Folding bicycle and method of use

A folding bicycle and method for folding the folding bicycle is provided. The folding bicycle comprises a frame having a first end and a second end; a first wheel connected to the second end of the frame, the first wheel and the frame being located in a first plane; a fork having a first end and a second end, the second end of the fork pivotally connected to the first end of the frame thereby allowing the fork to pivot about the first plane; a second wheel connected to the first end of the fork, the second wheel and the fork being located in a second plane; a first pivot member having a first pivot axis to allow the first end of the fork to pivot towards the second end of the fork about the first pivot axis; a second pivot member having a second pivot axis to allow the first end of the frame to pivot towards the second end of the frame about the second pivot axis; and a third pivot member having a third pivot axis to allow the second end of the frame to pivot towards the first end of the frame about the third pivot axis.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to the field of bicycles, and, more particularly, to a novel and improved folding bicycle and method of use. Notably, the application of this invention extends to, but is not limited to, electric bicycles, gas bicycles and manual bicycles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Often times the distance one must travel is seemingly too short or too inconvenient to ride a bus or subway or to drive a car, but too long to walk. These circumstances present opportune times to ride a bicycle. Moreover, people living in large, mid-sized, or even small metropolitan areas often find it more convenient to travel around the city by bicycle, which provides an efficient mode of transportation in such crowded areas. Accordingly, in today's crowded urbanized areas, it is desirable to use a bicycle for traveling short to medium distances. A bicycle provides personal transportation, can carry small loads, is easy and convenient to maneuver and park in crowded places, and is low in cost to purchase and maintain. Automobiles consume large amounts of fossil fuels, create pollution, are a safety hazard, and are costly to maintain and park. Motorcycles have all of the problems of automobiles (though perhaps to a lesser degree) but present a greater safety hazard when operating at high speeds. It is also beneficial to use a bicycle as a means of transportation in crowded cities as it alleviates, among other things, the need to locate parking for a car, pay for parking a car, and abide by the schedule and inconvenience of public transportation.

Although riding a bicycle for transportation can alleviate the above drawbacks, bicycles typically are bulky and inconvenient for portability and storage. This inconvenience of portability and storage often results in bicycles being left outside, leaving them susceptible to theft. To make even greater use of bicycles beyond just point-to-point transport, it would be desirable to have a bicycle that could be quickly folded so that it can be transported inside the trunk of a car or as baggage on a train or airplane; so that it could be used locally at a remote destination. Foldable bicycles have an advantage of a relatively compact arrangement for storage and/or transport, making them popular with users wishing to reduce storage space, such as commuters, recreation enthusiasts, and campers, among others. However, known folding bicycles have myriad shortcomings. For example, in general, the large size of the folding bicycles of the prior art prohibit the storage of these folding bicycles within a closet, or a small area and make it difficult to easily and conveniently fit them into a suitcase or carrying-bag for transporting. Moreover, many of the known folding bicycles do not provide all of the qualities of being low in cost, easy and simple to fold into a small volume such as a suitcase, and sturdy and reliable to use. Many other folding bicycles necessitate the removal of one or both wheels, which is an inconvenient and complex procedure. Some folding bicycles that have sturdy folding frame parts are very expensive and/or utilize heavy metal parts that increase the overall weight. Others that are less costly have folding parts that are not as sturdy, do not fold easily or well, or are excessively heavy.

In some conventional or manual folding bicycles, folding joints are situated in the central area of the frame, such as within one or more of the down tube, top tube, seat tube and head tube, or bearing tube. A disadvantage of such an arrangement is that the bicycle's ability to fold into a compact volume is dramatically reduced. A further disadvantage is that known folding bicycles have frames that frequently are smaller than the frames of a comparable standard non-folding bicycle. This reduces the ergonomic suitability for a rider. A result of this for many riders is a decrease in the distance that can be ridden with comfort.

Current folding bicycles typically have pedals, thus requiring the user to exert a substantial amount of energy to ride. Exerting the amount of energy necessary to ride a bicycle often results in the user sweating upon arrival at his or her destination. Because riding a bicycle causes the rider to sweat, the user often must dress down and change into appropriate clothing upon arriving at his or her destination. This is yet another drawback of current folding bicycles.

Electric bicycles are becoming increasingly popular throughout the world. However, it is laborious for a bicycle rider to carry a folded electric bicycle because electric bicycles are generally heavier than typical bicycles due to the additional weight of the electric motor, battery pack, and associated components. Moreover, due to the bulky design, electric motor, battery pack, and associated components, it is difficult to fold current electric bicycles to a compact and portable size. Thus, the need for improvement still exists.

There is therefore a need for a folding bicycle and method of use that overcomes some or all of the previously delineated drawbacks of prior folding bicycles.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention includes a folding bicycle and method of use that is preferably ergonomically comfortable when riding, preferably can be readily folded into a compact arrangement, preferably can be battery powered, gas powered, manually powered, preferably can be provided without the traditional drive chain mechanism and pedals of manually powered bicycles, preferably can be easily transported and stored, and/or preferably can maintain its structural rigidity and integrity despite repeated folding and unfolding.

