A vehicle associated with a cycle that allows all people, even those with disabilities, to cycle side by side and create connections.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sidecar structure (3) attached to a bicycle (4). It allows the passenger (1) to engage in physical activity tailored to their needs. Their efforts will be desynchronized from those of the cyclist (2). They will nevertheless contribute to the vehicle's movement. The cyclist (2) will also be able to manage the power provided by their passenger (1). The structure can be installed on a bicycle for outdoor rides. Together, the two users will be able to ride side-by-side and build a connection.

Description

Title of the invention: A vehicle associated with a bicycle enabling all people, including those with disabilities, to cycle side-by-side and create connections. TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle associated with a cycle. Said vehicle is designed to accommodate all persons, including those with disabilities. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A bicycle is a human-powered and / or electrically powered vehicle equipped with a pedal system. The pedal system allows a person to generate a rotational movement and drive a wheel to move. The person is also called a cyclist.

[0003] The bicycle requires the user to have good balance and ease of movement during mounting and use: it is not intended for use by persons with disabilities. Using the bicycle requires training.

[0004] Furthermore, during a journey, exchanges between cyclists can become difficult and dangerous. It is difficult to ride side by side and at the same speed.

[0005] Although the term "bicycle" refers to a vehicle with two wheels, similar vehicles may have a different number of wheels. These modifications can allow for the transport of several passengers. Since the structure of these vehicles does not always facilitate oral transmission and physical activity by the various parts, several possibilities exist: • Bicycles such as taxi bikes, carrier bikes or cargo bikes • tandem-type bicycles • Sidecar-type structures for bicycles

[0006] Bicycles of the type bicycle taxis, carrier bicycles or cargo bicycles, are vehicles designed according to the same principle: There is the driver and the passenger(s).

[0007] The problem is as follows: the passengers are comfortably seated, but are not active participants in the movement. Furthermore, they are positioned in such a way that their backs are to the driver. These vehicles do not facilitate the oral and kinetic communication necessary for the vehicle's forward motion between passengers.

[0008] Tandem bicycles also exist. The riders, seated one behind the other, pedal to provide a collective effort that propels the vehicle forward. The cyclists can talk to each other, but they are positioned one behind the other, which is not very sociable.

[0009] Moreover, the installation is not simple. One has to climb onto the bicycle and be able to balance on a saddle while pedaling in a traditional and synchronized manner.

[0010] If the situation arises, there are also sidecar-type structures for bicycles. Although the term “sidecar” refers to a motorcycle, it can also be designed for a bicycle. The sidecar is a box-like structure with a side wheel on one side and a bicycle on the other. The two units are often custom-designed, requiring bespoke construction and not always demountable. The cyclist and the passenger of the sidecar can be positioned side-by-side: one on the bicycle and the other inside the box.

[0011] For example, invention no. FR2741036: the person seated in the sidecar is not always in a comfortable position: the very low seat makes it unsuitable for a person with a disability. Furthermore, the sidecar does not always have a physical means to assist in moving the entire assembly. The effort is exerted by the user seated on the bicycle: the driver or the cyclist.

[0012] Another possibility is a pedal assembly installed in the sidecar and connected to its wheel (for example, publication FR9703805). However, in practice, it is difficult to steer a vehicle in a straight line when the driver cannot control the rotational speed of the wheels. The energy supplied by the passenger's wheel in the sidecar can destabilize the entire assembly. It can be difficult for a passenger with physical disabilities to pedal throughout the journey at a pace dictated by the cyclist, which is problematic for proper synchronization. Furthermore, this invention involves adjusting the force exerted relative to a chain-sprocket torque, which may prove difficult for inexperienced individuals. The concept of pedaling with a crank assembly is also mentioned; this movement may be incompatible with a seat for children, a person undergoing rehabilitation, or someone with disabilities.

