RIDDEN VEHICLE WITH HYBRID POWER SYSTEM
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 611582,816, filed on January 3, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
611582,817, filed on January 3,2012, which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0002] The present disclosure relates to ridden vehicles, namely, motorized scooters,
motorcycles, and other ridden vehicles, and more particularly to a ridden vehicle having a hybrid
power system.
[0003] Vehicles to be ridden such as motorized scooters, motoxycles, three-wheeled vehicles,
and four wheeled vehicles, such as all-terrain vehicles, have limited space to accommodate the
components needed to power the vehicle. Efficient packaging of the vehicle's components is
necessary to maintain the & s i d size of the ridden vehicle. In prior systems, placement of the
fuel tank has been particularly challenging because of the need to connect the fuel tank to the
engine, and the need to access the fuel tank for refueling.
[0004] Prior ridden vehicles having an electric or hybrid power system have utilized several
different configurations each of which possess several drawbacks. In some prior designs, a low
cost lead acid battery has been used, however, such batteries have limited power, extremely
limited range and very limited battery durability. In other designs, higher cost chemistry
batkries such as lithium-ion have been employed; however these batteries are expensive and
may ako have limited range. Yet other designs have employed an internal combustion engine
and an electric motof to alternatively drive the wheels; however these designs are complicated by
double and intern controls and transmissions necessary to transition the drive system
between the two motor types, increasing the cost of manufacture. Electric ridden vehicles having
a limited range and hybrid ridden vehicles having a complicated and costly power system have
detracted from the adaption of ridden vehicles. Thm remains a need in the art for a ridden
vehicle that is electrically pow&, but reasonably priced and with a long range of travel. The
presently disclosed ridden vehicle provides such a solution.
[0005] Presently disclosed is a motorized ridden vehicle comprising at least one seat and at least
two wheels; an electric motor adapted to drive at least one of the wheels of the ridden vehicle; at
least one rechargeable battery electrically connected to the electric motor and adapted to power
the electric motor; a generator adapted to charge the rechargeable battery; an internal combustion
engine adapted to drive the generator; and an electronic controller adapted to control operation of
the internal combustion engine based upon monitoring a condition of the rechargeable battery.
In various embodiments, the motorized ridden vehicle may be a motorized scooter, a motorcycle,
a three-wheeled ridden vehicle, a four-wheeled ridden vehicle, a snowmobile or any other ridden
vehicle. In some embodiments, a ridden vehicle may be a vehicle adapted to be mounted by the
rider or passenger, typically with one leg either side of the ridden vehicle, such as with a
motorcycle, or, alternatively in a seated position above the engine, such as with a scooter.
[0006] Also disclosed is a motorcycle comprising a seat adapted to support at least one rider; a
frame adapted to support the seat and the engine during operation of the motorcycle, the frame
comprising a front frame portion having a steering head, a rear frame portion adapted to support
the seat and the engine, and a connecting frame portion connecting the front frame portion and
the rear frame portion and to support a foot rest for a rider; an electric motor positioned below
the seat and adapted to drive at least one wheel of the motorcycle; at least one rechargeable
battery electrically connected to the electric motor and adapted to provide power to the electric
motor; a generator adapted to provide electrical charge to the rechargeable batteries; an internal
combustion engine adapted to drive the generator, and a fuel tank integrated with the frame and
adapted to store fuel for operation of the engine to drive a generator.
[0007] In the various embodiments, the internal combustion engine may be controlled to
maintain operation of the engine in an efficiency range for the engine. In other embodiments, the
rotational velocity of the internal combustion engine may vary, as desired, to provide additional
electric power to operate the motoxycle in response to a monitored condition of the rechargeable
battery. In further embodiinents, when additional power is desired to operate the motorcycle, the
electric motor draws power from the electric battery in addition to the internal combustion
engine and generator. The rechar$eable battery may comprise of a single rechargeable battery or
may be comprised of multiple rechargeable batteries disposed through the ridden vehicle.
