Caster-type board vehicle

Abstract

The powered board-type vehicle may have a deck having a support surface, a rear wheel assembly, and a front wheel assembly. The support surface has a front portion, a rear portion, and a neck connecting the front portion to the rear portion. The front portion, rear portion, and neck may be integrally formed. The rear wheel assembly may have a powered rear wheel. The front wheel assembly may have at least one front wheel configured to pivot about a first axis and rotate about a second axis.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] cross reference This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 486,842, filed April 18, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and any applications identifying a foreign or domestic priority claim in an Application Data Sheet filed with this U.S. application are also incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to personal mobility vehicles, such as powered boards, and more particularly to personal mobility vehicles having powered rear wheels and / or other features. [Background technology]

[0003] There are many types of personal mobility vehicles, such as skateboards, scooters, bicycles, carts, etc. Users can travel to various places by riding such vehicles. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] As skateboards, scooters, and other motor-driven vehicles increase in popularity and usage, the weight of the electric motor can limit the portability of the vehicle, especially for commuters. Also, using a large electric motor can require a large battery, further increasing the weight of the vehicle. Thus, there is a need to provide electric vehicles with small motors and batteries to enable low-cost, lightweight, and portable electric vehicles. There may also be a need for new and / or improved designs that can provide new riding experiences or unique functionality. The systems, methods, and devices described herein have innovative aspects, no single aspect of which is essential or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to some embodiments, a powered board-type vehicle has a deck, a rear housing portion, a rear wheel assembly, and at least one front wheel. The deck may be configured to support a user. The deck may have a support surface having a front portion, a rear portion, and a neck portion. The neck portion may be configured to connect the front portion to the rear portion. The front portion, rear portion, and neck portion may be integrally formed. The rear housing portion may be coupled to the rear portion. The rear wheel assembly may be supported by the rear housing portion. The rear wheel assembly may have at least one rear wheel, with at least one front wheel connected to the front portion and configured to roll on a surface. The front wheel may be configured to pivot about a first axis and rotate about a second axis.

[0006] In some embodiments, the vehicle has a training wheel assembly having a training wheel mount and a training wheel. In some embodiments, the training wheel is spaced from the rear wheel assembly, and the rear wheel is positioned adjacent to one side of the deck. In some embodiments, the training wheel extends rearward from the training wheel mount beyond the rear end of the support surface of the deck. In some embodiments, the training wheel assembly has at least two training wheels. In some embodiments, the training wheels do not contact the surface when the deck is in a neutral position. The deck may be in a neutral position when the deck is positioned approximately parallel to the surface. In some embodiments, the training wheels have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the rear wheels.

[0007] In some embodiments, the front wheels are substantially aligned with the rear wheels in the neutral position. In some embodiments, the deck is configured to bend around the neck. In some embodiments, the vehicle has a motor configured to power the rear wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the rear wheel assembly has a rear drive assembly configured to transfer power from the motor to the rear wheels of the rear wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the vehicle has a wired or wireless remote control that controls the powered rear wheels. In some embodiments, the front wheels extend rearward at an angle when the front wheels are in the neutral position. In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheels have a rotation axis, the rotation axis being located rearward of a front portion of the auxiliary wheel mount.

[0008] According to some embodiments, a powered board-type vehicle may include a deck and a rear wheel assembly. The deck may support a user. The deck may have a support surface having a front portion, a rear portion, and a neck portion configured to connect the front portion to the rear portion. The rear wheel assembly may include at least one rear wheel and a rear wheel drive assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the vehicle has a rear housing portion coupled to the rear portion. The rear housing portion may support a rear wheel assembly. In some embodiments, the rear housing portion has a slot, and the rear wheel assembly passes through the slot and is supported by the rear housing portion. In some embodiments, the rear wheel assembly further comprises a rear wheel mount configured to support the rear wheel. In some embodiments, the rear wheel mount has a first side and a second side.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first side of the rear wheel mount is U-shaped. In some embodiments, the first side of the rear wheel mount has a first portion extending downwardly relative to the deck, a second portion extending horizontally from the first portion, and a third portion spaced from the first portion by the second portion and extending upwardly relative to the second portion. The third portion may extend upwardly relative to the first portion. In some embodiments, the second side is removably coupled to the first side such that the second side may translate in the slot away from the first side to allow removal of the rear wheel.

[0011] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the foregoing description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: The present disclosure will be described with further specificity and detail using the accompanying drawings, with the understanding that these drawings illustrate only some forms in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a powered board-type vehicle. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a top view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a first side view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a second side view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a front view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 9A] 2 is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of a neck portion of one embodiment of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional side view of the neck portion of FIG. 9A. [Figure 10A] 2 is a perspective view of a neck portion of another embodiment of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional side view of the neck portion of FIG. 10A. [Figure 11A] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the top portion of the deck of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 11B] FIG. 2 is a bottom view showing the top portion of the deck of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 11C] FIG. 2 is a top view showing the top portion of the deck of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. [Figure 12] 2 is an exploded view showing a rear wheel according to one embodiment of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 13A] 2 is a bottom perspective view of the rear portion of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1 in a first position. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is an enlarged view of the gearbox in the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 13A. [Figure 14A] 2 is a bottom perspective view of the rear portion of the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 1 in a second position. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is an enlarged view of the gearbox in the powered board-type vehicle of FIG. 14A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The systems, components and methods according to the embodiments of assembly and manufacture are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like or similar elements throughout. Although several embodiments, examples and figures may be described below, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention described herein may go beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and figures and may include other uses of the invention as well as obvious modifications and equivalents of the invention. The terms used in the description presented herein are not intended to be interpreted in a restrictive and limiting manner, as they are only used in conjunction with the detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the invention. Also, the embodiments of the present invention may comprise several novel features, and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable qualities and is not essential to carrying out the invention described herein.

[0014] overview Disclosed herein is a powered wheeled board type vehicle according to various embodiments. As described in more detail below, the vehicle may have, among other things, one or more powered rear wheels and one or more front wheels that can pivot (e.g., caster) relative to the other wheels. Traditionally, this combination has been thought to represent an inherently unstable, difficult to ride, and / or hard to control vehicle. This combination has been thought to be particularly problematic when used primarily with vehicles (e.g., skateboards) that are configured to allow the deck to twist and bend.