[0013] The present invention aims to address the problems previously mentioned. It relates to a structure attached to a bicycle. This structure allows the passenger to engage in physical activity tailored to their needs. Their efforts will be desynchronized from those of the cyclist. The passenger will nevertheless contribute to the movement of the bicycle. The cyclist will also be able to manage the power provided by their passenger. The structure can be installed on a bicycle for outdoor rides. Together, the two users will be able to ride side-by-side and build a connection. GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The invention is a sidecar intended to be attached to a cycle or bicycle type vehicle accommodating a driver, comprising at least one wheel and a chassis capable of accommodating at least one user providing muscular effort, characterized in that the muscular effort of the user is transformed into electrical energy.

[0015] Electrical energy is stored in a battery, capacitor or other on-board storage system.

[0016] Electrical energy is used to assist the advancement of the entire coupling, via the power supply of an electric assist motor turning at least one wheel.

[0017] The sidecar can be fixed reversibly and adaptably to all types of bicycle, allowing the use of existing bicycles.

[0018] The user is seated comfortably and safely on an ergonomic seat which can be replaced by a wheelchair, an adapted seat for example a shell seat, a child seat.

[0019] The user performs his effort using at least one of his lower limbs and / or at least one of his upper limbs.

[0020] The sidecar is equipped with a roof and a windshield to secure and protect the user while allowing good visibility of his surroundings.

[0021] The sidecar includes movable armrests, facilitating the user's installation and support.

[0022] The chassis is provided with storage and fixing space for mobility aids (cane, walker, ...).

[0023] At least one support leg can be installed on the chassis to increase its stability.

[0024] The invention also relates to a vehicle of the cycle or bicycle type with a side-mounted attachment with a sidecar like the one above. Brief description of the drawings

[0025] The invention will be better understood and other features and advantages will become more apparent upon reading the description given below by way of purely illustrative and non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0026] Fig. 1: Diagram of the assembly's operation, top view

[0027] The [Fig.2]: operational flowchart

[0028] Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6 show a sidecar according to the invention, represented successively in

[0029] [Fig.3]: Isometric perspective

[0030] [Fig.4]: Front view

[0031] [Fig.5]: side view

[0032] [Fig.6] : top view.

[0033] DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0034] The present invention relates to a device laterally attached to a bicycle (4), rolling frame (17), forming a vehicle with at least three wheels. It allows for at least two users, each contributing differently to the vehicle's propulsion, thus giving importance to each participant. In this description, these users will be distinguished as two types: a "driver" who will pilot the bicycle-type vehicle (also called a cyclist, for example); and a "passenger" who will be the passenger in the sidecar.

[0035] The said vehicle is adaptable to all types of bicycle (4) allowing the use of existing bicycle (4).

[0036] The device can also be welded, thereby creating a new vehicle.

[0037] The configuration of the various components is organized in such a way that the primary use of the vehicle is to make cycling accessible while promoting communication and transmission. This can also be summarized as follows: • Leisure and tourism use is facilitated by the vehicle's stability • Use for rehabilitation purposes for people with disabilities or a disability to improve their autonomy and quality of life by minimizing the impact of this disability or with the aim of recovering their functional abilities. • Use of prevention and encouragement aimed at isolated people to enable them to engage in supervised physical activity and maintain their independence. • Use of therapy to boost the passenger's self-esteem by restoring their confidence through an outing. This empowers them by involving them in the movement of the vehicle. It also benefits the cyclist, who feels valued and responsible for having a passenger.

[0038] This sidecar (3) is designed to accommodate people with disabilities: elderly people, people with disabilities, people in rehabilitation, people with visual impairments... It can also accommodate children and adults who wish to ride side by side.

[0039] The frame (17) is attached laterally to the bicycle (4) to facilitate exchange between the two users; it can be attached to either side of the bicycle (4). However, it is preferably attached to the sidewalk side when the bicycle is to be ridden on a public road. Alternatively, two devices, one on each side, could be installed.

