STOWABLE SKATEBOARD

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to stowable mobility vehicles. More specifically, this disclosure relates to stowable motorized and unmotorized skateboards.

BACKGROUND

Personal mobility vehicles, such as skateboards, scooters, bicycles, or other similar devices offer enjoyable, convenient transportation for a user over short distances without the negative environmental impact of fuel-burning modes of transportation. These vehicles are particularly convenient in metro areas, school campuses, town centers, or other similar areas where multiple destinations are within a short distance of one another. Given these benefits, demand for personal mobility vehicles has grown rapidly in recent years. While these vehicles are convenient and demand has increased, their bulky or awkward shape often makes them difficult to store once a user reaches his or her destination or difficult to transport when a user wishes to bring the vehicle with him or her on an alternative mode of transportation (e.g., walking, driving, public transportation, flying, etc.).

SUMMARY

Personal mobility vehicles, such as skateboards, are convenient for short distance transportation. While demand for these vehicles has increased, users struggle to store or transport these vehicles once they reach a destination. Manufacturers have tried to address this difficulty with folding personal mobility vehicles; however, the necessary hardware for folding and ultimate size and weight of the folded vehicles inadequately alleviate these problems.

The present disclosure offers a novel solution to this problem. In part, this solution is a personal mobility vehicle that disassembles into multiple components that nest within one another. Once nested, the overall size of the disassembled vehicle is small enough to fit in a standard backpack and does not require the extra bulk or weight of folding hardware. The solution further includes motorizing the personal mobility vehicle such that the personal mobility vehicle allows the user to travel longer distances in less time.

In one embodiment, the novel solution includes a stowable skateboard, comprising a first board section, a second board section, a power supply section, and a support segment. The first board section includes a first locking mechanism component and first support anchors. The second board section includes a controller, a motor, second support anchors, and power supply anchors. The power supply section is between the first and second board sections, encases a battery, includes a second locking component receiving the first locking mechanism component, and receives the power supply anchors. The support segment extends from the first board section to the second board section and receives the first support anchors and the second support anchors.

In a further embodiment, the novel solution includes a stowable skateboard, comprising a first board section, a second board section, a power supply section, a support segment, a locking mechanism, and locking anchor components. The first board section includes first section anchor components. The second board section includes second section anchor components, a controller with a power socket, and a motor. The power supply section includes a battery and a power cord configured to couple with the power socket, and the power supply section is configured to mate the first board section with the second board section and be positioned therebetween. The support segment includes first support segment anchor components configured to receive some of the first section anchor components, and second support segment anchor components configured to receive some of the second section anchor components. The locking mechanism and locking anchor components are configured to secure the mated first board section, second board section, and power supply section together.

In another further embodiment, the novel solution includes a stowable skateboard, comprising a front board section, a back board section, and a support segment. The front board section includes a first locking mechanism component and first and second anchors extending from the front board section. The back board section includes a second locking mechanism component and first and second anchors extending from the back board section. The support segment includes a first front opening configured to receive the front board section first anchors, a second front opening configured to receive the front board section second anchors, a first back opening opposite the first front opening and configured to receive the back board section first anchors, and a second back opening opposite the second front opening and configured to receive the back board section second anchors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate one or more example embodiments:

FIG. 1 is an image of an assembled stowable motorized skateboard in use.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a disassembled stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a disassembled stowable motorized skateboard stored within a backpack.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an assembled stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 5 is a side view of an assembled stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 7 is an exploded top view of a stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 8 is an exploded bottom view of a stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 9 is an exploded close-up bottom view of selected parts of a stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 10 is an exploded close-up top view of selected parts of a stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an assembled stowable motorized skateboard including an extended power supply section.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control system of a stowable motorized skateboard.

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of an assembled stowable skateboard.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard.

FIG. 15 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard.

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard.

A person skilled in the relevant art will understand that the features shown in the drawings are for purposes of illustration, and variations, including different or additional features and arrangements thereof, are possible.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure. It will be appreciated, however, by those having skill in the art that the embodiments of this disclosure may be practiced without these specific details or with an equivalent arrangement. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments of this disclosure.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the use, disassembly, and storage of a stowable motorized skateboard 100 (“stowable skateboard 100”). FIG. 1 is an image of an assembled stowable skateboard 100 ridden by a user. The stowable skateboard 100 comprises a skateboard 102 and a handheld controller 150. The skateboard 102 comprises a first section 110, a second section 120, a power supply section 130 (collectively, the “sections 110-130”), and support bars 140. The first section 110 includes a wheel assembly 112; the second section 120 includes a wheel assembly 122, a motor 124 configured to drive the wheel assembly 122, and a controller 126 (FIG. 2); and the power supply section 130 includes a battery for energizing the controller 126 and motor 124. The sections 110-130 have a top (e.g., riding surface) and a bottom.

