Motorized transportation apparatus and method

An exemplary motorized personal transportation apparatus is provided that may include a motorized heeling apparatus, a motorized heel bracket or a motorized wheel assembly. The motorized heeling apparatus may include a heeling apparatus and an electric motor mounted adjacent the heeling apparatus to impart forward rotation to at least one wheel adjacent the heel of a footwear to allow walking/running on forefoot, and transition to passive rolling and then electric powered rolling.The motorized heel bracket may include a heel support structure, which may be incorporated in footwear, for supporting at least a portion of the user's heel, wheel(s) mounted adjacent the heel bracket, and an electric motor positioned adjacent the heel support structure and operable to impart forward rotation to the wheel(s).The motorized wheel assembly includes an electric motor with a wheel around the motor such that the casing or external housing rotates to impart rotation to the wheel assembly. The wheel assembly may be used in virtually any transportation apparatus moving platforms, and footwear.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of motorized transportation and more particularly, but not by the way of limitation, to a motorized transportation apparatus and method, including a motorized heeling apparatus, a motorized footwear, a motorized heat bracket and a motorized wheel assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Since their introduction, footwear with one or more wheels located in, under or adjacent the heel have become extremely popular throughout the world. Marketed under the brand HEELYS, the capability to walk or run and then to transition to passive rolling on the one or more wheels has mass appeal in cities, locations and cultures throughout the world.

Most motorized devices for transporting people require large frames or structures to support a large (or somewhat large) motor and associated gearing, transmission and power source. Unfortunately, this often makes such devices cumbersome and, in many instances, cost prohibitive. Substantial difficulty often arises when storing, parking and maintaining motorized transportation devices. It is often difficult, prohibited or not recommended to leave motorized transportation devices unattended.

Further, the presence of motors, especially large motors, and associated hardware often decrease, alter or limit the performance of transportation devices. For example, a gas motor on the back of a skateboard will substantially change the center of mass of the skateboard and result in a substantially different performing skateboard.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From the foregoing it may be appreciated that a need has arisen for a motorized transportation apparatus and method, including a motorized heeling apparatus, a motorized heel bracket, a motorized wheel assembly and a motorized footwear, including associated methods that may include using motorized footwear or apparatus to allow walking or running on a forefoot of a sole, and then transition to passive rolling, i.e., without power assistance from an electric motor, and then transition to electric powered rolling using a conveniently positioned and configured electric motor and power source. In accordance with the present invention, a motorized transportation apparatus and method are provided that substantially eliminate one or more of the disadvantages and problems outlined above.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a motorized heeling apparatus for walking and rolling on a surface in a forward direction. The motorized heeling apparatus may include a wheel, an axle, an electric motor, and footwear. The wheel rolls on the surface in the forward direction, the axle is positioned within an opening in the wheel, the electric motor rotates the axle in the forward rotational direction when the electric motor is engaged to provide forward rotational motion to the axle, the footwear has a sole with a heel portion, and wherein the wheel is positioned adjacent the heel portion of the sole such that, in use, in a non-rolling mode a primary contact of the motorized heeling apparatus with the surface is provided by the forefoot portion of the sole and, in a passive rolling mode, the wheel provides the primary contact with the surface to allow a user to roll in a forward direction on the surface while the wheel rotates in the forward rotational direction, a change in mode being effected by a transfer of weight of the user from the forefoot portion of the sole to the wheel, and, in an electric powered rolling mode, the wheel provides the primary contact with the surface to allow the user to roll in a forward direction on the surface with the electric motor engaged to rotate the axle and the wheel in the forward rotational direction.

According to another aspect, the present invention may include a method for using a motorized heeling apparatus in a non-rolling mode, a passive rolling mode, and an electric powered rolling mode to move in a forward direction on a surface. The method may further include walking on the surface in the forward direction, in a non-rolling mode, using the bottom surface of the forefoot portion of the footwear of the motorized heeling apparatus; transitioning to a passive rolling mode by transferring a user's weight from the forefoot portion to a wheel provided adjacent the heel portion of the footwear of the motorized heeling apparatus, wherein the wheel provides the primary contact with the surface to allow the user to roll in the forward direction on the surface while the wheel rotates in a forward rotational direction; and transitioning to an electric powered rolling mode by providing electrical power to the electric motor of the motorized heeling apparatus to provide rotational power to the wheel in the forward rotational direction, wherein the wheel continues to provide the primary contact with the surface to allow the user to roll in the forward direction on the surface while the wheel rotates in a forward rotational direction.

According to another aspect, the present invention may include a motorized heeling apparatus for walking and rolling on a surface in a forward direction, and the motorized heeling apparatus may include a wheel, an electric motor, a coupling, a battery, a throttle, and a footwear. The wheel may be positioned adjacent a heel portion of a sole of the footwear such that, in use, in a non-rolling mode a primary contact of the motorized heeling apparatus with the surface is provided by the forefoot portion of the sole and, in an electric powered rolling mode, the wheel provides the primary contact with the surface to allow a user to roll in a forward direction on the surface while the electric motor is engaged to rotate the wheel in the forward rotational direction, a change in mode being effected by a transfer of weight of the user from the forefoot portion of the sole to the wheel. The battery provides electrical power to the electric motor, the throttle is used to control the amount of electrical power provided to the electric motor, and the coupling may include any known or available coupling, gear, transmission or other mechanical arrangement to transfer the rotating mechanical energy of the shaft of the electric motor to rotate the wheel.

