Scooter with a footboard and a locking mechanism

Abstract

A scooter (1) with a footboard (3) having a contact surface (4) for a user and at least one front wheel (5) with a front wheel axle (6) and at least one rear wheel (7) with a rear wheel axle (8) and with a steering column (2) on which a handgrip (9) for the user is arranged, and the scooter (1) has a locking device (17) by means of which the scooter (1) can be locked in a first locking position for driving and in a second locking position, wherein in the first locking position the steering column (2) is pivoted at a distance from the footboard (3) and in the second locking position the steering column (2) is pivoted adjacent to the footboard (3) and the steering column (2) is pivoted on a pivot axis (19) between the first and second locking positions relative to the footboard (3),wherein the steering column (2) is pivotable relative to the footboard (3) on the front wheel axle (6) as a pivot axis (19), and the steering column (2) has two steering column arms (12) at one end region (11) opposite the handgrip assembly (9), which form a receiving space (13) between them for receiving a front wheel fork (14) having a longitudinal center plane (15), on which the front wheel (5) is received, characterized in that the locking device (17) has two independently self-locking locking mechanisms (20), each of which has a detent recess (21) and a detent element (22) interacting therewith, and an actuating device (16) for releasing the locking device (17) by means of a release device (18) is arranged on the steering column (2).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a scooter, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The scooter in question can be powered by an electric motor, which may also have an energy storage device, such as a rechargeable battery, to supply power to the motor. One of the characteristics of such a scooter is that it can be folded. In the folded state, it assumes a second locking position, in which the locking mechanism engages in a transport position, allowing the user to store the scooter, stow it in a vehicle trunk, or carry it.

[0003] In the first locking position of the locking device, the scooter is in a driving position in which the user can stand on the footboard and move around with the scooter.

[0004] For a scooter of this type, it has proven crucial for both rider comfort and the rider's sense of security that the steering column is perceived as dimensionally stable and torsionally rigid relative to the rest of the scooter's structure. When riding, the rider holds onto and braces themselves against the handlebars, for example, when braking using the front-wheel brake. A rider may perceive the scooter as unstable, for instance, when braking, if the handlebars move longitudinally or in the direction of travel.

[0005] The supporting force with which the user braces themselves against the handle exerts a bending moment on the steering column, which exerts a counterforce in the locking device of the scooter, which may be, for example, a bolt provided on the steering column that can engage in a bore on the structure of the scooter adjacent to the footboard, resulting in a high surface pressure within the bore.

[0006] If the surface pressure becomes too great, the surface of the bore impacted by the bolt will be damaged, and the bore may tear out.

[0007] When the scooter is moved into the storage position corresponding to the second locking position, the packed dimensions of the scooter are of great importance, especially with regard to the height of the scooter when folded, measured in the vertical direction of the scooter when it is on the road surface with both wheels on it.

[0008] The higher the pivot point for folding the scooter is located above the front wheel's contact point, the greater the scooter's height when folded and the larger its folded dimensions. A scooter with a tall or large folded dimensions is unwieldy for the user because it takes up a lot of storage space.

[0009] Utility model DE 20 2004 002 387 U1 describes a foldable, electrically powered scooter with a seat. To fold it, a cover with a steering mechanism is pivoted around a bolt attached to a front wheel frame. Utility model CN ​​2 06 243 351 U describes a foldable kick scooter in which the steering column pivots along an arc-shaped guide running along the front wheel to the footboard. The published international patent application WO 2018 / 209 849 A1 shows a foldable kick scooter in which the pivot axis for folding is attached to the front end of a fork-shaped footboard and the steering bearing is located inside the axle of the front wheel.

[0010] Based on EP 3 652 052 B1, a kick scooter is known which has a movement device whose activation automatically moves the footboard of the scooter towards the handlebar in such a way that the rear axle, together with the footboard, is moved about a pivot axis towards the steering column, the pivot axis being adjacent to, but spaced apart from, the front axle of the scooter's front wheel. The known scooter also has a locking device, which is not described in detail.

[0011] A scooter according to the preamble of claim 1 has become known from CN 2 05 971 672 U.

[0012] Based on this, the present invention aims to further develop the known scooter in such a way that its packed size is reduced and the scooter provides the user with a safe driving experience and is characterized by high rigidity with only a slight change in the position of the handlebar when braking.

[0013] The invention has the features specified in claim 1 to solve this problem; advantageous embodiments thereof are described in the further claims.

[0014] The invention provides a scooter with a footboard having a contact surface for a user and at least one front wheel with a front axle, as well as at least one rear wheel with a rear axle, and with a steering column on which a handle for the user is arranged, and the scooter has a locking device by means of which the scooter can be locked in a first locking position for driving and in a second locking position, wherein in the first locking position the steering column is pivoted at a distance from the footboard and in the second locking position the steering column is pivoted adjacent to the footboard and the steering column is pivotably arranged on a pivot axis between the first and second locking positions relative to the footboard, wherein the steering column is pivotable on the front axle as a pivot axis relative to the footboard.and the steering column has two steering column arms at one end area opposite the handle assembly, which form a receiving space between them for receiving a front wheel fork having a longitudinal center plane, on which the front wheel is received, wherein the locking device has two independently of each other self-locking locking devices, each of which has a detent recess and a detent element interacting therewith, and an actuating device for releasing the locking device by means of a release device is arranged on the steering column.

