A shared bicycle parking and charging integrated support accessory device

Abstract

This invention provides an integrated parking and returning device for shared bicycles, comprising: a fixing member for fixing to the bicycle stand; a trigger handle, the front end of which is hinged to the fixing member via a pivot, and a magnet is fixed to the front end for triggering the returning operation upon foot contact; a spring, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the fixing member and the trigger handle; and a trigger assembly, including a fixed housing mounted on the fixing member and a Hall sensor mounted inside the fixed housing, wherein the Hall sensor is used to detect changes in the position of the magnet. The device of this invention allows for simultaneous parking and returning of the bicycle through structural linkage and the Hall element when the trigger handle is pressed, eliminating the need for manual operation; foot-triggered returning eliminates hygiene concerns; and the device can be directly installed on the bicycle stand without modifying existing bicycle stands.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of shared bicycles, and in particular, it is an integrated bicycle support accessory device for parking and returning shared bicycles. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread adoption of shared bicycles in urban transportation, their convenience has been widely welcomed. However, existing shared bicycle return methods have many shortcomings. Currently, the mainstream return method relies on mobile operation, requiring users to send return instructions through a mobile app. This process not only increases the user's operational burden but also causes return delays in poor network conditions, affecting the user experience.

[0003] The existing automatic bike-sharing return method works as follows: During a user's use of the shared bike, the system monitors whether the user enters the vicinity of the target locking point. When this is detected, a locking prompt is initiated, and a trigger request related to the prompt is checked. Based on the trigger request, different actions are taken automatically, distinguishing between different situations. This method relies on mobile operation; the return information is usually sent by the mobile application, requiring users to operate the bike using their mobile devices, which is inconvenient and may result in forgotten returns and property loss. In poor network conditions, there is a significant delay after clicking the return button, further increasing inconvenience. Additionally, since the return operation is performed in the cloud, and the bike locks are all hidden, adjustable latches, it is difficult to determine whether the bike is vacant.

[0004] Return devices that don't rely on mobile devices are essentially like adding an external, manual trigger button to the shared bike, requiring users to manually activate it. This adds to the return process and has certain drawbacks (such as hygiene issues), negatively impacting the user experience. Furthermore, it's difficult to determine if a bike is available. Some automatic power-off locking devices are designed for electric bikes' power-off control kickstands, where opening the kickstand inevitably triggers an electrical signal, making them unsuitable for the characteristics of shared bikes and lacking a temporary parking function. Some fixed-point parking devices require the shared bike's kickstand to work in conjunction with ground-based mechanisms for return, causing inconvenience, significantly reducing freedom of return, resulting in a poor user experience and increased management difficulty.

[0005] In addition, some shared bicycles use external manual buttons or one-click return switches, which simplify operation but still require manual activation by the user and raise hygiene concerns, reducing user acceptance. Other devices, such as automatic power-off locking devices or designated parking devices, are usually used in conjunction with ground equipment, increasing system complexity and installation costs, and limiting users' freedom in returning bicycles.

[0006] In conclusion, there is an urgent need for an integrated bike stand that does not rely on mobile devices and allows for immediate return of the bike after parking, in order to improve the efficiency of shared bike usage and user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention aims to provide an integrated parking and returning accessory device for shared bicycles, realizing the function of "parking and returning the bicycle", while retaining the operation option of "parking without returning the bicycle", and enhancing the recognition of the vehicle status.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an integrated parking and return support device for shared bicycles, comprising: Fasteners are used to secure the bike rack of a shared bicycle. The trigger handle has its front end hinged to a fixed part via a pivot, and a magnet is fixed to this end for triggering the vehicle return operation after being sensed by foot step. A spring, with a fixed part and a trigger handle connected to its two ends respectively; The triggering component includes a fixed housing mounted on a fixing member and a Hall sensor mounted inside the fixed housing. The Hall sensor is used to detect changes in the position of the magnet and send an electrical frequency signal to the central control module of the shared bicycle to trigger a return command. The trigger handle is normally in a horizontal rearward position and in a downward rotating position when triggered. It achieves the function of parking and returning the vehicle through structural linkage, while retaining the option of parking without returning the vehicle.