[0008] In some embodiments, the ridden vehicle may further comprise an electronic controller
adapted to start the internal combustion engine based upon a condition of the rechargeable
battery, such as a charge level, or rate of discharge, of the rechargeable battery. In other
embodiments, when the rechargeable battery is depleted to a predefined level, the electronic
controller may be adapted to detect that the rechargeable battery has been depleted to the
predefined level and also adapted to start the internal combustion engine which is configured to
power a generator adapted to mharge the battery and additionally, or alternatively, provide
power to the electric motor. In further embodiments, the ridden vehicle may comprise an
electronic controller adapted to start the internal combustion engine based upon a rate of
discharge of the rechargeable battery. The controller may be adapted to determine when the
charge in the battery is being discharged in excess of a predefined rate indicating that the battery
is under an increased load. In response to detecting that the battery is being discharged in excess
of the predefined rate, the controller may further be adapted to start the internal combustion
engine configured to drive a generator adapted to charge the rechargeable battery and
additionally, or alternatively, provide power to the electric motor.
[0009] Where the ridden vehicle comprises an electric motor and an internal combustion engine,
the electric motor and internal combustion engine may be stacked below the seat of the
moto~ycle. In some embodiments the internal combustion engine may be positioned above the
electric motor. Additionally, or in the alternative, the rechargeable battery may be positioned
below the seat of the motorcycle.
[MI01 In some embodiments the ridden vehicle may comprise a fuel tank integrated with the
frame and adapted to store fuel for operation of the engine. The frame may further comprise at
least one tubular portion housing a fuel line extending from the fuel tank through the at least one
tubular portion to the engine, and the frame may be adapted to provide torsional support for the
frame. The fuel storage capacity of the integrated fuel tank may be between 2 and 15 liters. In
other embodiments the fuel storage capacity of the integrated fuel tank may be in excess of 15
litem.
[0011] In some embodiments, the ridden whlcle may have an electric motor producing in excess
of 200 horsepower, or 400 horsepower. In other embodhmnts the electric motor may produce in
excess of 150 horsepower. In further embodiments the eiectric motor powered by both the
internal combustion engine and generator, and the rechargeable battery may produce in excess of
200 horsepower.
[0012] In some embodiments, the fuel tank may provide torsional support for the frame. The
frame of the ridden vehicle may also include at least one hollow section, and the fuel tank is in
fluid communication with the internal combustion engine, here preferably, through at least one
hollow section of the frame. In addition, the hollow section of the frame may be configured to
store fuel for the internal combustion engine and may be adapted to be in direct fluid
communication with the internal combustion engine. In some embodiments, the frame has at
least one tubular portion housing a fuel line extending from the fuel tank through the at least one
tubular portion to the engine.
[0013] The internal combustion engine, of embodiments described herein, may be adapted to
provide a drive for the ridden vehicle, and the engine may have a displacement of at least 100
cubic centimeters or at least 150 cubic centimeters. In other embodiments, the engine may have
a displacement between 100 and 500 cubic centimeters. In further embodiments, the internal
combustion engine may have a displacement of 300 cubic centimeters.
[0014] In another embodiment, the ridden vehicle includes a rechargeable battery configured to
be supported by the frame and to be recharged by generated power by the internal combustion
engine, and an electric motor electrically supported by the frame and connected to the
rechargeable battery and adapted to provide a drive for the ridden vehicle. The internal
combustion engine used to recharge the rechargeable battery may have a displacement of no
more than 1,000 cubic centimeters, between 50 and 250 cubic centimeters, or approximately 2
cubic centimeters in various embodiments. The rechargeable battery may be a lithium-ion
battery.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] Reference is made to the acxompanying drawings in which particular embodiments and
further benefits of the invention are illustrated as described in more detail in the description
below, in which:
[0016] FK;. 1 is a peqective view of a frame for a ridden vehicle, being a scooter;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a side view of a ridden vehicle, being a scooter; and,
[0018] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of a ridden vehicle, being a scooter;
[0019] Fa. 4 is a side view of another embodiment of a ridden vehicle, being a motorcycle,
having a hybrid drive system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] Embodiments of a ridden vehicle having a fuel tank integrated with the vehicle frame are
presently disclosed. The integrated fuel tank is illustrated in the context of a motorized scooter,
however, the ridden vehicle with integrated fuel tank may also be used with other ridden vehicles
such as motorcycles, mopeds, three-wheeled vehicles, four-wheeled vehicles, such as all-terrain
vehicles, and other vehicles configured to be ridden, such as snow mobiles or personal watercraft
(i.e. jet skis).
[0021] In the various embodiments, a vehicle includes a seat configured to be ridden and an
internal combustion engine. The vehicle also includes a frame configured to support the seat and
the engine during operation of the vehicle. The frame includes a front frame portion having a
steering head, a rear frame portion configwd to support at least the seat and the internal
combustion engine, and a lower frame portion connecting the front frame portion and the rear
fkme portion. The vehicle also includes a fuel tank integrated with the fhme configured to store
fuel for the vehicle. In an embodiment, the fuel tank is disposed within the front frame portion
below the steering head.