[0015] Further, the addition of powered rear wheels was thought to eliminate the need for a swiveling front wheel. Some vehicles have swiveling front and rear wheels and a deck that is configured to twist and bend and may allow a user to create propulsion. However, with the addition of powered rear wheels to provide propulsion, the swiveling front wheel was thought to be largely unnecessary. Thus, swiveling front wheels have been replaced with fixed (e.g., non-swiveling) wheels, thereby reducing cost, increasing stability, etc.

[0016] It has also been conventionally believed that locating powered wheels at the front of a particular vehicle is preferable over locating the powered wheels at the rear of the vehicle, for example, providing powered wheels at the rear of the vehicle that are believed to reduce controllability compared to providing powered wheels at the front.

[0017] Nonetheless, certain embodiments described herein demonstrate that a vehicle may have a powered rear wheel and one or more steerable front wheels. Notwithstanding the above and other concerns, such a vehicle may be sufficiently controllable and stable to provide an enjoyable riding experience.

[0018] deck 1-8 illustrate one embodiment of a powered wheeled board type vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 may have a deck 102, a front wheel assembly 120, and a rear wheel assembly 130.

[0019] The deck 102 may be of any suitable size, shape, or configuration. As shown in Figures 1-8, the deck 102 may have a first or forward portion 110 and a second or rearward portion 112. The forward portion 110 may be connected to a front wheel assembly 120, and the rearward portion 112 may be connected to a rear wheel assembly 130.

[0020] The front portion 110 may be connected to the rear portion 112 by a neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 rigidly connects the front portion 110 to the rear portion 112. In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 flexibly connects the front portion 110 to the rear portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 can be narrower laterally than the front and back portions 110, 112. In various embodiments, the neck portion 114 is thinner laterally than the front portion 110 and / or the back portion 112. For example, the ratio of the maximum lateral width of the front portion 110 to the maximum lateral width of the neck portion 114 can be 1.5:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, or greater, among others. In some embodiments, the ratio of the maximum lateral width of the back portion 112 to the maximum lateral width of the neck portion 114 can be 1.5:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1, or greater, among others. Some examples of configurations having a neck portion 114 are shown in Figures 1-14B and in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,338,056, 7,600,768, and 7,766,351, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0022] In some configurations, the lateral axis A bisects the deck 102 at the midpoint of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the lateral axis A is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the deck 102. In some embodiments, the rear portion 112 has a shape and / or size that is approximately the same as or similar to the shape and / or size of the front portion 110. In some embodiments, the rear portion 112 is larger than the front portion 110. For example, the rear portion 112 may have a length that is greater than the length of the front portion 110. Certain such configurations may provide greater stability to a user while the user is supported on the deck 102. In some embodiments, such configurations may provide the user with easier steering control and / or allow the user to tilt or twist the vehicle 100 more easily.

[0023] In some embodiments, the front portion 110 has a front end 111 and the rear portion 112 has a rear end 113. The rear end 113 may be wider than the front end 111. In some embodiments, the front end 111 and / or the rear end 113 are generally concave. For example, an intermediate portion of the front end 111 and / or the rear end 113 may curve inward toward the lateral center of the deck 102 (e.g., the portion on the longitudinal axis L). In some embodiments, the front end 111 and / or the rear end 113 are generally straight. In some embodiments, the portion of the front portion 110 and / or the rear portion 112 that connects with the neck portion 114 has a smaller lateral width than the front end 111 and / or the rear end 113.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rear portion 112 has a wider maximum lateral width proximate the rear end 113 of the rear portion 112 than the neck portion 114. Some such configurations may provide enhanced support to the rear wheel assembly and / or to the user. Some such configurations may provide better stability to the user and / or may provide a wider platform for stabilizing the user's feet during use.

[0025] In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 is sufficiently rigid. For example, the neck portion 114 may limit rotation of the rear portion 112 relative to the front portion 110 and / or the front portion 110 relative to the rear portion 112. In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 may allow the deck 102 to bend, twist, and / or tilt relative to the front and / or rear portions 110, 112. In various embodiments, the deck 102 may bend, twist, and / or tilt in response to pressure from at least one foot of a user, such as due to the user's weight shifting laterally across the deck 102. As a result, the front portion 110 twists and / or rotates relative to the rear portion 112 in alternating directions about a longitudinal axis of the deck 102. The bending or twisting of the deck 102 may be used to steer, control, and / or propel the vehicle 100. Further description of this functionality can be found at least in US Pat. Nos. 7,338,056, 7,600,768, and 7,766,351, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0026] front wheel assembly 1-8 show a powered wheeled board-type vehicle 100 having a deck 102 connected to a front wheel assembly 120. The front wheel assembly 120 may have at least one front wheel 124. The front wheel 124 may be pivotally connected to a caster assembly 126. For example, the front wheel 124 may be a caster wheel. The caster assembly 126 may be coupled to the front wheel assembly mount 122 and / or may have the front wheel assembly mount formed thereon. The caster assembly 126 may enable the front wheel 124 to pivot about a first axis and rotate about a second axis (e.g., approximately perpendicular to the first axis).

[0027] In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 may be positioned approximately along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100 (e.g., when the front wheels 124 are in a straight, or neutral, position). In some embodiments, the front wheel assembly 120 includes a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases the front wheels 124 toward the neutral position.

[0028] In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 may be positioned closer to the front end of the front portion 110 than the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 may be positioned approximately in the center of the front portion 110. In some embodiments, the front wheel assembly mount 122 is positioned closer to the front end of the front portion 110 than the neck portion 114, and the front wheels 124 are positioned approximately in the center of the front portion. The front wheel assembly mount 122 may be tilted. For example, a portion of the mount 122 positioned closer to the front end 111 of the front portion 110 may be positioned closer to the rolling surface than a position of the front wheel assembly mount 122 that is closer to the neck portion 114 when the vehicle 100 is approximately upright.

[0029] In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 may be angled. For example, the front wheels 124 may extend away from the front wheel assembly mount 122 at an angle. In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 may be angled toward the rear end 113 of the rear portion 112 (e.g., away from the front end 111 of the rear portion 112) when the front wheels 124 are in a neutral position. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the front wheels 124 extends rearward of the front wheel assembly mount 122 when the front wheels 124 are in a neutral position. In some embodiments, the axle and / or secondary axle of the front wheels 124 is positioned rearward of the front wheel assembly mount 122 when the front wheels 124 are in a neutral position.