[0015] The scooter according to the invention can be a kick scooter, which is powered by the user's muscle power, or a scooter powered by an electric motor. It has a footboard with a platform on which the user can stand while riding. The scooter has at least one front wheel with a front axle and also at least one rear wheel with a rear axle and a steering column on which a handlebar for the user is arranged.

[0016] The handle assembly, in the form of a handlebar, for example, may also include an actuating device for a service brake of the scooter, for example a brake lever, via which a front wheel brake of the scooter is actuated, for example by means of a cable pull.

[0017] The steering column can have two steering column arms opposite the handle assembly, which are aligned parallel to each other and form a receiving space between them in which a front fork is arranged, on which the at least one front wheel is rotatably mounted on the front axle. The front fork can have a longitudinal center plane relative to which the halves or sections of the front fork arranged on either side of the longitudinal center plane are symmetrically designed. The longitudinal center plane thus extends in the vertical axis direction of the scooter according to the invention and is perpendicular to the front axle of the scooter.

[0018] An actuating device may be provided on the steering column, which is designed to release a locking device, wherein a release device is provided for releasing or unlocking the locking device.

[0019] The scooter according to the invention can be fixed in a first locking position by means of the locking device, i.e., it can assume a locking position which is intended for riding the scooter, and the scooter can also be locked in a second locking position, which corresponds, for example, to a storage position of the scooter.

[0020] In the first locking position, the steering column is pivoted at a distance from the footboard, so that the steering column releases the footboard for use by the user, and in the second locking position, the steering column is pivoted adjacent to the footboard, i.e., it is located, for example, parallel to the footboard, which corresponds to the stowing position of the scooter, a position in which the scooter can be stowed or stored and in which it is not in the driving position.

[0021] In the scooter according to the invention, the pivot axis on which the steering column is pivotably arranged between the first and second locking positions relative to the footboard is the front wheel axle of the front wheel, i.e., the pivot axis coincides with or is identical to the front wheel axle.

[0022] This configuration ensures that, unlike the configuration of the known scooter, the steering column is not pivoted on a pivot axis which is located above the front wheel axle in the vertical direction of the scooter when positioned on a road or surface, but rather that, viewed in the vertical direction of the scooter, the pivot axis of the steering column and the front wheel axle are at the same height.

[0023] A longitudinal center axis of the pivot axis and a longitudinal center axis of the front wheel axle are therefore congruent. This configuration ensures that, in the second locking position, the scooter according to the invention, viewed in the vertical direction of the scooter, has the smallest possible packed dimensions, and that the steering column is arranged parallel or at least largely parallel to the footboard and not at an angle to it. Such an arrangement of the steering column at an angle to the footboard would increase the packed dimensions of the scooter, particularly in the area of ​​the front section of the scooter, i.e., the area of ​​the scooter's structure in the region of the front wheel, thus increasing the storage space required in the area of ​​the folded scooter.

[0024] The roller according to the invention is further characterized in that the locking device has two independently self-locking locking mechanisms, each of which has a detent recess and a detent element cooperating with it.

[0025] Because the locking device has two independently designed locking mechanisms, a redundant configuration is created such that even if one of the two locking mechanisms fails or is damaged, a second functioning and operational locking mechanism is provided in the scooter's driving position, which ensures that the steering column does not fold forward in the direction of travel when pressure is applied by the user, for example during braking, but is held stable and torsionally or bending-resistant in the driving position.

[0026] Because the two locking mechanisms are designed to lock automatically, it is ensured that whenever the steering column is moved into the driving position, i.e., into the first locking position, this first locking position is automatically assumed, meaning that the respective locking element of the respective locking mechanism automatically engages in the locking recess and locks into place, and this happens automatically when the steering column is moved into the driving position of the scooter, pivoted, or folded.

[0027] Furthermore, the two independently operating locking mechanisms ensure that the aforementioned pressure force, which the user exerts on the handlebar during the braking process of the scooter and which leads to a torque or bending moment around the detent recesses of the two locking mechanisms, is divided equally. This means that, compared to only one locking mechanism with otherwise identical force-bearing surfaces, or the two locking mechanisms provided according to the invention, the pressure stresses or surface pressures in the mating surface between the detent recess and the detent element are halved.

[0028] This ensures that the detent recess and the detent element are subjected to less stress, thus reducing the risk of damage to the locking mechanism. In contrast, if a known scooter only has one locking device, this single locking device is subjected to the full surface pressure resulting from the user's pressure in the positive locking engagement between the detent element and the detent recess.

[0029] The configuration according to the invention with two independent locking mechanisms ensures that the surface pressure originating from the compressive force load - or, in the case of the acceleration process of the roller, from the tensile force load - is divided equally in the positive locking pair consisting of the detent recess and the detent element.

[0030] According to a further development of the invention, it is also provided that the detent recess is formed on the front wheel fork and that the detent element is movable relative to the detent recess and can be brought into a releasable engagement with the detent recess.