According to yet another aspect, the present invention may include a motorized heel bracket formed to receive a footwear of a user for walking and rolling on a surface in a forward direction, the motorized heel bracket may include a wheel, an electric motor, a coupling, a throttle, and a heel bracket. The footwear may have a sole with a forefoot portion, an arch portion and a heel portion with a bottom surface. The wheel may be positioned adjacent the heel bracket such that, in use with the footwear, in a non-rolling mode a primary contact with the surface is provided by the forefoot portion of the sole of the footwear and, in an electric powered rolling mode, the wheel provides the primary contact with the surface to allow the user to roll in the forward direction on the surface while the electric motor is engaged to rotate the wheel in the forward rotational direction, a change in mode being effected by a transfer of weight of the user from the forefoot portion of the sole of the footwear to the wheel.

According to still yet another aspect, the present invention may include a motorized wheel assembly that includes an electric motor with a rotatable housing that surrounds all or most of the motor windings or coils of the electric motor, and a wheel positioned around the rotatable housing. The wheel and the rotatable housing are operable to serve as a roller to roll on a surface when electrical power is applied to the electric motor, such as by a battery. The motorized wheel assembly may be used in a motorized footwear, with one in the back and a passive roller in the front of the footwear, or with multiple motorized wheel assemblies adjacent or under the footwear to provide power to propel the footwear forward. A battery may be positioned virtually any location that is convenient, such as the upper part of the footwear, on a belt, within the arch of the footwear, etc. A throttle, and related motor control circuitry, if needed, may be used. In a preferred embodiment, the throttle is a wireless throttle.

The motorized wheel assembly, in another aspect, may be used in a motorized personal transportation apparatus for transporting a person from a first location to a second location on a surface. The motorized personal transportation apparatus may include a support structure, such as a platform or other structure, operable to support a person above the surface when transporting the person from the first location to the second location when powered by the motorized wheel assembly. The motorized personal transportation apparatus may be implemented in a motorized inline skate, motorized quad skate, motorized skateboard, motorized heeling apparatus, motorized scooter, motorized wheelchair, motorized platform, motorized personal mobility device, motorized grocery basket, and any of a variety of other apparatus and systems.

The various embodiments and implementations of the present invention provide a profusion of potential technical advantages and benefits that will generally include one or more of the following. A technical advantage of the present invention may include the capability to conveniently and more easily travel from a first location to a second location that include both walking and electric power assisted rolling (which may be referred to herein as “active rolling” or “electric powered rolling”), without the need for a large framed or cumbersome electric powered device such as a SEGWAY platform, electric scooter or moped.

Another technical advantage of the present invention may include the capability to conveniently travel to a destination using electric power, without the need for a separate parking or storage location at the destination to store or secure a separate or large motorized transportation device.

Still yet another technical advantage of the present invention may include the capability to eliminate or reduce the need for a heavy structure that may be inconvenient to operate or impede overall performance.

Yet another technical advantage of the present invention may include the capability to decrease costs involved in the initial purchase price and operational costs of a personalized transportation device.

Still yet another technical advantage of the present invention may include the capability to more effectively and conveniently provide electric motor power to wheeled devices, such as skateboards, in-line skates, quad skates, scooters, wheelchairs, grocery store baskets and the like. Heavy motors and associated hardware applied to a non-motorized device change the mechanical and physical characteristics of the apparatus. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the capability to use an electric motor within a wheel (or functioning as the wheel) of an apparatus to power the apparatus, or to locate a small motor at a strategic location on the apparatus, may provide the technical advantage of minimizing any change to the operational and mechanical performance of the apparatus.

Other technical advantages and benefits may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying figures and claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It should be understood at the outset that although an exemplary implementation of the present invention is illustrated below, the present invention may be implemented using any number of mechanisms, arrangements, structures, and/or techniques, whether currently known or in existence. The present invention should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplary design and implementations illustrated and described herein. Additionally, the drawings contained herein are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIGS. 1 through 21are illustrated herein to illustrate various aspects of a motorized heeling apparatus and method, without specifically referencing or illustrating a motor, which is described and illustrated more fully in further drawings. The term “motor” or “motorized” as used throughout this application should be understood to include all electric motors, including dc, ac, brush, brushless, sensor or sensor-less electric motors. It should be understood that the motor may be integrated into a wheel, or external the wheel, such as through a gear or mechanical linkage arrangement. Further, motor controls, such as electronic speed controllers (or voltage controllers/regulators or motor controllers) may be included and used in connection with a throttle (such as a rheostat, for example) to control the amount of power or energy delivered by the energy or power source, such as a battery or series of batteries. The throttle, which may be spring-loaded and may include a “dead man” switch, may be hardwired to control the speed or rpm's of the motor, or it may be a wireless or radio frequency “rf” throttle.

The controller may be internal or external the motor housing or casing. Further, it should be understood that the motor may be on only one shoe or footwear, or on both footwear. The motor may be permanently affixed or it may be removable. The wheel or wheels may be removable, permanently affixed and/or retractable.

FIG. 1is a side view of a motorized heeling apparatus10implemented using an athletic shoe12according to one embodiment of the present invention. The motorized heeling apparatus10preferably includes a wheel assembly provided in an opening in the heel portion of the sole of a footwear. For example the athletic shoe12includes an opening in the bottom of a heel portion18of a sole14with a wheel assembly provided in the hole such that a wheel16extends below the bottom of the sole14. The wheel assembly preferably includes at least one wheel, such as the wheel16, rotatably mounted on an axle (not illustrated inFIG. 1). The wheel16mounted on the axle is preferably positioned in the opening of the sole14through a mounting structure (not illustrated inFIG. 1) that is operable to support the axle such that a portion of the wheel16extends below the heel portion18of the sole14.

The amount or length of the portion of the wheel16that extends below the bottom of the sole14, as defined by a distance24, will preferably be less than the diameter of the wheel16. The distance24, however, may be greater than, less than, or equal to the diameter of the wheel16.