The present invention includes a folding bicycle and method of use. The folding bicycle is preferably used as a means for transportation. Moreover, the folding bicycle is preferably battery powered, however, it should be appreciated that the present invention can be implemented with electrical or battery powered bicycles, gas powered bicycles, and standard, manually powered bicycles, without limiting the scope of the present invention. While the present invention will be described below with respect to a battery powered folding bicycle, it should be appreciated that any type of bicycle, including but not limited to the types of bicycles just indicated, may be incorporated with the present invention, without limiting the scope of the present invention.

In a first non-limiting aspect of the invention, a folding bicycle is provided. The folding bicycle preferably comprises: (i) a frame having a first end and an opposing second end; (ii) a rear wheel rotatably connected to the second end of the frame, the rear wheel and frame being located in a first plane; (iii) a fork having a first end and an opposing second end, the second end of the fork pivotally connected to the first end of the frame, wherein the fork is adapted to pivot about the first plane, thereby allowing a rider to steer the bicycle; (iv) a front wheel rotatably connected to the first end of the fork, the front wheel and fork being located in a second plane; (v) a first primary pivot member or hinge having a first pivot axis to allow the first end of the fork to pivot towards the second end of the fork; (vi) a second primary pivot member or hinge having a second pivot axis to allow the first end of the frame to pivot towards the second end of the frame; and (vii) a third primary pivot member or hinge having a third pivot axis to allow the second end of the frame to pivot towards the first end of the frame.

It is also contemplated that the folding bicycle of the invention preferably comprises: (i) a steering unit having a coupling member or an elbow-shaped member comprising a first end rotatably coupled to a steering member or handlebar, via a first secondary pivot member or swivel mount, and an opposing second end pivotally coupled to the second end of the fork, via a second secondary pivot member or axle; (ii) a footrest unit having an elongated member comprising a first end preferably pivotally coupled to the underside of the frame, via a third secondary pivot member or hinge, and an opposing second end, whereby a flange extends generally perpendicularly from the second end of the elongated member; and (iii) a seat unit or saddle having an upper seat portion pivotally connected to a lower seat portion, via a fourth secondary pivot member or hinge.

As previously stated, it is contemplated that the folding bicycle be battery powered. As such, the folding bicycle of the invention and its method of use may be utilized for transportation while limiting the manual effort required to be expended by the rider or user of the folding bicycle. The folding bicycle of the invention is also preferably designed to fold or collapse into a compact arrangement, thereby allowing a user to easily transport and store the bicycle. This is preferably done by providing the three primary pivot members or hinges described above, the secondary pivot members or hinges described above, and a battery to power the bicycle, and by eliminating from the bicycle design the traditional chain drive mechanism and pedals employed by most manually powered bicycles. For example, the implementation of the three primary folds, the three secondary folds, and a battery, and the elimination of the traditional chain drive mechanism and pedals from the bicycle design allow a rider and/or owner of the bicycle to fold the bicycle into an extremely compact arrangement for easy transport and storage.

It is contemplated that the folding bicycle provides a means for conveniently and practically commuting and for conveniently and safely stowing and transporting the bicycle. The implementation of a battery-powered bicycle allows the rider to ride the bicycle while avoiding breaking a sweat. Thus, it is further contemplated that the folding bicycle of the present invention may used as transportation, where the rider is able to wear the desired attire for the destination rather than require the rider to first wear appropriate attire for riding the bicycle and then change into appropriate attire upon arrival at his or her destination. It is further contemplated that the folding bicycle of the present invention may be folded or collapsed into a small enough size fit for safe and convenient storage and/or transportation inside appropriate areas, such as, but not limited to hallways, corridors, passageways, alleys, stairwells, foyers, elevators, closets, storage rooms, offices, and the like, within office buildings, residential apartments, homes, restaurants, shopping centers, etc. Allowing the user of the bicycle to store the folded bicycle inside prevents the bicycle from being left outside with the possibility of it being stolen and allows it to be easily recharged once brought inside. It is further contemplated that the folding bicycle may be folded into a compact or appropriate size fit for being stored and/or transported in a small bag.

In a second non-limiting aspect of the invention, a folding bicycle is provided. The folding bicycle comprises a front frame section and a rear frame section. The front frame section has a first member including a first wheel, a second member, and a first pivot member pivotally connecting the first member and the second member along a first axis, the first pivot member having a first pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis to allow the first member to pivot towards the second member until the first member is substantially parallel to the second member. The rear frame section has a third member connected to the front frame section, a fourth member, a fifth member including a second wheel, and a second pivot member pivotally connecting the third member and the fourth member along a second axis, the second pivot member having a second pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the second axis to allow the third member to pivot towards fourth member until the third member is substantially parallel to the fourth member. The rear frame section also has a third pivot member pivotally connecting the fourth member and the fifth member along the second axis, the third pivot member having a third pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the second axis to allow the fifth member to pivot towards fourth member until the fifth member is substantially parallel to the fourth member.

In a third non-limiting aspect of the invention, a method for folding a bicycle is provided. The method preferably comprises the steps of folding a first end of a fork of the bicycle connected to a first wheel about a first pivot axis towards a second end of the fork until the first end is substantially parallel to the second end; folding a first end of a frame of the bicycle pivotally connected to the fork about a second pivot axis towards a second end of the frame until the first end of the frame is substantially parallel to the frame; and folding the second end of the frame connected to a second wheel about a third pivot axis towards the first end of the frame until the second wheel is substantially parallel to the first wheel.