[0031] This configuration ensures that the locking element engages in the locking recess and automatically centers itself between the recess's side walls. The scooter user does not need to intervene further, as this self-centering position is achieved automatically once the steering column is pivoted into the first locking position relative to the footboard. To stow the scooter, the aforementioned actuating device releases the engagement between the locking element and the recess. The scooter can then be stowed by pivoting the steering column towards the footboard, thus engaging the second locking position.

[0032] According to a further development of the invention, it is also provided that the locking recess has a V-shaped configuration in a top view and has side flanks extending in the direction of the longitudinal center plane of the front fork, which are inclined at an angle relative to an outer surface of the front fork facing the steering column shaft at an angle deviating from a right angle.

[0033] When viewed at a right angle to the longitudinal center plane of the front fork, the locking recess exhibits a V-shaped configuration. This configuration narrows towards the road surface in the vertical direction of the vehicle or scooter; thus, the locking recess is wider at the top than at the bottom in the vertical direction. The locking recess has side walls on both sides of a plane of symmetry that defines the base of the "V." These side walls are inclined relative to the outer surface of the front fork facing the steering column. Looking towards the V-shaped locking recess, the user observes that the recess tapers or widens from the outer surface of the front fork towards the longitudinal center plane.Viewed from the longitudinal mid-plane in an outward direction, the tapering configuration is an expanding configuration and the expanding configuration is a tapering configuration.

[0034] The configuration that tapers or narrows from the viewer's perspective towards the longitudinal center plane ensures that the detent recess is wider on the outer surface of the front fork than on the base adjacent to the longitudinal center plane, and the widening configuration ensures that the detent recess is narrower on the outer surface than when viewed towards the longitudinal center plane of the detent recess.

[0035] If the side flanks were parallel to each other, they would be at a right angle to the outer surface of the front fork. In the first case, where the configuration tapers from the viewer's perspective towards the longitudinal center plane of the front fork, the side flanks of the detent recess are inclined relative to the outer surface of the front fork in such a way that an angle greater than 90 degrees is formed between the outer surface and the side flanks. In the second case, where the configuration widens, the side flanks of the detent recess are inclined relative to the outer surface of the front fork in such a way that an angle less than 90 degrees is formed between the outer surface and the side flanks.

[0036] In the configuration provided according to a further development of the invention, namely that the detent recess has an expanding or narrowing configuration from the longitudinal center plane of the front wheel fork towards the outer surface, a force component arises on the detent element bearing against the side flanks due to the angular arrangement of the side flanks, which, viewed from the longitudinal center plane, exerts a compressive force on the detent element in the outward direction in the case of an expanding configuration, while the configuration of the detent recess that narrows outwards in the view of the longitudinal center plane ensures that the detent element is subjected to a tensile force in the inward direction, i.e. towards the longitudinal center plane.

[0037] The V-shaped configuration of the locking recess creates a self-centering effect in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle between the locking element and the locking recess. Furthermore, the angular configuration of the side flanks of the locking recess relative to the outer surface of the front fork creates a self-centering effect perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle between the locking element and the locking recess. As a result, the rider of the scooter experiences a remarkably stable riding feel due to the resulting freedom of movement in the fit between the locking recess and the locking element. This freedom of movement prevents the handlebar assembly at the top of the steering column from moving longitudinally due to play, particularly under alternating loads in the longitudinal direction.Thus, compared to the known configuration, no displacements of the handle in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle occur due to the tensile-compressive force-force changes exerted by the user on the handle device.

[0038] According to a further development of the invention, the locking recess and the locking element are also designed to be complementary in shape and surface to each other. This configuration ensures the aforementioned freedom from play in the pairing of locking element and locking recess, i.e., the positive locking pairing of locking element and locking recess.

[0039] According to a further development of the invention, the locking element has a base surface with side surfaces extending away from the base surface at least along a partial area of ​​the circumferential extent of the locking element at an angle to the base surface.

[0040] The locking element can therefore have a base surface, and side surfaces extend away from this base surface. These side surfaces are arranged at an angle to the base surface, at least along a portion of the circumference of the locking element, so that they are inclined towards the base surface when viewed from this angle.The inclined side surfaces of the locking element come into contact with the inclined side flanks of the locking recess. This complementary shape and surface configuration of the locking element and the locking recess ensures that the aforementioned compressive or tensile force component is exerted on the locking element relative to the locking recess, in relation to the longitudinal center plane of the front fork. This means the locking element is pushed outwards or pulled inwards relative to the front fork, thus achieving the self-centering effect of the locking element relative to the locking recess in the transverse direction of the vehicle. The V-shaped configuration of the locking recess and the complementary V-shaped configuration of the locking element achieve the self-centering effect on the locking element relative to the locking recess in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.Both automatic centering mechanisms ensure that the user experiences the aforementioned stable and safe riding experience when using the scooter according to the invention.

[0041] According to a further development of the invention, the base of the locking element has a rectangular or V-shaped configuration in a top view and is designed with at least one receptacle for the releasable attachment of a fastening element. The locking element can be releasably attached to the aforementioned release device by means of the fastening element and, by actuating the release device, can be moved relative to the locking recess, i.e., moved towards or away from the base of the V-shaped locking recess.