[0009] Furthermore, a foot plate is provided at the end of the trigger handle. The foot plate adopts a semi-enclosed structure and is linked to the middle of the vehicle support rod to realize the function that when the foot plate is stepped down, the trigger handle drives the vehicle support rod to fall down, and when the vehicle support rod is kicked up, the trigger handle returns to its lateral position.

[0010] Furthermore, the fastener includes a sheet metal-processed stainless steel component with screw holes for fixed connection to the top of the vehicle support, forming a stackable and fixed structure.

[0011] Furthermore, the two ends of the spring are respectively connected to the fixing member and the fixing buckle on the trigger handle, which are used to provide a pulling force drive when the trigger handle moves.

[0012] Furthermore, a magnet slot is provided at the front end of the trigger handle, and the magnet is fixed in the magnet slot with glue. The change in the position of the magnet triggers the signal transmission of the Hall sensor.

[0013] Furthermore, the Hall sensor is mounted inside a fixed housing and secured with screws. The fixed housing is used to house the Hall sensor and protect it from external environmental influences.

[0014] Furthermore, when the trigger handle is pressed, it rotates nearly 90°, bringing the magnet close to the Hall sensor. After the Hall sensor senses the magnet approaching, it sends an electrical signal to the shared bicycle's central control system, triggering the return command.

[0015] Furthermore, the device allows users to select a parking-without-returning mode, meaning that when the part of the vehicle support rod not covered by the trigger handle is stepped on, the Hall sensor is not triggered and no return command is sent.

[0016] The working principle of the integrated parking support accessory device for shared bicycles of the present invention is as follows: Under normal conditions, the spring keeps the trigger handle horizontal and parallel to the kickstand. When the user presses the trigger handle, it rotates, causing the kickstand to open and parking the vehicle. Simultaneously, the rotating trigger handle brings the magnet close to the Hall sensor, triggering the Hall sensor to issue a return command. If the user does not wish to return the vehicle immediately, they can press down the part of the kickstand not covered by the trigger handle, i.e., only pressing down the kickstand while keeping the trigger handle horizontal, thus not triggering the return signal. When the user kicks up the kickstand to use the vehicle, the trigger handle resets to its horizontal position via a linkage mechanism.

[0017] Compared to existing vehicle return devices and processes, this invention has the following significant advantages: (1) When the trigger handle is stepped down, parking and returning the bicycle can be completed simultaneously through structural linkage and Hall element, integrating the bicycle returning behavior into the last action of bicycle use, without the need for mobile terminal operation; (2) The bicycle can be returned by foot trigger, without worrying about hygiene issues; (3) The bicycle stand and the bicycle stand rod are linked through a semi-enclosed structure, which can realize that stepping on the trigger handle will drive the bicycle stand to open, stepping on the bicycle stand will not trigger the trigger handle, and kicking up the bicycle stand will drive the trigger handle to return to its position, which has the functions of simultaneous triggering (parking and returning), temporary parking and reset; (4) Since the trigger handle is visually very different in its normal state (horizontally open) and triggered state (downward open), users can easily distinguish whether the bicycle is in use / idle state. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the device of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the device of the present invention after the triggering component is removed; Figure 3 This is a partial view of the device of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the triggering component in the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in its normal state; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in the parked and returned vehicle state; Figure 7This is a schematic diagram of the device of the present invention in the parked and not returned state.

[0019] In the diagram, 1-fixed component; 2-trigger handle; 21-magnet; 22-stepping plate; 23-magnet slot; 3-spring; 4-trigger assembly; 41-fixed housing; 42-Hall sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0021] like Figures 1 to 7 As shown, to achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an integrated bike stand accessory for shared bicycles, comprising a fixing component 1, a trigger handle 2, a spring 3, and a trigger assembly 4. The fixing component 1 is used to fix the bike stand to the shared bicycle. In this embodiment, the fixing component 1 comprises a stainless steel part manufactured from sheet metal, connected to the bike stand by screws to form a stackable fixing structure. In this embodiment, the fixing component 1 is made of 304 stainless steel sheet metal, customized through bending and cutting. Its main body is a rectangular structure with a thickness of 2mm, a width of 30mm, and a length customized according to actual needs.