The athletic shoe12, as is true of most footwear, may be generally described as having the sole14and an upper part26. The upper part26may be constructed of virtually any material such as, for example, leather, plastic, or canvas. The sole14may include three parts: (1) an inner sole or insole (not illustrated inFIG. 1); (2) a midsole28; and (3) an outer sole or outsole30. The insole may provide added cushion and may or may not be removable. In some embodiments, the insole may include a removable portion, such as a DR. SCHOLL'S insole, and a portion that remains attached to the athletic shoe12. The outsole30will preferably be made of a durable material, such as rubber, and may have a textured surface, such as with knobbies, to provide added traction. The midsole28will generally be constructed of a soft or “cushiony” material and will generally be thicker than the insole and the outsole30. In some embodiments, however, the sole14will comprise only one part, such as the leather sole of a loafer. In other embodiments, the sole14may include a separate heel block or object that elevates the footwear, such as the heel of a leather wingtip dress shoe. This heel block or object may be considered to be part of the heel portion18of the sole14. It should be understood that the present invention may be implemented in virtually any footwear, irrespective of the design or the make-up of the sole14. Various styles of footwear and methods of making footwear are known in the art and are known by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,245,406, 5,319,869, 5,384,973, 5,396,675, 5,572,804, 5,595,004, and 5,885,500, which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes, provide various background information regarding various footwear and methods of making footwear.

In most footwear, including the athletic shoe12, the sole14may also be divided into three portions or regions: (1) the heel portion18, (2) an arch portion20, and (3) a forefoot portion22, as illustrated inFIG. 1. It should be understood that the heel portion18, the arch portion20, and the forefoot portion22of the sole14are incapable of being exactly defined and located, and that such portions vary from one footwear type to another. Thus, the location, the boundaries between, and the size of the heel portion18, the arch portion20, and the forefoot portion22of the sole14are only rough approximations.

It should also be understood that although the position of the opening in the bottom of the sole14, and hence also the wheel16, is preferably located in the heel portion18of the sole14, such an opening may also be located at the boundary of the heel portion18and the arch portion20, at the arch portion20, or at virtually any other location on the sole14. The opening in the bottom of the sole14may extend entirely through the sole14, e.g., through the outsole, the midsole and the insole, or only partially through the sole14, e.g., through the outsole, and a portion or all of the midsole.

The wheel16may be constructed or made of virtually any known or available material such as, for example, a urethane, a plastic, a polymer, a metal, an alloy, a wood, a rubber, a composite material, and the like. This may include, for example, aluminum, titanium, steel, and a resin. In other embodiments, the wheel may be mounted on an electric motor operable to rotate. Preferably, the material will be durable, provide quiet performance, and will provide a “soft” or “cushioning” feel. In one embodiment, the wheel16may be implemented as one or more precision bearings such that the precision bearing serves as the wheel16itself. In yet another embodiment, the wheel assembly may include a spring or suspension such as, for example, a leaf spring, to provide additional cushion or suspension when the wheel16contacts a surface and a force is applied to the athletic shoe12in the direction of the surface, such as when someone is wearing and walking in the motorized heeling apparatus10. The spring is preferably provided as part of the mounting structure of the wheel assembly. In still another embodiment, the wheel16is provided as a two piece wheel with an inner core, such as a hard inner core, surrounded by an outer tire, such as a urethane tire.

Depending on the desired implementation, the wheel16and the axle may be removable from the wheel assembly. In such a case, a removable cover may be provided in the opening in the sole14to cover the opening so that debris and dirt does not enter the opening. The removable cover may be provided in virtually any available configuration readily ascertainable by one of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment of the removable cover, an axle portion of the removable cover fits and/or couples to the mounting structure in the same or similar manner that the axle in which the wheel16is mounted fits and/or couples to the mounting structure of the wheel assembly. A tool may also be provided to facilitate the removal of the axle and wheel16. This tool will, preferably, be small and multi-functional to provide any other possible adjustments to the motorized heeling apparatus10, such as a screw driver, a wrench, and the like. In other embodiments of the motorized heeling apparatus10, the wheel16may be retractable into the opening in the sole14. In this manner, the wheel16may be retracted into the sole14and, thus, will not extend below the bottom of the sole14. This allows the motorized heeling apparatus10to function just like ordinary footwear, such as the athletic shoe12.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the wheel assembly does not include an axle, and, arguably, not a mounting structure, and the wheel16is provided as a sphere, such as a stainless steel ball bearing, that is rotatably positioned in the opening in the bottom of the heel portion18of the sole14, one embodiment of which is shown inFIG. 13. In another embodiment, the wheel assembly comprises an axle positioned completely through or partially through the heel portion18of the sole14such that the sole14supports the axle and the wheel is rotatably mounted on the axle in the opening of the sole14. In this manner, the need for the mounting structure is eliminated.

In operation, and in one embodiment of the motorized heeling apparatus, a person wearing the motorized heeling apparatus10may either walk normally or roll on the wheel16by lifting or raising the sole14so that only or almost only the wheel16contacts a surface. This action may be referred to as “HEELING” or to “HEEL.” The wheel16, depending on the desired implementation of the present invention, may be removed or retracted to a position such that the wheel16does not extend below the bottom of the sole14. This, generally, will result in the motorized heeling apparatus10performing like an associated footwear. When the wheel16is removed or retracted, a removable cover may be placed over the opening in the bottom of the sole14to prevent debris from entering the opening and potentially damaging the wheel assembly. In still other embodiments, a removable cover may be placed over the wheel16while a portion of the wheel16remains extended below the bottom of the sole14to assist with walking, an example of this is illustrated inFIG. 12.

