RIDDEN VEHICLE WITH INTEGRATED FUEL TANK
RELATED APPLICATIONS
(00011 This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No.
61/582,816, filed on January 3, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application No. 61/582,817, filed on
January 3,2012, which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0002] The present disclosure relates to vehicles, namely, motorized scooters, motorcycles, and
other ridden vehicles, and more particularly to a ridden vehicle having a fuel tank integrated with
the vehicle frame.
[0003] Vehicles, particularly vehicles configured to be ridden such as motorized scooters,
motorcycles, 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 therefore desired to maintain the desired size of the 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. In many
prior systems, the fuel tank has been placed under the seat or between the rider's legs requiring
the rider to dismount the vehicle during the refueling process. As such, there remains a need for
ridden vehicles with a fuel tank that may be refueled with less inconvenience to the vehicle rider.
[0004] Prior electric scooters have utilized several different configurations each of which
possess sewad 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 batteries, such as lithium-ion, have been
employed, however, these batteries are expensive and may also have limited range. Yet other
designs have employed an internalcombustion engine and an ekctric motor to alternatively drive
the wheels; however, these designs are complicated by double and integrated control necessary
to transition the drive system between the two power-type drives.
[0005] There =mains a need in the art for a ridden vehicle that is electrically powered, but
peasonably priced and with a long range of travel. The pmsedy disclosed ridden vehicle fills
that need.
[0006] Presently disclosed is a vehicle having a seat configured to be ridden and a frame
configured for supporting the seat and an internal combustion engine. The frame comprises a
front frame portion having a steering head, a rear frame portion configured to support at least the
seat and the engine, and a lower frame portion connecting the front frame portion and the rear
frame portion and adapted to support leg portions of a rider, a fuel tank integrated with the front
frame portion below the steering head and configured to store fuel for operation of the engine,
and a filler tube communicating with the fuel tank disposed to provide an entrance to the fuel
tank in front of the steering head. In various embodiments, the vehicle may be a motorized
scooter, a motomycle, a three-wheeled ridden vehicle, a four-wheeled ridden vehicle, a
snowmobile, or a personal watercraft ridden vehicle. In some embodiments, a ridden vehicle
may be a vehicle adapted to be mounted by the rider, or passenger, such as with an all-terrain
vehicle or tricycle.
[0007] The fuel tank may provide torsional support for the front frame portion. The lower frame
portion of the vehicle may also include at least one hollow section, and the fuel tank is in fluid
communication with the internal combustion engine 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.
IOOOS] 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. The fuel
storage capacity of the hgratsd fuel tank may be between one liter and 7 liters, or may be
between 2 and 6 liters, and may be approximately 4 liters (or one gallon) as desired. In an
embodiment, the internal combustion engine is adapted to provide a drive for the vehicle, and the
engine may have a displacement of at least 100 cubic centimeters or at least 150 cubic
centimeters.
[0009] In andher embodiment, the vehide includes a rechargeable battery configured to be
supported by the frame d to be recharged by genecator powered by the internal combustion
engine, and an electric motor electrically supported by the fhme connected to the rechargeable
b e r y and adapted to provide a drive for the vehicle. The internal combustion engine used to
wharge the rechargeable battery may have a displacement of no more than 250 cubic
mn-, may be a displacement between 50 and 190 cubic centimeters, or a displacement of
appr~cimately 120 cubic entimeters in various embodiments. In other embodiments, the
combustion engine used to recharge the rechargeable battery may have a displacement between
20 and 50 cubic centimeters, and in some embodiments 35 cubic centimeters. The rechargeable
battery may be a lithium-ion battery. The ridden vehicle may also have an electronic controller
that is configured to start the internal combustion engine based upon a charge level of the
rechargeable battery, or in response to a rate of discharge of the rechargeable battery. The
internal combustion engine may be configured to operate at a substantially constant speed while
recharging the rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the vehicle may be a motorized
scooter having a floorboard, and the rechargeable battery may be mounted to a portion of the
frame under the floorboard.
(00101 The ridden vehicle may be a motorized scooter with at least one seat and at least two
wheels, an internal combustion engine, a rechargeable battery configured to be recharged by the
indernal combustion engine, an electric motor electrically connected to the rechargeable battery
and c o n f i g d to drive at least one of a plurality of wheels of the vehicle, and an electronic
controller configured to start the internal combustion engine based upon a monitored condition
of the rechargeable battery. The ridden vehicle may also have a frame having a front frame
portion supporting a steering head, a rear frame portion supporting at least the seat and the
internal combustion engine, and a lower frame portion connecting the front frame portion and the
F+X frame portion, and a fuel tank integrated with the front frame portion below the steering
head and configured to store fuel for operation of the internal combustion engine. The scooter
also comprises a filler tube communicating with the fuel tank disposed in the vehicle to provide
an entrance to the fuel tank in front of the steering head.