The method preferably further comprises pivoting a steering member connected to the second end of the fork about a fourth pivot axis away from the fork; rotating the steering member about a fifth pivot axis until the steering member is substantially parallel to the fork; and folding the steering member about the fourth pivot axis at least partially within a cavity of the fork. The method further comprises folding a footrest unit about a sixth pivot axis towards the frame and folding an upper seat portion of a seat unit about a seventh pivot axis towards a lower seat portion of the seat unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of preferred embodiment of the invention. However, techniques, systems and operating structures in accordance with the invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein, which define the scope of the invention. It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Referring now to the figures, wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout,FIG. 1Aillustrates an embodiment of folding bicycle100in a riding configuration101. As shown inFIG. 1A, folding bicycle100comprises a frame102and a rear wheel108rotatably connected to frame102. Rear wheel108and frame102are located in a first plane103. Folding bicycle100also comprises a fork104, whereby fork104is pivotally connected to frame102, via a steering column or headset141(best shown inFIG. 1C), and a front wheel106rotatably connected to fork104. Front wheel106and fork104are located in a second plane109.

Folding bicycle100also comprises first, second, and third primary pivot members110,116and122. First primary pivot member or hinge110preferably has a pivot axis111substantially parallel to plane109. First primary pivot member110pivotally connects a first end112of fork104to a second end114of fork104along an axis107of fork104. Pivot axis111is substantially perpendicular to axis107of fork104. Second primary pivot member or hinge116has a pivot axis117substantially perpendicular to plane103. Second primary pivot member116pivotally connects a first end118of frame102to a middle portion120of frame102along an axis105of frame102. Pivot axis117is substantially perpendicular to axis105of frame102. Third primary pivot member or hinge122has a pivot axis123substantially parallel to plane103. Third primary pivot member122pivotally connects a second end124of frame102to middle portion120of frame102along axis105of frame102. Pivot axis123is substantially perpendicular to axis105of frame102.

Furthermore, folding bicycle100comprises a steering unit125having a coupling member or elbow-shaped member126(best shown inFIG. 1B) and a steering member or handlebar128. Handlebar128is pivotally connected to fork104by coupling member126. Folding bicycle100also comprises a footrest unit135pivotally connected to frame102by a secondary pivot member or hinge142. Finally, folding bicycle100comprises a seat unit or saddle145connected to frame102to allow a rider to sit on folding bicycle100. Saddle145comprises a secondary pivot member or hinge150to allow saddle145to fold.

As shown in detail inFIG. 1B, folding bicycle100comprises a steering unit125having a coupling member or elbow-shaped member126pivotally coupled to fork104, and a steering member or handlebar128rotatably coupled to coupling member126. Steering unit125further comprises a plate155molded or welded to a first end156of coupling member126, a secondary pivot member or swivel mount550(best shown inFIG. 1E) rotatably connecting steering member or handlebar128to plate155, a secondary pivot member or axle130pivotally connecting a second end132of coupling member126to second end114of fork104, and a locking mechanism160coupled to second end132of coupling member126.

Moreover, as shown inFIG. 1B, secondary pivot member or axle130comprises a hollow cylindrical member171that extends between internal surfaces131and133of fork104and a nut137coupled to a bolt143. Hollow cylindrical member171comprises a bore (not shown) adapted to receive bolt143. The bore (not shown) extends internally through the entire length of hollow cylindrical member171. Bolt143resides within the bore (not shown). Hollow cylindrical member171is preferably molded or welded to external surface181of coupling member126near second end132of coupling member126. Bolt143comprises a head portion560(best show inFIG. 5B) at a first end and a threaded portion173at an opposed second end. Nut137preferably comprises threads (not shown) adapted to grip threaded portion173of bolt143. Nut137and bolt143may be any type of nut and bolt combination commonly known and used in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Turning now toFIG. 1C, steering unit125is depicted in a locked position170suitable for riding configuration101. In this position, coupling member126, and therefore handlebar128, are prevented from rotating about pivot axis504. Locking mechanism160comprises two donut-shaped members174and176and a locking pin172. Donut-shaped members174and176are cylindrical in shape and each contains a bore194and196, respectively, extending from end to end. Furthermore, donut-shaped members174and176are preferably molded or welded to external surface181of coupling member126, near second end132of coupling member126, and are adapted to fit within the sidewalls of fork104. Locking pin172comprises a cylindrical head portion177and a cylindrical rod portion179extending laterally from head portion177. Cylindrical rod portion179generally has a length longer than the width of fork104so that it may extend entirely through fork104in order to lock steering unit125in place. Additionally, the diameter of cylindrical head portion177is generally larger than the diameter of cylindrical rod portion179to prevent cylindrical head portion177from entering aperture535(best shown inFIG. 1D) with the result that it may abut external surface193of fork104when it is in place. Cylindrical head portion177comprises an aperture178adapted to receive a retaining wire180. Retaining wire180is provided to retain locking pin172to folding bicycle100by securely coupling retaining wire180to fork104. Locking pin172is coupled to folding bicycle100by first sliding a first end of retaining wire180through aperture178of cylindrical head portion177and subsequently coupling the first end of retaining wire180to another portion of retaining wire180, then sliding a second end of retaining wire180through an aperture182provided on fork104, and finally creating a loop or knot (not shown) on the second end of retaining wire180to prevent that end from sliding back through aperture182of fork104.

