Personnel Transportation Devices

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention provides improvements to personal transportation devices such as skates or skateboards by introducing hinge mechanisms, overrunning clutches, and foot-operated braking systems. The device harnesses natural walking or stair-climbing motions to propel the user forward, making movement more intuitive. The construction allows for forward motion when the user pushes their leg down, and the device can be stopped or slowed via a foot-actuated braking element. Variations include support for wheels, ice blades, or ski tips, making it versatile for multiple environments.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Recreational skating for children or adults
• Personal mobility in urban areas or large campuses
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation, encouraging natural gait and walking motions
• Alternative exercise equipment for aerobic workouts
• Specialized ice skating or skiing trainers
• Transportation on flat, hard surfaces like sidewalks, parks, or sports courts

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables forward movement using a natural walking or stair-climbing motion, which can be easier to learn than traditional skating
• Increased safety due to integrated braking system directly controlled by the user's foot movement
• Supports various sliding elements (wheels, ice blades, or ski tips), making the device adaptable to different surfaces or sports
• Lightweight and foldable design for easy storage and transport
• Potentially easier to use for people who find side-to-side skating difficult
• Cost-effective manufacturing due to mechanical simplicity
• Promotes physical activity and exercise in a fun, engaging way

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

A personal transportation device includes front and rear sections having wheels mounted adjacent either end. The front section is hingedly attached to the rear section. A foot platform with binding is pivotally mounted to the front section. An overrunning clutch is attached to at least one wheel. A braking element is attached to the foot platform which is urged toward the upper surface of the front section by an elastic member. The braking element projects through a slot in the rear section and contacts a ground surface when the foot platform is tipped upwardly. When a leg of the user is drawn upwardly, the front section will move toward the rear section pivoting at the hinge portions. At least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel will roll toward the other. When the leg is pushed downwardly the overrunning clutch will lock and the device will move forwardly.