It should be understood, however, that even if the wheel16is not removed or retracted as just described, the user may still comfortably walk and run, even with the wheel16extended. This generally occurs because the distance24can be minimal, which provides a unique “stealth” or “covert” aspect to heeling. This also results in the wheel rolling the opening or hole in the sole14of the motorized heeling apparatus10. In one embodiment, the distance24is less than the radius of the wheel16, which results in most of the wheel residing within the opening of the sole14.

FIGS. 2A and 2Bare bottom views of two embodiments of the sole14of the motorized heeling apparatus10. In particular, the outsole30or bottom of the sole14is illustrated inFIG. 2Awith an opening40in the heel portion18of the sole14. In the embodiment illustrated, the opening40is provided in a square or rectangular configuration. The opening40, however, may be provided in virtually any configuration, such as, for example, a circular or an elliptical configuration.

As mentioned previously, the opening40may extend partially or completely through the sole14. The opening40may be provided through a heel block or object. Further, the opening40may be positioned in, near, or in a combination of the heel portion18, the arch portion20, and the forefoot portion22.

FIG. 2Billustrates a second embodiment as to the placement and configuration of the opening40. The outsole30is illustrated with an opening40A and an opening40B in the heel portion18of the sole14. In this manner, one or more wheels, including one or more axles, may be positioned in both the opening40A and40B.

FIGS. 3A and 3Bare bottom views of the two embodiments of the sole14as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2Band illustrate a wheel in each of the openings of the soles. This includes a wheel42positioned in the opening40inFIG. 3Aand a wheel42A and a wheel42B in the openings40A and40B, respectively, ofFIG. 3B.

The wheel42and the wheels42A and42B are illustrated as cylindrical wheels. These wheels, however, may be provided in virtually any available configuration. Further, one or more wheels may be positioned in each opening.

FIG. 3Afurther illustrates other elements of the wheel assembly that include a first member48and a second member54of a mounting structure that is used to removably couple with an axle50. The axle50extends through the wheel42such that the wheel42is rotatably coupled or mounted to the axle50. This preferably involves the use of precision bearings, such as high performance precision bearings, provided in a recess, such as an annular recess, on either side of the wheel42. A first precision bearing56and a second precision bearing58may be ABEC grade precision bearings and are illustrated with hidden lines and positioned in the first recess and second recess of the wheel42. In alternative embodiment, loose ball bearings may be used.

The axle50may be made of any material that provides suitable physical characteristics, such as strength and weight, to name a few. The axle50is preferably made of hardened steel, is cylindrical in shape, each end is rounded, and is removably coupled with a first member48and a second member54, respectively, of the mounting structure. The removable coupling between each end of the axle50and the first member48and the second member54may be achieved by any known or available mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, a sphere or a ball bearing, preferably using a moveable spring and/or a screw bias, is used to contact and exert a side wall force between one or members of the mounting structure and the axle50.

It should also be noted that because the weight of the user of the motorized heeling apparatus10will exert a significant downward force and the ground or surface will exert an equal force upward, the axle50, and, hence, the wheel42will generally be forced into place. Only when the heel is raised from a surface will any force or friction be required to keep the axle50in place. Thus, the present invention does not require a large side force to keep the axle50and the wheel42in place. The recognition of this fact may be considered an aspect of the present invention for the embodiment as showm. This recognition allows the removable coupling between each end of the axle50and the first member48and the second member54to be optimally designed.

FIG. 3Aalso illustrates a grind plate44(which also may be referred to as a slide plate44) that may be used in conjunction with the motorized heeling apparatus10of the present invention. In one embodiment, a battery, not specifically shown inFIG. 3A, may be integrated or stored in the arch portion of the footwear to provide a convenient location for power to the electric motor, not visible inFIG. 3A. The grind plate44provides a smooth or relatively smooth surface to allow a user to “grind” or “slide” on various surfaces such as hand rails, curbs, steps, corners, and the like. The grind plate44is preferably somewhat thin and made of a plastic or polymer material. In a preferred embodiment, the grind plate44is removably attached to the arch portion20of the outsole30of the sole14. The grind plate44may be attached using any known or available fastener, such as, for example, a fastener46shown in various locations around the periphery of the grind plate44.

FIG. 3Bfurther illustrates an axle52in which the wheel42A and the wheel42B are coupled to either end in the opening40A and the opening40B, respectively. The axle52extends through both the wheels42A and42B and through a portion of sole14, not visible inFIG. 3B. This serves to support the axle52and illustrates the situation where the sole14serves as the mounting structure of the wheel assembly. This reduces the overall number of parts. In an alternative embodiment, a metal or some other suitable material may be used within the heel portion18of the sole14where the axle52is positioned to provide additional support and stability. This is an example where the mounting structure is, in effect, integrated into the sole14. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the present invention may be implemented in any number of ways.

FIG. 4is a perspective view of a wheel60rotatably mounted on an axle62, which also may be referred to as a wheel/axle assembly, for use in a wheel assembly, or in a motorized heeling apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present invention. The wheel60and the axle62may also be referred to as a wheel/axle assembly400. In this embodiment, the axle62extends through the wheel60and includes two ends that are rounded or bullet shaped. A precision bearing64is shown positioned in a recess, which is shown as an annular recess, of the wheel60to facilitate the rotation of the wheel60around the axle62. Preferably a second precision bearing is positioned in a second recess, not shown inFIG. 4, to further facilitate such rotation.

