, wherein the rotating assembly further includes a cover configured to be coupled to a surface of the housing adjacent to the clamping member.

[0089] Several embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the specification.

[0090] Furthermore, any logical flow depicted in the accompanying drawings does not require the specific order or sequence shown to achieve the desired result. Additionally, other steps may be provided, or steps may be removed from the described flow, and other components may be added to or removed from the described system. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0091] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or shown. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0092] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “joined to,” “connected to,” or “attached to” another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, joined to, connected to, or attached to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly attached to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0093] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another region, layer, or segment. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be designated as a second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0094] When describing the relative position, size, dimension, or value of various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, this document may use degree terms such as “generally,” “essentially,” “approximately,” and “about.” These terms mean that such relative position, size, dimension, or value is within a defined range or comparison (e.g., equal or nearly equal) with sufficient precision, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art in the context of the various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections described.

[0095] While certain features of the described embodiments have been shown as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, alterations, and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and alterations falling within the scope of the embodiments. It should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not limitation, and various changes in form and detail may be made. Any part of the apparatus and / or method described herein can be combined in any combination, except for mutually exclusive combinations. The embodiments described herein may include various combinations and / or sub-combinations of the functions, components, and / or features of the different embodiments described.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: A plate, the plate including a standing surface and aligned with a longitudinal axis; The rear wheels are connected to the vehicle at the rear end of the plate; The front wheel is connected to the front end of the plate via a rotating assembly; as well as The rotating assembly includes a bidirectional biasing member configured to bias the alignment of the front wheel along the longitudinal axis of the plate.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The bidirectional biasing component is a torsion spring.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating assembly further includes: A damping member, operable to dissipate the rotational motion of the rotating assembly.

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, The damping component is a viscous fluid damper.

5. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, The damping component is an electronically controlled particle brake, which is operable to dissipate the rotational motion of the rotating assembly based on a signal representing the speed of the vehicle.

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating assembly further includes: A connecting member, said connecting member being connected to the front end of the plate and the first end of the bidirectional biasing member; and A steering shaft is connected to a second end of the bidirectional biasing member, the second end of which is opposite to the first end of the bidirectional biasing member.

7. The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: A motor configured to rotate the rear wheel.

8. The vehicle according to claim 7, wherein, The motor is configured to be commanded wirelessly.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: A motor configured to rotate the front wheel.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, further comprising, wherein, The motor is operable to rotate the rotating assembly based on a signal representing the rotation angle of the plate about its longitudinal axis.

11. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The front wheel includes a front axle, and the rear wheel includes a rear axle. When the vehicle is in the operating position, the front axle and the rear axle overlap with or are positioned above the plate in a direction perpendicular to the standing surface.

12. A rotating assembly, comprising: case; A steering shaft, operable to rotate within a bore in the housing; as well as A bidirectional biasing member, comprising a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the housing and the second end being connected to the steering shaft. The bidirectional biasing member is operable to restore the rotational alignment of the steering shaft relative to the housing.

13. The rotating assembly according to claim 12, further comprising: A fork, which is connected to the steering shaft; as well as A wheel, which is connected to the fork.

14. The rotating assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The first and second bearings connect the steering shaft to the bore in the housing.

15. The rotating assembly according to claim 14, wherein, The housing also includes a first surface through which the hole passes, the first surface further including a recess having a hollow cylindrical shape positioned concentric with the hole, the recess being operable to accommodate the bidirectional biasing member.

16. The rotating assembly according to claim 15, wherein, The bidirectional biasing member includes a first alignment feature, and the recessed surface includes a second alignment feature, the second alignment feature being disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the bidirectional biasing member within the recess.

17. The rotating assembly according to claim 12, further comprising: A clamping member configured to connect a second end of the bidirectional biasing member to the steering shaft.

18. The rotating assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The second end of the bidirectional biasing member includes a first alignment feature, and the clamping member includes a second alignment feature in the peripheral region. The second alignment feature is disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the clamping member relative to the bidirectional biasing member.

19. The rotating assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The clamping member includes a first alignment feature at the central region, and the second end of the bidirectional biasing member includes a second alignment feature. The second alignment feature is disposed together with the first alignment feature to fix the orientation of the clamping member relative to the steering axis.

20. The rotating assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The clamping member includes an annular recess configured to receive a fluid damper.

21. The rotating assembly according to claim 17, wherein, The rotating assembly further includes: A cover, configured to be attached to a surface of the housing adjacent to the clamping member.

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