[0011] Additionally, there has been a need with ridden vehicles to protect the rider from external
ekmeds such as water, pipitation and ckbris, particularly h m the sib, or from an angle in
front or behind. Various lap guard or blanket type coverings have been proposed to protect the
rider's body from weather. Repmentative are EP13%418 A2, EP1707479 A2 and EP2113454
A2. To operate such protective coverings for two wheeled vehides, the rider must mount the
vehicle and cover themselves with the sheet. B e f a setting the vehicle in motion, the prior art
p W v e coyerings are secured to the front of the two-wMed vehicle, and further secured to
either the rider or to the t w o - w W vehicle. The prdective covering will then rest on the
rider's legs causing discomfort and inconvenience to the rider. When the rider stops and desks
to dismount the ridden vehicle, the rider is f o d to detach the protective covering from
themselves and/or the vehicle. If during operation of the two-wheeled vehicle it starts to rain, the
rider needs to stop the two-wheeled vehicle and deploy the protective sheet in order to protect
themselves from the rain.
[0012] These previous protective coverings have been awkward to retract and stow. Also, such
protective systems are not aesthetically desirable detracting from the visual appeal of the ridden
vehicle and do not rrteet to the expectations of users. Further, such previous systems highly
impact on the mobility of the rider, hindering the ability of the rider to mount and dismount the
ridden vehicle. Such previous protective systems also hinder the rider when the rider attempts to
take their leg out of such coverings, leading to increased potential for accidents and fatalities.
Oftentimes, the rider needs to support the ridden vehicle by placing a foot on the ground to
balance the vehicle, especially when the vehicle is running at slow speeds or stationary.
[0013] Disclosed is a retractable protective cover structure for a ridden vehicle that is easily
deployed and does not present a hazard to the rider's operation of the ridden vehicle. The
protective cover structure comprises at least one retractable sidecover structu~ad apted to attach
to a front portion of a ridden vehicle and to extend rearward providing a protective side cover to
the rider on the vehicle. The protective cover structure may be provided on both sides of the
ridden vehicle. In any case, the protective cover st.ructure has at least one actuator adapted to
deploy a side cover structure at least one side of the ridden vehicle. The actuator may be
electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic, or manual for deploying the protective side covers.
[0014] In some embodiments, each protective side cover, on one or both sides, of the ridden
vehicle may comprise at least one kather member having a first end and a second end, the fmt
end adapted to attach to a pivot adjacent the first end of the ridden vehicle, and adapted to rotate
about the pivot to provide a protective cover structure on the ridden vehide. Alternatively, each
protective side cover may comprise at least two feather members, w h et~he first feather member
may be fxedly mounted to the front portion of the ridden vehicle. In any event, the second
feather member may be rotatably mounted to the front portion of the ridden vehide and to the
fvst feather member and adapted to rotate wawardly to provide a side protective cover on the
ridden vehicle.
[0015] In some embodiments, each protective cover struoture may comprise a lattice frame
adapted to extend rearward from the front portion of the ridden vehide, and a flexible cover
adapted to attach to the lattice frame. In dher embodiments, each protective side cover structure
may comprise at least one slat having a first and a second end. The first end may be adapted to
pivot about a fulcrum adjacent the front end of the ridden vehicle and extend rearward, and the
second end adapted to receive a protective cover structure extending substantially along the slat
from the second end to adjacent the first end. Furthermore, the protective cover structure for a
ridden vehicle may comprise at least one side protective cover attached to the front portion of the
ridden vehicle having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion adapted to extend
rearwardly to provide a protective cover structure along the side of the ridden vehicle, and the
second portion to extend upwardly and laterally to provide a protective cover structure over at
least a portion of a riders legs seated on the ridden vehicle.
[0016] The actuator, or actuators, for deploying the one sided protective cover or two sided
protective covers structure may be controlled by a control unit. The control unit adapted to
receive a signal from an activation switch, activated by the rider, and receive signals from
sensors adapted to detect the speed of the ridden vehicle. The control unit may be adapted to
send a signal to the at least one actuator when the ridden vehicle exceeds a determined speed, to
extend the at least one side protective cover structure. The control unit may also be adapted to
send a signal to the at k s t one actuator when the vehicle reduces below a determined speed, to
retract the one or both side protective covers.
[0017] Refmnce is made to the accompanying drawings in which particular embodiments and
further benefits of the invention are illustrated as described in more detail in the description
below, in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a frame for a ridden vehide, the ridden vehicle in the form
of a motorized scooter;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a side view of a ridden vehicle, the ridden vehicle in the fonn of a motorized
scooter; and
[0020] FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of a ridden vehide, the ridden vehicle in the form of a
motorized scooter.
[0021] FiG. 4 is a side view of the scooter of FK;. 3, having the fairing and piastic coverings
removed.