[0042] According to a further development of the invention, the unlocking device has a release rod associated with the respective locking mechanism, which is displaceably arranged in an inner recess of the respective steering column shaft and is acted upon by means of a spring device to bring about an automatic locking mechanism such that the locking element and the locking recess assume a positively engaging position.

[0043] This configuration ensures that the spring device, which may be, for example, a compression spring or a helical compression spring, acts on the release rod from above and leads to a displacement movement of the release rod, which moves the detent element towards the bottom of the V-shaped detent recess, thus pressing the detent element deeper into the detent recess.

[0044] Since the compression spring acts on the locking element towards the locking recess, the locking element automatically locks into the recess. If the user wishes to release this first locking position of the scooter, they must operate the release rod against the force of the compression spring, for example, by pulling it upwards. This causes the locking element to move out of the recess, allowing the steering column to pivot towards the footboard on its pivot axis to assume the second locking position.

[0045] According to a further development of the invention, the steering column support is designed as a hollow chamber profile, at least along a portion of its longitudinal extent, and is configured to receive the release rod. This configuration ensures that the release rod is received and guided within the hollow chamber profile and is protected from damage caused by external intervention.

[0046] According to a further development of the invention, it is also provided that the locking element is arranged on the release rod - for example, detachably arranged by means of the aforementioned fastening element - and that a displacement movement of the locking element in the longitudinal direction of the steering column shaft relative to the locking recess leads to a displacement movement of the locking element and the release rod largely transverse to the longitudinal displacement movement.

[0047] As mentioned above, the displacement of the locking element relative to the locking recess results in the locking element being subjected to a tensile or compressive force with respect to the longitudinal center plane of the front fork. Since the locking element and the locking recess are complementary in shape and surface area, this force applied to the locking element also results in a corresponding compressive force being applied to the locking recess as a counterforce. The locking element is located on the release rod; therefore, a force applied to the locking element also results in a corresponding compressive force being applied to the release rod. The release rod is axially displaceable within the steering column tube, with some play relative to the inner circumferential surface of the steering column tube.Applying force to the release rod therefore leads to a displacement movement of the release rod transversely to the longitudinal direction of the steering column shaft, until the release rod comes into contact with the inner circumferential surface of the steering column shaft with an area or part of the outer surface of the release rod.

[0048] If the release rod then rests against the inner circumferential surface of the steering column shaft in at least a partial area, this results in a clamping effect of the release rod relative to the steering column shaft. Since the detent element in the detent recess has also assumed a detent position, clamping position, or locking position, the clamping effect, clamping position, or clamping position of the release rod relative to the steering column shaft leads to further stabilization and an increase in the stiffness of the front section of the scooter according to the invention.

[0049] According to a further development of the invention, the release rod in the first locking position is positioned relative to an inner wall, inner circumferential wall, or inner circumferential surface of the steering column tube and is subjected to a tensile force in the direction of the front fork or a compressive force in the direction away from the front fork. This force applied to the release rod relative to the steering column tube results in the aforementioned clamping effect of the release rod relative to the steering column tube and in the further stabilization and increased stiffness of the front end of the scooter according to the invention, as explained above.

[0050] According to a further development of the invention, the scooter is also provided with a ramp which, during a pivoting movement of the steering column from the second locking position to the first locking position, presses the release rod against a spring device and releases the release rod to bring about the first locking position. The spring device can, for example, be the compression spring already mentioned above for pressing the release rod.

[0051] If the scooter is released from the second locking position, for example by the user operating the aforementioned control device, and the user then folds or pivots the steering column upwards from a position parallel or at least largely parallel to the footboard, the ramp on which an element of the steering column engages ensures that the release rod is displaced against the action of the spring mechanism, thus moving the locking element to an area above the V-shaped recess. Then, when the steering column element disengages from the ramp, the compressive force of the spring mechanism applies pressure to the release rod, resulting in a displacement of the release rod relative to the steering column shaft and also causing...that the locking element is pushed or pressed into the locking recess and the locking position is established between the locking element and the locking recess, with the result that the self-centering effect between the locking element and the locking recess is established both in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and in the transverse direction of the vehicle.

[0052] According to a further development of the invention, the steering column is also provided with a recess through which the user has access to the release rod, and the release rod is provided with a mark which, at least in the first locking position, indicates that the steering column is properly locked relative to the front fork. This mark provides the user with a visual means of verification, allowing them to determine that the detent position between the locking element and the detent recess has been engaged and that the user can therefore begin riding the scooter.

[0053] According to a further development of the invention, it is also provided that the scooter has a locking element on the unlocking device, preferably on the unlocking rod, which in the second locking position can be brought into releasable engagement with a locking recess provided on the scooter.

[0054] This configuration ensures that the locking device, which can be, for example, a sleeve-shaped roller rotatably mounted on the release rod, when the user pivots the steering column relative to the footboard towards the footboard to bring about the second locking position, the roller enters the area of ​​the locking recess, which is provided with a contact surface or bearing surface against which the roller rolls and this rolling movement leads to an axial displacement of the release rod against the action of the compression spring and a further pivoting movement of the steering column relative to the footboard then causes the roller to snap or lock into the locking recess and the second locking position is successfully brought about.

