A powered transportation device 1, (80, figure 8) for transporting a load over a surface, e.g. water, road, earth, soil, ground. A propulsion element 5, 6, (85, 86) generates positive or negative aerodynamic lift force for modifying an apparent weight of the device. A drive member 3, (83), e.g. wheel, track, water propeller, paddle, pump, generates a drive force via contacting surface material. A balance control system 7, (87) maintains a fore-aft balance of the transportation device by controlling at least the drive force appropriately. This may enable intuitive controls, such that the driver can lean forward to accelerate, or lean backward to brake. Optionally, in dual control mode, both the drive element and propulsion elements maintain fore-aft balance. The lift propulsors may also enable side-to-side vehicle balance. A flight control system may control operation of lift propulsors in flight mode. A surface detection unit may detect contact of the powered transmission device with the surface. The drive member position may be controlled by a retracting mechanism. Proximity sensor signals may indicate an obstacle presence, e.g. vehicular traffic such that the device can avoid it (e.g. flyover, steer around).
Powered transportation device
2020-04-08
Patent
Electronic Resource
English