[0022] FIG. 5 is a side view of the scooter of FIG. 2, having the protective cover structure in the
fully deployed position.
[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of an embodiment of the mechanical module of the protective
cover structure;
[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates an arrangement of the protective cover structure and mechanical
module;
[WE] FIG. 8 illustrates one of a pair of protective covers, of a protective cover structure, in a
retracted position;
[M%] FIG. 9 illustrates an operating circuit diagram of a system for a retractable protective
cover structure;
[0027] FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of the protective cover structure;
[0028] FIG. 11 illustrates a further embodiment of a protective cover structure.
DETAILED DESCRlPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[a291 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 motoxycles, 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).
[0030] In the various embodiments, the ridden vehicle includes a seat configured to be ridden
and an internal combustion engine. The ridden vehicle also includes a frame configured for
supporting 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 configured to support at least the seat
and the internal combustion engine, and a lower frame portion connecting the front frame portion
and the w ftame portion. The ridden vehicle also includes a fuel tank integrated with the frame
adapted to store fuel for the vehicle. In an embodiment, the fuel tank is disposed within the .front
frame portion below the steering head.
[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, a frame for a ridden vehicle in lorn 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
frame. 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 front frame portion connecting a steering head 3 to the lower frame tubes 4,
5. The lower frame tubes 4,s 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 , s on which a passenger's feet may rest when
riding the vehicle.
[0032] 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 alkmatively include a steering wbeel 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.
[0033] The ridden vehicle further includes a fuel tank 2 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 fder 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
vehicle is in operation. The vehicle also comprises a filler tube communicating with the fuel tank
disposed in the vehicle to provide an entrance to the fuel tank in front of the steering head. The
fillerabe 6 is positioned to enable the ridden vehicle to be eefueled 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 u&r the seat or between the rider's legs requiring the rider to dismount the
vehicle during ~ foperuations.
[0034] The fuel tank 2 may be integrated with the fkme 1 such that the fie1 tank 2, itself,
provides structural support to the fiame and suppolts 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 some embodiments, 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.
[0035] The capacity of the integrated fuel tank may be selected based upon the specifications of
the ridden vehicle. For many light weight ridden 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 vehicle. In an embodiment, the integrated fuel tank has a storage capacity of four
liters (or approximately one gallon). In other embodiments of the ridden vehicle such as 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, 5. In some embodiments, the fuel tank is
substantially Lshaped 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 s m e d 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.
[0036] In each embodiment, the fuel tank 2 may be integrated with the frame 1 such that the fuel
tank 2 provides structural support for the ridden 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. 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 stwed in the fuel tank andfor within hollow sections of the frame as desired. In
some embodiments, the frame 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 s t m fuel for the ridden vehicle. As illustrated in FIG. 1,
the hollow section of the frame may include one of the pair of lower frame tubes 4,S, 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.
100371 In some embodiments, the steering head 3 of the frame is connected to the lower frame
rails 4, 5 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 frame to allow for refueling the ridden vehicle without displacing the
vehicle's rider.
[0038] In various embodiments, the ridden vehicle includes an internal combustion engine
secured to the frame. In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine may be secured to
the Ear poxtion of the b e . In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine provides the
drive for the vehicle, such as by powering one or more drive wheels of the vehicle to move the
vehicle. The internal combustion engine provides the drive for the ridden vehicle, which 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. As discussed further
below, in another embodiment, the internal combustion engine may be used to drive a generator
to generate electricity, which is then used to drive an electric motor that in turn drives at least
one of the wheel of the ridden vehicle. In such embodiments, a small engine may be used. In
either configuration, fuel from the fuel tank must be transferred to the internal combustion
engine.
[0039] As pseviously discussed, the fuel tank may include a hollow structure connecting the
steering head 3 to the lower b e tubes 4, 5. In some embodiments, the hollow structure
forming the fuel tank may open b t l y into one of the lower fhme tubes, such as tube 4,
allowing fuel to flow from the tank through the lower frame tube to theengine in the rear portion
of the frame. In this manner, the lower fhm 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 understood as the space in which fuel may be st& regardless of what other purpose or
purposes the component holding the fuel may serve. In some embodiments, 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.
[0040] 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 other embodiments, 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 h n t
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.
[0041] In some embodiments, the position of the fuel tank in the front portion of the frame
reduces the airflow aching 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 &sired 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.
[0042] As previously noted, the internal combustion engine may be used either as a motor to
power the drive wheel(s) of the vehicle or to drive a generator to generate electricity for an
electric motor. In such embodiments, the ridden vehicle may be a motorized scooter having at
least one seat and at least two wheels, an internal combustion engine, a rechargeable battery
configwed to be recharged by the internal combustion engine, an electric motor electrically
c o d to the lcechargeable battery and configured to drive at least one of the at least two
wheels of the vehicle, and an electronic controller configured to start the internal combustion
engine based upon a monitored condition of the rechargeable battery.