The skateboard 102 is assembled without using tools by releasably coupling the sections 110-130 together, supported by the support bars 140, to create a ridged, ridable skateboard, longboard, dirt or mountain board, freeboard, streetboard, t-board, stowboard, scooter, or any similar personal mobility vehicle. When assembled, the user may ride (e.g., stand on) the skateboard 102 and propel the skateboard 102 with the user's own force (e.g., by kicking on the ground) or an external force (e.g., gravity, another individual). The user may alternatively propel the skateboard 102 using the handheld controller 150 to activate the motor 124. The handheld controller 150 activates the motor 124 and propels the skateboard 102 by instructing the controller 126 to engage the motor 124 to drive the wheel assembly 122. The easy assembly process and electric motor of the skateboard 102 allow the user to quickly get from one destination to another.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a disassembled stowable skateboard 100. For disassembly, the sections 110-130 and support bars 140 are released from and independent of one another, allowing for compact stowing. The elements of the stowable skateboard 100 are nested within one another to achieve this compact stowing. To nest the elements of the stowable skateboard 100, the sections 110-130, support bars 140, and handheld controller 150 are rearranged to fit in the open space on the bottom of the first section 110 and the second section 120. Further, in some embodiments, the second section 120 is shorter than the first section 110 such that when nested, the end of the second section 120 opposite the wheel assembly 122 does not protrude past the end of the first section 110 opposite the wheel assembly 112. Because the second section 120 does not extend past the end of the first section 110, the stowed disassembled stowable skateboard 100 more closely meets a standard storage shape (e.g., a rectangle).

Nesting the stowable skateboard 100 elements to achieve compacting stowing comprises: (i) rotating the second section 120 relative to the first section 110 so the top of the second section 120 rests on the bottom of the first section 110 and so the wheel assembly 112 and the wheel assembly 122 are adjacent to one another, (ii) placing the support bars 140 on the bottom of the second section 120 on either side of the wheel assembly 122, (iii) rotating the power supply section 130 perpendicular to the power supply section's 130 assembled arrangement and resting the power supply section 130 on the bottom of the second section 120, and (iv) resting the handheld controller 150 on or beside the power supply section 130. Once rearranged, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 is compact and easily stored or transported.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a disassembled stowable skateboard 100 stored within a backpack 300. The disassembled stowable skateboard 100, rearranged corresponding to FIG. 2 and as illustrated, is easily stowed within a backpack 300, bag, box, or similar carrier for storage or transportation, or stowed within a desk, locker, or similar container for storage. As shown, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 fits within a standard main pocket of the backpack 300. In some embodiments, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 instead fits within a custom pocket of the backpack 300. In some embodiments, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 instead fits within a custom carrying case that is configured to be stored within the backpack 300. In some embodiments, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 is entirely stored within the backpack 300 or custom carrying case. In some embodiments, only the disassembled skateboard 102 is stored within the backpack 300 or custom carrying case and the handheld controller 150 is stored elsewhere. In some embodiments, only the disassembled sections 110-130 are stored within the backpack 300 or custom carrying case and the support bars 140 and the handheld controller 150 are stored elsewhere.

The illustrated stowable skateboard 100 of FIGS. 1-3 and other embodiments described herein allow the user to travel (i) longer distances with less effort than possible by walking, running, or other similar modes of transportation, (ii) on roads used by motorized vehicles (e.g., cars) at speeds comparable to vehicle traffic, (iii) with added visibility for the user and added likelihood of being seen by other motorists given the standing riding position (as compared to, for example, sitting on a bicycle), and, where allowed, (iv) on indoor and outdoor transitways not otherwise accessible to motorized vehicles (e.g., bike paths, walkways, skyways, etc.). Further, once the user reaches a destination after riding, the user may disassemble the stowable skateboard 100 for storage or transportation using an alternative mode of transportation (e.g., walking, driving, public transportation, flying, etc.). The disassembled stowable skateboard 100 is easier to store than existing personal mobility vehicles because the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 efficiently fits in small spaces, such as a desk drawer, under furniture, or in a small closet. Similarly, the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 is easier to transport than existing personal mobility vehicles because the disassembled stowable skateboard 100 fits within a backpack 300, carrying case, or similar carrier, allowing the user to transport the stowable skateboard 100 without carrying a bulky personal mobility vehicle.

FIGS. 4-10 illustrate a stowable motorized skateboard 400 (“stowable skateboard 400”). Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 400 comprise all, some, or similar elements from the stowable skateboard 100. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 400 correspond with all, some, or similar elements of the stowable skateboard 100. FIGS. 4-6 illustrate the stowable skateboard 400 assembled and are an isometric view, a side view, and a bottom view thereof, respectively. The stowable skateboard 400 comprises a skateboard 402 and a handheld controller 450. The skateboard 402 includes a first section 500, a second section 600, a power supply section 700 (collectively, the “sections 500-700”), and support bars 440. The first section 500 includes, in part, an assembly end 505, a locking mechanism 530 (FIG. 6), and anchors 550 (FIG. 6). The second section 600 includes, in part, an assembly end 605 and anchors 650 (FIG. 6), 654 (FIG. 4). The power supply section 700 includes, in part, a first assembly end 705, a second assembly end 706, a catch 730 (FIG. 6), and assembly features 740 (FIG. 4). The support bars 440 are elongated members with a first assembly feature 442 and a second assembly feature 444 (FIG. 6).