[0055] According to a further development of the invention, the scooter also has a braking device acting on the front wheel, which can be actuated by means of an actuating device arranged on the handlebar assembly – for example, in the form of a brake lever – and a power transmission device between the actuating device and the braking device pivots together with the steering column during the pivoting movement of the steering column relative to the footboard. In the simplest case, the power transmission device can be a cable by means of which the braking device can be activated by the actuating device, thus enabling the braking process to be carried out.Since the power transmission device pivots together with the steering column during the pivoting movement relative to the footboard, the tension of the power transmission device does not change during the pivoting movement and no device needs to be provided to compensate for any length compensation of the cable pull.

[0056] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. This shows: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a scooter according to an embodiment of the present invention in the first locking position of the steering column intended for riding the scooter; Fig. 2 a representation similar to that shown in Fig. 1 with the steering column released from the first locking position in an intermediate position, which the steering column assumes on its way to the second locking position; Fig. 3 a representation similar to that shown in Fig. 2 of the drawing, which shows the scooter in the second locking position; Fig. 4 an enlarged representation of detail “A” after Fig. 1 of the drawing; Fig. 5 a side view of the in Fig. 1 of the rollers shown in the drawing; Fig. 6 a representation of detail “B” according to Fig. 5 of the drawing in a front view; Fig. 7 a sectional view along a section of the front of the scooter according to the invention, showing the steering column and the front fork; Fig. 8 a representation similar to that shown in Fig. 7, which shows the steering column in the folded or swiveled position; Fig. 9 a perspective view of the front fork; Fig. 10 a partially cut-out side view of the scooter's stem; Fig. 11 an enlarged representation of detail “C” according to Fig. 10; Fig. 12 a section view according to the section line “AA” after Fig. 11; Fig. 13 a sectional view to illustrate the first locking position using the detent recess and the detent element according to the first embodiment; Fig. 14 Four illustrations to explain the locking element according to a first embodiment; Fig. 15 Two illustrations to explain the ratchet recess according to a first embodiment; Fig. 16 a partially cut-away partial view of the front of the scooter with a locking recess and a locking device according to a second embodiment; Fig. 17 an enlarged representation of detail “D” after Fig. 16; Fig. 18 a section view according to the section line “AA” after Fig. 17; Fig. 19 a sectional view to illustrate the first locking position using the detent recess and the detent element according to the second embodiment; Fig. 20 five illustrations to explain the locking element according to the second embodiment; Fig. 21 Two illustrations to explain the ratchet recess according to the second embodiment; Fig. 22 a perspective drawing to illustrate a ramp; and Fig. 23 a perspective view of a section of the roller to illustrate a locking device for the second locking position.

[0057] Fig. Figure 1 of the drawing shows a perspective view of a scooter 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention in the first locking position of the steering column 2 provided for driving the scooter 1.

[0058] The scooter 1 has a footboard 3 with a contact surface 4 for a user of the scooter 1. In addition, the scooter 1 also has a front wheel 5 with a front wheel axle 6 and a rear wheel 7 with a rear wheel axle 8.

[0059] A handgrip 9 in the form of a handlebar 10 is provided on the steering column 2, which the user can hold onto while riding the scooter 1. The steering column 2 has two steering column arms 12 at one end 11 opposite the handgrip 9, which form a receiving space 13 between them in which the front wheel 5 is mounted. A front fork 14 is also mounted in the receiving space 13, as can be seen from the Fig. 3 of the drawing is evident and the front wheel fork 14 has a virtual longitudinal center plane 15, which is determined by Fig. 7 of the drawing is evident.

[0060] On the steering column 2, a more detailed description is provided by... Fig. 4 and Fig. 6. An actuating device 16 is arranged, which is intended for releasing a locking device 17, which will be explained in detail later and illustrated, for example, by means of Fig. 5 of the drawing is evident.

[0061] The locking device 17 can be released via a release device 18, for example from the first locking position, which will be explained later. In the first locking position, which is intended for riding the scooter 1, the steering column 2 is pivoted at a distance from the footboard 3, as can be seen, for example, from the following: Fig. 1 and Fig. As can be seen in section 5 of the drawing, in the second locking position the steering column is pivoted adjacent to the footboard 3, as can be seen, for example, from the following: Fig. 3 of the drawing is evident.

[0062] Fig. Figure 2 of the drawing shows a representation similar to that shown in Figure 2. Fig. 1 with the steering column 2 released from the first locking position in an intermediate position, which the steering column 2 assumes on its way to the second locking position.

[0063] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in Figure 2, the pivoting movement of the steering column 2 relative to the footboard 3 takes place at the pivot axis 19, such that the steering column 2 at the pivot axis 19 is in the Fig. The storage position shown in section 3 of the scooter 1 can be swivelled and also moved back from this storage position into the one shown in the image. Fig. 1. The driving position or operating position shown in the drawing can be pivoted.

[0064] The scooter 1 is characterized, among other things, by the fact that the front wheel axle 6 functions as a pivot axle 19, so that the following can be determined: Fig. The smallest possible packing size of the scooter 1 in the stowed position can be achieved as shown in the drawing 3.

[0065] The locking device 17 has two independently self-locking locking mechanisms 20, which are described in more detail below. Fig. 9 to Fig. 21 of the drawing are visible.