[0043] Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, an embodiment of a motorized scooter is illustrated,
which includes a dargeable battery configured to be recharged by an internal combustion
engine to power a generator, and an dectric motor electrically connected to the rechargeable
battery and configured to provide a drive for the 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. In one embodiment, 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. 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 secured 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 selected to
balance the weight distribution on the vehicle and to conform to the &sired dimensions of the
assembled vehicle. The vehicle also includes a fuel tank 23 to store fuel for the internal
combustion engine. The fuel tank 23 may be integrated into the front portion of the frame
beneath the steering head and behind front fairing 15 as previously discussed. The fuel tank also
includes a filler tube 24 which extends through the front fairing 15 communicating with the fuel
tank for refilling the fuel tank without displacing the vehide's rider. In such embodiments, as
shown, the filler tube communicating with the fuel tank is disposed in the ridden vehicle to
provide an entrance to the fuel tank in front of the steering head.
[0044] During operation, the scooter, illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, is operated by the electric
motor 20 drawing power fmm the battery 18. In some embodiments, the charge level of the
battery 18 is monitored. When the charge level of the battery falls below a predetermined charge
level, such as 258, 50% or 65% 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 rak of discharge or load applied to the
rechargeable bawry. In this manner, the internal combustion engine may be activated and
deactivated to maintain the desired charge level in the ba#ery 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 improve the generate output with reduced fuel consumption.
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 intemal combustion engine may be utilized on the ridden
vehicle, such as an internal combustion engine having a displacement of no more than 250 cubic
centimeters, or a displacement between 50 and 190 cubic centimeters. 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 958,988 or 100% of full charge, the internal combustion
engine is shut down and the ridden vehicle operates solely on the electric 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.
[OMS] Other methods of charging the vehicle battery 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 cunent so-; however, in other embodiments,
an AC /DC converter may be required to provide the necessary charging voltage to the battery.
[0046] In other embodiments, the decision to start or stop the infernal combustion engine to
rechars the battery may be based upon a measwed rate of change of the charge level of the
battery or on other operating p m t e r s of the battery. The intemal combustion engine may also
be activated by the rider to recharge the battery even if the predetermined charge condition has
not been =ached. The internal combustion engine 21 will recharge the battery 18 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 vehicle
stops or when the throttle setting is reduced. As a mult, the electric motor may at times be
powered solely by the battery, solely by the 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).
[0047] FIG. 2 also illustrates a ridden vehicle, in the form of a motorized scooter, having a
protective cover structure 41. The protective cover structure 41 provides protection from
external elements, such as weather, water, and debris, to the rider from the side of the vehicle or
from an angle in front or behind the vehicle without interfering with the riding position, mobility
of the rider, and ability of the rider to mount and dismount the vehicle.
[0048] FIG. 2 shows a side view of a ridden vehicle 10, in the form of a motorized scooter,
illustrating an embodiment of the presently disclosed protective cover structure 41. The ridden
vehicle 10 comprises a vehicle seat 12, control consol 33, floor board 4, front fairing 5, a
protective cover structure 41, main frame body 8, handlebar 39, front wheel 40, rear wheel 43,
and stand 45. The protective cover structure 41 shown in retracted position. The protective cover
structure has one or more extendable and retractable side protective covers.
[0049] An embodiment of the main frame body 8 of a ridden vehicle 100, in the form of a
motorized scooter, is shown in FIG. 4. The main frame body 8 may comprise at least one front
frame portion, shown as 44a, 44b, at the front end of the vehicle, behind the front forks 70,
running downwards from the common converging point 440 at the upper end of the at least one
front frame portion, 44a, 44b, thereby forming substantially a triangular structure, also shown in
the FIG. 6. Inclined forwardly thereof, adjacent the converging end 440 of the front frame
portions 44a,44b is a steering head 44s adapted to receive the front forks 70. A fuel tank 2 may
be disposed between the space between the front frame portions 44a, 44b having a fuel inlet
opening 6 to insert a spout of the fuel dispensing means. The fuel tank 2 also acts as a structural
member, adapted to carry load along with the front frame portions 44a,44b as well as with other
structural members of the ridden vehicle 100.
[0050] At the lower end, the front frame portions 443, 44b extend rearward and the bottom
portions of the front W e portions 44a, 44b are opposite each other along sides of the ridden
vehicle and extend to form floor frame members 46. Floor frame members may further extend
upwardly and m a d , and run along each along each side to fonn ~ afrram e members 47. In
other embodiments, rear f~arnem embers 47 may be separate structures connecded to the front
frame portions 44a, 44b.