[0030] 1-8 show a vehicle according to one embodiment having a training wheel assembly 180. The training wheel assembly 180 may have at least one training wheel 182 and a training wheel mount 184. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the training wheel assembly 180 may have one or more training wheels (e.g., at least two training wheels 182). Some embodiments have one or more (e.g., at least two) training wheel mounts 184. In some embodiments, the training wheels 182 are caster wheels. In some embodiments, the training wheels 182 begin to rotate once the wheels 182 touch the ground and the vehicle is ready to move. In some embodiments, the training wheels 182 may begin to rotate before the wheels 182 touch the ground. For example, in some embodiments, the training wheels 182 are powered, such as by the motor 152.

[0031] training wheel assembly The training wheel mount 184 may be coupled to the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, the training wheel mount 184 is integrally formed with the rear housing portion 132. As shown, the training wheel mount 184 may be positioned aft of at least a portion of the rear wheel assembly 130. In some embodiments, the training wheel mounts 184 may be laterally spaced apart from one another along the rear portion of the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, the training wheel mount 184 may be positioned laterally adjacent to a side of the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, the training wheel mount 184 extends rearward from the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the training wheel mount 184 and / or the training wheel 182 extends rearward beyond the rear side of the deck 102. In some embodiments, a rearmost portion of the training wheel 182 and / or the training wheel mount 184 is approximately aligned with the rear end of the deck 102.

[0032] In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheel assembly 180 may be angled. For example, at least a portion of the auxiliary wheel 182 may be positioned rearward of the front end of the auxiliary wheel mount 184. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the auxiliary wheel 182 is positioned rearward of the front end of the auxiliary wheel mount 184. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the auxiliary wheel 182 may be positioned below the motor 152. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the auxiliary wheel 182 is approximately aligned with the axis of rotation of the rear wheel 134 along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheel 182 extends at an angle away from the auxiliary wheel assembly mount 184. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the auxiliary wheel 182 is positioned rearward of the rear wheel assembly 130. For example, at least a portion of the auxiliary wheel 182 may be positioned rearward of the motor 152.

[0033] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the training wheels 182 are positioned below the angled rear portion of the deck 102. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the training wheels 182 are positioned below the substantially straight portion of the deck 102 and the angled rear portion of the deck 102. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the training wheels 182 are positioned entirely below the substantially straight portion of the deck 102.

[0034] In some configurations, the training wheels 182 and the rear wheels 134 may have different diameters. For example, the rear wheels 134 may have a diameter that is at least twice the diameter of the training wheels 182. In some embodiments, the rear wheels 134 have a diameter that is at least three, four, or five or more times the diameter of the training wheels 182.

[0035] The training wheel mount 184 may be rotatably coupled to the training wheel 182. In some embodiments, the training wheel mount 184 is bifurcated such that the mount 184 extends along at least a portion of a lateral side of the training wheel 182. The mount 184 may be configured to permit rotation about the training wheel axle 186. In some embodiments, the training wheel mount 184 is configured to inhibit or prevent rotation about an axis transverse to the training wheel axle 186. In some embodiments, the training wheel 182 is coupled to the training wheel mount 184 by a training wheel axle 188. The training wheel axle 188 may pass through the training wheel 182 and at least a portion of the training mount 184.

[0036] In some embodiments, the training wheels 182 may provide additional stability to the rear portion 112 of the deck 102. This may advantageously provide easier steering control to the user and / or allow the user to tilt and twist more easily. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the training wheels 182 may extend downward from the rear housing portion 132 a shorter distance than the rear wheels 134. In such a configuration, one or both of the training wheels 182 may not touch the ground when the rear wheels 134 touch the ground in use. In some embodiments, one or both of the training wheels 182 touch the ground when the user tilts and / or twists the front portion relative to the rear portion. In some embodiments, one or both of the training wheels 182 touch the ground when the user turns the vehicle 100. Thus, the training wheels 182 may help prevent falling and / or help the vehicle 100 maintain a generally upright position in use. In some embodiments, training wheels 182 may help restrain the user from falling off vehicle 100, such as toward the rear of the vehicle and / or off to either side of the vehicle. In some embodiments, training wheels 182 may limit the amount of forward-to-rear lean of the vehicle, for example, during launch and / or deceleration. In some embodiments, training wheels 182 may enable various tricks and / or vehicle riding styles.

[0037] neck part 9A and 9B show a neck portion 114 according to one embodiment. The neck portion 114 can have a top portion 116 and a bottom portion 118. The top portion 116 can be integrally formed with the front portion 110 and / or the rear portion 112. The top portion 116 can have a cross-sectional shape that is generally round, semicircular, triangular, square, and / or rectangular in shape, among others. In some embodiments, the top portion 116 can extend upwardly above a top surface of the deck 102, such as a portion at the longitudinal axis L.

[0038] The bottom portion 118 may connect to the top portion 116 of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 118 may be coupled to the top portion 116 by a fastening mechanism such as a snap-fit ​​arrangement, clips, and / or adhesive, among others. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 118 is removably coupled to the top portion 116. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 118 is secured to and / or integrally formed with the top portion 116.

[0039] The base portion 118 can have a cross-sectional shape that is generally round, semicircular, triangular, square, and / or rectangular, among others. In some embodiments, the neck portion 114, including the top portion 116 and the base portion 118, has a shape such as generally cylindrical, among others.

[0040] In some embodiments, the bottom portion 118 can engage with the top portion 116 to form a housing that encloses an interior space. As shown, the neck portion 114 can have a biasing member, such as a spring 142. The spring 142 can be positioned in the interior space of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the spring 142 is positioned in a spring slot 142a in the interior space of the neck portion 114. For example, the spring slot 142a can be formed in a protrusion that extends from an inner surface of the neck portion 114 (e.g., the bottom portion) toward the center of the interior of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the spring slot 142a can hold the spring 142 within the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the spring 142 can provide support to the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the spring 142 allows the front portion 110 to bend, tilt, and / or twist relative to the rear portion 112. The spring 142 can be configured to bias the neck portion 114, such as while twisting about a longitudinal axis. The spring 142 can have various types of springs. In some embodiments, the spring 142 comprises a plate extending longitudinally along the length of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the spring 142 comprises a torsion spring.

[0041] As shown, in some embodiments, the spring 142 may be positioned within a slot 144 within the neck portion 114. As shown, the top portion 116 may have at least one guide 146. The top portion 116 may have two or more guides 146. The guides 146 may extend inward from the top portion 116 toward the interior space of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the guides 146 are approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. The guides 146 may help retain the spring 142 within the neck portion 114 approximately along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100.