[0066] The locking devices 20 each have a detent recess 21 and a detent element 22, wherein the detent recess and the detent element interact with each other, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0067] The locking recess 21 is formed on an outer surface 23 of the front wheel fork 14, as can be seen, for example, from Fig. As can be seen in the drawing 7, the locking recesses 21 are formed in a mirror-symmetrical manner to the longitudinal center plane 15 on the front wheel fork 14.

[0068] Each of the two locking recesses 21 is assigned a locking element 22, as can be seen, for example, from the following: Fig. As can be seen in the drawing, the two locking elements 22 automatically engage in the locking recesses 21 in such a way that a positive engagement position is established between the respective locking element 22 and the locking recess 21, as can be seen, for example, from the following: Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 as well as from Fig. 13 and Fig. 17, Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 of the drawing is evident.

[0069] As can be seen, for example, from Fig. As can be seen in the drawing 9, the locking recess 21 has a V-shaped configuration and has side flanks 24 extending in the direction of the longitudinal center plane 15 of the front fork 14, which are inclined relative to the outer surface 23 of the front fork 14, i.e., inclined at an angle deviating from a right angle.

[0070] This configuration can be demonstrated, for example, by... Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 as well as from Fig. 18 and Fig. as can be seen in drawing 19. The invention provides two different embodiments of the locking recess 21, the first embodiment being based on Fig. Figure 13 of the drawing is clearly visible. This shows the locking recess 21 in a sectional view along section line AA. Fig. Figure 11 of the drawing illustrates that the detent recess 21 has a configuration that widens from its base 25 towards the outer surface 23 of the front fork. In contrast, the detent recess 21 after Fig. 19 of the drawing shows a configuration that tapers or narrows or becomes narrower starting from the base 25 of the ratchet recess 21 in the direction of the outer surface 22 of the front fork 14.

[0071] In both cases, the respective locking element 22 is designed to be form- and surface-complementary to the locking recess 21, as can be seen from the illustrations according to Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 17, Fig. 18 and Fig. 19 of the drawing is evident.

[0072] A locking element 22, which is designed to be complementary to the locking recess 21 which widens towards the outer surface 22, is shown in the illustrations according to Fig. Figure 14 of the drawing shows that, as is readily apparent, the locking element 22 in this embodiment has a rectangular base 27 with side surfaces 30 extending at an angle 29 to the base 27 along at least a portion of the circumferential extent 28 of the locking element 22. These side surfaces 30 are inclined at an angle 29 that allows them to be received in the V-shaped groove or locking recess 21, as can be seen from the drawing. Fig. 11, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 of the drawing is readily apparent.

[0073] The locking recess 21 receives the locking element 22 within the side flanks 24, so that the locking element 22 is supported with the side surfaces 30 on the side flanks 24 in such a way that the locking element 22 is positively engaged in the locking recess 21.

[0074] Fig. Figure 20 of the drawing shows a locking element 22 according to a second embodiment with side surfaces 30, which are again inclined at an angle 29 to the base surface 27, as can be seen from the illustrations of the Fig. 20 of the drawing is evident.

[0075] Fig. Figure 19 of the drawing shows that the locking element 22 with its side surfaces 30 is again supported on the side flanks 24 of the locking recess 21, and in this way a shape- and surface-complementary configuration of the locking element 22 and the locking recess 21 is also chosen in this second embodiment of the locking device 20.

[0076] The unlocking device 18 mentioned above has a release rod 31 assigned to the respective locking mechanism 20, as can be seen, for example, from the following: Fig. 5 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6 of the drawing. The release rod 31 is arranged in the interior 32 of the steering column shaft 12, which is designed as a hollow chamber profile 33, in such a way that the release rod 31 is displaceably mounted in the interior 32 in the longitudinal direction of the steering column shaft 12.

[0077] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in Figure 6 of the drawing, the release rod 31 is subjected to a compressive force at its upper end region by a spring device 34 such that the spring force of the spring device 34, in the form of a helical compression spring 35 or the like, acts on the detent element 22 in the direction of the detent recess 21, thus forming a self-locking configuration with the detent recess 21. The detent element 22 is therefore pressed into the V-shaped detent recess as soon as the release rod 31 is released or can move towards the detent recess due to the action of the spring device 34.

[0078] If the user wishes to release the first locking position, the user can do so by means of the following: Fig. 4. The user inserts a finger through the recess 36 shown in the drawing into the finger recess 37 and moves the release rod 31 upwards against the action of the spring mechanism 34. This causes the detent element 22 to be displaced from the detent recess 21, thus releasing the positive locking position between the detent element and the detent recess. To release the locking position, the user must pull both release rods 31 upwards in both steering column arms 12 to release both self-locking latches 20.

[0079] As demonstrated by Fig. 11 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 17 of the drawing, the respective locking element 22 is detachably fixed to the respective release rod 31 by means of screws 39, which can be inserted into recesses 38 of the respective locking element 22, thus fixing the respective locking element 22 to the respective release rod 31. An axial displacement of the release rod 31 within the interior 32 of the steering column shaft 12 therefore also leads to an axial displacement of the locking element 22 relative to the locking recess 21, and thus to the locking element 22 assuming a self-locking position with the locking recess 21, from which it can also be released again by a longitudinal displacement of the release rod 31, as already explained above.

