Electric roller skates

Abstract

The invention represents a pair of motorized roller skates that are steered like an electric skateboard, of small dimensions, characterized by a front axle block (200) allowing turning without lifting the foot, a rear wheel assembly (400) integrating the motor, both mounted on shock absorbers (100), a foot securing device (500) consisting of adjustable straps and a heel lock to adapt to the skater's shoe size, and a cavity in the frame (300) integrating the battery and the motor and light controller; a remote control completes the invention for controlling and synchronizing the motors. Figure to be published for the abstract: Figure 0

Description

Title of the invention: Electric roller skates technical field

[0001] The present invention is in the field of motorized personal mobility devices (PMDs).

[0002] It allows you to move in a straight line, to turn or to pass over sidewalks without effort or skating movement, with a sensation of "gliding".

[0003] The invention is halfway between roller skates (“quad rollers” in English) and electric skateboards (“e-skateboard” in English). Previous technique

[0004] There are currently many types of EDPM; in the field of the invention, these are motorized roller skates or skateboards.

[0005] There are currently several types of electric roller skates:

[0006] Electric inline roller skates: These have at least three fixed wheels on the same axis (the direction of travel), with the motor integrated into one of the wheels. Each skate weighs approximately 3 kg and is quite bulky due to the integrated boot (approximately 48 cm high, 13 cm wide, and 30 cm long). The following patent is found: WO2023-285566 (Mohamed SOLIMAN).

[0007] Quad electric roller skates: the 4 wheels are distributed on two parallel and fixed axes. Generally, these models do not include shoes and their weight is typically in the range of 2 to 2.5 kg. Examples include the following patents: EP4225455 (Mattéo BARENGHI), WO2022-087241 (Shift Robotics).

[0008] Electric roller skates of the walking type ("walkers" in English): devices that increase walking speed (2.5 times), requiring the skater to actively walk; they weigh approximately 2.4 kg and are reasonably sized, as they do not require additional footwear. Examples include the following patents: EP3980144 (Rollkers), EP4121181 (Shalom Hoffman).

[0009] Electric skateboards come in many types: their weight varies from 4 kg for the simplest models to 18 kg for longboards, and their dimensions range from 75 cm to 120 cm in length, 25 cm to 40 cm in width, and 12 cm to 28 cm in height. Their weight and dimensions allow them to achieve good range or high speeds.

[0010] Numerous patents describe these devices, accompanied by many inventions that improve specific aspects; but always remaining within their original category and therefore retaining its drawbacks. Technical problem

[0011] The main drawback of inline or quad roller skates, whether electric or not, lies in their longitudinal movement; that is, the wheel axles are parallel and fixed. Therefore, when changing direction, it is necessary to lift the skates several times to adjust the trajectory, thus losing the feeling of gliding. Furthermore, most roller skates have an integrated boot (requiring a second pair of shoes when stopped). For some others, the battery, worn on the belt, is connected to the skates by a cable, creating a risk of snagging.

[0012] Because of the inclination required to turn with inline roller skates, learning or very good balance is necessary.

[0013] Walking skates do not allow the sensation of gliding (since it is necessary to walk), do not have significant autonomy and require physical activity from the skater.

[0014] The electric skateboard has several disadvantages: a. The need to jump to get over an obstacle (sidewalks for example); b. Large dimensions imply complicated carrying (bulkiness), particularly on public transport; c. The weight, related to the different elements that make up the device: wooden or resin board, motor(s), gears, battery...

[0015] Another disadvantage of all these EDPMs is the weakness of the shock absorbers; this induces a direct transmission of road imperfections (hole, cobblestone...) and vibrations related to rolling. Technical solution

[0016] The solution, represented in [Fig.0], is based on a pair of motorized roller skates, controlled by a remote control incorporating the following innovations: a. A shock absorber (100) on the front axle block (200) and on the rear axle (400); b. A front axle block (200) allowing easy changes of direction without lifting the foot; c. A reduced footprint of the chassis of the invention (300) (approximately: 10cm high, 12cm wide and 33cm long) and a limited weight (approximately 2.2kg); d. The use of a motor integrated into the rear wheel (400); e. Foot support adaptable to the skater's shoe size (500);