A slip clip, slip ring, or ring clip66is shown positioned around, or nearly around, the axle62near the precision bearing64. This serves to ensure that the precision bearing64remains in place in the recess of the wheel60. The slip clip or ring clip66will preferably be positioned on the axle62through a groove, such as a radial groove or radial indentation, in the axle62. It should be understood, however, that one of ordinary skill in the art may use any of a variety of other arrangements to ensure that the precision bearing64stays in position. In alternative embodiments, the precision bearing64may be eliminated or loose bearings may be used.

The wheel60rotatably mounted on the axle62may, in alternative embodiments, serve as the wheel assembly of the present invention. In such a case, the axle62may be mounted to the sole, such as the midsole and heel portion, at its ends while the wheel60is rotatably provided in the opening of the sole. In this manner, the need for a mounting structure may be thought of as eliminated or, alternatively, the mounting structure may be thought of as integrated into the sole of the footwear.

FIG. 5is a perspective view of a mounting structure70for use with a wheel rotatably mounted to an axle, such as is illustrated inFIG. 4, to form a wheel assembly. The mounting structure70generally includes a heel control plate72, a first member74, and a second member76. In alternative embodiments, a spring, such as a leaf spring, could be provided where the two members contact the heel control plate72. This would provide the added benefit of greater cushion and suspension. The two members include an opening, such as the opening78of the first member74to receive an end of an axle. It should be mentioned that the opening may be provided in virtually any configuration, including extending through the member, or placed at different positions, or even multiple positions for mounting the wheel/axle assembly400at a retractable position and an extended position, on the member.

The axle that is to be positioned in the openings of the first member74and the second member76will preferably be removably coupled. This may be achieved by any number of arrangements and configurations, all of which fall within the scope of the present invention. One such arrangement is the screw/spring/ball bearing arrangement80provided in first member74. This arrangement provides an adjustable bias or force that can be exerted against the axle when it is inserted into the opening78. The screw is accessible and adjustable by the user. The turning of the screw affects the compression of a spring which, in turn, provides a force on a ball bearing that extends out into the opening78. When the axle is inserted into the opening78, the ball bearing may be displaced an amount and the screw/spring/ball bearing arrangement80will provide a side force to allow the axle to be secure, yet removable. A similar arrangement may also be provided in the second member76to provide a friction fit or coupling on the other end of the axle62.

Although the screw/spring/ball bearing arrangement80ofFIG. 5is shown being implemented through a horizontal opening in the first member74, it may be implemented in using an opening aligned in virtually any manner in the member. For example, the adjustment of the tension or pressure on the screw/spring/ball arrangement80may be achieved through a diagonal opening such that the exposed end of the screw/spring/ball arrangement80, normally a screw head end, is provided where the reference line for numeral74inFIG. 5contacts the first member74. This provides easier access to adjust the tension and friction fit on the axle62when the wheel assembly, such as wheel assembly100ofFIG. 6, is engaged or positioned within the opening of a sole to form a motorized heeling apparatus. Of course, any of a variety of other arrangements, configurations, and opening alignments may be contemplated and implemented under the present invention.

The mounting structure70can be made or constructed of virtually any material, generally depending on the desired mechanical characteristics such as, for example, rigidity and strength. These materials may include, for example, a plastic, a polymer, a metal, an alloy, a wood, a rubber, a composite material, and the like. This may include aluminum, titanium, steel, and a resin. In one embodiment, the mounting structure70is made of a metal, such as aluminum, that has been anodized such that the mounting structure70presents a black color or hue.

FIG. 6is a bottom view of a wheel assembly100that includes the wheel60rotatably mounted to the axle62, as shown inFIG. 4, and the mounting structure70ofFIG. 5. The first member74and the second member76each removably couple with the ends of the axle62through a bias mechanism implemented using a bias mechanism, such as the screw/spring/ball bearing arrangement80. A ball bearing102is shown contacting one end of the axle62in the opening78. Further slip clips or ring clips (which may also be referred to as snap rings or slip rings), such as ring clip66, are provided to ensure that the precision bearings positioned in the recesses of the wheel remain in position.

In other embodiments of a motorized heeling apparatus, it is advantageous to use a sprag clutch between the wheel and the axle. For example, the precision bearing64may be implemented as a sprag clutch. A sprag clutch, in effect, may be thought of as one-way bearing that allows the wheel to rotate freely around the axle in a forward direction when the axle is not rotating, while also allowing the axle to rotate in a forward direction to also rotate the wheel with the axle. In such an arrangement, the axle may be rotated by an electric motor to also rotate the wheel in a forward direction, yet the wheel is free to roll freely in the forward direction when the electric motor is not rotating the axle. This allows passive rolling, i.e., when the electric motor is not engaged, and electric powered rolling when the electric motor is energized and rotating the axle and thus the wheel.

The heel control plate72allows the user of the motorized heeling apparatus to gain greater control and to obtain greater performance out of the motorized heeling apparatus.

FIG. 7is a side view of the wheel assembly100positioned above and through the opening to form a motorized heeling apparatus120. The heel control plate72resides inside the shoe so that the heel of the user may apply pressure to the heel control plate as desired to provide better handling and performance of the motorized heeling apparatus120.

FIGS. 8A,8B,8C, and8D are profile views of various wheels200that illustrates the surface profile of these wheels that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention. InFIG. 8A, a wheel202is shown with a flat or square surface or exterior profile204. InFIG. 8B, a wheel206is shown with an inverted surface profile208. InFIG. 8c, a wheel210is shown with round surface profile212. Finally, inFIG. 8D, a wheel214is shown with a steep surface profile216. The present invention may incorporate virtually any available surface profile of a wheel.