[OW21 Referring to FIG. 1, a frame for a ridden vehicle in the form of a motorized scooter is
illustrated. In one embodiment, the frame 1 is constructed of hollow tubes that provide structural
support for the components, such as the seat, engine and steering mechanism, of a motorized
scooter. Additionally or alternatively, the frame may include one or more structural members
other than hollow tubes, such as struts 7 which may provide diagonal bracing for portions of the
firame. The frame 1 may include one or more seat mounts, such as first seat mount 8 and second
seat mount 9, for securing one or more seats to the frame for the rider and a passenger. The
shape and configuration of the frame 1 may be selected for the specific configuration of the
ridden vehicle and may include additional portions for storage compartments or the attachment
of peripheral devices as is known. In an embodiment, the frame 1 for a motorized scooter may
include a triangular k t frame portion connecting a steering head 3 to the lower frame tubes 4,
5. The lower frame tubes 45 connect the front frame portion to the rear frame portion which
supports the passenger seat and engine. A motorized scooter may also have floorboards (not
shown) supported above the lower frame tubes 4,5, on which a passenger's feet may rest when
riding the vehicle.
[0023] The steering head 3 is configured to connect to a steering mechanism for the ridden
vehicle. In various embodiments, the steering mechanism (not shown) is rotated by the rider to
steer the vehicle. The steering mechanism may include handle bars, such as commonly used on
scooters and motorcycles, but may also include a steering wheel or other device for steering the
vehicle. In each configuration, the steering mechanism is supported by steering head 3, which is
supported by the frame 1 of the vehicle.
[0024] The ridden vehicle further includes a fuel tank 2 supported or integrated with the frame 1
for storing fuel, such as gasoline. In an embodiment, the fuel tank 2 is a hollow structure
connecting the steering head 3 to the lower frame portion. The fuel tank 2 includes a filler tube
6. The filler tube 6 may be a short section of tube extending from the tank 2 or may be internal
to the tank. In each embodiment, the removable cap or cover may be provided to seal the filler
tube 6 when the ridden vehicle is in operation. The filler tube 6 is positioned to enable the ridden
vehicle to be refueled from the front portion of the vehicle while a rider remains on the vehicle.
In contrast, prior systems have placed the fuel tank and filler tube under the seat or between the
rider's legs requiring the rider to dismount the vehicle during refueling operations.
[0025] In each embodiment, the fuel tank 2 may be integrated with the frame 1 such that the fuel
tank 2, itself, provides structural support to the frame and supports the steering head 3. In some
embodiments, the fuel tank occupies substantially the entire triangular front portion of the frame
of a ridden vehicle such as a motorized scooter. In an embodiment, the fuel tank provides
torsional support to the front frame portion of the vehicle to inhibit twisting or turning the front
frame portion. The fuel tank may also provide lateral support to the lower frame tubes 4,s. In
addition or alternatively, the frame may include a lattice, webbing or other cross bracing to
further support the front portion of the frame connecting the steering head to the lower frame
tubes 4,s.
[0026] The capacity of the supported or integrated fuel tank may be selected based upon the
specifications of the ridden vehicle. For many light weight vehicles, such as motorized scooters,
a fuel capacity of between two liters and six liters will be sufficient to provide a desired
operating range for the ridden vehicle. In an embodiment, the inkgrated fuel tank has a storage
capacity of four liters (or approximately one gallon). In other embodiments, of the ridden
vehicle being a scooter, the capacity of the fuel tank may be increased by extending the fuel tank
under the floorboards and along the lower frame tubes 4,s. In an embodiment, the fuel tank, of a
ridden vehicle being a scooter, is substantially L-shaped extending down the front portion of the
frame and transitioning approximately 90 degrees to extend along at least a portion of the lower
frame tubes 4,s. The portion of the fuel tank under the floorboards may be secured to the lower
frame tubes 4,5, or may be integrally formed with the tubes 4,s. In this manner, the capacity of
the fuel tank may be increased.