[0051] The rear frame members 47, at their upper end, extend rearward and upward to form seat
rails 48 running substantially parallel to each other, whereupon the seat 12 is mounted. The seat
rails 48 may merge together, at their rear end, forming a "U" like structure. In other
embodiments, the seat rails 48 may be separate structures. The main frame body may also be
provided with a plurality of strengthening members and suitable mountings.
[0052] The frame of the ridden vehicle may take any suitable form and is not limited to the
embodiments shown in the figures or described herein. Furthermore, the described extendable
and retractable protective cover structure 41 may be employed on any ridden vehicle, having any
number of wheels. For example, the extendable and retractable protective cover structure 41 may
be employed on a tricycle, a four-wheeled ridden vehicle such as an ATV or any other vehicle
where the rider may be exposed to external elements.
[0053] FIG. 5 shows the ridden vehicle 100 having a protective cover structure 41, as shown in
FIG. 2, wherein the side protective covers 36 and 37, one on each side of the motorized scooter,
have been deployed. The side protective covers 36, 37 may automatically or manually deploy
when the speed of the ridden vehicle 100 exceeds a determined speed, to protect the rider from
external elements. In some embodiments, the rider may activate the deployment of the side
protective covers 36,37 via the control consol 33, such that when the vehicle 100 exceeds the
ptedetermined speed the side protective covers 36, 37 deploy. Alternatively, the rider may
choose to not active the side protective covers 36.37 and pmvent them from deploying. In other
embodiments, side protective covers 36, 37 may automatically deploy such that they remain
&Noyexi over a predetermined speed. In further embodiments, the rider may select the
predetermined speed at which the side protective covers 36,37 deploy.
[0054] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the mechanical module for deploying the protective
cover structure 41. Two output arm supporting brackets 49l,49r may be mounted on the front
frame portions 44a, 44b in the lower region thereof. In other embodiments, the bmckets may be
integral with the front frame portions 44a, 44b and may be any form of connector to attach the
protective cover structure to the frame 38 of the ridden vehicle 100. An actuator motor 50,
typically a stepper motor, may be mounted in the frontal region of the ridden vehicle 100 and
may comprise a rotating shaft 51 with an axis positioned substantially upwardly. The actuation
motor 50 may be electrically connected with a controller 30, generally being the vehicle's
common control module, and also to a power source, such as battery, which may be located at a
suitable location attached directly or indirectly to the main frame body 38. In other embodiments,
the actuator motor 50 may be mounted in the frontal region of the ridden vehicle 100 and may
have a rotating shaft 51 with a pivot axis positioned substantially laterally. In further
embodiment the protective cover system 41 may comprise multiple motors, each motor
operatively connected to each side protective cover 36, 37, inkpendently or simultaneously
extending and retracting each side protective cover 36,37.
100551 A mechanical module 52 to change the direction of rotation of the rotating shaft 51, for
example, from an upward direction to substantially a transverse direction of the vehicle 100, may
be connected to rotating shaft 51 of actuation motor 50. The mechanical module 52 may have
output arms 531, 53r, which may be flexible, and may pass through the respective bracket
members 491, 49r mounted on the front frame portions 44a, 44b. Protective side covers 36, 37
may be mounted on the ~spectiveo utput arms 531,53r of the mechanical module 52, thus, the
bracket members 491, 491- help the output arms 531, 53r define the axis of rotation for side
protective covers 36,37.
[0056] mG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the side protective covers 36, 37 mounted on the
output anns 53,53r of the mechanical module 52, both the side protective covers 36,37 have a
substantially similar structure and method of mounting and hence the description of one such
side protective cover structure is substantially applicable to both side protective covers 36,37,
with one =versed where applicable. Reference will now be made as to the right side protective
corer 36 alone, the description is applicable to the left side protective cover 37 with appropriate
elements reversed.
[Om71 In some embodiments, the protective cover 36 comprises a plurality of feathers 54. The
protective cover 36 has a feather 54n adjacent the mechanical moduk 52 and a feather 54f
farthest from the mechanical module, with intermediate feathers 54i there between. Each feather
54, as illustrated in FIG. 8, may be a substantially flat plate-like structure having frontedge S5f
which is arranged substantially upwardly, and a rear edge 55r arranged at an angle with the front
edge 55f. Both the front edge 55f and the rear edge 55r at the lower end thereof may join
together to form a "U" like structure 5%. Extending frontwardly from the upper end of the mar
edge 55r and substantially lateral, is an upper edge 5St, and extending frontwardly and
downwardly from the upper edge 5% and joining the upper edge 55t and fiont edge 55f is a
front-upper edge 55ft.
[0058] In some embodiments, each feather 54 may have a curved shape, curved in both the long
and short dimensions, such that the side protective covers 36 and 37 create a rounded protective
cover 41 around the lower part of the riders body. In other embodiments, the system may
comprise two feathers, one feather retracting such that it aligns, or substantially aligns, with the
other feather which may be fmed to the frame and/or fairing of the vehicle 100.