To place steering unit125in locked position170, first, handlebar128must be rotated about pivot axis504until bore194of donut-shaped member174is aligned with an aperture536(best shown inFIG. 1D) provided on sidewall190of fork104and bore196of donut-shaped member176is aligned with an aperture535(best shown inFIG. 1D) provided on sidewall192of fork104; then, cylindrical rod portion179of locking pin172is slid through aperture535(FIG. 1D) provided on sidewall192, through bore196of donut-shaped member176, through bore194of donut-shaped member174and finally through aperture536(FIG. 1D) provided on sidewall190of fork104until cylindrical rod portion179protrudes through aperture536(FIG. 1D). Furthermore, locking pin172is preferably slid from sidewall192of fork104to sidewall190of fork104until the bottom surface of cylindrical head portion177of locking pin172abuts external surface193of fork104, as shown inFIG. 1C. Once locking pin172is in place, as just described, handlebar128is prevented from rotating about pivot axis504and steering unit125is in locked position170. It should be appreciated that, when in the position shown inFIG. 1C, locking pin172serves to keep handlebar128stable and at the appropriate level to allow a rider or user of folding bicycle100to easily and comfortably ride folding bicycle100.

FIGS. 1C and 1Dalso depict a fork locking mechanism515. More specifically,FIG. 1Dillustrates a perspective view of the folding bicycle ofFIG. 1Awith steering unit125removed so as to enable fork locking mechanism515to be seen more readily. As shown inFIGS. 1C and 1D, folding bicycle100preferably comprises a fork locking mechanism515adapted to lock fork104to steering column141, thereby preventing fork104from being able to pivot about steering column141when in the locked position. By preventing fork104from pivoting about steering column141, folding bicycle100becomes more stable, thus making it easier to control and subsequently fold folding bicycle100. Fork locking mechanism515comprises a donut-shaped member520connected to steering column141. Donut-shaped member520is preferably molded or welded to steering column141; however, it should be understood and appreciated that donut-shaped member520may be connected to steering column141by any known means or method without departing from the spirit of the invention. Moreover, donut-shaped member520comprises a bore518that extends completely through the body of donut-shaped member520, as shown inFIGS. 1C and 1D. Fork locking mechanism515also comprises two plates524and526both of which extend between internal surfaces131and133of fork104near the top of fork104. Specifically, plates524and526are located near the top of second end114of fork104, in close proximity to where fork104pivotally couples to steering column141of frame102. As shown inFIG. 1D, plate524comprises an aperture522that extends completely through plate524, and plate526comprises an aperture528that extends completely through plate526. Fork locking mechanism515is placed into the locked position by preferably sliding locking pin172through bore518of donut-shaped member520, into aperture522of plate524, and into aperture528of plate526, as shown inFIG. 1D. Once locking pin172is in place, as just described, fork104is prevented from rotating about steering column141of frame102.

In operation, when a rider or user of folding bicycle100desires to fold folding bicycle100, it is preferred that the user first unlock locking mechanism160and then lock fork locking mechanism515. Starting from the riding configuration, locking mechanism160is unlocked by removing locking pin172from fork104, thereby releasing secondary pivot member130from its locked position and subsequently allowing handlebar128to pivot about pivot axis504. After locking mechanism160is unlocked, as just described, fork locking mechanism515is locked using locking pin172, in the manner described above, to prevent fork104from rotating about steering column141, thereby allowing a user to more easily fold folding bicycle100.

FIG. 1Edepicts the underside of steering unit125of folding bicycle100ofFIG. 1Aaccording to an embodiment of the invention. As shown, steering unit125preferably comprises a secondary pivot member or swivel mount550adapted to pivotally or rotatably connect steering member or handlebar128to coupling member126. Secondary pivot member550preferably comprises a swivel member551that allows steering member128to rotate or swivel about coupling member126. Swivel member551is molded or welded to the underside552of steering member128. More specifically, one of the exterior surfaces of swivel member551is preferably molded or welded to underside552of steering member128, as shown inFIG. 1E. Swivel member551is also preferably rotatably coupled to an exterior surface554of plate155, thereby allowing steering member128to rotate or swivel relative to coupling member126. It should be understood and appreciated that while a particular swivel mount550has been depicted and described, any type of swivel member or device commonly known or used in the art may be used to couple steering member128to coupling member126, so as to allow steering member128to rotate relative to coupling member126, without departing from the separate of the invention.

Moreover, secondary pivot member or swivel mount550preferably has a pivot axis532that is substantially parallel to plane109of fork104and substantially perpendicular to plate155of coupling member126. Secondary pivot member550allows steering member128to pivot or rotate about pivot axis532, after secondary pivot member550is released from its locked position. Secondary pivot member550preferably allows steering member128to pivot or rotate in a direction530about pivot axis532in order for steering member128to align substantially parallel with fork104and align with cavity502, as shown inFIGS. 5B and 6, to form folded configuration534(FIG. 5B). It should be understood and appreciated that steering member128may be any type of handlebar or handlebars commonly known or used in the art, which a rider of folding bicycle100may use to steer folding bicycle100, without limiting the scope of the invention.