[0027] In such embodiments, the fuel tank 2 may be integrated with the frame 1 such that the
fuel tank provides structural support for the vehicle. The frame and integrated fuel tank may be
formed in a variety of methods. In one example, the frame and integrated fuel tank are formed of
multiple discrete pieces and welded together to complete the frame assembly. In another
embodiment, the frame and fuel tank are constructed separately and then joined together during
the manufacturing process to form the integrated fuel tank presently disclosed. In yet another
embodiment, the frame may be constructed of a plurality of tubes as previously discussed. The
fuel tank may comprise one or more enlarged sections of the tubes forming the frame of the
vehicle. As such, the fuel may be stored in the fuel tank and/or within hollow sections of the
frame as desired. In one embodiment, the kame includes at least one hollow section and the fuel
tank is in fluid communication with the at least one hollow section of the frame such that the fuel
tank and the at least one hollow section cooperate to store fuel for the vehicle. As illustrated in
FIG. 1, the hollow section of the frame may include one of the pair of lower frame tubes 43, and
the lower frame tube may further include a port configured to receive a fuel line to transfer fuel
from the lower frame tube to the engine.
[0028] In some embodiments, the steering head 3 of the frame is connected to the lower frame
rails 4,s by tubes extending diagonally downwardly from the steering head to form the triangular
front portion of the frame. A fuel tank may be affixed between the diagonally extending tubes
using conventional fastening techniques for securing a fuel tank to a vehicle frame. In this
embodiment, a preexisting frame may be modified to integrate a fuel tank in the front portion of
the fmme to allow for refueling the vehicle without displacing the vehicle's rider.
[Om91 In various embodiments, the ridden vehicle includes an internal combustion engine
d to the frame. In some embodiments, the intemal combustion engine may be secured to
the rear portion of the frame. In some embodints, the internal combustion engine provides the
drive for the vehicle, such as by powering one or m a drive wheels of the vehicle to move the
vehicle. The internal combustion engine may have a displacement of at least 100 cubic
centimeters, at least 150 cubic centimeters, or more, as desired, depending upon the weight and
other requirements of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine may
have a displacement of 250 cubic centimeters or 500 cubic centimeters. As discussed further
below, the internal combustion engine may be used to drive a generator to generate electricity
which is then used to drive an electric motor that turns the drive wheel of the vehicle. In such
embodiments, a smaller engine may be used. Fuel from the fuel tank must be transferred to the
internal combustion engine.
[0030] As previously discussed, the fuel tank may include a hollow structure connecting the
steering head 3 to the lower frame tubes 4,s. In some embodiments, the hollow structure
forming the fuel tank may open directly into one of the lower frame tubes, such as tube 4,
allowing fuel to flow from the tank through the lower frame tube to the engine in the rear portion
of the frame. In this manner, the lower frame tube, such as tube 4, provides additional fuel
storage capacity and forms a portion of the integrated fuel tank. The integrated fuel tank may
thus be un&rstood as the space in which fuel may be stored regardless of what other purpose or
purposes the component holding the fuel may serve. In an embodiment, the lower frame tube
may have a port or connection configured to receive a fuel line connecting the lower frame tube
carrying the fuel to the internal combustion engine. Alternatively, the lower frame tube may
have a port configured to directly supply fuel from the tube to the engine without the use of a
separate fuel line further reducing the number of components in the vehicle assembly.
[0031] In other embodiments, the fuel tank 2 may have a port or connection configured to
receive a fuel line, and the fuel line may extend from the fuel tank along at least a portion of the
frame to the engine. A fuel line may be secured to one of the lower frame tubes as necessary. In
yet another embodiment, the frame may provide protection for a fuel line extending through one
of the lower frame tubes. In one example, a fuel line may exit the fuel tank disposed in the front
portion of the frame and enter one of the lower frame tubes through an opening near the front
portion of the frame. The fuel line may extend through the lower frame tube such that the tube
protects the fuel line from damage as may be caused by road debris. The fuel line may exit the
lower frame tube through an opening in the rear portion of the frame and extend to the internal
combustion engine.
{0032] In some embodiments, the position of the fuel tank in the front portion of the frame
reduces the airflow reaching the engine as the vehicle moves. In such embodiments, the engine
may be provided with air inlets positioned to capture air flowing around or under the fuel tank so
as to maintain a desired air flow to the engine for cooling. In yet other embodiments, the fuel
tank may be provided with an aperture extending through the fuel tank in the direction of travel
of the ridden vehicle such that air may pass through the aperture and flow to the engine. As will
be appreciated, the fuel tank may be configured in a variety of shapes to accommodate air flow
requirements and provide an aerodynamically desirable configuration for the vehicle.