[0017] According to a first embodiment, shown in [Fig. 1C], the shock absorber (100) is positioned between the front axle assembly (200) and the chassis of the invention (300). It replaces the traditional polyurethane cushion ("pad") used for skateboards. It consists of a thicker layer of thermoplastic polyurethane (or any other material having the same properties) and comprises Heat-set threaded inserts (102A and 102B) are used. The thickness and composition of the pad (101) improve shock absorption from the road. Grooves on the upper surface create an air cushion effect by compressing the air within them. As shown in [Fig. 1A], four threaded inserts (102A) are integrated on the upper surface to attach the shock absorber (100) to the chassis (300); on the opposite surface, four more threaded inserts (102B) are present to attach the shock absorber (100) to the axle assembly (200). The threaded inserts (102A) on one side of the pad are not in contact with the threaded inserts (102B) on the other side of the pad, as shown in [Fig. 1B]; the inserts on one side are aligned with the inserts on the other side. The length of the screws is adjusted to the length of the inserts so that they are not in contact from one side to the other.The threaded inserts on either side of the shock absorber, not being in contact with each other, allow the front truck (200) to be isolated from the chassis (300). This shock absorber absorbs road irregularities and eliminates rolling vibrations. Two additional inserts per side ensure complete compatibility with standard dimensions of both "Old School" and "New School" trucks, as shown [Fig. 1A]. One manufacturing method is 3D printing with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filament. The properties of polyurethane, combined with the thickness of the pad, facilitate changes of direction.

[0018] According to another embodiment, shown in [Fig. 1F], the shock absorber (100-Bis) is a variant of the first shock absorber (100), in that the axis of the threaded inserts (102A) on the upper face of the shock absorber is no longer aligned with the threaded inserts (102B) on the opposite face. This allows for a thinner layer of polyurethane and a lower chassis ground clearance. According to [Fig. 1D], the additional inserts are also present for both types of axle block (Old school and New school).

[0019] According to a first embodiment, shown in [Fig. 2B], the front axle assembly (200) rests on an assembly of bushings (203, 209) and washers (208, 210) on a kingpin (207). This entire assembly is fixed to the base (201) and terminates with a self-locking nut (211). This axle assembly consists of a standard skateboard base (201), along with a portion of the steering mechanism (203, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211) and a roller skate axle (204). The roller skate axle (204) is sandwiched between the bushings (203 and 209). It is the point perpendicular to the axle axis (pivot) that allows for complete rotation. The reduced wheel axle size allows for a narrow width (11cm).Two inline roller skate type wheels (202) are assembled on the axle (204) with four flat washers (205) ("speed ring" in English), allowing to reduce the . The wheel ball bearings and two self-locking nuts (206) minimize friction to maintain a compact size. The two front wheels provide greater stability compared to inline roller skates. The nut (211) allows adjustment of the pressure required on the frame to rotate the invention, depending on the skater's weight.

[0020] Another embodiment of the front axle block (200-Bis), shown in [Fig. 2C], facilitates changing direction by means of a biconical sleeve (203-Bis), according to [Fig. 2D]; it is made of a semi-rigid material (thermoplastic polyurethane: TPU); the axle (204-Bis) passes through it and isolates it from the base (201-Bis). The sleeve (203-Bis) has a boss at each end to accommodate the outside diameter of the flat washers (205). The axle (204-Bis) holds the four flat washers (205), the two inline roller wheels (202), and the sleeve (203-Bis). The sleeve (203-Bis) is breakable in the middle and each part is positioned on either side of the base (201-Bis). When the skater presses on one side of the skate, it will deform the sleeve (203-Bis) and change the direction of the wheel, shown in [Fig.2E] and [Fig.2F].The flexibility and filling rate of the sleeve can be adjusted to suit the user's weight. Because the connection between the axle (243-Bis) and the base (201-Bis) is no longer rigid, vibrations are also reduced.

[0021] According to a first embodiment, shown in [Fig. 3B], the brushless motor integrated into the rear wheel (402), of the type used on electric skateboards, eliminates the need for a chain or gears. Its 55 mm width helps maintain the stability of the invention. Preferably, the motor provides a maximum power of 300 watts. A specific fork (401), shown in [Fig. 3C], secures the motor using a retaining axle (403) and a self-locking nut (404). It includes a cube that prevents the motor from rotating. The fork (401) is attached to the shock absorber (100) with four screws. Covers (405) on each side of the motor protect the cable connecting it to the controller and the fork, thus improving the aesthetics of the invention. The shock absorber (100) is itself fixed to the chassis (300) by means of four other screws.It helps to absorb road irregularities and eliminate vibrations from the rear axle bearing.