Referring now toFIG. 1F, steering unit125, footrest unit135, and seat unit145of folding bicycle100are illustrated. As shown inFIG. 1F, steering member128is adapted to pivot about pivot axis504in a direction618towards fork104and in a direction506away from fork104, via secondary pivot member130.

Footrest unit135comprises an elongated member136pivotally connected to frame102. Footrest unit135also comprises a flange or footrest member138(best shown inFIG. 5A) preferably connected to elongated member136and a secondary pivot member or hinge142pivotally connecting elongated member136to frame102. Moreover, footrest unit135is adapted to allow a rider of folding bicycle100to rest his or her feet when folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101and is adapted to be pivoted, via secondary pivot member142, in directions606and608towards and away from, respectively, frame102. For example, to fold footrest unit135for storage, after secondary pivot member or hinge142has been released from its locked position, elongated member136is pivoted in direction606toward frame102until elongated member136abuts the underside602of frame102. a retaining member or clip607(schematically shown) may be provided on underside602of frame102to retain footrest unit135to frame102.

As illustrated inFIG. 1F, elongated member136extends along an axis600and has a first end144and a second end140. Secondary pivot member or hinge142is adapted to pivotally connect first end144of elongated member136to frame102and footrest member138(best shown inFIG. 5A) is preferably connected to second end140of elongated member. Moreover, secondary pivot member142comprises a pivot axis604substantially perpendicular to plane103and axis105and substantially perpendicular to axis600of elongated member136that allows elongated member136to pivot about pivot axis604after secondary pivot member142is released from its locked position. In particular, secondary pivot member142is adapted to allow elongated member136to pivot about pivot axis604in a direction606towards frame102and in a direction608away from frame102.

Briefly turning toFIG. 5A, footrest unit135also preferably comprises flange138comprising two members152and154extending substantially perpendicular from elongated member136. Members152and154are preferably flat and are provided to allow a rider to rest his or her feet on the top surface139of members152and154while the rider is riding folding bicycle100. While not shown in the figures, it is further contemplated that two pivot members or hinges may be may adapted to pivotally connect members152and154to elongated member136. Each pivot member preferably comprises a pivot axis substantially parallel with plane103and perpendicular with axis600to allow members152and154of flange138to fold or pivot about their respective pivot axis towards elongated member136until each member152and154is substantially parallel to axis600and away from elongated member136until each member152and154is substantially perpendicular to elongated member136.

Referring back toFIG. 1F, folding bicycle100also comprises a seat unit or saddle145connected to frame102. Seat unit145preferably comprises an upper seat portion or upright, rear portion146, a lower seat portion or base148, and a secondary pivot member or hinge150pivotally connecting upper seat portion146to lower seat portion148. Seat unit145is preferably connected or mounted to frame102by connecting lower seat portion148to the topside616of frame102. Lower seat portion148may be connected or mounted to frame102via any method known in the art for connecting a bicycle saddle to a frame, including but not limited to, the use of a nut and bolt, screws, and the like.

Seat unit145is preferably adapted to allow a rider of folding bicycle100to sit when folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101and adapted to be pivoted, via secondary pivot member150, in directions610and612towards and away from, respectively, frame102. For example, to fold seat unit145for storage, after secondary pivot member or hinge150has been released from its locked position, upper seat portion146is preferably pivoted in direction610toward frame102until upper seat portion146abuts lower seat portion148. While not shown, it is contemplated that a retaining member, clip, strap, or the like may be provided to retain upper seat portion146to lower seat portion148. Moreover, lower seat portion148is preferably connected to topside616of frame102by any commonly known means and method.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 1F, seat unit145preferably comprises a secondary pivot member or hinge150adapted to pivotally connect upper seat portion146to lower seat portion148. Moreover, secondary pivot member150preferably comprises a pivot axis614substantially perpendicular to plane103and axis105to allow upper seat portion146to pivot about pivot axis614relative to lower seat portion148after secondary pivot member150is released from its locked position. In particular, secondary pivot member150is adapted to allow upper seat portion146to pivot about pivot axis614in a direction610towards frame102and in a direction612away from frame102.

As shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, folding bicycle100comprises several components implemented by traditional, manually powered bicycles. For example, folding bicycle100comprises steering unit125, steering column or headset141, fork104, frame102, and wheels106and108. It should be understood and appreciated that one skilled in the art would know how to pivotally mount fork104comprising any type of traditional handlebar to steering column or headset141of frame102, thereby allowing a rider to steer folding bicycle100. It should also be understood and appreciated that (i) steering column or headset141may be coupled to frame102by any method or implementation commonly known in the art, particularly by being threaded, bolted, or welded to first end118of frame102; (ii) fork104may be coupled to steering column or headset141by any method or implementation commonly known in the art to allow fork104to pivot about frame102; and (iii) steering column or head set141operates in a similar manner as any steering column or headset commonly known or used in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention and without limiting the scope of the present invention. Additionally, it should be understood and appreciated that steering column or headset141may be any steering column or headset commonly known or used in the art, without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Moreover, any known method and implementation and any known components for pivotally mounting steering unit125to folding bicycle100may be employed, without limiting the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that one skilled in the art would also know how to rotatably mount wheels106and108to folding bicycle100. Accordingly, any known method or implementation of any known components for mounting wheels106and108to folding bicycle100may be employed, without limiting the scope of the present invention.