To assemble the skateboard 402, and without using tools, the assembly end 505 is placed opposite the assembly end 605. The first section 500 and the second section 600 are then coupled together by the support bars 440. To couple the first section 500 and the second section 600 with the support bars 440, the first assembly feature 442 of each support bar 440 receives at least one of the anchors 550 and the second assembly feature 444 of each support bar 440 receives at least one of the anchors 650. The power supply section 700 is then coupled to the first section 500 and the second section 600 by aligning the assembly end 505 with the first assembly end 705 and the assembly end 605 with the second assembly end 606. The assembly features 740 receive the anchors 654 and the locking mechanism 530 engages the catch 730 and the locking mechanism 530 is moved to the locked position to secure the skateboard 402 in the assembled configuration. The locking mechanism 530, by engaging the catch 730, draws the power supply section 700 and the second section 600 (byway of the assembly features 740) toward the first section 500. As the sections 500-700 are drawn together, the support bars 440 are compressed between the first section 500 and the second section 600 (byway of the anchors 550 and the anchors 650). This assembly method is beneficial because it allows the user to quickly reassemble the skateboard 402 for continued use in a short period of time and without the use of tools.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are exploded views of a top and a bottom of the skateboard 402, respectively, and illustrate elements of the sections 500-700 and the support bars 440. The first section 500 includes the assembly end 505, a deck 510 having a top (e.g., riding surface) and a bottom, a wheel assembly 520, the locking mechanism 530, the anchors 550, and pads 552. The wheel assembly 520 is coupled to the bottom of the deck 510 opposite the assembly end 505. The locking mechanism 530, the anchors 550, and the pads 552 are coupled to the bottom of the deck 510 at the assembly end 505. The locking mechanism 530 is centrally located at the assembly end 505 and the anchors 550 are positioned on both sides of the locking mechanism 530 relative to the assembly end 505 at the pads 552.

The deck 510 provides a riding surface for the user's front foot and is a wooden board corresponding in shape and thickness with the front of a skateboard and is within the ranges of eight to twenty-four inches, twelve to twenty inches, or fourteen to eighteen inches in length. In some embodiments, the length of the deck 510 is fifteen inches. In some embodiments, the deck 510 corresponds with the shape and thickness of the front of an alternative skateboard, including, but not limited to, a classic board, cruiser board, penny board, old-school board, speedboard, board-walking longboard, cruising longboard, freeriding longboard, long distance longboard, slalom longboard, surf style longboard, technical sliding longboard, or any similar deck for skateboarding. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, flexibility, weight, or manufacturing costs, the deck 510 additionally or alternatively comprise a composite, polymer, or metal material.

The wheel assembly 520 is a standard kingpin truck with longboard wheels coupled to the deck 510 by screws. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 520 instead comprises a reverse kingpin truck. In some embodiments the wheel assembly 520 instead comprises cruiser skateboard wheels park or street wheels. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, weight, or manufacturing costs, the wheel assembly 520 is coupled to the deck 510 by an adhesive or adhesive strip, nuts and bolts, rivets, or any similar mechanical fastener.

The locking mechanism 530 is a metal mechanical latch coupled to the deck 510 that couples with the power supply section 700 to pull the power supply section 700 and, using the anchors 654, the second section 600 toward the first section 500. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 530 is a toggle or pull-down latch including an arm and a lever. In some embodiments the locking mechanism 530 is a rotating latch, such as a butterfly latch or table buckle, including the arm and a locking knob. When the locking mechanism 530 is implemented as either a toggle or rotating latch, in some embodiments the length of the arm is fixed, such as a wire loop or a formed or molded hook for fast latching and unlatching, and in some embodiments is adjustable, such as a loop or hook with a threaded, notched, or spring-biased shaft, allowing for adjusting stiffness (e.g., defection of the top of the skateboard 402) or compensating for component ware.

In some embodiments the locking mechanism 530 corresponds with a buckle mechanism similar to a seatbelt buckle or a latch mechanism similar to a gate latch for fast latching and unlatching simply be pressing the elements of the skateboard 402 together. In some embodiment, the locking mechanism 530 includes a safety catch, such as a button or notch, that prevents the locking mechanism 530 from unlocking, and therefore preventing the skateboard 402 from disassembling, while user rides the skateboard 402. In some embodiments the locking mechanism 530 is any mechanism that receives a mating element for releasably securing two of the sections 500-700 together. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, flexibility, weight, or manufacturing costs, the locking mechanism 530 comprises a composite or a polymer. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 530 is coupled to the top of the deck 510.

The anchors 550 are structures coupled to the bottom of the deck 510 that connect the support bars 440 with the first section 500 and, using the support bar 440, align the first section 500 with the second section 600. In some embodiments, the anchors 550 include four posts extending from the bottom of the deck 510. In some embodiments, the anchors 550 include four catches on or recessed into the bottom of the deck 510. In some embodiments, the anchors 550 extend from or are on or recessed into the top of the deck 510. Two of the anchors 550 are on each side of the locking mechanism 530 at the assembly end 505 and are aligned with the length of the first section 500. In some embodiments, one or more than two anchors 550 are on each side of the locking mechanism 530 or the anchors 550 are staggered along the length of the first section 500.

When the anchors 550 are implemented as posts, the posts include an elongated narrow portion and a head wider than the narrow portion. In some embodiments, the posts are threaded mechanical fasteners, such as screws or bolts, with a head and with or without a shoulder, screwed into the deck 510, providing, for example, easy manufacture. In some embodiments, the posts are adhered to the deck 510 or integrally formed with the deck 510, providing greater strength. In some embodiments, the distance between the heads of the anchors 550 and the bottom or top of the deck 510 is adjustable to, for example, compensate for component ware. When the anchors 550 are implemented as catches, in some embodiments the catches are plates coupled to the deck 510 with an opening for receiving a hook, distributing the force of the hook over the entirety of the plates. In some embodiments the catches are integrally formed with the deck 510 and include an opening for receiving a hook, distributing the force of the hook throughout the material of the deck 510.