[0022] According to [Fig. 4C], the use of two simple adjustable straps on the frame, of the "VELCRO®" type, fastened with quick-release fasteners (502) and (503), according to the embodiment, along with a heel-locking device (501), allows the foot to be held effectively for navigating obstacles. The first strap immobilizes the toe and the second supports the ankle. The heel lock (501) at the upper rear of the frame allows the invention to be adapted to the skater's shoe size from 36 to 46, shown in [Fig. 4C]; this lock folds down. to save space during transport or storage of the invention [Fig.4D],

[0023] According to another embodiment of the foot fixings, the "VELCRO®" bands are replaced by elastic bands.

[0024] According to [Fig. 4A], the motor controller (303) and the battery (304), equipped with its own control system (BMS), are integrated into a cavity in the chassis (301) between the front axle assembly (200) and the rear axle (400), closed by a cover (302). Preferably, the battery provides a voltage of 24 volts; it is constructed from seven rechargeable Lithium-Ion 21700 batteries connected in series (7S1P). This allows for a compact size (approximately 330 mm x 120 mm x 10 mm). This small footprint facilitates easy transport.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the battery, it is composed of 7 Lithium-Ion 16850 type accumulators, connected in series (7S1P). This makes it possible to reduce the weight of the invention.

[0026] According to a first embodiment, represented in [Fig.4B], a push button (309) on each chassis allows the motor controller to be activated or deactivated; the controllers of the pads are synchronized with a single remote control which allows the motor speed to be increased or decreased with a joystick; the remote control may have a charge indicator for each battery as well as the possibility of defining the speed range.

[0027] One variant of the invention consists of replacing the remote control by integrating pressure sensors on the upper part of the chassis; if the skater leans forward, the front sensors are activated and the motor accelerates, if the skater straightens up or leans back, the rear sensors are triggered and the motor slows down.

[0028] According to a first embodiment, shown in [Fig.4B], a switch (310) allows the two white lights at the front of the chassis (307) and the red light at the rear of the chassis (308) to be turned on and off; the wiring of the assembly is integrated into the cavity containing the battery (304) and the controller (303).

[0029] One variant of the invention consists of activating the front and rear lights upon detection of pressure on sensors on the upper surface of the chassis.

[0030] The socket (311) allows the battery to be recharged. A Y-cable allows both skates to be connected simultaneously to a single charger. Description of the drawings

[0031] Other advantages, purposes and specific features will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] [Fig.O] represents the exploded view of the main elements of the invention, according to a first embodiment.

[0033] [Fig.IA] represents the exploded view of the shock absorber (100), according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0034] [Fig.1B] represents the cavalier perspective view of the shock absorber (100), according to a first embodiment

[0035] [Fig.1C] represents the perspective view of the shock absorber assembly (100), according to a first embodiment

[0036] [Fig.lD] represents the exploded view of the shock absorber (100-Bis), according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0037] [Fig.1E] represents the cavalier perspective view of the shock absorber (100-Bis), according to a second embodiment

[0038] [Fig. 1F] shows the perspective view of the shock absorber assembly (100-Bis), according to a second embodiment

[0039] [Fig.2A] represents the perspective view of the front axle block (200), according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0040] [Fig.2B] represents the exploded view of a first particular embodiment of the front axle block (200) of the invention.

[0041] [Fig.2C] represents the perspective view of a second particular embodiment of the front axle block (200-Bis) of the invention.

[0042] [Fig.2D] represents the exploded view of a second particular embodiment of the front axle block (200-Bis) of the invention.

[0043] [Fig.2E] represents the front view of the second particular embodiment of the front axle block (200-Bis) of the invention, when the user exerts a force on one side of the invention.

[0044] [Fig.2F] represents the front view of the second particular embodiment of the front axle (204-Bis) and the rubber (203-Bis) of the invention, when the user exerts a force on one side of the invention.

[0045] [Fig.3A] represents the perspective view of the rear train (400), according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0046] [Fig.3B] represents the exploded view of a first particular embodiment of the rear axle (400) of the invention.

[0047] [Fig.3C] represents the cavalier perspective view according to a particular embodiment of the fork (401) of the rear axle (400) of the invention.

[0048] [Fig.4A] represents the exploded view of the chassis (300), according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0049] [Fig.4B] represents the right rear perspective view of a first particular embodiment of the chassis (300) of the invention.