[0080] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in Figure 13 of the drawing, the release rod 31 is designed as a profile with two hollow chambers 40 and, in the selected embodiment, has a configuration similar to a butterfly and has supports 41 on the outer circumference by means of which the release rod can be supported on the inner circumferential wall 42 of the steering column shaft 12.

[0081] If, as can be seen from Fig. As can be seen in the drawing 13, the locking element 22 enters the locking recess 21 and moves towards the base 43 ( Fig. 11) the V-shaped locking recess 21 is displaced, which leads to the based on Fig. 9 and Fig. The configuration of the locking recess 21 shown in the drawing 11 has a design that runs obliquely towards the base 43 such that the locking element 22 extends in the direction of the arrow 44. Fig. 12 of the drawing is shifted outwards, i.e. away from the outer surface 23 of the front fork 14, so that the supports 41 of the release rod 31 are supported on the inner circumferential wall 42 of the steering column shaft 12 and thus a direction indicated by the arrows 45 is created. Fig. The counterforce shown in Figure 13 is built up, which leads to an automatic centering of the locking element 22 in the locking recess 21.

[0082] The configuration of the ratchet recess 21 such that the side flanks 24 are arranged at an angle relative to the outer surface 23 of the front fork 14 and that they point in the direction of the double arrow 46 towards Fig. As the measured depth of the detent recess 21 decreases towards the base 43 of the detent recess, an axial displacement of the detent element 22 relative to the detent recess 21 causes the detent element 22 to be displaced outwards in the direction of arrow 44 as the displacement progresses towards the base 43 of the detent recess 21. Thus, the closer the detent element 22 is to the base 43 of the detent recess 21, the greater the force component in the direction of arrow 44 and, consequently, also in the direction of arrows 45. This results in a self-clamping effect between the detent element 22 and the detent recess 21, as well as the inner circumferential wall 42 of the steering column shaft 12. Therefore, self-centering occurs both longitudinally along the V-shaped detent recess 21 and transversely to it, as can be seen from the following: Fig. 12 of the drawing is evident.

[0083] In the embodiment of the locking mechanism 20 according to the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20 to Fig. 21 is a configuration that is reciprocal or inverse to the first embodiment described above, as shown in the illustrations according to Fig. The visible rest recess 21 tapers again towards the bottom 47 of the rest recess 21 and towards the double arrow 48. Fig. The depth of the locking recess 21, measured in drawing 18, decreases towards the base 47. This configuration therefore results in the following: when the release rod 31 is axially displaced in the direction of arrow 49, Fig. 17 the locking element 22 in the direction of surface 50 ( Fig. 18) is acted upon in the V-shaped inner recess 21.

[0084] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in Figure 19 of the drawing, in the second embodiment the release rod 31 has a roof-shaped or V-shaped cross-section and is supported via side surfaces 51 on complementary side flanks 52 of the steering column shaft 12. An axial displacement of the locking element 22 by means of a displacement movement of the release rod 31 in the direction of arrow 49 thus results in the locking element 22 being displaced towards the base 50 of the V-shaped locking recess 21, specifically via the configuration of the side flanks 24 of the locking recess 21, which tapers towards the base 47, and the side flanks 22 in the direction of the double arrow 48. Fig. 18 decreasing depth of the rest recess 21.

[0085] In other words, this means that due to the double conicity of the locking recess 21 in the configuration according to the Fig. 10, Fig. 11, Fig. 12, Fig. 13, Fig. 14 to Fig. In the selected embodiment of the detent recess 21 and the detent element 22, the detent element 22 is pressed outwards, whereas in the configuration of the locking mechanism according to the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20 to Fig. 21 the locking element 22 is pulled deeper into the locking recess 21, i.e., towards the surface 50 of the locking recess 21. As explained above, the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 20 also occurs according to the Fig. 16, Fig. 17, Fig. 18, Fig. 19, Fig. 20 to Fig. 21 an automatic centering of the locking element 22 relative to the locking recess 21 occurs and the release rod 31 is supported via the side surfaces 51 on the side flanks 52 of the steering column shaft 12.

[0086] This configuration of the locking mechanisms therefore results in the unlocking rod 31 coming into contact with the inner circumferential wall 42 or inner wall of the steering column shaft 12 in the first locking position and being subjected to a tensile force in the direction towards the front fork 14 or to a compressive force in the direction away from the front fork 14.

[0087] In both cases, a self-centering clamping effect occurs between the locking element 22 and the locking recess 21, resulting in a configuration that the user of the scooter perceives as extremely stable and free from unwanted deformations, and thus in a stable driving experience.

[0088] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in the drawing 23, the roller 1 has a locking means 53 on both release rods 31, which can be designed, for example, as a rotatably arranged sleeve which, during a displacement movement from the first locking position to Fig. 1 into the second locking position after Fig. 3 comes into a respective locking recess 54 and is brought into a releasable engagement there, which corresponds to the second locking position of the roller 1 in the stow position or stow position.

