Patent ID: 6158542
Filing Date: 2000-12-12
Classification: B62K,B62L,B62M

Abstract:
A motor-assisted vehicle comprising:a frame;first wheel means rotationally disposed at one end of the frame and mounted for pivotal movement with respect to the frame;second wheel means rotationally disposed at a second end of the frame opposite to said first end;wherein the second wheel means comprises first and second wheels in a parallel spaced arrangement such that they have a substantially common rotational axis defined by corresponding first and second axially-aligned axles;first and second overriding clutches disposed respectively on said first and second axially aligned axles for operatively connecting said axles respectively to said first and second wheels to facilitate each of said first and second wheels rotating independently of said respective first and second axially-aligned axles;a differential for connecting the two axially-aligned axles so as to allow the first and second wheels to rotate independently of one another;a motor for supplying motor power to the second wheel means via the differential; and,motor control means for controlling the motor;wherein the first and second wheels may rotate in a forward direction independently of the differential and the motor when the motor is not in use, or when the vehicle is travelling at a speed faster than that which can be attained under power of the motor.