[0033] As previously noted, the internal combustion engine may be used to drive a generator to
generate electricity for an electric motor, andlor charge the rechargeable battery.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of a ridden vehicle, in particular a motorized scooter,
with its front fairing and other coverings partially removed. Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, an
embodiment of a motorized scooter is illustrated, which includes a rechargeable battery
configured to be recharged by an internal combustion engine to power a generator adapted to
power an electric motor electrically connected to the rechargeable battery and configured to
provide a drive for the ridden vehicle by powering at least the rear wheel of the scooter. As
shown, the motorized scooter vehicle 10 includes a seating area 12, a storage area 13 under the
seating area, a footboard 14, and a front fairing 15. The rechargeable battery 18 is disposed
underneath footboard 14 between lower frame rails 16,17. The rechargeable battery 18 may be a
lithium-ion battery, however, other battery chemistries may also be used. Operation of the
rechargeable battery and electric motor may be managed by an electronic controller 19. In one
configuration, the electronic controller 19 may be positioned centrally behind the rider's leg
position to avoid interfering with the rider during operation of the ridden vehicle. The electric
motor 20 is s e c d to the rear portion of the frame. As illustrated, the electric motor 20 may be
bolted to a vertical section of the frame, and an internal combustion engine 21 and generator 22
or alternator may also be secured to the frame above the electric motor. The position and
orientation of the electric motor and internal combustion engine may be s e w to balance the
weight distribution on the vehicle and to conform to the desired dimensions of the assembled
vehide. The ridden vehicle also includes a fuel tank 23 to store fuel for the internal combustion
engine. The fuel tank 23 may be supported or integrated into the front portion of the frame
beneath the steering had and behind front fairing 1s as p~viouslyd iscussed. The fuel tank also
includes a filler tube 24 which extends through the front fairing 15 communicating with the fuel -
tank for refueling the fuel tank without displacing the vehicle's rider. In some embodiments, as
shown, the filler tube communicating with the fuel tank may be disposed in the vehicle to
provide an entrance to the fuel tank in front of the steering head.
[0035] During operation, the ridden vehicle being a motorized scooter, illustrated in FIGS. 2 and
3, is operated by the electric motor 20 drawing power from the battery 18. In one embodiment,
the charge level of the battery 18 is monitored. When the charge level of the battery falls below
a predetermined charge level, such as 25%, 50% or 60% of full charge, the electronic controller
activates the internal combustion engine 21 to power a generator recharging the battery. In other
embodiments, the electronic controller may activate the internal combustion engine based upon a
monitored condition of the rechargeable battery, such as the rate of discharge or load applied to
the rechargeable battery. In this manner, the internal combustion engine may be activated and
deactivated to maintain the desired charge level in the battery or to provide additional power
under high load conditions, such as rapid acceleration or traveling up a steep hill. The internal
combustion engine 21 powers a generator to recharge the battery 18 and as such may be operated
at a substantially constant speed to optimize the generator output with minimum fuel
consumption. In an embodiment, a substantially constant speed of operation is understood by
those of skill in the art as distinguished from a variable speed operation, and entails control of the
engine to a determined operating condition. In some embodiments, the internal combustion
engine is operated at a power setting that yields the engine's minimum brake specific fuel
consumption. For recharging the rechargeable battery, a smaller internal combustion engine may
be utilized on the ridden vehicle, such as an internal combustion engine having a displacement of
no more than 500 cubic centimeters, or between 50 and 190 cubic centimeters, or in excess of
500 cubic centimeters, as desired. In one embodiment, a 35 cubic centimeter displacement
internal combustion engine provides adequate electrical power generation for a motorized
scooter application. Once the battery 18 is recharged to a predetermined charge level, such as
95%, 98% or 100% of full charge, the internal combustion engine is shut down and the vehicle
operates solely on the ektxic motor and battery as previously discussed. The vehicle rider may
select the power output of the electric motor using a throttle to control the vehicle's speed.
[0036] FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of a ridden vehicle being a motorcycle 40, having
a hybrid drive system. The motorcycle 40 includes a hybrid drive system comprising an electric
motor assembly 41, an internal combustion engine 42, generator 43, and a rechargeable battery
44. The internal combustion engine 42 may be used as a motor to power a generator 43 adapted
to generate electricity for the electric motor 41 and/or rechargeable battery 44. The internal
combustion engine 42, electric motor assembly 41, and rechargeable battery 44 may form an
integrated drive system for a hybrid motorcycle 40, configured to be installed and removed as a
single unit. In other embodiments, the internal combustion engine 42, generator, electric motor
assembly 41 and the rechargeable battery 44 may be separate components, configured to be
installed and removed separately.