[0022] One end of the trigger handle 2 is the front end, which is hinged to the fixing member 1 via a pivot. A magnet 21 is fixed to this end, which is used to trigger the return operation after being stepped on. The two ends of the spring 3 are respectively connected to the fixing member 1 and the trigger handle 2. The trigger assembly 4 includes a fixed housing 41 mounted on the fixing member 1 and a Hall sensor 42 mounted inside the fixed housing 41. The Hall sensor 42 is used to detect the position change of the magnet 21 and send an electrical frequency signal to the shared bicycle central control module to trigger the return command.

[0023] The trigger handle 2 is normally in a horizontal rearward position, and in a downward rotating position when triggered. This structural linkage enables the vehicle to be returned immediately after parking, while retaining the option to park without returning the vehicle. The mounting housing 41 is injection molded from ABS engineering plastic and has an internal groove for fixing the Hall sensor 42. The surface of the mounting housing 41 is painted to improve its appearance and anti-aging properties. The dimensions of the mounting housing 41 are 40mm × 30mm × 15mm, making it lightweight yet strong enough to protect the internal electronic components. The Hall sensor 42 is installed in the groove inside the mounting housing 41 to detect the proximity or distance of the magnet 21.

[0024] In some preferred embodiments, the other end of the trigger handle 2 is an end plate 22, which is provided with a foot pedal 22. The foot pedal 22 adopts a semi-enclosed structure and is linked to the middle of the vehicle support rod, so as to realize that when the foot pedal 22 is stepped down, the trigger handle 2 drives the vehicle support rod to fall down, and when the vehicle support rod is kicked up, the trigger handle 2 returns to its lateral position.

[0025] In this embodiment, the trigger handle 2 is made of aluminum alloy, which has good strength and durability. The trigger handle 2 is approximately 50mm long and 20mm in diameter, and its surface is anodized to improve corrosion resistance. The trigger handle 2 triggers the opening and closing of the vehicle support rod by rotation. The Hall sensor 42 is a high-sensitivity digital Hall sensor with an operating voltage of 3.3V and a response time of less than 1ms, exhibiting good anti-interference performance.

[0026] In some embodiments, the two ends of the spring 3 are respectively connected to the fixing clips on the fixing member 1 and the trigger handle 2, which are used to provide tension drive when the trigger handle 2 moves, so that the trigger handle 2 is tightened in the normal position and the triggered position to prevent shaking. The fixing member 1 is provided with a fixing clip for fixing the spring, and the connection with the shared bicycle stand adopts the standard clip engagement method, which does not require modification of the existing bicycle stand and is easy to install.

[0027] In this embodiment, spring 3 is made of high-elasticity stainless steel, which has good fatigue performance and corrosion resistance. Spring 3 is installed between the fixing part 1 and the trigger handle 2, with a diameter of 6mm, a free length of 30mm, and a stiffness coefficient that has been precisely calculated. Spring 3 is responsible for providing an upward elastic force under normal conditions to keep the trigger handle 2 in a horizontal position, parallel to the vehicle support rod. At the same time, after triggering, it provides a downward elastic force to reset the trigger handle 2.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the trigger handle 2 has a magnet slot 23 at its front end and a precision-machined hole in its middle for engaging with a fixing buckle. The magnet 21 is fixed in the magnet slot 23 with adhesive. Changes in the position of the trigger handle 2 cause changes in the position of the magnet 21, thus triggering the Hall sensor 42 inside the fixing housing 41 when the trigger handle 2 is kicked down. The Hall sensor 42 receives the change in magnetic field signal, converts it into a voltage signal, and transmits it to the processor module.