[Om91 In other embodiments, the side protective covers 36 and 37 may be adapted to extend
rearward while the upper portions of the side protective covers 36 and 37 extend inward to
provide a cover above the legs of the rider affording the rider further protection from the
elements.
[0060] In the embodiment shown by FIG. 7, there is provided a journaling opening 550 in the
lower end of the feathers 54. The feathers 54 are also provided with a protrusion 57 extending
substantially perpendicular to the flat plate like feathers 54, except on the feather 54f attached to
the frame 38 of the bike, adjacent the mechanical module 52. The protrusion 57 is provided near
the lower end of the front-upper edge 55ft of the feathers 54. The protrusion 57 is adapted to
engage with an =-shaped track 56 on each feather, except the farthest feather 54f from the front
frame portions H a and 54b, such that that the protrusion 57 and the track 56 keep each feather
engaged with adjacent feathem. The track 56 extending widthwise across each feather 54, and is
provided near the lower end of the front upper edge 55ft of the feathers 54. The protrusion 57
and the arc-shaped channel 56 are provided on the opposite side of the feather 54. The feather
54f nearest the front frame portions 44a, 44b, is provided with the fixing provision 58 on the
front edge 55f intended to engage, removably, with the front fairing 35 of the vehicle 100.
[0061] In some embodiments, at the time of assembly, the nearest feather 54n is inserted upon
the output arm 531 of the mechanical module 52 by way of a journaling opening 550, and then
fixedly mounted thereupon such that the rotational motion of the output arm 531 is transmitted to
the nearest feather S4n. Once the protrusion 57, on the nearest feather has travelled the entire
length of the arc-shaped channel 56 of the adjacent feather SQi, the adjacent feather 54, rotatably
mounted upon the output arm 531 of the mechanical mod* 52 using the journaling opening 550,
is mtated to extend, and so on until each feather 54 is deployed. When the protective cover
structure 41 is in the ~tractedpo sition, the protrusion 57 of the feather 54 is at that comer of the
curved channel 56 of the next feather Hi, which is at the lower end of the upper-front edge 5Sft
of the same feather Hi. When protective cover 36 is in the extended position, the protrusion 57
of the feather 54 is at the distal comer of the curved channel 56. Similarly, all the subsequent
feathers 54i are mounted on the output arm 531 of the mechanical module 52.
[0062] A closecap 59 may then be fixed to the distal end of the output arm 531 such that there is
almost no relative movement between the Eeathers 54 in the axial direction of the output arm 531.
The fixing provision 58 may then be fixed to the front fairing 35 of the ridden vehicle 100 so that
it has substantially no relative motion with the front fairing 35, and at the same time, the
protective cover 36 becomes part of the body of the ridden vehicle 100.
[0063] In an embodiment, during operation of the ridden vehicle 100 when the rider operates the
protecthe cover switch 60 of the control consol 33 intending to extend the side protective covers
36, 37 to their extended position, a signal is sent to the controller. If the speed of the ridden
vehicle 100, sensed by the speed sensors, is above the predetermined speed the controller sends a
signal to the actuation motor 50 that actuates the actuation motor 50 to extend the side protective
covers 36,37 to their extended position, so that rider is protected from the foreign matter such as
water, debris, etc. However, if& speed of the ridden vehicle 100 is less than the predetermined
speed, and even if the rider operates the prokctive cover switch 60 intending to extend the side
protective covers 36, 37 to their extended position, then, no signal is sent by controller to the
actuation motor 50 and no action is taken and the side protective covers 36,37 are maintained in
the regacted position. Thus, the rider is fm to take out their leg, supporting the vehicle with
their foot on the ground, which might be requid in the dow speed, or stationary, operation of
the ridden vehicle 100.
[OW] Similarly, if the pmtdiw covers 36, 37 me W y in the extended position and the
speed of vehicle 100 goes below the p n x b m i d speed, a signal may be automatically sent by
the c o n t d h to the actuation motor 50 that -acts the protective covers 36,37 in its retracted
position. Also, if the protective cover switch 60 is akady in the position fbr extending the
prdective covers 36,37 at a m r m i n e d speed, but speed is &low the predetermined speed
and the operator haeases the speed d i n g the jxdeknnined speed then the controb will
automaticallyxed the signal to actuate the actuation motor 50 idapted to swing the protective
covers 36,37 to the extended position.
100651 In another embodiaKnt, the extension and setraction of the prokdve side covers 36,37
may be perf& by d k d , hydraulic, pneumatic actuators or any other similar actuator or
any combination thepeof. Such actuators may dkectly control the movement of the side
protective covers 36, 37, or may indirectly control the movement of the side protective covers
36,37 by way of a linkage mechanism, such as by output arms 531, S3r.