The pads 552 include two durable, compressible rubber sheets coupled to the deck 510 at the anchors 550. When the skateboard 402 is assembled, the pads 552 are a barrier between the support bars 440 and the deck 510 and, in some embodiments, protect the deck 510 from the support bars 440, provide better deflection control of the top of the skateboard 402, or create a smoother ride for the user. In the case of post anchors 550, the anchors 550 extend through the pads 552. In the case of catch anchors 550, the pads 552 cover the anchors 550 and include an opening for the hook to extend through and into the anchors 550. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, compressibility, weight, or manufacturing costs, the pads 552 comprise a foam material, a polymer material, or a metal material.

The second section 600 has an assembly end 605 and includes a deck 610 having a top (e.g., riding surface) and a bottom, a wheel assembly 620 having wheels 622, a motor 640, anchors 650 (FIG. 8), 654 (FIG. 7), pads 652, and a controller 660 having a power socket 662. The wheel assembly 620 and the controller 660 are coupled to the bottom of the deck 610 with the wheel assembly 620 opposite the assembly end 605. The motor 640 is rigidly coupled to the wheel assembly 620, drivably coupled to the wheels 622, and in electric communication with the controller 660. The anchors 650 are coupled to the bottom of the deck 610 at the assembly end 605 and are positioned at the pads 652. The anchors 654 are coupled to the top of the deck 610.

The deck 610 provides a riding surface for the user's rear foot and is a wooden board corresponding in shape and thickness with the back of a skateboard and is within the ranges of four to twenty inches, eight to sixteen inches, or ten to fourteen inches in length. In some embodiments, the length of the deck 610 is fourteen inches. In some embodiments, the deck 610 corresponds with the shape and thickness of the back of an alternative skateboard, including, but not limited to, those listed regarding the deck 510. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, flexibility, weight, or manufacturing costs, the deck 610 additionally or alternatively comprise a composite, polymer, or metal material.

The wheel assembly 620 is a standard kingpin truck including wheels 622. The wheel assembly 620 is coupled to the deck 610 by screws. The wheels 622 are longboard wheels, each with a drive gear coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 620 instead comprises a reverse kingpin truck. In some embodiments the wheels 622 instead comprise cruiser skateboard wheels park or street wheels, each with a drive gear coupled thereto. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, weight, or manufacturing costs, the wheel assembly 620 is coupled to the deck 610 by an adhesive or adhesive strip, nuts and bolts, rivets, or any similar mechanical fastener.

The motor 640 includes two electric motors rigidly coupled to the wheel assembly 620 and is configured to propel the skateboard 402 in response to a signal from the handheld controller 450. Each of the two electric motors is drivably coupled to the one of the wheels 622 at the respective gear. The electric motors are independently in electric communication with the controller 660 and are configured for clockwise and counter-clockwise for operation, allowing the motor to propel the skateboard 402 forward, backward, or to turn to the right or left by reducing the rotational speed of the inner wheel relative to the outer wheel. In some embodiments, the motor 640 is rigidly coupled to the deck 610. In some embodiments, the motor 640 includes a single electric motor drivably coupled to the wheels 622.

The anchors 650 are structures coupled to the bottom of the deck 610 that connect the support bars 440 with the second section 600 and, using the support bar 440, align the second section 600 and first section 500. In some embodiments, the anchors 650 include four posts extending from the bottom of the deck 610. In some embodiments, the anchors 650 include four catches on or recessed into the bottom of the deck 610. In some embodiments, the anchors 650 extend from or are on or recessed into the top of the deck 610. Two of the anchors 650 are on each side of the deck 610 at the assembly end 605 and are aligned with the length of the second section 600. In some embodiments, one or more than two anchors 650 are on each side of the deck 610 or the anchors 650 are staggered along the length of the second section 600.

The anchors 654 are structure coupled to the top of the deck 610 that connect the power supply section 700 with the second section 600 and, in combination with the locking mechanism 530 and the power supply section 700, hold the assembled skateboard 402 together. The anchors 654 include two posts extending from the top of the deck 610. In some embodiments, the anchors 654 include two catches on or recessed into the top of the deck 610. In some embodiments, the anchors 654 extend from or are on or recessed into the bottom of the deck 610. In some embodiments, a single or more than two anchors 654 extend from or are on or recessed into the deck 610.

When the anchors 650 or the anchors 654 are implemented as posts, the posts include an elongated narrow portion and a head wider than the narrow portion. In some embodiments, the posts are threaded mechanical fasteners, such as screws or bolts, with or without a shoulder, screwed into the deck 610, providing, for example, easy manufacture. In some embodiments, the posts are adhered to the deck 610 or integrally formed with the deck 610, providing greater strength. In some embodiments, the distance between the heads of the anchors 650, 654 and the bottom or top of the deck 610 is adjustable to, for example, compensate for component ware. When the anchors 650 or the anchors 654 are implemented as catches, in some embodiments the catches are plates coupled to the deck 610 with an opening for receiving a hook, distributing the force of the hook over the entirety of the plates. In some embodiments, the catches are integrally formed with the deck 510 and include an opening for receiving a hook, distributing the force of the hook throughout the material of the deck 510.

