The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Sep. 08, 1998
Filed:
Nov. 22, 1996
Robert D White, Newton, IL (US);
Other;
Abstract
An integrated system for land and water recreation such that when in a flotation mode, a propeller and rudder are powered and controlled by a standard bicycle; that when in a terrestrial mode, the integrated system is powered and trailered by the same bicycle. The flotation device having a propeller drive assembly and steerable rudder for use with any standard bicycle frame allowing an individual the ability to have a self-propelled water craft. The device utilizes a standard bicycle, having only the wheels removed, to provide power and steering. The bicycle is mounted to the flotation device with the chain wrapped around the chain drive sprocket of the propeller drive assembly. Because the chain drive sprocket is a standard Shimano sprocket, the bicycle's rear derailleur may be used to shift gears. The operator may pedal the device across a body of water, then remove the bicycle frame and remount the tires to continue travel over land. The integrated system comprises a tongue and hitching apparatus for connecting a flotation device to a bicycle; and a retractable wheel assembly for transporting the flotation device over land. In a preferred embodiment, a pair of yolks is provided for supporting detached bicycle wheels, when the integrated system is in a flotation mode.