Moreover, while not shown, it is contemplated that folding bicycle100is preferably powered by a drive mechanism comprising an electric throttle (not shown) provided on steering unit125and powered by a rechargeable battery (not shown) housed under seat unit145. It is further contemplated that the drive mechanism, which is powered by the rechargeable battery (not shown), drives rear wheel108to propel folding bicycle100, via a motor (not shown), preferably housed in a rear wheel axle drum (not shown) and connected to rear wheel108. It should be understood that one skilled in the art would know how to implement any commonly known or used drive mechanism with folding bicycle100in order to propel folding bicycle100. Accordingly, any known method and implementation of any known components for utilizing a commonly known or used drive mechanism to power an electric bicycle may be employed, without limiting the scope of the present invention.

It should also be understood that while folding bicycle100is in the riding configuration101, as illustrated inFIG. 1A, all pivot members or hinges implemented by folding bicycle100are in a locked position to prevent the hinges from folding and to maintain the rigid structure of folding bicycle100. Moreover, while not shown in the figures, it is contemplated that any locking mechanism commonly known or used in the art, such as a hole or interlocking teeth with a mating pin inserted therethrough, mating snap or clasp members, and the like, may be implemented to maintain each of the hinges in a locked position when folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101, as illustrated inFIG. 1A, without limiting the scope of the invention. It should also be appreciated that any locking mechanism employed to lock the hinges is capable of being unlocked to allow the hinges to pivot about their respective pivot axes.

Referring toFIGS. 2 and 3, folding bicycle100is illustrated in fully folded, collapsed or storage configuration200. Specifically,FIGS. 2 and 3provide a side view and a top view, respectively, of folding bicycle100in its completely folded state. When wheel106is folded at hinge110, wheel106becomes aligned with the left side of fork104. When the front end118of frame102is folded at hinge116, front wheel106is moved so that it is along the left side of frame102. When wheel108is folded at hinge122(FIG. 1A), it becomes aligned with the right side of frame102. While it has been described that when folding bicycle100is in collapsed or storage configuration200, wheel106is aligned with the left side of fork104and wheel108is aligned with the right side of frame102, it should be appreciated that wheels106and108may be aligned on either side of folding bicycle100, without limiting the scope of the invention. Notably, it should be understood that when folding bicycle100is in configuration200, wheels106and108are folded on opposite sides of folding bicycle100.

FIGS. 4A-4Bdepict a flow diagram illustrating a preferred method for folding bicycle100ofFIGS. 1A-3and5A-12from riding configuration101ofFIG. 1Ato collapsed and/or storage configuration200ofFIGS. 2-3according to an embodiment of the invention. The method starts at step400where folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101and where fork104and plane109are aligned in parallel with frame102and plane103. In step402, locking mechanism160is first unlocked, in the manner described above, thereby releasing secondary pivot member130from its locked position and subsequently allowing handlebar128to pivot about pivot axis504. After locking mechanism160is unlocked, fork locking mechanism515is locked, in the manner described above, to prevent fork104from rotating about steering column141, thereby allowing a user to more easily fold folding bicycle100. After unlocking locking mechanism160and locking fork locking mechanism515, steering member128, via secondary pivot member130, is tilted or pivoted in direction506about 90 degrees about pivot axis504, thereby forming folded configuration508. In step404, steering member128, via swivel mount550, is rotated in direction530about 90 degrees about pivot axis532until steering member128is substantially parallel to plane109of fork104, thereby forming folded configuration534.

Next, in step406, steering member128is folded in direction618toward fork104, about pivot axis504until steering member128is at least partially disposed within cavity502, thereby forming folded configuration702. Moreover, in step406, secondary pivot member142is released from its locked position and footrest unit135is folded in direction606toward frame102, about pivot axis604, until footrest unit135abuts underside602of frame102, thereby forming folded configuration704. It is contemplated that footrest unit135may be clipped using a retaining member (not shown) or clip (not shown) to underside602of frame102to securely retain footrest unit135against frame102. Finally, in step406, secondary pivot member150is released from its locked position and upper seat portion146is folded in direction610toward lower seat portion148, about pivot axis614, until upper seat portion146abuts lower seat portion148, thereby forming folded configuration706. It is further contemplated that upper seat portion146may be securely retained to lower seat portion148using any known method or components. Additionally, it should be appreciated that secondary pivot members142and150may be locked using any commonly known method or implementation and, particularly, by using a locking pin as described above with respect to locking mechanism160, without limiting the scope of the present invention.

In step408primary pivot member110is released from its locked position and first end112of fork104is folded in direction802towards second end114of fork104about 180 degrees about pivot axis111until first end112is substantially parallel to second end114, planes103and109, and axes105and107, thereby forming folded configuration900. Next, in step410, primary pivot member116is released from its locked position and first end118of frame102is folded in direction1004towards second end124of frame102about 180 degrees about pivot axis117until first end118is substantially parallel to frame102and axis105. Folded configuration900remains substantially parallel to plane103, thereby forming folded configuration1102. In step412, primary pivot member122is released from its locked position and second end124of frame102is folded in direction1202towards first end118of frame102about 180 degrees about pivot axis123until second end124and consequently wheel108are substantially parallel to frame102, planes103and109, axes105and107, wheel106, and folded configuration1102, thereby forming folded configuration or collapsed configuration200. It is contemplated that any known method or components may be implemented to securely retain folding bicycle100in collapsed configuration200, without limiting the scope of the invention. The method ends at step414.