[0089] When the user takes the scooter 1 out of the in Fig. 3. The storage position shown is returned to the position shown in the Fig. If the user wishes to move the steering column to the driving position shown in section 1, they again grasp the finger recesses 37 and thus pull the locking device 53 out of the respective locking recess 54 and can move the steering column 2 as shown in section 1. Fig. As shown in drawing 2, fold or pivot upwards in such a way that the user can release their fingers from the finger recess 37 during the pivoting movement of the steering column 2, since the locking means 53 then engage when the steering column 2 is almost at its in Fig. The position shown in section 1 for assuming the first locking position has been reached, with which in Fig. The ramp 55 shown in the drawing engages with the locking element 22, with the ramp surfaces 56 ensuring that the release rods 31 are displaced upwards against the action of the compression spring 34. When the locking element 53 has released from the ramp surfaces 56, the respective compression spring 34 ensures that the respective release rod 31 is displaced downwards in the steering column shaft 12 and the respective locking element 22 enters the respective locking recess 21, thereby bringing about the first locking position. This locking action is automatic and thus ensures a play-free mounting of the steering column 2 on the scooter 1 in the first locking position intended for driving the scooter.

[0090] As demonstrated by Fig. As can be seen in Figure 1 of the drawing, an actuating device 57 in the form of a brake lever is provided on the handle assembly 9, with which the Fig. The service brake 58 shown in the drawing can be operated on the front wheel 5 of the scooter 1. Fig. Figure 8 of the drawing also shows the pivot axis 19, on which the two steering column arms 12 and thus the steering column 2 can be pivoted relative to the footboard 3. Fig. Figure 8 shows the position of the steering column 2 relative to the footboard 3 in the second locking position, i.e. the stowed position or storage position of the scooter 1.

[0091] Because the pivot axis 19 coincides with the front wheel axle 6 of the scooter, the scooter 1 has a position in the stowed position based on Fig. 3. The low height indicated by the arrow H means that the packed size of the scooter 1 is minimized. Fig. Figure 8 of the drawing also shows a receptacle 63 of the service brake 58, to which a brake cable of the scooter 1 (not shown in detail) can be attached. This cable can be pulled via the actuating device 57, in the form of the brake lever, to activate the service brake of the scooter 1. During the pivoting or folding movement of the scooter 1 between the first locking position and the second locking position, the receptacle 63 pivots together with the steering column 2. This prevents the brake cable from changing length during the pivoting movement, thus eliminating the need for a length compensation mechanism for the brake cable.

[0092] Fig. Figure 7 of the drawing shows the bearing of the front wheel fork 14 relative to the structural component 59 ( Fig. 1) of the scooter. As can be readily seen, the front fork 14 is pivotally guided on a steering head bearing 60, with recesses 61 ( Fig. 9) The front fork can be fitted with 14 corresponding bearings.

[0093] Fig. Finally, Figure 4 of the drawing shows a marking 62 arranged on the release rod 31, which serves to visualize the secure locking of the locking element 22 in the locking recess 21. When the intended locking position of the locking element 22 in the locking recess 21 has been assumed, the user can see the marking 62 at the upper edge of the recess 36, adjacent to the upper edge. If this is not the case, it indicates to the user that the intended locking position, or locking, between the locking element 22 and the locking recess 21 has not been assumed. As can be seen from Fig. As can be seen in Figure 9 of the drawing, the locking recess 21 is formed in the area of ​​the upper end of the front fork 14 in the longitudinal direction. This configuration ensures that under a compressive or tensile load in the direction of arrow F, Fig.5. A moment built up by the lever arm between the steering rod 10 and the pivot axis 19 leads to low surface pressures between the detent element 22 and the detent recess 21. In other words, this means that the lever arm between the force-absorbing surfaces of the detent recess 21, i.e., the side flanks 24 of the detent recess 21 and the pivot axis 19, is chosen to be maximally large, since the detent recess 21 is arranged at the greatest possible distance from the pivot axis 19. This configuration according to the invention ensures that the surface pressure between the detent element 22 and the side flanks 24 of the detent recess 21 is minimized for a given moment about the pivot axis 19, and thus the surface pressure pairing of detent element and detent recess is subjected to low stress.

[0094] With regard to features of the invention not explained in detail above, explicit reference is made to the patent claims and the drawing. Reference symbol list 1 scooter 2 Steering column 3 Footboard 4 Footprint 5 front wheel 6 Front axle 7 rear wheel 8 Rear axle 9 Handle assembly 10 Handlebar 11 End area 12 Steering column shaft 13 Recording Room 14 Front fork 15 Longitudinal center plane 16 Actuating device 17 Locking device 18 Unlocking device 19 Swivel axis 20 locking mechanism 21 Rest recess 22 locking element 23 outer surface 24 side panels 25 Reason for the rest recess 27 Base area 28 Scope 29 angles 30 side surface 31 Release rod 32 Interior 33 Hollow chamber profile 34 Spring assembly 35 helical compression spring 36 Exclusion 37 Finger recess 38 Exclusion 39 screw 40 Hollow chamber 41 Support 42 Inner perimeter wall 43 reasons 44 Arrow 45 Arrow 46 Arrow 47 reasons 48 Arrow 49 Arrow 50 area 51 side surface 52 side panels 53 Resting agents 54 Rest recess 55 Ramp 56 ramp areas 57 Actuating device 58 Brake system 59 Structural component 60 Steering head bearings 61 Exclusion 62 Mark 63 recording

Images