[0042] 10A and 10B show the neck portion 114 according to one embodiment. As shown, the neck portion 114 can have two or more springs 142 positioned in the interior space of the neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the neck portion 114 has three, four, five, six or more springs 142. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the springs 142 can be positioned in slots formed between guides 146 of the top portion 116 and the outer wall of the neck portion 114. Multiple springs rather than a single spring can reduce the size of the springs and / or the neck portion 114.

[0043] supporting surface The deck 102 may have a support surface 104. Figures 11A-11C show the support surface 104 according to one embodiment. The support surface 104 may be configured to support at least one foot of a user. In some embodiments, the support surface 104 may be configured to accommodate both feet of a user, such as in one or both of a front-to-back and side-by-side arrangement.

[0044] In some embodiments, the support surface 104 has a grip portion 106. The grip portion 106 may have multiple gripping bodies 107. The multiple gripping bodies 107 may help stabilize the user's feet on the support surface 104. In some embodiments, the multiple gripping bodies 107 may help prevent and / or limit sliding movement of the user's feet along the support surface 104. Such a configuration may help limit slipping and / or falling off the vehicle 100 during use.

[0045] In some embodiments, the support surface 104 may have a number of lights 108. The multiple lights (e.g., LEDs) may be illuminated. The lights 108 may be configured to illuminate when the front and / or rear wheels begin to turn. The characteristics of the lights may change as a function of the speed and / or direction of the wheels. For example, in some embodiments, the lights 108 may be brighter the faster the front and / or rear wheels turn. In some embodiments, the lights 108 may be illuminated or extinguished before, during, and / or after using the vehicle 100.

[0046] In some embodiments, the support surface 104 may form a unitary body. As described above, the deck 102 may have a front portion 110, a rear portion 112, and a neck portion 114. In some embodiments, the support surface 104 may have a front portion 110a, a rear portion 112a, and a neck portion 114a. The front portion 110a, the rear portion 112a, and / or the neck portion 114a of the support surface 104 may be the same or similar to the front portion 110, the rear portion 112, and the neck portion 114 and may have many of the same functions. As shown, the front portion 110a and the rear portion 112a may be spaced apart and / or connected by the neck portion 114a.

[0047] In some embodiments, the support surface 104 may have a nose wheel assembly mount 122. The nose wheel assembly mount 122 may be integrally formed with or coupled to a bottom surface of the forward portion 110a. The nose wheel assembly mount 122 may be configured to support the nose wheel assembly 120, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the forward portion 110a may have a number of ribs or fins 123. In some embodiments, the ribs 123 may provide structural support, increase stiffness, increase airflow, increase speed of the vehicle 100, and / or increase efficiency of the motor in use.

[0048] In some embodiments, neck portion 114a can form the top portion 116 of neck portion 114. The bottom surface of neck portion 114a can be configured to receive bottom portion 118, as described above.

[0049] In some embodiments, the rear portion 112a may have a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the rear portion 112a may be substantially flat. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the rear portion 112a is curved, such as convex or concave. The bottom surface of the rear portion 112a may be configured to receive the rear housing portion 132. The rear housing portion 132 may be removably coupled to the rear portion 112a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the rear portion 112a has a lip. The lip may engage an outer edge of the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, the rear housing portion 132 is permanently fixed to the rear portion 112a. In some embodiments, the rear wheel assembly 130 is not directly coupled to the bottom surface of the rear portion 112a. In some embodiments, the rear housing portion 132 may support the rear wheel assembly 130, as described in more detail below.

[0050] In some embodiments, the rear housing portion 132 may have a plurality of recesses 164. In some embodiments, the recesses 164 may increase airflow between the rear housing portion 132 and the support surface 104 of the deck 102. In some embodiments, the recesses 164 may allow access to at least one or more of a controller, a battery, and a rear drive assembly, among other components that are at least partially positioned in an interior space formed between the rear housing portion 132 and the rear portion 112a of the support surface 104.

[0051] rear wheel assembly As mentioned above, the powered board-type vehicle 100 may have a deck 102 connected to a rear wheel assembly 130. As shown in FIG. 12, the rear wheel assembly 130 may be connected to the rear section 112. The rear section 112 may have a rear housing portion 132. As mentioned above, the rear housing portion 132 may support the rear wheel assembly 130, as shown in FIG. 12. The rear wheel assembly 130 may have a rear wheel 134 and a rear wheel mount 136.

[0052] In some embodiments, the rear wheels 134 are powered, such as by an electric motor, as described below. The rear wheels 134 may have a fixed orientation relative to the deck 102. In some variations, the orientation of the rear wheels 134 is movable relative to the deck 102. The rear wheels 134 may be approximately aligned with and / or positioned on the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100 (e.g., when the front wheels 124 are in a straight or neutral position). In some configurations, the front wheels 124 and the rear wheels 134 may have different diameters. For example, the rear wheels 134 may have a diameter that is at least twice the diameter of the front wheels 124. In some embodiments, the front wheels 124 and the rear wheels 134 may have approximately the same or similar diameters.

[0053] In some embodiments, rear wheel assembly 130 may include rear drive assembly 150. Rear drive assembly 150 may include motor 152. In some embodiments, motor 152 may be housed in a protective shell, such as a generally cylindrical case 153. Case 153 may have one or more openings to allow airflow from the environment to motor 152 for cooling. In some embodiments, motor 152 may be a hub motor similar to the motors described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0133253, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In certain embodiments, motor 152 may be a small toy motor, such as those used in electric motor-powered toys.

[0054] The motor 152 may drive the rear wheels 134. In certain embodiments, torque from the motor 152 is transferred to the rear wheels 134 via a transmission, such as a gear set or gear assembly 154. In some embodiments, the gear assembly 154 may be housed within a gear assembly housing 156. As shown, the gear assembly housing 156 may have a plurality of recesses 162. Each of the recesses 162 may be shaped to receive and / or accommodate a corresponding gear 160 of the gear assembly 154. In some embodiments, the gear assembly housing 156 may have a stepped configuration. For example, the gear assembly housing 156 may have recesses 162 located at various lateral positions based on the location of the corresponding gear 160 in the gear assembly 154. In some embodiments, as shown, the stepped recesses of the gear assembly housing 156 may have separate outer surfaces that are laterally offset (e.g., not coplanar) from one another.

