Special - balance bike as an aid and mobility aid to compensate for disabilities with electric motor drive for walking support

Abstract

A balance wheel comprising a steering rod (1) and a front fork (2) adjoining the steering rod (1) with a front wheel (3) and a base frame (4) connected to the front fork (2), which base frame (4) receives a rear wheel (7) on an adjoining rear fork (6), wherein at least one saddle construction (9) is attached to the base frame (4) via a releasable screw clamp connection (11), to which saddle construction (9) a saddle 10 is connected, and wherein the saddle construction (9) is infinitely displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the balance wheel after loosening the screw clamp connection (11), and thus the distance of the saddle construction (9) or the saddle 10 to the steering rod (1) is infinitely adjustable. This highly stable saddle construction (9) with the force-locking screw clamp connection (11) eliminates the need for a stabilizing support strut, which would preclude stepless movement of the saddle construction (9) on the footboard base frame (4).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a special walking wheel, an aid for mobility compensation for disabilities, with an electric motor drive for walking support, available in two sizes.

[0002] Our product is people-oriented.

[0003] Areas of application: - For mobility in the short and medium long-distance range - inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation - Therapy, medicine, prevention - in rheumatic diseases - for people of short stature - for people with limited leg function - for people with motor disabilities - for seniors - for people with foot ulcers - for people with diabetes

[0004] The listed wheels are identical in shape and construction! Wheel size 1616:

[0005] Not suitable for persons under 16 years of age. Suitable for persons with an inseam of approximately 40 cm to 70 cm. Front wheel 16 inches, rear wheel 16 inches; Max. load: 55 kg Wheel size 2016:

[0006] Not suitable for persons under 16 years of age. Suitable for persons with an inseam of approximately 40 cm to 90 cm. Front wheel 20 inches, rear wheel 16 inches; Max. load: 75 kg

[0007] An optional foot console (FKS) is available for both wheel sizes.

[0008] To solve this technical problem, the invention teaches a balance bike with a handlebar and a front fork with a front wheel connected to the handlebar, as well as a specially three-part footboard connected to the front fork as a base frame, which accommodates a rear wheel via a two-part rear base frame. A saddle assembly is attached to the base frame via a detachable screw clamp connection, to which a saddle assembly is attached. After loosening the screw clamp connection, the saddle assembly is continuously movable in the longitudinal direction of the balance bike, thus allowing the distance of the saddle assembly or the saddle to the handlebar to be adjusted. The longitudinal direction of the balance bike refers to the direction from the front to the rear end of the balance bike.According to the invention, the screw clamp connection of the saddle assembly to the footboard base frame can be loosened, allowing the saddle assembly, including the saddle, to be continuously moved along the length of the wheel and the desired distance between the saddle assembly and the handlebars to be adjusted. This is made possible by the special three-part footboard base frame without the need for additional drilling for the screw clamp connection and without damaging the tubular frame. The connection between the saddle assembly and the footboard base frame can then be re-established, or the saddle assembly can be reattached to the footboard base frame. This highly stable saddle assembly with its positive-locking screw clamp connection eliminates the need for a stabilizing support brace, which would otherwise prevent the stepless movement of the saddle assembly along the footboard base frame.

[0009] The handlebars can be adjusted in multiple ways by loosening the numerous screw connections.

[0010] The wheel is equipped with a highly effective front and rear V-brake system.

[0011] The foot console is used to rest the left or right foot and is suitable for people with limited leg function, e.g. leg prosthesis wearers or other leg disabilities.

[0012] According to the invention, the balance bike has a seat or seating surface for the user. The seat is advantageously a saddle, and this saddle can be a standard bicycle saddle. The invention is based on the understanding that the balance bike can be used and propelled while seated. The balance bike is propelled by pushing off with one or both feet on the ground. The invention is based on the understanding that even inexperienced users can comfortably and reliably use the balance bike if the seat or saddle according to the invention is implemented and the balance bike can be propelled in the described manner.

[0013] It is within the scope of the invention that the basic linkage is an unusual, specially developed three-part footboard linkage.

[0014] According to the invention, the saddle construction is attached directly to the base frame.

[0015] Advantageously, the base linkage consists of three rods extending longitudinally along the wheel, preferably tubular rods. In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the base linkage consists of three rods arranged side by side, preferably tubular rods. These rods advantageously run parallel to each other or at least substantially parallel to each other. The rods are preferably arranged at the same height when viewed from the ground. The rods forming the base linkage extend obliquely upwards, transitioning into a preferably single-tube base rod at the steering linkage end, and are advantageously connected to the front fork above the front wheel. A rear fork for receiving the rear wheel is also preferably connected to the base linkage.According to one embodiment of the invention, the wheel has a rear wheel.