[0066] In other embodiments, the speed of deployment of the protective covers 36, 37 may be
adjusted with the help of a regulator, generally provided on the control consol 33. When the rider
operates the protective cover switch 60, the protective covers 36, 37 are deployed to their
extended position at the speed which is set by the regulator. The rider of the vehicle 100 may
also choose to disable the deployment of the side protective covers 36, 37 so that they remain
-ted. In some embodiments, deployment of the side protective covers 36, 37 may be
automatic, such that the covers a~ deployed above a certain speed and retracted below a certain
speed, without input from, or activation by, the rider.
[0067] Also, in another embodiment of the ridden vehicle 100 with a protective cover structure
41, weather sensor(s), such as a rain or snow sensor, may be mounted on the vehicle 100,
typically on the control consol 33. When the weather sensor senses rain or snow, it sends a signal
to the controller which, subject to the speed of the ridden vehicle 100, actuates the actuation
motor 50 to extend the side protective covers 36,37 to their ex-tended position so that the rider
may be protected from the foreign matter such as water, snow, debris, etc. Such sensors may
v t e to detect precipitation falling onto or near the vehicle, as well as detecting road
conditions, such as wet road conditions, which may produce spray from the wheels of the vehicle
100 or from other vehicles, and actuate the deployment mechanism to extend the sick protective
covers 36,37 to extend to theii extended position.
100681 FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram for the operation of the actuator for extending andretracting a
pmective cover structure 41. A control circuit for a ridden vehicle 100 may comprise a vehicle
COWmod ule 110. The vehicle control module 110 adapted to receive inputs fiom various
elements of the ridden vehicle 100 and also adapted to control various elements of the ridden
vehide 100. Such inputs may comprise the motor speed 111, &e rear wheel speed 112, the front
wheel speed 113, environmental sensors 114, inputs from the rider selection switch 115, inputs
from the side shield actuator motor 116, and inputs from the throttle control 117. The vehicle
contml module 110 may also be adapted to m i v e the inputs thin the elements of the ridden
vehicle 100 and control various aspects of ridden vehicle 100 such as the vehicle motor 101, or
the side protective cover actuator motor 50. The speed of the bike may be determined from the
RXU wheel speed 112, the mdor speed 111, or the front wheel speed 113, or a combination
thereof. When the inputs to the vehicle control module 110 permit the vehicle control module
110 to determine that the speed of the ridden vehicle 100 has exceeded a determined speed then
the vehicle control module 110 may send signal to the side protective cover actuator motor 110
to activate such that it deploys the side protective covers 36, 37. Conversely, when the vehicle
control module 110 calculates that the speed of the ridden vehicle 100 is less that a determined
speed the vehicle control module 110 may send a signal to the side protective cover actuator
motor 116 to retract the side protective covers 36,37.
[0069] The vehicle control module 110 may also be configured to permit the deployment of just
one side protective cover if desired by the rider. Further, the ridden vehicle 100 may only have
one side protective cover attached.
[0070] With reference to FIG. 10, the side protective covers 36, 37 may be formed from fan
members 90, a fan member 90 provided on the either side of the vehicle 100. The fan member 90
may be shaped like a sector of a circle and made up of fabric 90f or suitable material mounted on
slats Wa, Wb, which provide a frame. Such slats may be provided in overlapping arrangement
and adapted to revolve around a pivot 90p of the fan member 90, adjacent and inward from one
end of the slats. The fabric 90f, or other suitable material, may be provided such that it has a
concertina shape and disposed upon the slats, such that when the slats evolve about the pivot
point, the fabric extends into a section of a circle to provide protection from the elements. One of
the slats 90a may be fured to the vehicle, mope particularly to front fairing 35 of the vehicle 100
and other slat Wb at its lower end may be fixedly mounted on the output arm 531, when the
actuation mdor 50 is activated to rotate by the operator, or otherwise, the slat 90b also rotates
along-with the output arm 53, thereby the slat 90b rotates to the extended position spreading
fabric !)Of to cover side of the vehicle and protect the rider from foreign matter such as water,
debris, etc. In some embodiments, there may be multiple actuator d e w operatively connected
to the slats 90a, one actuator device for each fan member 90. In other embodiments, the actuator,
or actuators, may be electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic or manual, or any suitable actuator to
enable the protective cover system 41 to deploy.