[0055] In some embodiments, the gear assembly housing 156 can have a first portion configured to be positioned on and / or at least partially surround the gear 160. In some embodiments, the gear assembly housing 156 can have a second portion configured to be positioned opposite the first portion. The second portion can engage the first portion, for example, by a mechanical fastener and / or a snap-fit ​​arrangement, to form the gear assembly housing 156 and define an interior space in which the gear assembly 154 is positioned. In some embodiments, the second portion surrounds at least a portion of the gear 160 of the gear assembly 154. In some embodiments, the second portion is removable from the first portion to allow access to the gear assembly 154.

[0056] In some embodiments, the gear assembly housing 156 and the case 153 form a single and / or integral unit. In other embodiments, the cylindrical case 153 is separate from the gear assembly housing 156.

[0057] As shown in the exploded view of rear drive assembly 150 in FIG. 12, gear assembly 154 may have a number of gears 160 (e.g., worm gears, spur gears, etc.). Gears 160 may be referred to as converting torque generated by motor 152 into torque used to power rear wheels 134. In some embodiments, gear assembly 154 has one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine or more gears 160. Torque of motor 152 may be altered (e.g., increased or decreased) via the series of gears 160 to drive rear wheels via rear axle 155.

[0058] In some embodiments, the motor 152 drives a motor shaft 158, such as a drive shaft. In some embodiments, gear 160a of the gear assembly 154 is attached to the shaft 158, and gear 160e of the gear assembly 154 is attached to the rear axle 155. Gears 160a, 160e may be operatively connected through intermediate gears, such as gears 160b, 160c, 160d. The torque of the motor 152 may be adjusted through the series of gears 160a-160e to drive the rear wheels via the rear axle 155.

[0059] Referring back to FIG. 8 , a rear view of the vehicle 100 is shown. As shown, the gear assembly 154 may be positioned offset from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. For example, all or a portion of the gears 160 may be positioned on a first side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the gears 160 may be positioned on a first side of the rear wheels 134. As shown, in some embodiments, the motor 152 may be positioned on the rear side of the rear wheels 134. In some embodiments, the center of the motor 152 may be approximately aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the motor 152 may be positioned approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the motor 152 may extend between at least a portion of the auxiliary wheel assembly 180, such as the auxiliary wheels 182 and / or the auxiliary wheel mounts 184. In some embodiments, the motor may be configured to pass through a motor slot 163a in the rear housing portion 132, as shown in FIG. 12 .

[0060] Referring again to FIG. 12 , in some embodiments, the rear drive assembly has a plurality of gear shafts 159. The gear shafts 159 may pass through and be rotatably coupled to the gears 160. The gear shafts 159 may extend from a first side housing 166 to a second side housing 167 of the rear wheel mount 136. The rear wheel axle 155 may extend from the first side housing 166 to the second side housing 167. In some embodiments, the rear wheel axle 155 is coupled to the first side housing 166 and / or the second side housing 167. In some embodiments, the rear wheel axle 155 is fixed at a first end to the first side housing 166. In some embodiments, the rear wheel axle 155 is removably coupled to the second side housing 167.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 13A-14B, the first side housing 166 may be coupled to the gear assembly housing 156 on a first side. In some embodiments, the first side housing 166 may be coupled to the rear wheel axle 155. In some embodiments, the first side housing 166 is generally U-shaped. In some embodiments, the first side housing 166 is generally L-shaped. As shown, the first side housing 166 may have a first portion 166a, a second portion 166b, and / or a third portion 166c. In some embodiments, the first portion 166a may extend downward relative to the deck 102. In some embodiments, the first portion 166a is generally perpendicular to the rear wheel axle 155. In some embodiments, the first portion 166a extends from a first side of the rear wheel assembly housing beyond the outer diameter of the rear wheel 134 when assembled. In some embodiments, the second portion 166b extends from the first side of the first portion 166a. The second portion 166b may be integrally formed with the first portion 166a. In some embodiments, the second portion 166b extends approximately horizontally relative to the first portion 166a. For example, in some embodiments, the second portion 166b extends from the first portion 166a at an angle of about 90°. In some embodiments, the second portion 166b is approximately parallel to the top surface of the deck 102. The second portion may extend from the first portion 166a located on one side of the rear wheels 134 beyond the other side of the rear wheels 134.

[0062] In some embodiments, the third portion 166c extends from the second portion 166b. The third portion 166c may extend from the second portion 166b at an angle of about 90°. In some embodiments, the third portion 166c extends from the second portion 166b at another angle, such as 60°, 70°, or 80° or more. In some embodiments, the third portion 166c is approximately parallel to the first portion 166a. For example, the third portion 166c may be approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle 100. As shown, the third portion 166c may extend upward from the second portion 166b a length that is less than the length of the first portion 166a. In some embodiments, the third portion 166c extends upward to a vertical position that is just below the circumference of the rear wheels 134. In some embodiments, the third portion 166c extends upwardly toward the deck 102 such that at least a portion of the third portion 166c extends upwardly beyond at least a portion of the rear wheels 134.

[0063] The second side housing 167 may be removably coupled to at least a portion of the first side housing 166 and surrounds the rear wheel 134. As shown, at least a portion of the second side housing 167 may be coupled to at least a third portion 166c of the first side housing 166. In some embodiments, the second side housing 167 may have a slot to slide over the third portion 166c. In some embodiments, the second side housing 167 may engage the third portion 166c by a snap-fit ​​structure, mechanical fastener, or other connection mechanism. In some embodiments, the second side housing 167 may have a hole configured to receive at least a portion of the rear wheel axle 155.

[0064] The rear housing portion 132 may have a slot 163. The slot 163 may receive at least a portion of the rear wheel assembly 130. In some embodiments, the rear wheel assembly 130 may be stabilized to the deck through the slot 163 such that at least a portion of the rear wheel assembly extends through the slot 163.

[0065] 13A and 13B show the rear wheel assembly 130 according to one embodiment in a first position, such as a neutral position. As shown, the first side housing 166 may be positioned adjacent to the first side of the slot 163. In some embodiments, the first side housing 166 may be fixed to the first side of the slot 163. In some embodiments, the first side housing 166 may be configured to remain in the first position. In the first position, as shown, the second side housing 167 may be coupled to the first side housing 166. In some embodiments, in the first position, the shaft 159 and / or axle 155 are received within a hole in the second side housing 167. The first side housing 166 may be positioned offset from the second side of the slot 163. The first side housing 166 may be positioned flush with the first side of the slot 163. In some embodiments, the second side housing 167 can be positioned offset from the second side of the slot 163 such that the second side housing 167 is spaced from the first side of the slot 163 in a neutral position.