[0016] In principle, the invention offers various possibilities for further developing the balance bike according to the invention. In the balance bike of type 2012, the front wheel is preferably 20 inches and the rear wheel 12 inches, and in the balance bike of type 2020, the front and rear wheels are preferably both 20 inches. The handlebar is advantageously arranged perpendicular to the front fork. According to a highly preferred embodiment, which is of particular importance within the scope of the invention, the saddle assembly is attached to the base frame via a detachable screw clamp connection. Preferably, the screw clamp connection can be manufactured using at least two fastening elements, which, in the attached state of the saddle assembly, bear against two opposite sides of the footboard base frame in a force-fit manner.

[0017] Here, "force-fit" means that the two fastening elements cannot be moved or displaced relative to the base frame without loosening the clamping connection. According to a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the saddle assembly is attached to the base frame by at least two fastening plates, wherein, in the fastened state of the saddle assembly, a first fastening plate encompasses the base frame and a second fastening plate encompasses the base frame below, and wherein both fastening plates grip the base frame between them in a force-fit manner. "Force-fit grip" here also means that the two fastening plates cannot be moved or displaced relative to the base frame without loosening the screw clamping connection. It is within the scope of the invention that the fastening plates form the clamping elements. Since the base frame consists of three rods or...If the base frame consists of tubular rods, the first mounting plate advantageously encompasses the three rods, and the second mounting plate advantageously encompasses the three rods of the base frame. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the screw clamp connection can be established by tightening four screw elements. Tightening these screw elements advantageously achieves a force-fit connection between the two mounting elements and the base frame. The saddle assembly is preferably oriented vertically or substantially vertically. Advantageously, the saddle assembly is arranged orthogonally or substantially orthogonally to the base frame. According to a highly preferred embodiment, which is of particular importance within the scope of the invention, the saddle is height-adjustable.

[0018] For this purpose, the saddle construction is advantageously designed to be length-adjustable. In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the saddle construction is telescopic. In one embodiment, the saddle construction can consist of two telescopic metal rods. It is also within the scope of the invention that the seat or saddle is adjustable relative to the saddle construction. In this way, various angles can be achieved between the saddle construction and the seat or saddle. The invention is based on the realization that the balance bike according to the invention can be handled in a surprisingly comfortable and simple manner. A person can comfortably sit on the seat or saddle and effectively propel the balance bike by pushing off the ground with their feet. Of particular importance within the scope of the invention (see also page 1, Areas of Application) is that the balance bike according to the invention can be easily attached to a person.adaptable to the size of a person, in particular by allowing the distance between the saddle construction or the saddle and the handlebar to be adjusted in a very reliable manner.

[0019] Preferably, the footrest assembly consists of a foot support plate and a clamping plate. The foot support plate can be swung out from the footboard base frame to the left and right by loosening the screw clamp connection. Alternatively, the foot support plate can be left in the neutral position under the footboard. The connection between the footrest assembly and the footboard base frame can then be re-established, or the footrest assembly can be reattached to the footboard base frame.

[0020] This balance bike is preferably equipped with an electric motor. The electric drive provides assistance to the user while walking. Here, the electric motor is integrated into the 20-inch front wheel. A removable water bottle battery powers the electric motor. The battery is mounted on the single-tube connecting piece. Charging current is supplied to the battery via a separate charger. A controller, mounted in a weatherproof housing on the headset, programs the battery's power output to the electric motor. The control display with rocker switch is mounted on the handlebars. Up to five speed levels can be programmed using the control display, which also shows current status such as battery charge level, speed, and distance traveled. By pressing the thumb throttle control, also mounted on the handlebars, the circuit is closed, the electric motor is activated, and it begins to run.This throttle lever allows the speed to be regulated within the respective switching stage of the control display.

[0021] With moderate use, pedal assist, and a fully charged battery, the range is approximately 50 to 60 km, depending on personal riding style and other factors, and the selected gear level.

[0022] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing that illustrates only one embodiment. The drawing shows, in schematic representation: Fig. 1 a side view of a wheel according to the invention, Fig. 1 / E a side view of a wheel according to the invention with equipment for electric drive Fig. 2 a top view of the object according to Fig. 1 without saddle construction, saddle, foot console, but without equipment for electric drive Fig. 3 the saddle construction with saddle made of Fig. 1 in a different functional state, shown in more detail and enlarged, but without equipment for electric drive and, Fig. 4 a top view of the object according to Fig. 3 from the direction of arrows A - A, but without electric drive equipment. Fig. 5 the foot console construction made of Fig. 1 in a different functional state, shown in more detail and enlarged without electric drive equipment and, Fig. 6 a top view of the object according to Fig. 5 from the direction of arrow B, but without electric drive equipment.