[0029] The magnet slot 23 is used to install the magnet 21. Its structure can be a groove fixed to the head of the trigger handle 2 or a separate slot. In this embodiment, the magnet slot 23 is designed as a precision-machined groove / slot structure integrated into the head of the trigger handle 2. This structure is reinforced to firmly fix the neodymium iron boron permanent magnet, ensuring its stability and durability.

[0030] In a specific embodiment, the Hall sensor 42 is installed inside the fixed housing 41 and fixed with screws. The fixed housing is used to house the Hall sensor and protect it from the influence of the external environment.

[0031] In some preferred embodiments, the trigger handle 2 rotates nearly 90° when stepped on, bringing the magnet close to the Hall sensor 42. After sensing the magnet 21 approaching, the Hall sensor 42 sends an electrical signal to the shared bicycle central control module, triggering the return command.

[0032] Furthermore, the device allows users to select a parking-without-returning mode, meaning that when the part of the vehicle support rod not covered by the trigger handle is stepped on, the Hall sensor is not triggered and no return command is sent.

[0033] The working principle of this device is as follows: normal (such as) Figure 5 As shown): Spring 3 is in a stretched state, providing an upward elastic force to keep the trigger handle 3 in a horizontal position, parallel to the vehicle support rod. At this time, the magnet 21 installed in the magnet slot 23 maintains a certain distance from the Hall sensor 42, and the Hall sensor 42 does not generate a signal output.

[0034] Triggered by returning the car (e.g.) Figure 6 As shown): When the user steps on the trigger handle 2, the trigger handle 2 rotates approximately 85° around the connection point of the fixing part 1, causing the vehicle support rod to rotate downwards and open, completing the parking operation. Simultaneously, after the trigger handle 2 rotates, the magnet 21 installed in the magnet slot 23 approaches the Hall sensor 42. When the distance between the magnet 21 and the Hall sensor 42 is less than a set threshold, the Hall sensor 42 senses the change in magnetic field and immediately outputs an electrical frequency signal, which is sent to the shared bicycle's central control system via the wireless module, triggering a return command.

[0035] Temporary parking (such as) Figure 7 As shown): If the user only needs to park temporarily and does not return the vehicle, he / she only needs to step on the part of the vehicle support rod that is not covered by the pedal 22 of the trigger handle 2. The trigger handle 2 remains in a horizontal position and does not trigger the Hall sensor 42, so no return command is sent.

[0036] Reset: When the user kicks up the kickstand, the kickstand causes the trigger handle 2 to rotate upwards around the fixing part 1, resetting the kickstand. The spring 3 is compressed, generating a downward elastic force that pushes the trigger handle 2 back to the horizontal position, completing the reset operation. At this time, the distance between the magnet 21 and the Hall sensor 42 returns to its initial state, and the device returns to normal operation.

[0037] Durability and Reliability: The device of this invention also exhibits excellent durability and reliability. All metal parts are surface-treated to withstand various harsh weather conditions; electronic components (such as Hall sensors) are sealed for waterproofing and dustproofing; and the mechanical structure is made of high-strength materials to withstand frequent foot traffic.

[0038] In another embodiment, the device of the present invention can be integrated with the smart lock system of a shared bicycle, enabling close-range operation via Bluetooth communication. When a user approaches the vehicle, the system automatically unlocks, and the rotation angle of the trigger handle 2 can be adjusted to adapt to the installation requirements of different bicycle models.

[0039] In addition, LED indicator lights can be added to the fixing component 1 to display the vehicle status: green indicates usable, yellow indicates temporary parking, and red indicates maintenance, allowing users to intuitively understand the vehicle's status. To prevent the trigger handle 2 from rotating too much, a mechanical limit device can be added to ensure the service life of the vehicle support rod.

[0040] This invention relates to an integrated parking and returning device for shared bicycles. This device can be directly installed on the bicycle stand without altering existing stands. Through structural innovation, it achieves the function of "parking and returning the bicycle," allowing users to complete the return process without additional action. The device includes components such as a fixing component, a trigger handle, a spring, a housing, a magnet, and a Hall sensor. Through precise mechanical structure design and electronic control, it achieves stable and reliable performance. This invention offers advantages such as easy installation, intuitive operation, and high durability, significantly improving the user experience and operational efficiency of shared bicycles.