[0066] 14A and 14B show the rear wheel assembly 130 according to one embodiment in a second position. As shown in FIG. 14A, the second side housing 167 is disconnected or disengaged from the first side housing 166. With the second side housing 167 disengaged from the first side housing 166, the second side housing 167 can translate laterally along the slot 163 to expose the second end of the rear wheel axle 155. In some embodiments, the second side housing 167 is positioned adjacent to the second side of the slot 163 in the second position.

[0067] Such a configuration may allow the rear wheels 134 to be removed and / or replaced. After a period of use of the vehicle, the rear wheels 134 may begin to become damaged and / or wear. The rear wheel mounts 136 may advantageously allow access to the rear wheels. In some embodiments, such a configuration may allow the rear wheels 134 to be easily removed and / or replaced. In some embodiments, a variety of rear wheels 134 having different shapes, sizes, and / or colors may be implemented on the vehicle 100. The configurations described herein may advantageously accommodate rear wheels 134 having different shapes, sizes, and / or colors. For example, a user may wish to change a rear wheel 134 of one color for a rear wheel of another color. The configurations described herein allow a user to easily remove and / or replace the rear wheels 134. Once the rear wheel 134 is replaced, the second side housing 167 may translate along the slot 163 towards and engage the first side housing 166 to stabilize the rear wheel assembly 130.

[0068] Motor and Throttle Assembly In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 has a control mechanism such as a wireless throttle remote assembly 135. The wireless throttle remote assembly 135 may have a throttle that can be switched by a user to increase or decrease the speed of the motor 152, thereby increasing or decreasing the speed of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the throttle assembly may be wireless, while in other embodiments, the throttle assembly 135 is hardwired to the motor and / or battery.

[0069] In some embodiments, the throttle assembly 135 may be connected to a brake assembly via a wireless and / or mechanical connection to slow or stop the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 includes a brake button, switch, lever, or other actuator accessible to a user's hand or foot while the user is operating the vehicle. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the support surface 104 may have a brake opening 190 that receives a brake actuator 192. Depressing the brake actuator may slow or stop the front wheels, thereby slowing or stopping the vehicle 100. In some variations, the brakes may include drum brakes, disc brakes, caliper brakes, and the like. In some embodiments, the brakes are positioned on the front portion 110 and / or the rear portion 112. In some embodiments, the vehicle 100 has brake actuators 192 positioned proximate the front and / or rear wheels. For example, the brakes may be configured to slow or stop the front and / or rear wheels upon actuation of the brake actuator 192.

[0070] In some embodiments, the motor may be controlled by a throttle actuator 194a that may be depressed through a throttle opening 194 in the deck 102. For example, a user may depress a throttle positioned within the throttle opening to provide an instruction to the controller to power the motor. For example, the throttle actuator 194a may be depressed. When the throttle actuator 194a is depressed through the throttle opening 194, the motor is configured to instruct the controller to power the motor. In some embodiments, the throttle actuator 194a may be located at a rear portion of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the throttle 194a may be configured to instruct the controller to power the motor and / or the rear wheels.

[0071] In some embodiments, the motor 134 may be controlled by a wired or wireless remote control. The remote control may have a transmitter and a brake or other suitable control device. The brake movement and / or the amount of brake movement may be detected, such as by a sensor in the remote control device. This information may be used (e.g., by a processor in the remote control device or in the vehicle 100) to determine the amount of motive force provided by the motor. In some embodiments, the transmitter transmits a signal corresponding to the amount of brake movement, and a receiver in the vehicle 100 may receive the signal and use the signal to control the motor. In some embodiments, the brake comprises an accelerator and controls the motive force provided by the motor. A "pistol grip" shaped remote control device may be used, although other structures such as buttons, switches, joysticks, toggles, sliders, trackballs, smartphone applications, and the like are also contemplated. In some configurations, the remote control device is the only element of the vehicle 100 that is controlled by hand. For example, in some implementations, the throttle may be controlled via a remote control device, but the user may control all other aspects of the vehicle 100 with the user's feet in a manner similar to a regular or wheeled skateboard. In at least some configurations, the vehicle 100 may not have handlebars or other hand supports connected to the deck 102 or other portions of the vehicle 100.

[0072] In contrast to certain powered vehicles with controls on handlebars or other supports, a remote control may allow a user to move both of their hands while operating the vehicle while still being able to control the vehicle's propulsion. In some embodiments, the remote control may be configured to be held and operated with one hand. In some embodiments, the remote control may facilitate user safety, such as by allowing a user to quickly move their hand to support the user in the event of a fall without having their hand restrained by a handlebar or other support.

[0073] The vehicle 100 according to some embodiments has at least one battery. In some embodiments, the battery may be mounted below the support surface 104 and / or may be located within the rear housing portion 132. In some embodiments, the battery may be insertable into and / or removable from the housing portion 132. The battery may be any type of battery, such as a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. For example, the battery has a discharge period of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

[0074] In various embodiments, the controller may receive signals from the throttle assembly. For example, the controller may receive signals indicating speed and / or the amount of power to apply to the rear wheels 134. The controller may provide bidirectional or unidirectional transmission to the motor 152. For example, the controller may direct the motor to drive the wheels 134 in response to and / or in accordance with signals from the throttle assembly. While control of the vehicle 100 may be wireless via a wireless throttle assembly, some variations have priority connections for connecting the throttle, brakes, and on-off switches to the motor. Wired or wireless protocols may be used.

[0075] Vehicle Behavior In operation, a user may typically place their feet on the front and rear portions of the deck 102. The user may rotate or tilt their body or shift their weight and / or change the position of their feet to control the movement of the vehicle 100. For example, to steer, one side of the deck 102 may be tilted toward the ground to facilitate turning in that direction. In some configurations, the vehicle 100 may be operated as a bendable skateboard, and the user may create, maintain, or increase propulsion of the vehicle 100 by twisting or tilting the front and rear portions relative to one another generally about the longitudinal axis of the deck 102.

[0076] In various embodiments, the rear wheels 134 may be used to accelerate and decelerate the vehicle. For example, a remote control device may be used to send a signal to control the amount of power provided by the motor to the rear wheels (e.g., to accelerate or decelerate) and / or to initiate braking. The user may still control the steering of the vehicle 100 by rotating the user's body or shifting the user's weight and / or foot position on the deck 102, as described above.