FIG. 9is a perspective view that illustrates a mounting structure500of another embodiment for use in a wheel assembly of a motorized heeling apparatus. The mounting structure500includes an axle502, which may be considered one axle that extends through and is mounted through a member50or as an axle502that couples with the member506along with an axle504that couples with the member506opposite axle502. The mounting structure500also includes a heel control plate508coupled with the member506.

The mounting structure500allows for two wheels to be mounted to form a wheel assembly. A wheel may be rotatably mounted on the axle502, preferably using a precision bearing, and a wheel may be rotatably mounted on the axle504, also preferably through a precision bearing as illustrated previously herein.

The axle502and the axle504include a threaded portion such that a nut, such as a lock nut510may be included to secure a wheel to each axle. In other embodiments, the end of the axles may include internal threads, as opposed to external threads as shown, so that a screw, such as the hex screw as shown inFIG. 10. It should be understood that virtually any available coupling may be provided between the axle and the member.

FIG. 10is a perspective view that illustrates a wheel assembly520that uses yet another embodiment for use in a motorized heeling apparatus and includes a wheel522rotatably mounted to an axle524using a precision bearing526, and a first member528and a second member530coupled to each end of the axle524through a screw, such as hex screw532. The wheel assembly520is similar to wheel assembly100, which was described above in connection withFIG. 6, except that the wheel/axle assembly cannot be as easily inserted and removed.

FIG. 11is a side, partial cutaway view that illustrates one embodiment of a motorized heeling apparatus600that illustrates a wheel assembly602provided in a sole604and an opening606in the sole604that does not extend completely through the sole604. As such, the mounting structure608may be provided or integrated into the sole604and may not be readily or easily removed. A wheel610is also shown extending partially below the bottom of the sole604, which provides the advantage of stealth heeling.

FIG. 12is a side view of another embodiment that illustrates a motorized heeling apparatus620of the present invention with a removable wheel cover622positioned to cover a wheel624and an opening626in a sole628. The removable wheel cover622allows for the wheel to be provided in an extended position, i.e., below the bottom surface of the sole628, yet not engage a surface to roll. Although the motorized heeling apparatus620of the present invention allows a user to walk and run, even with the wheel in an engaged position, the removable wheel cover622provides protection from dirt and debris and provides greater stability.

In an alternative embodiment, a wheel stop, not expressly shown inFIG. 12, may be provided, in lieu of or in conjunction with the removable wheel cover622, to stop the rotation of the wheel624. In one embodiment, the wheel stop is made of virtually any material, such as a sponge or flexible material, that can be wedged between the wheel624and the opening626to stop or prevent the rotation of the wheel624and to stay in place through friction.

In other embodiments of the wheel cover622, a wheel cover is provided when the wheel624has been removed from the motorized heeling apparatus620. In a preferred embodiment, this wheel cover is generally flush with the remainder of the bottom of the sole628, and, hence, provides the function of a regular shoe when desired and protects the opening. This wheel cover may couple in any available manner, but preferably will couple to the wheel assembly in the same or similar manner that the wheel/axle assembly couples to the mounting structure. The removable wheel cover could clip or attach to the wheel assembly in many different ways.

FIG. 13is a bottom view that illustrates another embodiment of a motorized heeling apparatus700with a spherical ball702serving as a wheel and positioned in a mounting structure704in an opening in the heel portion of the sole706.

FIG. 14is a perspective view that illustrates a “heeler”800using an embodiment of a motorized heeling apparatus to “heel.” Heeling can be achieved using various techniques and, generally, requires a skill set of balance, positioning, flexibility, and coordination.

An illustrative method for using a motorized heeling apparatus on a surface may include running on a surface by using a forefoot portion of a sole of the motorized heeling apparatus to contact the surface, which may be referred to as a non-rolling mode, and then rolling on the surface with a wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus extended below the bottom of the sole through an opening in the sole by using a wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus to contact the surface. This may be referred to as “passive rolling mode” because rolling takes place, but the electric motor has not yet been engaged or utilized to propel the wheel. Before running on a surface, the method may include walking on the surface, also a non-rolling mode, while wearing the motorized heeling apparatus with a wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus extended below the bottom of a sole portion of the motorized heeling apparatus before running on the surface.

Preferably, after the passive rolling mode, and while stable and still rolling on the one or more wheels in the heel, the user uses a throttle, not expressly shown, to engage the electric motor, which is coupled to the wheel, to provide additional forward rotation to the wheel. The throttle is preferably a wireless throttle, but can be implemented as a “wired” throttle to control the amount of electrical power sent to the motor, which controls the speed of the rotation of the motor, and hence the wheel.

The method of heeling may also include engaging the wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus to extend below the bottom of the sole portion of the motorized heeling apparatus before walking on the surface. The method may also include walking on the surface while wearing the motorized heeling apparatus before engaging the wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus and with the wheel of the motorized heeling apparatus retracted. Other variations on the method may include transitioning from rolling on the surface to either running, walking, or stopping on the surface by running on the surface through using the forefoot portion of the sole of the motorized heeling apparatus to contact the surface just after rolling on the surface.

The preferred position while heeling is illustrated by the heeler800inFIG. 14where one motorized heeling apparatus802is placed in front of the other motorized heeling apparatus804while rolling on a surface. As can be seen from a back heel portion806of the motorized heeling apparatus804, sometimes the clearance between the back heel portion806and the surface is small. As a result, in a preferred embodiment, the back heel portion may implement any number of techniques for slowing or stopping. For example, rolling may be slowed by contacting the forefoot portion of the sole of the motorized heeling apparatus to contact the surface to create friction and to remove the wheel from the surface. Another example includes slowing by contacting a heel portion of the sole of the motorized heeling apparatus to contact the surface.