[0040] The mounting system (6) is simple and robust. The bicycle (4) can be mounted at a slight angle to the vertical, in the direction of the sidecar (3), to facilitate handling and improve the stability of the assembly. The length of the chassis (17) must not restrict the rotation of the handlebars of the bicycle (4) during riding. The width of the assembly must be The preference is to allow for use on a cycle path, and the frame height (17) is as low as possible to facilitate user access, but high enough to clear a speed bump, i.e., a minimum height of 10 cm. In some cases, the height may also be the same as that of the sidewalks to facilitate mounting and dismounting.

[0041] One of the advantages of this sidecar (3) is the positioning of its occupant: He will be able to get in easily. The various mobility difficulties have been taken into account.

[0042] Therefore, the seat (7) is as high as possible so that the sidecar user (1) can sit down or stand up with minimal effort. This means a height of between 60 centimeters and 1.1 meters from the ground.

[0043] The backrest supports the back and must not interfere with wearing a helmet.

[0044] The seat depth (7) should ideally be between 35 and 60 centimeters to allow for a comfortable position for exerting effort and to maintain good stability. The position is ergonomic to be adapted to the user's needs (1).

[0045] To facilitate installation or maintenance, the seat (7) can be pivoted forward or to the sides. The seat (7) is equipped with a safety harness to prevent any risk of falling.

[0046] In case of significant physical impairment, the seat (7) can be replaced by a wheelchair or a more suitable seat, for example a shell seat.

[0047] The armrests (9) are movable and can pivot, facilitating the user's position and support when boarding the sidecar (1). They are also adjustable to each user's height via a sliding mechanism that increases or decreases their length. The armrests (9) are equipped with a tilting handle, allowing the user to hold on during the journey if needed.

[0048] The sidecar (3) can be fitted with a roof (12) providing protection for the user (1); it can be in the open or closed position to adapt to the external environment: sun, rain, wind...

[0049] A windscreen (13) can be provided on the front of the sidecar (3) to secure the user (1) while allowing him good visibility of his surroundings.

[0050] Another advantage of the invention is the participation of the sidecar user (1) in the overall movement: They will contribute to the movement by using their physical energy. The effort exerted through a mechanical system (5) will power an electric generator, which will supply electrical energy. The mechanical system is therefore not directly connected to the wheels. This independence will allow the force and duration of the effort to be adapted to the sidecar user (1). They will not be dependent on the vehicle's forward motion. They will not be obliged to perform an effort throughout the journey. The effort can be made by the lower or upper limbs, in the form of a circular, helical and / or back and forth movement, allowing the body parts to be worked gently.

[0051] The force transformed into energy by the electric generator will be stored in a battery (16) or other storage system and / or used directly by the motor(s) (15). One of the motors will power the wheel (8) of the sidecar (3), the other the wheel of the bicycle (4). The rotational speed of the wheels will be controlled by the bicycle rider (2) by means of a throttle grip, a button, and / or another activation method. The bicycle rider (2) retains control over the speed and synchronization of the wheels.

[0052] The alternator can also be used to recharge the bicycle battery, as well as the battery of other electronic devices and to power the lighting of the sidecar (11) as well as the dashboard or the communication elements with a mobile application.

[0053] The sidecar (3) can also be used without a bicycle (4). It is then stationary and used to encourage and promote physical exercise (like an exercise bike) or for the use or electrical charging of elements external to it (stationary generator function).

[0054] Since the brakes of the bicycle are not sufficient to brake the sidecar (3) and its user (1), at least one wheel (8) of the sidecar can be provided with a braking system (14) controlled by the driver of the bicycle (2).

[0055] This ability to perform a movement that contributes to the overall progress will enhance the user's sense of purpose (1) and give them a feeling of usefulness, as they will have a role to play in the movement of the vehicle. This practice will allow them to engage in physical activity tailored to their fitness level, improving their health and mobility, all while being protected from the elements.

[0056] Another advantage of this is that it is accompanied, allowing the two users to create a bond during the journey, combating the isolation of people with disabilities considered less active in our society.