[0077] In contrast to a conventional skateboard, motion in the vehicle 100 may be provided without the user having to move the user's feet. For example, from a stationary position, the user may place the user's feet on the deck 102 and activate a brake on a remote device, causing the motor to drive the rear wheels, and thus the vehicle, forward. In some embodiments, the user does not have to lift their legs off the deck and pedal the ground to provide propulsion. In certain variations, the user does not have to move the user's feet (e.g., to move the front and rear portions relative to each other) to provide propulsion.

[0078] In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheels 182 may be used to accelerate and decelerate in addition to and / or instead of the rear wheels 134. For example, a remote control device may be used to send a signal to control the amount of power provided by the motor to the auxiliary wheels 182 (e.g., to accelerate or decelerate) and / or to initiate a braking action. The user may still control the steering of the vehicle 100 by rotating the user's body or by shifting the position of the user's weight and / or feet on the deck 102, as described above. In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheels 182 begin to rotate once the wheels 182 touch the ground and the vehicle is ready to move. In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheels 182 may begin to rotate before the wheels 182 touch the ground. For example, in some embodiments, the auxiliary wheels 182 are powered by the motor 152, etc.

[0079] In some embodiments, by shifting the user's weight and / or foot position, the user may lean the vehicle 100 side to side and / or forward and backward. As the user leans the vehicle 100 may alternatively be supported by one training wheel 182 or the other. For example, the training wheel 182 positioned below the side of the vehicle the user is leaning towards may touch the ground. In some such configurations, the opposite training wheel 182 may lift off the ground. In some embodiments, both training wheels 182 remain in contact with the ground as the user leans the vehicle. In some embodiments, the training wheels 182 help prevent or inhibit the user from falling off the vehicle forward and / or backward as the user leans the vehicle. Thus, the training wheels 182 may help stabilize the vehicle 100 when in use.

[0080] Specific Terms Certain terms may be used in the description herein for reference purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as "upper" and "lower" refer to directions in the drawings to which they refer. Terms such as "front", "rear", "left", "right" and "side" describe the orientation and / or location of parts of components and elements within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference made clear by reference to the text describing the components and elements in the description and the associated drawings. Furthermore, terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used to describe separate components. Such terms may include those specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and similar terms. Like reference numerals refer to like components throughout the following description.

[0081] Orientation terms used herein, such as "top," "bottom," "horizontal," "vertical," "longitudinal," "lateral," and "end," are used in the context of the illustrated embodiment. However, the present disclosure should not be limited to the illustrated orientations. Indeed, other orientations are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Terms relating to circular shapes, such as diameter and radius, as used herein, should be understood to not require a perfectly circular structure, but rather should apply to any suitable structure having a cross-sectional area that can be measured in a side-to-side direction. Terms relating to overall shape, such as "circular" or "cylindrical" or "semicircular" or "semicylindrical" or related or similar terms, do not require an exact conformance to the mathematical definition of a circle or cylinder or other structure, but may include structures that are a reasonable close approximation.

[0082] Conditional terms such as "can," "could," "might," or "may" are generally intended to convey that a particular embodiment has or does not have certain features, elements, and / or steps, unless specifically stated or understood from the context in which they are used. Thus, such conditional terms are generally not intended to imply that any such elements and / or steps are in any way required with respect to one or more embodiments.

[0083] A conjunction such as "at least one of X, Y, and Z" is used in its entirety to convey that the item, term, etc., can be either X, Y, or Z, unless specifically stated or understood in the context of use. Thus, such a conjunction is not intended in its entirety to imply that a particular embodiment requires the presence of at least one X, at least one Y, and at least one Z.

[0084] The terms "about," "approximately," and "nearly," as used herein, refer to an amount close to a described amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, in some embodiments, if the context permits, the terms "about," "approximately," and "nearly" may refer to an amount within 10% of a described amount. The terms "generally," "approximately," and "approximately," as used herein, refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that primarily includes or is primarily oriented toward a particular value, amount, or characteristic. As an example, in certain embodiments, if the context permits, the term "approximately parallel" may refer to a departure from exact parallelism by 20° or less.

[0085] Unless expressly stated otherwise, articles such as "a" or "an" should be construed to include one or more of the described items. Thus, phrases such as "a device configured to" are intended to include one or more of the described devices. Such one or more described devices may likewise be configured to collectively perform the described descriptions. For example, "a processor configured to perform descriptions A, B, and C" may include a first processor configured to perform description A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to perform descriptions B and C.

[0086] The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and the like are synonymous and used inclusively in an open-ended manner and do not exclude additional elements, functions, acts, operations, and the like. Similarly, the terms "some," "particular," and the like are synonymous and used inclusively in an open-ended manner. Additionally, the term "or" is used in an inclusive (and not exclusive) sense, so that, for example, when used in connection with a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0087] In general, the claim language should be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims, and should not be limited to the non-exclusive embodiments and examples shown and described in this disclosure or discussed in the prosecution of this application.

[0088] summary Although the present invention has been described in the context of specific embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses of the invention, as well as obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In particular, while the present system and method have been described in the context of specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate in light of this disclosure that certain advantages, features and aspects of the present system and method may be realized in the various applications described above. Various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with or substituted for one another to form various modes of vehicles. The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the specific disclosed embodiments described herein.

[0089] It is also contemplated that the various aspects and features of the invention described may be implemented separately, combined together, or substituted for one another, and that various combinations and subcombinations of features and aspects may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Certain features described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in suitable subcombinations. Although features are described above as functioning in a particular combination, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some cases be implemented from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a subcombination or a variation of the subcombination.

[0090] The separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations. The components and systems described may generally be combined together in a single product or packaged into multiple products. Additionally, other implementations are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0091] Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. Although the drawings are drawn to scale, such scale should not be considered limiting, as dimensions and proportions other than those shown are contemplated and within the scope of the disclosed invention. Distances, angles, and the like are merely exemplary and do not necessarily bear a precise relationship to the actual dimensions and layout of the devices shown. Components may be added, removed, and / or rearranged. Furthermore, the disclosure herein of specific features, aspects, methods, properties, characteristics, qualities, attributes, elements, etc. in connection with various embodiments may be used in all other embodiments described herein. Additionally, the methods described herein may be performed using devices suitable for performing the steps described.