[0037] In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the motorcycle has at least one seat 48, attached to a frame
49. Also attached to the frame 49 is an internal combustion engine 42, generator 43, an electric
motor assembly 41 and a nxhargeable battery 44. The motorcycle 40 also has two wheels, 46
and 47. The axle SO of the rear wheel 46 comprises a sprocket 51, fmedly engaged to the axle
50. The output shaft 52 of the motor assembly 41 also has a sprocket 53 fmedly engaged to the
motor assembly output shaft 52. A drive chain or belt 54 is disposed between the wheel axle
sprocket 51 and the motor assembly output shaft sprocket 53, such that the chain or belt 54
operatively engages the two sprockets 51 and 53. The chain or belt 54 transmits the power
produced from the motor assembly 41, to the rear wheel 46. In some embodiments, a chain
tensioner 55 (or belt tensioner) may be disposed on the motorcycle 40 to impart a tension on the
chain, or belt, 54. The tension on the chain, or belt, 54 ensures that the chain or belt maintains
sufficient traction with the two sprockets 51,53 as the rear wheel 46 moves up and down with
the changing ground conditions. The movement of the rear wheel 46 changing the distance
between the motor sprocket 53 and the rear axle sprocket 51. In other embodiments, the swing
arm 56, which supports the llear wheel 46 and the suspension, may be pivotably attached to the
motorcycle 40 such that the pivot point of the swing arm 56 is aligned with the output shaft of
the electric motor assembly 41. In such embodiments, as the rear wheel 46 moves up and down
with changing ground conditions the distance between the rear axle sprocket 51 and the motor
assembly sprocket 53 remains substantially constant, the~foref,o rgoing the requirement for a
chain, or belt, tensioner.
[0038] The internal combustion engine 42, generator 43, electric motor 41 and the rechargeable
battery 44 may be arranged in p&l electrical connection with each other. In this manner
electricity may be supplied to the electric motor 41 by either the rechargeable battery 44 and/or
the internal combustion engine 42. The internal combustion engine 42 may be configured to an
optimal operating condition to drive the generator 43 to provide electricity to the rechargeable
battery 44 to charge the rechargeable battery 44.
[0039] To maintain a motorcycle 40 at motorway speeds requires less power from the motor
assembly 41 than when the motorcycle 40 is accelerating or travelling at very high speeds. The
internal combustion engine 42 and generator 43 may be configured to provide sufficient
electrical power to the electric motor assembly 41, and/or battery 44, to maintain the motorcycle
at highway speeds while also providing electricity to the rechargeable battery 44 to recharge the
rechargeable battery 44. When the rider wishes to accelerate or travel at high speeds the
rechargeable battery 44 may be adapted to provide the required increase in electrical charge to
the electric motor assembly 41 necessary to propel the motorcycle 40 at higher speeds or
accelerate the motorcycle. When the rider decelerates or travels at certain speeds the internal
combustion engine 42 and the generator 43 may be configured to provide sufficient electrical
power to the motor 41, while also providing sufficient electrical charge to simultaneously
recharge the rechargeable battery 44. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine 42
and generator 43 may provide electrical charge to the electric motor 41 through the rechargeable
battery 44. In other embodiments, the electrical charge may be provided directly to the electric
motor 41.
[0040] The rechargeable battery 44 may be disposed within the frame 49 of the motorcycle 40.
Additionally, or in the alternative, embodiments the electric motor assembly 41, the internal
combustion engine 42, and generator 43, may be stacked below the seat of the motorcycle 40. In
some embodiments, the internal combustion engine is positioned above the electric motor. To
d u c e the center of gravity the rechargeable battery 44 may be positioned at a lower point within
the frame 49 of the motorcycle 40. The battery 44 may be a lithium-ion battey, however other
battery chemistries may be used in the alternative. Operation of the rechargeable battery 44 may
be controlled by an electronic controller 45. The electronic controller 45 may be the
motmycle's central computer, or it may be a stand-alone system, specifically configured to
control the operation of the rechargeable battery 44. The electronic controller 45 may also be
configured to control the operation of the inkrnal combustion engine 42 and the electric motor
assembly 41.