The pads 652 include two durable, compressible rubber sheets coupled to the deck 510 at the anchors 550. When the skateboard 402 is assembled, the pads 652 are a barrier between the support bars 440 and the deck 610 and, in some embodiments, protect the deck 610 from the support bars 440, provide better deflection control of the top of the skateboard 402, or create a smoother ride for the user. In the case of post anchors 550, the anchors 550 extend through the pads 552. In the case of catch anchors 550, the pads 552 cover the anchors 550 with an opening for the hook to extend through and into the anchors 550. In some embodiments, and for modifying strength, compressibility, weight, or manufacturing costs, the pads 552 comprise a foam material, a polymer material, or a metal material.

The power supply section 700 connects the first section 500 with the second section 600 and provides power to the controller 660 and the motor 640. The power supply section 700 has a first assembly end 705, a second assembly end 706, a top (e.g., riding surface), and a bottom. The power supply section includes a housing 710, a battery 720 including a power cord 722 and a charging port 724, a catch 730, and a flange 742 (FIG. 7) defining assembly features 740 (FIG. 7). The battery 720 is encased by and secured within the housing 710. In some embodiments, the battery 720 includes a battery pack having multiple batteries connected in parallel, series, or a combination of parallel and series. The power cord 722 is coupled to and in electric communication with the battery 720 and extends from the housing 710 at the second assembly end 706. The power cord 722 is further releasably couplable with the power socket 662. The catch 730 is coupled to the bottom of the power supply section 700 at the first assembly end 705 and configured to receive the locking mechanism 530. The assembly features 740 extend through the flange 742 and are configured to receive the anchors 654.

The housing 710 is a polymer case with a bottom portion 712 (FIG. 8) and a top portion 714 (FIG. 7). The bottom portion 712 supports the battery 720 and the charging port 724. The top portion 714 includes the flange 742 at the first assembly end 705 and is secured to the bottom portion 712 by mechanical fasteners, such as screws, and seals the battery 720 from liquids and dust. The power cord 722 extends from the housing 710 through sealed ports at the second assembly end 706. In some embodiments, and for modifying the strength, weight, or manufacturing costs, the bottom portion 712 or the top portion 714 comprise a composite or metal material. In some embodiments, for fast assembly and disassembly the top portion 714 is secured to the bottom portion 712 using snap features. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 712 or the bottom portion 712 and the top portion 714 include the flange 742. In some embodiments, the power cord 722 extends through a single sealed port. In some embodiments, the top portion 714 may extend above the riding surface of the skateboard 402, providing space for a larger battery 720 and therefore larger battery capacity. In these embodiments when the top portion 714 extends above the riding surface, no portion of the first section 500, the second section 600, or the support bars 440 extends over the top of the power supply section 700.

The catch 730 is a metal catch (e.g., hook) coupled to the bottom portion 712 by mechanical fasters, such as screws, and corresponds with and is configured to receive the locking mechanism 530. In some embodiments, the catch 730 is integral within the bottom portion 712. In some embodiment, the catch 730 includes a composite or a polymer. In some embodiments and when the locking mechanism 530 is the buckle mechanism similar to a seatbelt buckle or the latch mechanism similar to a gate latch, the catch 730 is similar to a buckle of a seatbelt or a post of a gate latch. In some embodiments, the catch 730 is coupled to the top portion 714.

The support bars 440 are elongated polymer square tubes that connect with the anchors 550, 650 to assemble and align the first section 500 with the second section 600. The support bars 440 provide support to the assembled skateboard 402 by controlling the deflection of the top of the skateboard 402 and torsion of the assembled skateboard 402 about the length of the skateboard 402. The support bars 440 further provide protection for the bottom and sides of the power supply section 700, and the battery 720 within, from damage by external objects (e.g., rocks, branches, curbs, etc.) by extending below the bottom of the power supply section 700 and running alongside the power supply section 700 from the first section 500 to the second section 600.

The support bars 440 include the first assembly feature 442 at a first end and the second assembly feature 444 at a second end. The first and second ends of the support bars 440 are tapered to expose the first assembly feature 442 and the second assembly feature 444, respectively. In some embodiments, the support bars 440 comprise a composite or a metal material. In some embodiments, the support bars 440 are elongated shafts or rails of non-square, non-hollow, or partially-hollow cross-section, allowing for modifying flexibility, strength, weight, or manufacturing costs. In some embodiments, the support bars 440 are integral with the power supply section 700, creating a single power supply and support segment.

FIG. 9 is an exploded close-up view of the bottom of the skateboard 402. FIG. 9 illustrates the first assembly features 442 and the catch 730 and their respective interface with the anchors 550 and the locking mechanism 530 when the stowable skateboard 400 is assembled. The second assembly features 444 and their interface with the anchors 650 are analogous to that of the first assembly features 442 and the anchors 550. Regarding the first assembly features 442 and the anchors 550, the first assembly features 442 are openings when the anchors 550 are posts and the first assembly features 442 are hooks when the anchors 550 are catches.

When the anchors 550 are posts, the first assembly feature 442 include a notch 445 and an opening 446 corresponding with a set of two posts. The notch 445 and the opening 446 are configured for the posts to extend therethrough and be secured within, preventing the first section 500 from rotating relative to the support bar 440 when the skateboard 402 is assembled. When the sets of anchors 550 include more than two posts, additional openings 446 are provided corresponding with the additional posts. In some embodiments, the notch 445 is excluded and the opening 446 extends through to the end of the first end of the support bar 440. In some embodiments, the opening 446 includes a wide portion toward to the first end and a narrow portion away from the first end.

When the anchors 550 are openings, the first assembly feature 442 include hooks corresponding with a set of two anchor 550 catches. The hooks are configured to extend through or into the catches, preventing the first section 500 from rotating relative to the support bar 440. When the sets of anchors 550 include more than two catches, additional hooks are provided corresponding with the additional catches.