[0041] The integrated bike-sharing support accessory of this invention can be combined with the GPS positioning system of shared bicycles. When a user triggers a return command, the system automatically records the parking location, optimizing vehicle dispatching. It can also be integrated with a vehicle status monitoring system to promptly issue maintenance signals when key components such as the spring 3 malfunction. It is applicable to various shared bicycle systems, including traditional bicycle-sharing systems and emerging electric bicycle-sharing systems. Its compact design and reliable performance enable it to adapt to various complex usage environments, including city streets and scenic spots. The ease of installation allows for rapid deployment into existing fleets, improving the overall operational efficiency of the shared bicycle system.

[0042] This system allows users to send a return request simultaneously with parking, completely eliminating extra steps for returning the bike (such as mobile operation, button pressing, and manual locking). Returning the bike is integrated into the final action of bike use, greatly simplifying the process and having almost no impact on normal bike stand usage, thus shortening return time and improving user experience. While implementing the "park and return" function, it also retains the option of "park without returning" to accommodate diverse bike usage scenarios (such as users wanting to park temporarily without returning the bike). Users can quickly visually identify the bike's usage status, determining whether it's in a "previous user returned, available for scanning" or "previous user not returned, unavailable for scanning" state. This facilitates bike selection and enhances the user experience.

[0043] The specific embodiments described in this invention are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention. Those skilled in the art can make modifications to these embodiments without contributing any inventive step after reading this specification, but such modifications are protected by patent law as long as they fall within the scope of the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A shared bicycle parking and return integrated support accessory device, characterized in that, include: Fastener (1) is used to fix it to the frame of a shared bicycle; The trigger handle (2) has its front end hinged to the fixing part by a pivot, and a magnet (21) is fixed at this end for triggering the return operation after being sensed by foot step. Spring (3), with a fixing part and a trigger handle connected to its two ends respectively; The triggering component (4) includes a fixed housing (41) mounted on a fixing member and a Hall sensor (42) mounted inside the fixed housing. The Hall sensor is used to detect changes in the position of the magnet and send an electrical frequency signal to the shared bicycle central control module to trigger the return command. The trigger handle is normally positioned with its end facing backward, and in the triggered state, it is rotated downward. The parking and returning functions are realized through structural linkage, while retaining the option of parking without returning the vehicle.

2. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The trigger handle is provided with a step plate (22) at its end. The step plate adopts a semi-enclosed structure and is linked to the middle of the vehicle support rod to realize that when the step plate is stepped down, the trigger handle drives the vehicle support rod to fall down, and when the vehicle support rod is kicked up, the trigger handle returns to its horizontal position.

3. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener includes a stainless steel component processed from sheet metal, with screw holes for fixed connection to the top of the vehicle support, forming a stackable and fixed structure.

4. The integrated bicycle support device for parking and returning shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The two ends of the spring are respectively connected to the fixing member and the fixing buckle on the trigger handle, and are used to provide a pulling force when the trigger handle moves.

5. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, A magnet slot (23) is provided at the front end of the trigger handle. The magnet is fixed in the magnet slot with glue, and the change in the position of the magnet triggers the signal transmission of the Hall sensor.

6. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The Hall sensor is mounted in a fixed housing and secured with screws. The fixed housing is used to house the Hall sensor and protect it from external environmental influences.

7. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the trigger handle is pressed, it rotates nearly 90°, bringing the magnet close to the Hall sensor. Once the Hall sensor detects the magnet's proximity, it sends an electrical signal to the shared bicycle's central control system, triggering the return command.

8. The integrated parking and returning support device for shared bicycles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device allows users to select a parking mode where the vehicle is not returned, meaning that when the part of the support rod not covered by the trigger handle is stepped on, the Hall sensor is not triggered and no return command is sent.

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