FIG. 15is a perspective view that illustrates a wheel902rotatably mounted to a collapsible axle904, which also may be referred to as a wheel/axle assembly900, similar toFIG. 4. The collapsible axle904may be implemented in any number of ways, such as an adjustable axle that is spring loaded, similar to what is shown inFIG. 16, or as a screw collapsible axle. This allows the wheel/axle assembly900to be more easily removable and/or retractable to a position where the wheel would not engage the ground if the wheel/axle assembly900were implemented in a motorized heeling apparatus.

FIG. 16is a cutaway view that illustrates a collapsible axle904of the wheel/axle assembly900ofFIG. 15implemented as a spring loaded collapsible axle. As can be seen, the collapsible axle904may be adjusted or shortened by inwardly compressing both ends of the collapsible axle904to overcome the internal spring force.

FIG. 17is a perspective view that illustrates another mounting structure920for use with the wheel/axle assembly900and the collapsible axle904, as illustrated inFIG. 15andFIG. 16, respectively, to form a wheel assembly. The collapsible axle904may couple to a first member922and a second member924at a first position926at the first member922and the second member924so that the wheel is in a retracted position. The collapsible axle904may also couple to the first member922and the second member924at a second position928so that the wheel is in an extended position.

FIG. 18is a side, cutaway view that illustrates a wheel assembly940positioned through an opening in a sole942that illustrates one embodiment of an axle944that couples to a mounting structure946to provide a retractable wheel948using an assembly that may be referred to as a king pin arrangement or dual king pin arrangement. This allows the retractable wheel948to be adjusted up or down, as desired, and from a retractable position to an extended position. A king pin950(which may be implemented as a threaded screw or bolt) is shown threadingly engaged in a threaded opening in a member of the mounting structure946. As the king pin950is screwed further into the opening in the member, the axle944is further retracted. A king pin950will also be provided at the other member to raise the other side of the axle944. In other embodiments, such as the mounting structure500inFIG. 9, a single king pin could be provided through the single member to provide retractable wheels through the coupling of the members and the axle.

An example of a king pin type assembly is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 4,295,655, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, issued to David L. Landay, et al., was filed on Jul. 18, 1979, was issued Oct. 20, 1981. This patent illustrates a king pin type assembly that could be implemented in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19is a bottom view that illustrates the wheel assembly940ofFIG. 18and further illustrates the dual king pin arrangement and the king pins950through the members of the mounting structure946.

FIG. 20is a side view that illustrates one member of the mounting structure946and further illustrates the coupling of the axle944to the mounting structure946using the dual king pin arrangement similar toFIG. 18. As discussed above, this allows the axle944, and hence the attached wheel, to be transitioned to any of a desired levels, and from a retracted position to an extended position.

It should be understood that the axle may couple to a member of a mounting structure using any available technique and in virtually an unlimited number of ways. For example, an axle may couple to the first member and the second member of a mounting structure to move from a retracted position to an extended position through a spring arrangement. Similarly, an axle may couple to the first member and the second member of a mounting structure to move from a retracted position to an extended position through a hinged arrangement.

Many other examples are possible, for example U.S. Pat. No. 3,983,643, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, issued to Walter Schreyer, et al., was filed on May 23, 1975, was issued Oct. 5, 1976 illustrates a retractable mechanism that may be implemented in one embodiment of the present invention. U.S. Pat. No. 5,785,327, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, issued to Raymond J. Gallant, was filed on Jun. 20, 1997, issued on Jul. 28, 1998 illustrates simultaneously retractable wheels.

FIG. 21is a breakaway and perspective view that illustrates a two piece wheel970that includes an inner core972, an outer tire974, such as a urethane wheel, an axle976(which may not be shown to skill), and a bearing978that may be used in the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the bearing978is small in comparison to the two piece wheel970, for example, the bearing978may have an outer diameter that is less than half the outer diameter of the outer tire974. This can provide significant advantages, that include a softer ride, better control, and are longer lasting. This is because the outer tire974can be larger and thicker. In other embodiments, the bearing978is larger and has an outer diameter that is more than half the outer diameter of the outer tire974. In a preferred embodiment, the inner core portion of the two piece wheel is made of a harder material that provides rigidity for enhanced bearing support, while the outer tire portion is made of a softer material, such as a soft urethane, for improved performance and a quieter ride. These types of wheels may be referred to as a “dual durometer” type wheel.

As mentioned previously, a “sprag clutch” arrangement is preferred in the coupling or mounting between the axle976and the wheel or outer tire974in certain implementations of motorized transportation apparatus.

FIG. 22is a perspective view that illustrates a motorized heeling apparatus1000that may be used in the present invention. The motorized heeling apparatus includes a belt1002, which includes batteries1004, a wired throttle1006to control a motorized wheel assembly1008positioned in a heel opening of the footwear1010. The throttle1006will normally include circuitry, such as a speed controller, to control the amount of electrical power or energy provided to the motorized wheel assembly1008. In this manner, a user may walk on the forefoot1012of the footwear1010, transition weight to the heel of the footwear1010to, in one embodiment, passively roll on the wheel of the motorized wheel assembly1008(in certain embodiments), and then provide electrical powered rolling by providing electrical power to the motor in the motorized wheel assembly1008.

FIG. 23is a side perspective view that illustrates a motorized heeling apparatus1020with a back mounted dc motor1022according to one aspect of the present invention. The rotating shaft of the motor1022is coupled to a belt1024and to a side, heel wheel1026of the footwear1028in order to provide electrically powered rolling of the wheel1026. In an alternative embodiment, a sprag clutch may be used at the coupling of the rotating shaft of the motor1022and the belt1024to allow the wheel to roll freely without the resistance of the motor windings when the motor is not energized. The motorized heeling apparatus1020will also include a throttle, preferably a wireless throttle, and an electrical source, such as a battery source.