[0057] A dashboard displaying important elements related to travel such as the energy expenditure of the sidecar user (1), their physical condition, the speed of travel or the battery level (16) of the sidecar will also enhance their effort safely.

[0058] These elements can also be made available via a mobile application communicating with the sidecar (3).

[0059] The sidecar user (1) may be equipped with mobility aids such as a cane, a walker, a wheelchair, or other. These mobility aids must be able to be securely attached to the sidecar frame (17) (3) by means of fasteners, clips, sleeves, or other fastening systems. The sidecar user car (1) will also be able to deposit his personal belongings as well as those of the bicycle driver (2) in a dedicated space allowing them to be transported safely.

[0060] At least one support, for example a kickstand (10), can be installed on the sidecar frame (17) to increase stability and secure the installation or removal of each passenger. The support(s) also facilitate and secure storage when the frame (17) is no longer attached to the bicycle (4).

[0061] For better visibility, reflective devices may be placed on the sidecar (3).

[0062] To secure the device when not in use, it can also be fitted with an anti-theft device.

[0063] Definition of terms: • Sidecar user (1): Can also be called passenger, child, patient, person with reduced mobility, assisted person, sidecar occupant, user. They may be alone or in a group and will be positioned on the sidecar chassis. • Bicycle driver (2): He / She can also be called cyclist, helper, accompanying person, he / she will be positioned on the bicycle. • Sidecar (3): A sidecar is an attachment to a bicycle that can carry one or more passengers. It can also be called a vehicle because, unlike existing sidecars, it is motorized. It can also be a vehicle in its own right. • Bicycle (4): It can be motorized or not and be called a cycle or bicycle. • Mechanical system (5): It allows the user to receive their physical effort. It can also be called a crankset, although we are talking about an adapted crankset which will not necessarily correspond to a circular force like traditional cranksets. • Fixing system (6): It can be removable or permanent depending on the version offered. • Seat (7): called seat to differentiate it from the bicycle saddle. • Kickstand (10): fixed element on the chassis that adds a point of stability Additional. When the vehicle is stopped.

[0064] List of reference signs: • Sidecar user (1) • Bicycle rider (2) • Sidecar (3) • Bicycle (4) • Mechanical system (5) • fastening system (6) • Seating (7) • Wheel(s) (8) • Armrests (9) • Crutch (10) • Sidecar lighting (11) • Roof (12) • Windshield (13) • braking system (14) • engine(s) (15) • Battery(s) (16) • Chassis (17)

Claims

Demands

1. Sidecar (3) intended to be attached to a cycle or bicycle type vehicle (4) accommodating a driver (2), comprising at least one wheel (8) and a chassis (17) capable of accommodating at least one user (1) providing muscular effort, characterized in that a mechanical system (5) can receive the muscular effort of the user (1) and operate an electric generator.

2. Sidecar (3) according to claim 1, characterized in that electrical energy is stored in a battery (16), capacitor or other on-board storage system.

3. Sidecar (3) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that electrical energy is used to assist the advancement of the entire coupling, via the power supply of an electric assist motor (15) turning at least one wheel (8).

4. Sidecar (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it can be fixed reversibly and adaptably to all types of bicycle (4), allowing the use of existing bicycles (4).

5. Sidecar (3) characterized in that it is equipped with an ergonomic seat (7) on which the user (1) can sit safely, this being replaceable by a wheelchair, an adapted seat for example a shell seat, a child seat.

6. Sidecar (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mechanical system (5) is an adapted pedal assembly corresponding to a circular, helical and / or back-and-forth effort, enabling the user to use his lower or upper limbs.

7. Sidecar (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is provided with a roof (12) and a windscreen (13) to secure and protect the user (1) while allowing him good visibility of his surroundings.

8. Sidecar (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chassis (17) is provided with storage and attachment points for mobility aids (cane, walker, ...).

9. A cycle or bicycle-type vehicle, characterized in that it is laterally coupled with a sidecar according to any one of the preceding claims

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