Regarding the interface between the catch 730 and the locking mechanism 530, when the assembly end 505 is placed opposite the first assembly end 705, the arm of the locking mechanism 530 is engaged with the catch 730. The locking mechanism 530 is then locked to draw the first section 500 and the power supply section 700 together.

FIG. 10 is an exploded close-up view of the top of the skateboard 402. FIG. 10 illustrates the interface between the assembly features 740 and the anchors 654. When the anchors 654 include posts, the assembly features 740 are two openings extending through the flange 742 corresponding with the anchors 654. The openings are configured for the posts to extend therethrough and be secured within. In some embodiments, the openings include a wide portion toward the center of the power supply section 700 and a narrow portion away from the center of the power supply section 700, such as a teardrop shape. When the anchors 654 include catches, the assembly features 740 are two hooks extending from the flange 742 corresponding with the anchors 654. The hooks are configured to extend through or into the catches, securing the power supply section 700 relative to the second section 600 along the length of the skateboard 402. In some embodiments, the hooks are integrally formed with the flange. In some embodiments, the hooks are coupled to the flange using mechanical fasteners, such as screws.

Regarding the interface between the assembly features 740 and the anchors 654, when the assembly end 605 is placed opposite the second assembly end 706, the assembly features 740 and the anchors 654 are coupled together. Then, when the locking mechanism 530 is locked to draw the first section 500 and the power supply section 700 together (FIG. 9), the second section 600 is similarly drawn toward the first section 500 by the power supply section 700.

In some embodiments, the anchors 550, 650 on the first section 500 and the second section 600, respectively, are instead on the support bars 440, and the first assembly feature 442 and the second assembly features 444 are instead on the first section 500 and the second section 600, respectively. In these embodiments, the anchors 550, 650 are on the support bars 440, the first assembly feature 442 is on the first section 500, and the second assembly feature 444 is on the second section 600. The anchors 550 are at the first end of the support bars 440 and are posts or catches as disclosed above. The anchors 650 are at the second end of the support bars 440 and are posts or catches as disclosed above. The first assembly feature 442 is at the assembly end 505 and comprises either openings or hooks, as disclosed above, in place of posts or catches, respectively. The second assembly feature 444 is at the assembly end 605 and comprises openings or hooks, as disclosed above, in place of posts or catches, respectively.

In some embodiments, the anchors 654 on the second section 600 are instead on the power supply section 700 and the assembly features 740 are instead on the second section 600. In these embodiments, the anchors 654 are on the power supply section 700 and the assembly features 740 are on the second section 600. The anchors 654 are at the second assembly end 706 as posts or catches, as disclosed above, and the assembly features 740 are at the assembly end 605

In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 530 and the catch 730 may instead engage between the second section 600 and the power supply section 700, and the anchors 654 and the assembly features 740 instead interface between the first section 500 and the power supply section 700. In these embodiments, the locking mechanism 530 is at the assembly end 605 or second assembly end 706 and the catch 730 opposes the locking mechanism 530 at the second assembly end 706 or assembly end 605, respectively. The anchors 654, as posts or catches, are at the assembly end 505 or the first assembly end 705 and the assembly features 740, as openings or hooks, are at the first assembly end 705 or the assembly end 505, respectively.

FIG. 11 is a side view of a stowable motorized skateboard (“stowable skateboard 1100”) including an extended power supply section. Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1100 comprise all, some, or similar elements from the stowable skateboards 100, 400. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1100 correspond with all, some, or similar elements of the stowable skateboards 100, 400. Specifically, the stowable skateboard 1100 comprises a skateboard 1102 and a handheld controller 1105. The skateboard 1102 includes the first section 500, the second section 600, an extended power supply section 1170, and extended support bars 1144. The skateboard 1102 is assembled and disassembled following the same procedure as the stowable skateboards 100, 400 and provides a compact stowing arrangement for storage and transportation.

The extended support bars 1144 include the same elements and provide the same protections as the support bars 440, however, the extended support bars 1144 are longer than the support bars 440. The extended power supply section 1170 includes the elements of the power supply section 700, however, a housing 1171 and a battery 1172 replace the housing 710 and the battery 720, respectively. The housing 1171 and the battery 1172 are extended along the length of the skateboard 1102, as compared to the housing 710 and the battery 720. In some embodiments, the housing 1171 and the battery 1172 are also extend above the top surface of the skateboard 1102 or perpendicular to the length of the skateboard 1102 over the extended support bars 1144. The housing 1171 and the battery 1172 provide a larger top (e.g., riding surface) for the user and a larger battery capacity for longer ride times. Further, the longer skateboard 1102 provides a smoother rise and wider turning radius for the user.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a control system of a stowable motorized skateboard 400. The control system 1200 comprises the handheld controller 450 and the controller 660. The handheld controller 450 comprises a power supply 452 and one or more central processing units 454 (“processors 454”), input devices 456, and transceivers 458 having Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (e.g., 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz), or other similar wireless communicating capacity. In some embodiments, the transceivers 458 are configured to transmit information via the wireless communicating capacity. In some embodiments, the transceivers 458 are configured to transmit and receive information via the wireless communicating capacity. The power supply 452 is configured to power the processors 454 and transceivers 458. The input devices 456 include a pressure-sensing, directional trigger that, when toggled forward or backwards by the user, causes the processors 454 to send a wireless signal to the controller 660 via the transceivers 458. In some embodiments, the trigger is a spring-loaded rotating wheel or spring-loaded slider. The wireless signal includes information identifying the pressure exerted on the trigger and the direction of toggle to the controller 660 for causing the skateboard 402 to begin or continue moving.