[0041] The piesently disclosed ridden vehicle in form of a motorcycle may be capable of having
electric motom 41 producing in excess of 200 horsepower while having improved fuel efficiency
due to the internal combustion engine 42 optimized to drive a generator 43 to generate electricity
to charge the rechargeable battery 44. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine
may be configured to operate at a desired single speed, or a desired set of speeds, for maximum
efficiency. In other embodiments, the electric motor assembly 41 may be configured to produce
in excess of 400 horse power.
[0042] The motorcycle 40 may also comprise a fuel tank. The fuel tank may be supported by or
disposed within the frame 49 such that the frame 49 of the motorcycle 40 houses the fuel for the
internal combustion engine 42. A fuel line may connect the frame 49 housing the fuel to the
internal combustion engine 42, or the frame, housing the fuel, may be configured to be directly
connected to the fuel intake valve of the internal combustion engine 42. In some embodiments,
the motorcycle 40 may comprise a fuel tank located on top of the frame 49 forward of the seat 48
as with traditional moto~ycles. In other embodiments, the fuel tank may be disposed within the
confines of the frame 49 to provide fuel to the internal combustion engine 42. The motorcycle
40 having a hybrid drive system, comprising an electric motor assembly 41, an internal
combustion engine 42, a generator 43, and a rechargeable battery 44, would typically comprise
an internal combustion engine 42 of smaller size than a conventional motorcycle powered solely
by an internal combustion engine. A smaller engine requires less fuel, therefore, the presently
disclosed hybrid motoxycle 40 typically comprises a fuel tank having a reduced capacity
compared to conventional motorcycles. In other embodiments, the fuel tank may provide
torsional support for the frame 49.
[0043] In some embodiments, during operation, the motorcycle 40 illustrated in FIG. 4 is
operated by the electric motor 41 drawing electricity from the rechargeable battery 44. In
embadiments, the charge level of the battery 44 is monitored. When the charge level of the
battery falls below a predetermined charge level, for example 258, SO%, or 75% of full charge,
or any desired level of charge, the electronic controller 45 activates the internal combustion
engine 42 to drive the generator 43 adapted to provide electrical charge to recharge the
rechargeable battery 44. In other embodiments, the electronic controller 45 may activate the
internal combustion engine based upon a monitored condition of the rechargeable battery 44,
such as the rate of discharge or load applied to the rechargeable battery 44. In this manner, the
control of the internal combustion engine may be activated and deactivated to maintain the
desired charge level in the battery 44 or to provide additional power under high load conditions,
such as rapid acceleration or travelling up a steep hill or at high speed.
[0044] The internal combustion engine 42 and generator 43 are operated to recharge the battery
44, and as such, may be operated at a substantially constant speed to optimize the generated
output with minimum fuel consumption. A substantially constant speed operation may be
distinguished from a variable speed operation, and entails control of the engine to a determined
operating condition. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine is operated at a
power setting that yields the engine's minimum brake specific fuel consumption. Once the
battery 44 is charged to a predetermined level, for example, 958,988, or 100% of full charge,
the internal combustion engine 42 may be shut down and the ridden vehicle may operate solely
with the battery 44 providing all of the electric power to the electric motor assembly 41.
[0045] In other embodiments, the internal combustion engine 42 may be controlled to maintain
operation of the engine in an efficiency range for the engine unless additional electric power is
desired to operate the motorcycle. In such embodiments, if additional electric power is desired
to operate the motorcycle the internal combustion engine 42 may be operated to produce more
electrical energy, such as by increasing the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine 42
to provide increased power to drive the generator 43. Under certain conditions, as desired,
electrical power may be provided to the electric motor from the internal combustion engine 42
and generator 43, as well as the rechargeable battery 44. During operation the rider may select
the power output of the electric motor assembly 41 using a throttle to control the vehicle's speed
and acceleration.
[0046] In some embodiments, the ridden vehicle being a motorcycle, as illustrated, may be
capable of being powered solely by the electricity produced by the internal combustion engine 42
and generator 43. However, when the rechargeable battery is depleted, the internal combustion
engine may function as a ,range extender for the motorcycle, allowing, for operation of the
moto~yclei,f at somewhat reduced performance, thus allowing the rider to travel home or to a
maintenance control if the battery should malfunction or run out of charge.