Further details of folding bicycle100are set forth inFIGS. 5A-12. Turning now toFIGS. 5A-7, steering unit125of folding bicycle100is illustrated. Steering unit125preferably comprises at least two pivot members to allow it to be folded into a cavity502formed in fork104. Specifically, as illustrated inFIGS. 5A-6, steering unit125preferably comprises coupling member126having a first end156and a second end132, a plate155molded or welded to first end156, a secondary pivot member or swivel mount550(FIG. 1E) adapted to preferably pivotally mount steering member128to plate155, and a secondary pivot member or axle130adapted to preferably pivotally connect second end132of coupling member126to second end114of fork104. Turning briefly toFIG. 1E, secondary pivot member or swivel mount550preferably comprises a pivot axis532substantially parallel to plane109and substantially perpendicular to plate155to allow steering member128to rotate about pivot axis532and relative to coupling member126. Referring back toFIG. 5A, secondary pivot member130preferably comprises a pivot axis504substantially perpendicular to plane109and substantially perpendicular to axis107to allow steering member128to pivot about pivot axis504and relative to fork104, after secondary pivot member130is released from its locked position. In particular, secondary pivot member130is preferably adapted to allow steering member128, via coupling member126, to pivot about pivot axis504in a direction506away from fork104and in a direction618(FIG. 1F) towards fork104. To fold steering unit125into configuration702after secondary pivot member130has been released from its locked position, steering member128is preferably (i) pivoted in a direction506away from fork104to form folded configuration508; (ii) pivoted or rotated in a direction530until steering member128is substantially parallel to fork104to form folded configuration534; and (iii) pivoted in a direction618towards fork104until steering member128is at least partially disposed within a cavity502provided in fork104.

Referring back to1F, to fold footrest unit135into folded configuration704(FIG. 7), secondary pivot member142is first unlocked and elongated member136is then pivoted in direction606until elongated member136abuts underside602of frame102. Moreover, to fold seat unit145into folded configuration706(FIG. 7), secondary pivot member150is first unlocked and upper seat portion146is then pivoted in direction610until upper seat portion146abuts lower seat portion148. It is also contemplated that when seat unit145is in the folded position as depicted inFIG. 7, it may be used as a handle or grip member, thereby allowing a user to conveniently carry folding bicycle100.

Further details of the various folding operations described above are depicted inFIGS. 7-12. Referring toFIG. 7, each of the secondary folding components, i.e., steering unit125, footrest unit135, and seat unit145are in the folded configurations702,704, and706, respectively, as discussed above with respect toFIGS. 5A-6. As illustrated, steering member128is rotated and folded in a direction618into cavity502of fork104, elongated member136is folded in a direction606to frame102, and upper seat portion146is folded in a direction610to lower seat portion148. When folded into the storage or folded configurations702,704, and706, steering member128is preferably aligned substantially parallel with fork104, plane109, and axis107and is disposed in cavity502, elongated member136preferably abuts underside602of frame102, where it may be held in place by a retaining member (not shown), and upper seat portion146preferably rests on top of lower seat portion148, where it may be held in place by a retaining member (not shown).

Turning now toFIGS. 8-9, the folding of fork104of folding bicycle100is illustrated. To complete this fold, first end112of fork104is pivoted towards second end114of fork104until first end112is substantially parallel to second end114. Primary pivot member or hinge110having pivot axis111(FIG. 1A) pivotally connects first end112of fork104to second end114of fork104. Generally, after primary pivot member or hinge110has been released from its locked position, first end112of fork104pivots about pivot axis111in a direction802toward second end114of fork104until first end112is substantially parallel to second end114plane109, and axis107.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIGS. 8-9, primary pivot member or hinge110is preferably provided about halfway down the length of fork104on the left side and is adapted to pivotally connect first end112of fork104to second end114of fork104. Also provided is a locking mechanism (not shown) to releasably lock primary pivot member110in a rigid position. Locking mechanism may be unlocked to allow pivot member110to pivot about pivot axis111. It should be understood that any commonly known or used locking mechanism may be incorporated, without limiting the scope of the invention. When folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101as illustrated inFIG. 1A, first end112and second end114of fork104extend along plane109and axis107. Moreover, primary pivot member110comprises pivot axis111substantially parallel to plane109of fork104and substantially perpendicular to axis107of fork104to allow first end112of fork104to pivot in direction802towards second end114, and about pivot axis111, after primary pivot member110is released from its locked position. Primary pivot member110allows first end112to pivot in directions802and804, towards and away from, respectively, second end114, as illustrated inFIGS. 8-9.

Referring toFIG. 9, folding bicycle100is illustrated in yet another folded configuration900. Specifically, folding bicycle100is in folded configuration900, as discussed above with respect toFIG. 8. As illustrated inFIG. 9, first end112of fork104is folded in a direction802to second end114of fork104. When folding bicycle100is folded into folded configuration900, first end112of fork104is preferably aligned substantially parallel with second end portion114of fork104, plane109, and axis107, where it may be held in place by a retaining member (not shown). In particular, primary pivot member110allows first end112of fork104to pivot towards second end114of fork102about 180 degrees about pivot axis111until first end112of fork104and consequently wheel106is substantially parallel to second end114of fork104, plane109, axis107, and folded steering member128, thereby forming folded configuration900.

