| 摘要 |
A Tread Wheel Frame System drives a human-powered cycle by a tread wheel driving a tread of a drive wheel of a cycle rather than driving a drive wheel hub, as conventional cycles do. Most of the driving mechanism, including the tread wheel, a speed ratio mechanism, shifting device, and a power unit device, are safely located above the level of a cycle's axles where they are less likely to encounter accidental impact. The tread wheel with the power unit device also does the braking, which eliminates the need for caliper brakes or hub brakes. Accordingly, a drive wheel is lighter, without the need for a heavy hub, or a heavy rim to withstand the wear and heat of friction of caliper brakes. The tread wheel frame is uniquely designed and engineered to be light, yet strong where needed. The best mode includes many features: an energy recapture and storage system that saves energy that would be lost in braking, for assisting in going up hills, thigh levers, extendable pedal cranks for providing more pedal leverage, a frame extension that has no cross bar, and foot room to allow easy, low-level, mounting and dismounting, retractable stand, lean-on device, adjustable steering, and low-mass suspension.
|