The controller 660 comprises one or more central processing units (“processors”) 664, input/output receivers 666, and transceivers 668 having Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi (e.g., 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz), or other similar wireless communicating capacity. The processors 664 include a primary speed control 665 and a second speed control 667. The input/output receivers 666 include a power input receiver electrically coupled to the power socket 662 and a motor 640 power output. The battery 720 is configured to power the processors 664, the transceivers 668, and the motor 640. In some embodiments, the primary speed control and the second speed control are independently in electric communication the battery 720. The transceivers 668 are configured to receive the wireless signal from the transceivers 458 and pass the wireless signal to the processors 664. In some embodiments, the transceivers 668 are further configured to transmit a wireless signal to the handheld controller 450 including, for example, battery level information, speed information, distance traveled information, or information containing other similar metrics from the board for providing to the user. The processors 664 are configured to interpret the wireless signal and identify the pressure exerted on the trigger and the direction of toggle. The processors 664 are further configured to correspond the pressure exerted on the trigger with a user-desired travel speed and the direction of toggle to correspond with a user-desired travel direction. Based on this interpretation of the pressure exerted and toggle direction, the processors 664 are configured to power the motor 640 and propel or slow (e.g., brake) the skateboard 402 to travel at the user-desired speed (or to a stop) and in the user-desired direction (i.e., forward or backward). In some embodiments, the processors 664 are configured to power the two electric motors of the motor 640 independently. In some embodiments, if either the primary speed control or the second speed control fails, or the one of the motors within the motor 640 fails, the controller 660 is configured such that the user retains functioning.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an assembled stowable skateboard 1300 and are an isometric view and a bottom view thereof, respectively. Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1300 comprise some or similar elements from the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1300 correspond with some or similar elements of the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100. The stowable skateboard 1300 is a stowable non-motorized skateboard that provides a compact stowing arrangement for storage and transportation that is lighter weight and more quickly assembled than the stowable motorized skateboard 100, 400, 1100. The stowable skateboard 1300 comprises a first section 1350, a second section 1360, and support segments 1344 (FIG. 14). The first section 1350 includes the elements of the first section 500. The second section 1360 includes the deck 610, the wheel assembly 620, the anchors 650 (FIG. 14), and the catch 730 (FIG. 14). The wheel assembly 620 excludes the drive gears. The support segments 1344 (FIG. 14) include the elements of the support bars 440, however, the support segments 1344 are shorter than the support bars 440. In some embodiments, the first section 1350 has the catch 730 and the second section 1360 has the locking mechanism 530. In some embodiments, the deck 610 is longer than the deck 510 such that when the stowable skateboard 1300 is disassembled and stowed, the first section 1350 rests on the second section 1360 without the assembly end 605 extending over the assembly end 505. Because the second section 1360 does not extend past the end of the first section 1350, the stowed disassembled stowable skateboard 1300 more closely meets a standard storage shape (e.g., a rectangle). In some embodiments, the support segments 1344 are mechanically fastened to or integrally formed with the first board section 1350 or the second board section 1360. In some embodiments, the support segments 1344 are mechanically fastened or integrally formed together in a single support segment 1344. Further, in some embodiments when the support segments 1334 are integrally formed together, the support segment 1344 is a plate.

To assemble the stowable skateboard 1300, the assembly end 505 is placed opposite from and adjacent to the assembly end 605. The first section 1350 and the second section 1360 are then coupled together by the support bars 1344. To couple the first section 1350 and the second section 1360, the first assembly feature 442 of each support bar 1344 receives at least one of the of the anchors 550 and the second assembly feature 444 of each support bar 1344 receives at least one of the anchors 650. The locking mechanism 530 then engages the catch 730 to draw the first section 1350 toward the second section 1360, securing the stowable skateboard 1300 in the assembled configuration.

FIG. 15 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard 1500. Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1500 comprise some or similar elements from the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100, 1300. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1500 correspond with some or similar elements of the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100, 1300. The stowable skateboard 1500 is stowable non-motorized skateboard that provides a compact stowing arrangement for storage and transportation that is lighter weight and more quickly assembled than the stowable motorized skateboard 100, 400, 1100. The stowable skateboard 1500 comprises all the elements of stowable skateboard 1300. However, the deck 610 further includes a notch 1560 and the deck 510 and the 610 have equal length. In some embodiments, the first section 1550 has the catch 730 and the second section 1360 has the locking mechanism 530. In some embodiments, when the stowable skateboard 1500 is disassembled and stowed, the second section 1360 rests on the first section 1350 with the wheel assembly 520 nested within the notch 1560 for easy and compact storage. Although the first section 1350 and the second section 1360 are the same length, the first section 1350 does not extend past the end of the second section 1350 and the stowed disassembled stowable skateboard 1500 more closely meets a standard storage shape (e.g., a rectangle) because the wheel assembly 520 nests within the notch 1560. The stowable skateboard 1500 is assembled, disassembled, and nested following the same procedure at the stowable skateboard 1300.