[0092] In summary, a personal mobility device, such as a scooter, has been disclosed in various embodiments and examples. Although the device has been described in relation to these embodiments and examples, the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or other uses of the embodiments, as well as to certain modifications and equivalents thereof. What the disclosure expressly contemplates is that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with or substituted for one another. Thus, the scope of the disclosure should not be limited to the specific embodiments described above, but should be determined solely by a proper reading of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 100 powered wheeled board type vehicle, 102 deck, 104 support surface, 106 grip portion, 107 grip body, 108 light, 110 front portion, 110a front portion, 111 front end, 112 rear portion, 112a rear portion, 113 rear end, 114 neck portion, 114a neck portion, 116 top portion, 118 bottom portion, 120 front wheel assembly, 122 front wheel assembly mount, 123 rib, fin, 124 front wheel, 126 caster assembly, 130 rear wheel assembly, 132 rear housing portion, 134 rear wheel, 134 motor, 135 wireless throttle remote assembly, 136 rear wheel mount, 142 spring, 142a spring slot, 144 slot, 146 guide, 150 Rear drive assembly, 152 motor, 153 cylindrical case, 154 gear assembly, 155 rear wheel axle, 156 gear assembly housing, 158 motor shaft, 159 gear shaft, 160 gears, 160a-160e gears, 162 recess, 163 slot, 163a motor slot, 164 recess, 166 first side housing, 166a first portion, 166b second portion, 166c third portion, 167 second side housing, 180 training wheel assembly, 182 training wheel, 184 training wheel assembly mount, 186 training wheel axle, 188 training wheel axle, 190 brake opening, 192 brake actuator, 194 throttle opening, 194a throttle actuator, 194a throttle, 197 grip body

Claims

1. - a deck configured to support a user, said deck having a support surface, said support surface comprising: The front part and The rear part, a neck portion configured to connect the front portion with the rear portion; a deck having a rear housing part connected to said rear part; a rear wheel assembly supported by said rear part, said rear wheel assembly having at least one rear wheel; at least one front wheel connected to said front part and configured to roll on a surface, the front wheel configured to pivot about a first axis and rotate about a second axis; a motor configured to power said rear wheel assembly; - a support wheel assembly, Auxiliary wheel mount, Training wheels and a training wheel assembly having Equipped with the auxiliary wheels extend rearwardly from the auxiliary wheel mounts beyond the rear end of the support surface of the deck; The motor extends across at least a portion of the training wheel assemblies.

2. the auxiliary wheels are spaced apart from the rear wheel assembly; 2. The castor-type board vehicle of claim 1, wherein the training wheels are positioned adjacent the sides of the deck.

3. The auxiliary wheel has a rotation axis, 3. The caster-type board-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the rotation axis is located rearward of a front portion of the auxiliary wheel mount.

4. 4. The caster-type board-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary wheel assembly has at least two auxiliary wheels.

5. the auxiliary wheels do not contact the surface when the deck is in a neutral position; 5. A castorable board-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the deck is in the neutral position when the deck is positioned substantially parallel to the surface.

6. 6. A caster-type board-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary wheels have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the rear wheels.

7. 7. A castorable board-type vehicle as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein, in a neutral position, the front wheels are generally aligned with the rear wheels along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

8. 8. A castor-type board-type vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the deck is configured to flex around the neck portion.

9. 2. The castor-type board vehicle of claim 1, wherein the rear wheel assembly includes a rear drive assembly configured to transfer power from the motor to the rear wheels of the rear wheel assembly.

10. 10. A castor-type board-type vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a wireless or wired remote control device for controlling the powered rear wheels.

11. 11. The caster-type board-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the front wheels extend rearward at a predetermined angle when the front wheels are in a neutral position.

12. the rear portion of the support surface having a rear end; 12. The caster-type board-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary wheels extend rearwardly of the rear end of the rear portion of the support surface.

13. The auxiliary wheel has a rotation axis, 13. A castor-type board-type vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the auxiliary wheel mount prevents rotation about an axis transverse to the axis of rotation of the auxiliary wheel.

14. Further comprising a second auxiliary wheel mount; 14. A caster-type board-type vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the auxiliary wheel mounts are attached to the rear housing portion adjacent both sides of the rear portion.

15. 15. The castor-type board-type vehicle of claim 14, wherein the auxiliary wheel mounts are attached to the rear housing portion adjacent both extreme sides of the rear portion.

16. 1. A powered, castor-type board-type vehicle, comprising: - configured to support a user, having a support surface, said support surface comprising: The front part and a rear portion having a rearmost portion; a neck portion configured to connect the front portion with the rear portion and configured to twist along a longitudinal axis of the castor-board type vehicle; a deck having a powered rear wheel assembly comprising a rear wheel, a rear drive assembly configured to drive said rear wheel, and a motor; an auxiliary wheel assembly rearward of the rear wheels, the motor being configured to power the rear drive assembly, the auxiliary wheels protruding rearward of the rearmost part of the rear portion of the support surface, the motor extending between at least a portion of the auxiliary wheel assemblies; 1. A powered castor-type board-type vehicle comprising:

17. a rear housing portion coupled to the rear portion; 17. The powered casterable board-type vehicle of claim 16, wherein the rear housing portion is configured to support the rear wheel assembly.

18. the rear housing portion having a slot; 20. The powered casterable board-type vehicle of claim 17, wherein the rear wheel assemblies pass through the slots and are supported by the rear housing portion.

19. 20. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 18, wherein the rear wheel assembly further comprises a rear wheel mount configured to support the rear wheel.

20. 20. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 19, wherein the rear wheel mount has a first side and a second side.

21. 21. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 20, wherein the first side of the rear wheel mount is U-shaped.

22. The first side of the rear wheel mount is A first part; and a second portion extending horizontally from the first portion; a third portion spaced from the first portion by the second portion and extending toward the rear wheel axle; and 21. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 20, further comprising:

23. 21. The powered castor board-type vehicle of claim 20, wherein the second side is removably coupled to the first side such that the second side can translate within the slot away from the first side to allow the rear wheels to be removed.

24. a rear housing portion attached to the rear portion of the support surface; 17. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 16, wherein said rear wheel assembly further comprises at least two auxiliary wheel mounts.

25. 25. The powered castorable board-type vehicle of claim 24, wherein at least two of said auxiliary wheel mounts are attached to said rear housing portion adjacent opposite sides of said rear portion.

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