[0023] The figures show a balance bike according to the invention, comprising a steering rod (1) and a front fork (2) with a front wheel (3) connected to the steering rod (1). A base linkage (4) is connected to the front fork (2) via a single-tube connecting piece (5). Advantageously, and in the exemplary embodiment, the base linkage (4) transitions into a rear fork (6). A rear wheel (7) is connected to this rear fork (6).

[0024] The base frame (4) serves as a footboard frame. Preferably, and in the exemplary embodiment, the base frame (4) consists of three tubular rods (8) extending longitudinally along the wheel. According to the invention, a saddle assembly (9) is attached to the base frame (4) via a releasable screw clamp (11), to which a seat, designed as a saddle (10) in the exemplary embodiment, is connected. After loosening the screw clamp (11), the saddle assembly (9) can be continuously displaced longitudinally along the wheel, and thus the distance of the saddle assembly (9) or the saddle (10) to the handlebar (1) or to the front fork (2) can be adjusted. This is in Fig. 1 indicated by a double arrow. This highly stable saddle construction (9) with the force-fit screw clamp connection (11) eliminates the need for a stabilizing support strut, which would prevent stepless movement of the saddle construction (9) on the footboard base frame (4). In a highly preferred embodiment and in the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the saddle construction (9) is attached to the base frame (4) via a detachable screw clamp connection (11). The screw clamp connection (11) is preferably, and in the exemplary embodiment, manufactured using two mounting plates (12), (13), which, when the saddle construction (9) is attached, bear force-fit against two opposite sides of the base frame (4).In the fixed state of the saddle construction (9), the first mounting plate (12) covers the three tubes (8) of the base frame (4) and the second mounting plate covers the three tubes (8) of the base frame (4). Fig. 1. In this process, both mounting plates (12), (13) forcefully engage the three tubes (8) of the base rod (4) between them.

[0025] In the fixed state, the base linkage (4) is thus clamped between the two mounting plates (12), (13). Preferably, and in the exemplary embodiment, the clamping connection or the fixed state of the saddle assembly (9) is achieved by tightening four screws (14). Particular attention is paid to the Fig. 3 referred to. The screws (14) pass through the upper mounting plate (12) and can be screwed into the threaded sleeves (15), which are fixed to the clamping plate (13), preferably welded on. By screwing the screws (14) into the threaded sleeves (15), the mounting plates (12), (13) move closer together and clamp the three tubular rods (8) of the base frame (4) between them, so that the saddle assembly (9) is securely attached to the base frame (4). In the exemplary embodiment, the upper mounting plate (12) is also fixed to the saddle assembly (9) by welding. According to a highly preferred embodiment and in the exemplary embodiment, the seat or saddle (10) is height-adjustable. For this purpose, the saddle assembly (9) is telescopically designed in the exemplary embodiment. Fig. 3. An upper seat post section (16) is telescopically extendable into a lower seat post section (17). Both saddle construction parts (16), (17) are expediently made of metal rods and are preferably designed as tubular rods. Fig. 3. Furthermore, a locking element (18) is visible, with which the upper seat post part (16) can be fixed in a specific position or at a specific saddle height. In the Fig. Figure 3 also indicates a fixing element (19) with which the saddle (10) is fixed to the seat post assembly (9) or to the upper seat post part (16). It is within the scope of the invention that, after loosening this fixing element (19), the position or angle of the saddle relative to the saddle assembly (9) is adjustable.

[0026] The Fig. 5 and Fig. Figure 6 shows a foot console construction (20) in a preferred embodiment in the foremost part of the footboard base frame (4) via a detachable screw clamp connection (25). This construction is preferably, and in the exemplary embodiment, manufactured using the clamping plate (21) and the foot support plate (22), both of which, in the fastened state, bear against two opposite sides of the base frame (4) in a force-fit manner. In the fastened state of the foot console construction (20), the clamping plate (21) encompasses the three tubes (8) of the base frame (4), and the foot support plate (22) encompasses the three tubes (8) of the base frame (4). Fig. 1. In this process, both plates (21), (22) forcefully engage the three tubular rods (8) of the base linkage (4) between them. Preferably, and in the exemplary embodiment, the clamping connection (25) of the foot console assembly (20) is made by tightening a screw (23). Particular attention is paid to the Fig. 5 referred to. The screw (23) passes through the upper clamping plate (21) and can be screwed into the threaded sleeve (24), which is fixed to the foot support plate (22), preferably welded on. By screwing the screw (23) into the threaded sleeve (24), the plates (21) and (22) move closer together and clamp the three tubular rods (8) of the base frame (4) between them, so that the foot console assembly (20) is reliably and forcefully attached to the base frame (4).