[0071] ReEerring to FK;. 11, there is shown yet another embodiment of a protective cover
stmcttm. Illustrated is a sliding protective cover structuie. One such protective cover stmctuie
may be provided on either side of the ridden vehicle 100. Such a sliding protective cover
structure may comprise fabric 120f, for example, attached to the structure 120. The fabric 120f
may be mounted to a lattice frame 121. The lattice frame 121 having input links I%, 120b
operably connected to an actuator, the actuator adapted to move the input links 120a, 120b
toward each other and away from each other. An actuator may be connected to a pivot point
120d, the pivot point 120d having gears or a screw mechanism to move extend or retract the
lattice by rotating the gears or screw mechanism. When the input links la, 120b are pulled
inward by the actuator, the links 124k move in outward direction as depicted by the arrow (A) so
that the structure 120 and the fabric 120f extend along the side of the vehicle to protect the rider
from foreign matter such as water, debris, etc. The structure 120 can also be supported and
guided by the channel disposed on the floor board 14 of the vehicle 100. Alternatively, any other
straight line mechanism can be used for this purpose.
[0072] In alternative embodiments, the protective cover structure may be a single piece. The
protective cover structure may be mounted outboard of the fmnt fairing such that it may rotate
forward to allow the rider to mount and dismount the vehicle, while not interfering with the
mobility of the front wheel. In other embodiments the side protective cover structure may rotate
outwady, as well as, or instead of, retracting. Such a system may be useful if the rider still
desires to be a f f d some protection when stationary and supporting the vehicle with their foot
on the ground. The protective cover may rotate outwardly to a sufficient angel to allow the rider
to move their foot to the ground without obstruction, while still affording the rider some degree
of protection from external elements.
[0073] It will be appeeciated by those of reasonable skill in the art, that various modifications
can be made, and that many changes can be made to the pderred embodiments without
departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications in the nature of the
invention or the p P e f d embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the ar4 from the
disclosue herein, w b b y it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter
is to be interpreted medy as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

•
What is claimed is:
1. A vehicle comprising:
a seat configured to be ridden and an internal combustion engine;
a fiame configured for supporting the seat and the engine during operation of the vehicle,
the frame comprising a front frame portion having a steering head, a rear frame portion
configured to support at teast the seat and the engine, and a lower frame portion
connecting the front frame portion and the rear frame portion to support a leg portion of a
rider;
a fuel tank integrated with the front frame portion below the steering head and configured
to store fuel for operation of the engine; and,
a filler tube communicating with the fuel tank disposed in the vehicle to provide an
entrance to the fiiel tank in fi-ont of the steering head.
2. The vehicle as daimed in claim 1, where the vehicle is a motorized scooter.
3. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the vehicle is selected firom the group consisting of:
a motorcycle, a three-wheel ridden vehicle, a four-wheel ridden vehicle, a snowmobile, a
personal watercraft ridden vehicle.
4. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the fuel tank provides torsional support for the front
frame portion.
5. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the lower frame pcMtion con^>rises at least one
hc^ow section, and Ihe fuel tank is in fluid conmiunication with the internal combustion engine
through at least one hollow section of the frame.
6. The vehicle as claimed in claim 5, where the hollow secticwi of the frame is configured to
store fuel for the internal combustion engine.
21
7. The 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.
8. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the fuel storage capacity of the integrated fuel tank
is between 2 and 6 liters.
9. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the internal combustion engine is adapted to provide
a drive for the vehicle.
10. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1, where the internal combustion engine has a displacement
of at least 100 cubic centimeters.
11. The vehicle as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:
a rechargeable battery configured to be supported by the frame and to be recharged 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 vehicle.
12. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, where the internal combustion engine has a
displacement of no more than 250 cubic centimeters.
13. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, where the internal combustion engine has a
displacement of between 50 and 190 cubic centimeters.
14. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, where the rechargeaWe battery is a lithium-ion
rechargeable battery.
15. The vehicle as claimed in-claim 11 furtho*comprising:
an electronic controlfer configured to start the intemal combustion engine based upon a
charge level of the rechargeable battery.
22
16. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11 further comprising:
an electronic controller configured to start the internal combustion engine based upon a
rate of discharge of the rechargeable battery.
17. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, where the internal combustion engine is configured to
operate at a substantially constant speed while recharging the rechargeable battery.
18. The vehicle as claimed in claim 11, where in the vehicle is a motorized scooter having a
floorboard, and where the rechargeable battery is mounted to a portion of the frame under the
floorboard.
19. A motorized scooter comprising:
at least one seat and at least two wlwels;
an internal combustion engine;
a rechargeable battery configured to be recharged by the internal combustion engine;
an electric motor electrically connected to the rechargeable battery and configured to
drive at least one of a plurality of wheels of the vehicle; and,
an electronic controller configured to start the internal combustion engine based upon a
monitored condition of the rechargeable battery.
20. The vdiicle as claimed in claim 19 further comprising:
a frame having a front fi:ame portion supporting a steering head, a rear frame portion
supporting at least the seat and the internal combustion engine, and a lower frame portion
connecting the front fi'ame portion and the rear frame portion; and
a fuel tank integrated with the front frame portion below the steering head and configured
to store fuel for operation of the internal combustion engine.