FIG. 24is a side perspective view that illustrates the motorized heeling apparatus1020ofFIG. 23with a passive front wheel1040to implement a motorized footwear1050, according to an aspect of the present invention. This provide motorized wheeled footwear to be used on many available surfaces.

FIG. 25Ais a back perspective view that illustrates a motorized heeling apparatus1100, which includes a motor1102with a rotating shaft1104that is used to provide rotational energy to a shaft1112through a gearing arrangement1106that includes a gear1108of the shaft1104and a gear1110of the shaft1112. In this way, two side, heel wheels1114and1116may be driven by the motor1102. If a sprag clutch is used wheels1114and1116, the wheels may roll forward when the motor1102is not providing power, and will also roll forward when turned by the shaft1112when electric motor power is applied.

FIG. 25Bis a back, perspective view that illustrates a side mount motor1150to rotate one wheel1152in an opening in the heel of the footwear using the gears1154and1156, which in combination with the footwear provides a motorized heeling apparatus.

FIG. 25Cillustrates a sprag clutch1202and an axle1204arrangement or assembly1200that may be used in a preferred embodiment of the motorized heeling apparatus, including motorized footwear, and motorized transportation apparatus.

FIG. 26is a side perspective view that illustrates a motorized heel bracket1300to receive the heel of a footwear, and that includes a transverse, back mounted dc brush motor1302with a band or belt coupling1304to rotate one wheel1306adjacent a heel plate1310, and a passive wheel1308opposite the motor (or belt) driven wheel1306, according to yet another aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 27A-Care various views of a motorized heel bracket1400, including a wireless throttle1402ofFIG. 27Cthat includes an antenna1404and a transmitter within. The motorized heel bracket1400includes a heel plate1406having a back mounted motor1410and a transmission (or gear arrangement)1420to power two wheels, wheels1412and1414, located on each side of the heel plate1406, according to yet another aspect of the present invention. A series of batteries1430are shown positioned adjacent the motor, and a strap1432to hold a foot or footwear to the heel bracket is shown. In other embodiments, a connector, such as a male/female connector or a friction fit connector, may be used to connect footwear to the motorized heel bracket1400.

FIG. 28is a block diagram that illustrates a coupling or gear arrangement that may be utilized in certain implementation of the present invention. A gear1500on a rotating shaft1504may be used to rotate a shaft1506to turn the two wheels as shown.

FIG. 29is similar toFIG. 14, and is a perspective view that illustrates the use of motorized heel brackets on both feet (although in a preferred embodiment only one motorized heel bracket is needed while the other foot may use any wheeled footwear to provide passive rolling, such as a heeling apparatus). The skater or heeler1600is shown in the “heeling” position with one foot in front of the other.

FIG. 30A-Care a perspective views that illustrate a motorized wheel assembly1710, which includes, in this embodiment, a brushless dc motor1700that includes a cylindrical portion of the motor casing or housing1720that rotates, and a wheel1702mounted around the cylindrical portion of the motor housing1720to serve as a wheel in a motorized apparatus.FIG. 30Cillustrates a side view of the motor1700, and shows various motor winding, such as windings1704that can be viewed through the openings in the rotatable housing1720. Motor power and control wiring1730are shown exiting the motor1700at a portion1750of the housing that does not rotate. The wheel1702is preferably provided as a urethane, but may use any of a variety of materials.

One known manufacturer of a motor1700that may be used in the motorized wheel assembly1710is “MODEL MOTORS,” which makes dc electric motors that are brushless, and a portion of the casing or housing surrounding the coils of the motor have a cylindrical shape, like a roller, and rotate when electrical power is provided to the motor.

This type of arrangement provides a profusion of potential applications that uses the rotatable motor housing as a wheel.

FIG. 31A and 31Bare side perspective views that illustrate a motorized wheel assembly1804used in a motorized footwear1800, which also uses a motorized wheel assembly1806, using two motorized wheel assemblies, and a motorized footwear1802using only the motorized wheel assembly1804and a passive roller or wheel1808. The convenience of having the motor integrated into one or more wheels provides numerous advantages as mentioned previously.

FIG. 32is a perspective view that illustrates a motorized heeling apparatus2000using a motorized wheel assembly2002in an opening in the bottom surface of a heel portion of the footwear2020. Batteries2004and a throttle circuitry2006are shown stored and conveniently packaged all on one shoe or boot2020, according to an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 33is a bottom view of the motorized heeling apparatus2000ofFIG. 32that includes the bottom of the sole of the footwear2020and the motorized wheel assembly2002residing in an opening in the bottom surface of the heel portion of the sole of the boot2020.

FIG. 34A-Fare perspective views that illustrate various motorized personal transportation apparatus that each use a motorized wheel assembly3000, according to various aspects of the present invention.

Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the present invention, a motorized personal transportation apparatus and method, including a motorized heeling apparatus, including motorized footwear, a motorized heel bracket and a motorized wheel assembly, that satisfies one or more of the advantages set forth above. Although the preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention, even if all of the advantages and benefits identified above are not present. For example, the various embodiments and examples shown in the drawings and descriptions provided herein illustrate that the present invention may be implemented and embodied in numerous different ways that still fall within the scope of the present invention, whether expressly shown herein or not. For example, the various elements or components may be combined or integrated in another system or certain features may not be implemented. Also, the techniques, systems, sub-systems, and methods described and illustrated in the preferred embodiment as discrete or separate may be combined or integrated with other systems, designs, techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the electric motor and its battery may be placed in a variety of locations, including locations not specifically discussed herein. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are readily ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.