[0027] The Fig.Figure 1 / E shows the electric motor (A) integrated into the 20-inch front wheel (3). A removable water bottle battery (B) powers the electric motor. The battery is mounted on the single-tube connecting piece (5). Charging current is supplied to the battery via a separate charger. A controller (D), mounted in a weatherproof housing on the headset (E), regulates and programs the battery's power output to the electric motor. The control display (F) with rocker switch is mounted on the handlebars (1). Up to five speed levels can be programmed using the control display, which also shows current status such as battery charge level, speed, and distance traveled. By pressing the thumb throttle potentiometer (G), mounted on the handlebars (1), the circuit is closed, the electric motor is activated, and it begins to run. The throttle can then be used to control the speed within the respective speed setting displayed on the control display.

[0028] With moderate use, pedal assist, and a fully charged battery, the range is approximately 50 to 60 km, depending on personal riding style and other factors, and the selected gear level.

Claims

[1] Wheel, comprising a steering rod (1) and a front fork (2) adjoining the steering rod (1) with a front wheel (3) and a base frame (4) connected to the front fork (2), which base frame (4) receives a rear wheel (7) on an adjoining rear fork (6), wherein at least one saddle construction (9) is attached to the base frame (4) via a releasable screw clamp connection (11), to which saddle construction (9) a saddle 10 is connected and wherein the saddle construction (9) is infinitely displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the wheel after loosening the screw clamp connection (11) and thus the distance of the saddle construction (9) or the saddle 10 to the steering rod (1) is infinitely adjustable.This highly stable saddle construction (9) with the force-locking screw clamp connection (11) eliminates the need for a stabilizing support strut, which would preclude stepless movement of the saddle construction (9) on the footboard base frame (4). [2] Wheel according to claim 1, wherein the base linkage (4) consists of three rods (8) extending in the longitudinal direction of the wheel. [3] Wheel according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the saddle construction (9) is attached to the base rod (4) via a detachable screw clamp connection (11). [4] Wheel according to claim 3, wherein the screw clamp connection (11) can be produced using at least two fastening elements, which two fastening elements bear against two opposite sides of the base rod (4) in the fixed state of the saddle construction (9). [5] Wheel according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the saddle construction (9) is attached to the base frame (4) by at least two mounting plates (12, 13), wherein in the fixed state of the saddle construction (9) a first mounting plate (12) encompasses the base frame (4) and a second mounting plate (13) encompasses the base frame (4) and wherein both mounting plates (12, 13) forcefully engage the base frame (4) between them. [6] Impeller according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the screw clamp connection (11) can be produced by tightening four screw elements (14). [7] Wheel according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the saddle (10) is height-adjustable. [8] Wheel according to claim 7, wherein the saddle construction (9) is telescopically designed. [9] Wheel according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the foot console construction (20) is attached to the base frame (4) via a detachable screw clamp connection (25), wherein in the attached state the foot console construction (20) has a first clamping plate (21) encompassing the base frame (4) and a second foot support plate (22) encompassing the base frame (4) and wherein both plates (21, 22) have a force-fit connection between them and the base frame (4). [10] Impeller according to one of claim 9 wherein the screw clamp connection (25) can be produced by tightening a screw element (23). [11] Wheel according to one of claims 9 to 10, wherein the foot support plate (22) can be pivoted out to the left and right side of the base linkage (4), or the foot support plate (22) can be left in neutral position under the base linkage (4). [12] Wheel as according to claims 1 to 11, according to Fig.1 / E with electric motor drive, here the electric motor (A) is laced into the 20-inch front wheel (3). A removable water bottle battery (B) supplies the electric motor with power. The battery is mounted on the single-tube connecting piece (5). The charging current is supplied to the battery via a separate charger. The power output of the battery to the electric motor is programmed by means of a controller (D), which is mounted in a weatherproof housing on the headset (E). The control display (F) with rocker switch function is mounted on the handlebar (1). Up to five speed levels can be programmed with the control display and shows current status such as battery charge level, riding speed, and distance traveled. By actuating (pressing) the thumb throttle potentiometer (G), mounted on the handlebar (1), the circuit is closed, the electric motor is activated, and it begins to run.The throttle lever can therefore be used to regulate the speed within the respective switching stage of the control display. With moderate use, pedal assist, and a fully charged battery, the range is approximately 50 to 60 km, depending on personal riding style and other factors, and the selected gear level.

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