FIG. 16 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard 1600. Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1600 comprise some or similar elements from the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100, 1300, 1500. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1600 correspond with some or similar elements of the stowable skateboards 100, 400, 1100, 1300, 1500. The stowable skateboard 1600 is stowable non-motorized skateboard with a wider riding stance and a center gap that provides a compact stowing arrangement for storage and transportation that is lighter weight than the stowable motorized skateboard 100, 400, 1100. The stowable skateboard 1600 comprises a first section 1650, a second section 1660, and support bars 1644. The first section 1650 includes the elements of the first section 1350, however, the locking mechanism 530 is replaced with locking mechanism 1653. The second section includes the elements of the second section 1360. The support bars 1644 include the elements of the support bars 440, however, the support bars 1644 are longer than the support bars 440.

The locking mechanism 1653 is a metal mechanical latch coupled to the deck 510 having tension cables 1654 and a latch 1655. The latch 1655 is coupled to the tension cables 1654, and the tension cables 1654 are coupled to the deck 510. In some embodiments, the tension cables 1654 are metal cables or wires. In some embodiments, the tension cables 1654 are bungee cords or similar elastic ropes. In some embodiments, the first section 1650 has the catch 730 and the second section 1660 has the locking mechanism 1653.

To assemble the stowable skateboard 1600, the assembly end 505 is placed opposite from the assembly end 605. The first section 1650 and the second section 1660, with a gap therebetween, are then coupled together by the support bars 1644. To couple the first section 1650 and the second section 1660, the first assembly feature 442 of each support bar 1644 receives at least one of the of the anchors 550 and the second assembly feature 444 of each support bar 1644 receives at least one of the anchors 650. The locking mechanism 1653 then engages the catch 730 to draw the first section 1650 toward the second section 1660, securing the stowable skateboard 1600 in the assembled configuration. The locking mechanism 1653 engages the catch 730 by extending the tension cables 1654 across the gap between the first section 1650 and the second section 1660 and coupling the latch 1655 with the catch 730. The latch 1655 is then locked, tensioning the tension cables 1654 and securing the stowable skateboard 1600 in the assembled configuration.

FIG. 17 is a bottom view of an assembled stowable skateboard 1700. Embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1700 comprise some or similar elements from the stowable skateboard 100, 400, 1100, 1300, 1500, 1600. Additionally or alternatively, elements of these embodiments of the stowable skateboard 1700 correspond with some or similar elements of the stowable skateboard 100, 400, 1100, 1300, 1500, 1600. The stowable skateboard 1700 is a stowable non-motorized skateboard that provides a longer skateboard with a compact stowing arrangement for storage and transportation that is lighter weight than the stowable motorized skateboard 100, 400, 1100. Specifically, the stowable skateboard 1700 comprises a first section 1750, a second section 1760, a third section 1770 (the “sections 1750-1770”), and support bars 1344.

The first section 1750 comprises the elements of the first section 1350. The second section 1760 comprises the elements of the second section 1360. The third section 1770 comprises a deck 1771, the anchors 550, 650, the catch 730, and the locking mechanisms 530. The deck 1771 corresponds in shape and thickness with the center of a skateboard and otherwise corresponds with the decks 510, 610. In some embodiments, the deck 510 is shorter than the deck 610 and the deck 1771 is shorter than the deck 510 such that when the stowable skateboard 1700 is disassembled, the third section 1770 rests on the second section 1760, and the first section 1750 rests on the third section 1770 for easy and compact storage. In some embodiments, the support bars 1344 are mechanically fastened to or integrally formed with the first board section 1750 and the second board section 1760. In some embodiments, the support bars 1344 are mechanically fastened to or integrally formed with the third board section 1770. In some embodiments, the support bars 1344 are mechanically fastened to or integrally formed with the first board section 1750 or the second board section 1760 and the third board section 1770.

To assemble the stowable skateboard 1700, the assembly end 505 is placed opposite from the assembly end 605. The third section 1770 is then placed between the first section 1750 and the second section 1760 with the anchors 650 adjacent the first section 1750 and the anchors 550 adjacent the second section 1760. The sections 1750-1770 are then coupled together by the support bars 1344. To couple the sections 1750-1770, the first assembly feature 442 of each support bar 1344 receives at least one of the of the anchors 550 and the second assembly feature 444 of each support bar 1344 receives at least one of the anchors 650. The locking mechanisms 530 then each engage the adjacent catch 730 to draw the first section 1750 and the second section 1760 toward the third section 1370, securing the stowable skateboard 1700 in the assembled configuration.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. Accordingly, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and “comprising,” and words of similar import such as “includes”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of one or more stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and groups. Directional terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “upwards”, “downwards”, “vertically”, and “laterally” are used in this disclosure for the purpose of providing relative reference only, and are not intended to suggest any limitations on how any article is to be positioned during use, or to be mounted in an assembly or relative to an environment. Additionally, the term “connect,” and words of similar import such as “coupled,” and variants of it such as “connected”, “connects”, and “connecting” as used in this description are intended to include indirect and direct connections unless otherwise indicated. For example, if a first device is connected to a second device, that coupling may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections. Similarly, if the first device is communicatively connected to the second device, communication may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections. The term “or” as used herein in conjunction with a list means any one or more items from that list. For example, “A, B, or C” means “any one or more of A, B, and C”.

It is contemplated that any part of any aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification can be implemented or combined with any part of any other aspect or embodiment discussed in this specification.

One or more example embodiments have been described by way of illustration only. This description is being presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the form disclosed. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

STOWABLE SKATEBOARD

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