[MA Other methods of charging the vehicle battery, of any of the aforementioned vehicles,
may also be employed. The vehicle may have an electrical connector configured to recharge the
battery from an external electrical source, such as a generator or utility power. The vehicle may
include an AC/DC converter allowing the vehicle to be charged from a standard alternating
current source; however, in other embodiments, an AC /DC converter may be required to provide
the necessary charging voltage to the battery.
[0048] In other embodiments, the decision to start or stop the internal combustion engine to
recharge the battery may be based upon a measured rate of change of the charge level of the
battery or on other operating parameters of the battery. The internal combustion engine may also
be activated by the rider to recharge the battery even if the predetermined charge condition has
not been reached. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine 42 and generator 43
will recharge the battery 44 during operation of the ridden vehicle provided that the generator
output exceeds the load on the battery. If the generator output does not exceed the load on the
battery the rate of depletion of the battery will be reduced and the battery recharged when the
load is reduced, such as when the ridden vehicle stops or when the throttle setting is reduced. As
a result, the electric motor may at times be powered solely by the battery, solely by the internal
combustion engine and generator, or by both the battery and generator depending upon the
operating conditions of the vehicle. The terms "generator" and "alternator" are used
interchangeably herein (however, it is recognized that one term or the other may be more
appropriate depending on the application).
[0049] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode,
and also to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the invention, including making and
using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of
the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to one of
ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if
they have structural elements that do not different from the literal language of the claims, or if
they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial diffe~nces from the literal
language of the claims.

What is claimed is:
1. A motorized ridden vehicle comprising:
at least one seat and at least two wheels;
an electric motor adapted to drive at least one of the wheels of the ridden vehicle;
at least one rechargeable battery electrically connected to the electric motor and
adapted to power the electric motor;
a generator adapted to charge the rechargeable battery;
an internal combustion engine adapted to drive the generator; and
an electronic controller adapted to control operation of the internal combustion
engine based upon monitoring a condition of the rechargeable battery.
2. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1 where the internal combustion engine
is controlled to maintain operation of the engine in an efficiency range for the engine.
3. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:
an electronic controller adapted to start the internal combustion engine based
upon a charge level of the rechargeable battery.
4. Hie motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:
an electronic controller adapted to start the internal combustion engine based
upon a rate of discharge of the rechargeable battery.
5. Hie motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1 where the electric motor and the
internal combustion engine are stacked below the seat of the motorcycle.
6. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 5 where the intemal combustion engine
is positioned above the electric motor.
7. Tlie motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 5 where the rechargeable battery is
positioned below the seat of the motorcycle.
16
8. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a fuel tank
integrated with the frame and adapted to store fiiel for operation of the engine.
9. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the frame further comprises at
least one tubular portion housing a fuel line extending from the fuel tank through the at
least one tubular portion to the engine.
10. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 8 where the fuel tank is integrated into
the frame such that the firame houses the fuel for the internal combustion engine.
11. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 8, where the fuel storage capacity of
the integrated fiiel tank is between 1 and 15 liters.
12. The motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the electric motor is capable
of producing in excess of 200 horse power.
13. TTie motorized ridden vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the internal combustion
engine has a displacement in excess of 300 cubic centimeters.
14. A motorcycle comprising:
a seat adapted to support at least one rider,
a frame adapted to support the seat and the engine during operation of the
motorcycle, the frame comprising a front frame portion having a steering head, a
rear frame portion adapted to support the seat and the engine, and a connecting
frame portion connecting the front frame portion and the rear frame portion and to
support a foot rest for a rider,
an electric motor positioned below the seat and adapted to drive at least one wheel
of the motorcycle;
at least one rechargeable battery electrically connected to the electric motor and
adapted to power to the electric motor,
a generator adapted to charge the rechargeable batteries;
an internal combustion engine adapted to drive the generator; and,
17
a fuel tank integrated with the frame and adapted to store fiiel for operation of the
generator.
15. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 14 comprising in addition an electronic controller
adapted to control operation of the internal combustion engine based upon monitoring a
condition of the rechargeable battery.
16. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 14 the generator is controlled to maintain operation
of the internal combustion engine in an efficiency range for the internal combustion
engine.
17. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 14 where the electric motor and the intemal
combustion engine are stacked below the seat of the motorcycle.
18. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 17 where the intemal combustion engine is
positioned above the electric motor.
19. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 14 where the rechargeable battery is positioned
below the seat of the motorcycle.
20. The motorcycle as claimed in claim 14, where the fuel storage capacity of the integrated
fuel tank is between 2 and 15 liters.