[0050] [Fig.4C] represents the perspective view of the fastening devices (500), according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

[0051] [Fig.4D] represents the perspective view of the chassis with the heel block (501) in a horizontal position, according to a particular embodiment of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. A motorized personal mobility device comprising a pair of motorized skates. Each skate includes: a. One shock absorber for the front axle block and a second for the rear axle; b. One front axle block; cd. One chassis; One rear axle; e. Two adjustable fastening straps on the chassis and a heel block; f. Two white lights at the front of the chassis and one red light at the rear of the chassis, controlled by a switch; g. A push button, to activate or deactivate the motor controller and a socket for recharging the battery using a charger.

2. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1 characterized by a shock absorber (100) composed of a block (101) and threaded inserts (102A and 102B).

3. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 2 characterized in that: a. The pad (101) is made of a semi-rigid material, manufactured using a first method involving 3D printing with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filament. b. The thickness and composition of the pad (101) improve the absorption of shocks from the road. c. The thickness and compositional properties of the shock absorber allow it to be compressed to facilitate changes of direction. d. The upper surface of the pad (101) has grooves that create an air cushion effect, thus increasing vibration absorption.

4. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 2 characterized in that: a. The threaded inserts are heat-fixed (102A and 102B) in the block (101). b. The positioning of the threaded inserts (102A) and (102B) allows for the fixing of "Old school" type bases and "New school" type bases. c. According to a first mode in that the threaded inserts (102A) of the upper face of the block (101) are in the same axis as the threaded inserts (102B) of the opposite face and are not in contact with each other. d. According to another method, in that the axis of the threaded inserts on the upper face (102A) of the block (101-Bis) is offset from that of the threaded inserts (102B). This allows for a lower ground clearance of the chassis (300).

5. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 2 characterized in that: a. The roller skate chassis (300) is fixed by four screws (103A) in the threaded inserts (102A) and the axle block base (100) is fixed by four other screws (103B) in the threaded inserts (102B) on the opposite face. b. The screws (103A) fixing the chassis (300) to the shock absorber (100) are not in contact with the screws (103B) fixing the base of the axle block (200) to the shock absorber (100). c. The absence of rigid contact between the fixing screws stops the propagation of vibrations related to the rolling of the roller skate.

6. A motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that the front axle block (200) is an axle block (200-Bis) that facilitates changes of direction and reduces shocks related to road irregularities, composed of: a. A mounting base; b. A sleeve; c. An axle and a nut; d. Four flat washers.

7. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 6, characterized in that

8.

9.

10. a. The sleeve (203-Bis) is made of a semi-rigid material; a first method of manufacture is 3D printing with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filament. b. The sleeve (203-Bis) is biconical in shape, breakable in the middle, to position it on either side of the base (201-Bis). c. The sleeve (203-Bis) is crossed by the axle (204-Bis) and isolates it from the base (201-Bis). d. The sleeve (203-Bis) has a boss at each end to fit the outside diameter of flat washers (205). e. The mechanical characteristics of the sleeve material (203-Bis) facilitate changes of direction when the user presses on one side of the roller skate. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 7, characterized in that flat washers (205) are positioned on each side of the wheels (202) to limit friction with the ball bearings of the wheels. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 7, characterized in that the nut (206) allows the complete assembly of the different parts to be finalized. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear axle (400) is composed of the following elements: a. A specific fork; b. A motor integrated into the rear wheel; c. An axle and a nut; d. Two hubcaps.

11. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 10, characterized in that the rear wheel (402) and axle (403) are held to the shock absorber (100) by means of a specific fork (401); the fork includes a cube blocking the motor in rotation.

12. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 11, characterized in that the hubcaps (405) protect the motor cable going to the controller.

13. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that the foot support device is composed of the following elements: a. A device that blocks the heel; c. A strap that immobilizes the toe; c. A strap that supports the ankle;

14. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 13, characterized in that: a. A device (501) allows each skate to be adjusted to the skater's shoe size; position (A) corresponds to a shoe size of 36 and position (C) to a shoe size of 46. This device clips directly onto the frame (300). b. During transport of the mobility device, the device (501) pivots to lie flat against the frame (300), thus reducing the overall size of the invention. c. The straps (502) and (503) are adjustable to the shoe size using VELCRO®-type tape and fasten with a quick-release buckle.

15. A motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that all the electrical and electronic wiring is integrated into a central cavity closed by a cover (302); it comprises: a. The battery and battery control system (304); The motor controller (303); c. The front and rear light switch (310); The motor controller trigger push button (309); e. The battery charging socket (311).

16. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that the two roller skates are controlled by a single remote control, held by the skater; a joystick on the remote control allows the speed of the motor to be increased or decreased.

17. Motorized personal mobility device according to claim 1, characterized in that the pads can be recharged simultaneously using a single charger.

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