FIGS. 10-11depict the folding of the front end118of frame102on itself. To do this, first end118of frame102is pivoted towards frame102. Primary pivot member or hinge116having pivot axis117is provided to make this fold. Generally, after primary pivot member or hinge116has been released from its locked position, first end118of frame102is pivoted about pivot axis117in a direction1004toward middle portion120of frame102until first end118of frame102is substantially parallel to frame102, plane103, and axis105.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIGS. 10-11, primary pivot member or hinge116is provided about an eighth to about a quarter of the way down the length of frame102on the top side and is adapted to pivotally connect first end118of frame102to middle portion120of frame102. Also provided is a locking mechanism (not shown) to releasably lock primary pivot member116in a rigid position. Locking mechanism is unlocked to allow pivot member116to pivot about pivot axis117. It should be understood that any commonly known or used locking mechanism may be incorporated, without limiting the scope of the invention. When folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101as illustrated inFIG. 1A, first end118and middle portion120of frame102extend along plane103and axis105. Moreover, primary pivot member116comprises pivot axis117substantially perpendicular to plane103and axis105of frame102to allow first end118of frame102to pivot in direction1004towards middle portion120or second end124of frame102, and about pivot axis117, after primary pivot member116is released from its locked position. Primary pivot member116allows first end118to pivot in directions1004and1006, towards and away from, respectively, middle portion120and second end124of frame102, as illustrated inFIGS. 10-11.

Referring toFIG. 11, folding bicycle100is illustrated at the completion of the folding of first end118of frame102. First end118of frame102is folded in a direction1004to middle portion120and second end124of frame102causing the folded configuration900ofFIG. 9to pivot in direction1004towards second end124of frame102about 180 degrees about pivot axis117. When the first end118of frame102is folded, as just described, folded configuration1102is formed. Specifically, first end118of frame102is aligned substantially parallel to middle portion120, second end124, and axis105of frame102, while remaining substantially parallel to plane103, where it may be held in place by a retaining member (not shown). In particular, primary pivot member116allows first end118of frame102and consequently wheel106to pivot towards middle portion120and second end124of frame102about 180 degrees about pivot axis117until first end118of frame102is substantially parallel to middle portion120of frame102, second end124of frame102, plane103, and axis105, and while wheel106remains substantially parallel to plane103and folded steering member128, thereby forming folded configuration1102.

FIG. 12depicts the folding of the rear wheel108against frame102. To make this fold, second end124of frame102is pivoted towards frame102. Primary pivot member or hinge122having pivot axis123is provided to complete this fold. Generally, after primary pivot member or hinge122has been released from its locked position, second end124of frame102pivots about pivot axis123in a direction1202toward middle portion120of frame102until second end124of frame102is substantially parallel to frame102, plane103, and axis105.

Specifically, as illustrated inFIG. 12, primary pivot member or hinge122is provided about two thirds of the way down the length of frame102on the right side and is adapted to pivotally connect second end124of frame102to middle portion120of frame102. Also provided is a locking mechanism (not shown) to releasably lock primary pivot member122in a rigid position. Locking mechanism may be unlocked to allow pivot member122to pivot about pivot axis123. It should be understood that any commonly known or used locking mechanism may be incorporated, without limiting the scope of the invention. When folding bicycle100is in riding configuration101as illustrated inFIG. 1A, first end118, middle portion120, and second end124of frame102extend along plane103and axis105. Moreover, primary pivot member122preferably comprises pivot axis123substantially parallel to plane103of frame102and substantially perpendicular to axis105of frame102to allow second end124of frame102to pivot in direction1202towards middle portion120or first end118of frame102, about pivot axis123, relative to frame102, after primary pivot member122is released from its locked position, thereby forming collapsed or storage configuration200(FIGS. 2 and 3). Primary pivot member122preferably allows second end124to pivot in directions1202and1204, towards and away from, respectively, middle portion120and first end118of frame102, as illustrated inFIG. 12.

While hinge110has been described as being on the left side of fork104and hinge122on the right side of frame102, it should be appreciated that hinge110could be mounted on the right side of fork104and hinge122on the left side of frame102so that wheels106and108are on the right and left sides, respectively, of frame102when folding bicycle100is folded.

Furthermore, it should be appreciated and understood that each pivot member disclosed and described throughout this specification may be any commonly known and used component or hinge that is capable of performing the desired pivoting action and achieving the desired result. As such, any known or used pivot member or hinge may be incorporated with folding bicycle100for any of the pivot members described above, without limiting the scope of the invention.

It should also be appreciated and understood that each component of folding bicycle100may constructed from any type of sturdy material commonly known or used in the art, such as, but not limited to, steel, titanium, and the like, without limiting the spirit of the invention.

It should also be understood that this invention is not limited to the disclosed features and other similar method and system may be utilized without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.

While the invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment and alternative embodiments, which embodiments have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention. It should be appreciated that the invention is capable of being embodied in other forms without departing from its essential characteristics.