Animal transport cage for a bicycle

Abstract

Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), with a carrying tray (11) for receiving an animal, wherein the carrying tray (11) is open at its top, a flexible cover (80) for variably closing the top, wherein the flexible cover (80) can be detachably attached to the carrying tray (11), and wherein the flexible cover (80) is configured such that, when mounted on the carrying tray (11), it can be moved between a closed state in which the top is completely closed and an open state in which an access opening (13) to the interior of the animal transport cage (10) is created.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to an animal transport cage for a bicycle. BACKGROUND

[0002] Animal transport baskets for bicycles are known in the art. Such animal transport baskets allow the transport of an animal, for example, on the luggage rack of a bicycle. However, a disadvantage of known animal transport baskets is that they do not provide sufficient protection for the animals inside and / or do not offer sufficient comfort for the animal. SUMMARY

[0003] There is a need for an improved animal transport cage for a bicycle.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an improved animal transport cage.

[0005] The problem is solved by the subject matter described in the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage for a bicycle is provided.

[0007] The animal transport cage features a carrying tray for holding or carrying an animal. The carrying tray is open at the top.

[0008] The carrying tray can have a flexible cover for variably closing the top. The flexible cover can provide protection for the top of the carrying tray. The flexible cover can be removably attachable to the carrying tray. The flexible cover can be configured so that, when mounted on the carrying tray, it can be converted between a closed state, in which the top is completely closed, and an open state, in which an access opening to the interior of the animal transport cage is created.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the flexible cover is configured to be convertible into two or more different open states with access openings of different sizes.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the flexible cover has a flat fabric arrangement, for example, a mesh fabric. A mesh fabric offers the advantage of allowing air to pass through the cover, while keeping objects out of the interior and any animal accommodated therein.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the flat fabric arrangement has two longitudinal edge sections extending on opposite sides, which can be fastened to the animal transport cage.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal edge sections are reinforced and / or thickened and / or enlarged compared to an adjacent section of the planar fabric arrangement.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal edge sections have a reinforced border, for example a piping, or a rod or a bar which is incorporated into the longitudinal edge section or is held on it.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the longitudinal edge sections extend over 50% or more of the total length of the fabric arrangement, in particular over 70% or more or 80% or more.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the support tray has two receiving geometries spaced apart from one another, in each of which a longitudinal edge section can be received in a form-fitting manner such that the form-fitting action acts in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the longitudinal edge sections.

[0016] According to one embodiment, each receiving geometry has a channel into which a longitudinal edge section can be inserted and pulled out in the direction of the longitudinal extension of the channel.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the receiving geometry can be opened in an opening region between channel ends, for example, by removing a portion of a component defining the channel to create an insertion opening in the channel. The insertion opening thus created can enable insertion of the longitudinal edge section by inserting a first longitudinal edge section end into a front channel section and a second longitudinal edge section end into a rear channel section.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the receiving geometries are provided in mutually facing sides of lateral wall sections of the support tray, for example such that when the fabric arrangement is positively coupled to the support tray via the receiving geometries, a fabric arrangement held between the lateral wall sections does not extend beyond the upper ends of the lateral wall sections. The lateral wall sections can be higher or extend further upwards than other parts of the support tray, such as a front wall section or a rear wall section of the support tray. The receiving geometries can be formed in the region of the lateral wall sections that extends further upwards than other parts of the support tray.

[0019] The attachment of the flat fabric arrangement in one of the ways described above offers the advantage that the fabric arrangement can be easily replaced by a user.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the planar fabric arrangement has two separating regions, each of which extends adjacent to and along the respective adjacent longitudinal edge section, wherein a central region of the planar fabric arrangement located between the separating regions can be separated at least partially from the respective adjacent longitudinal edge section by opening the separating regions in order to create an access opening in the fabric arrangement. The section of the central region of the planar fabric arrangement that is located between the separating regions and is separated from the respective adjacent longitudinal edge section by opening the separating regions in order to create the access opening is also referred to as the separated region or separated central region.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the central region is configured to be converted into a stowed state in which a free end portion of the separated region is attached to a predetermined attachment point, wherein in the stowed state the separated region can be folded or rolled up.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the predetermined attachment point on the flat fabric arrangement or on the support trough is provided at a position spaced from one end of the partition region, wherein a plurality of attachment points spaced apart along the extension direction of the partition regions and / or in the longitudinal and / or vertical directions of the animal transport cage can be provided, so that the stowed state can be realized with partitioned regions of different lengths, thereby creating access openings of different sizes. The attachment points can be arranged along an edge region of a lateral wall section, in particular at a rear edge section, an upper edge section, and a front edge section. The attachment points can be arranged symmetrically to an imaginary plane of symmetry extending in the vertical direction and in the transverse direction.Three or more fixing points may be provided on each lateral wall section, for example six fixing points.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the central region has at least one first coupling partner for fastening to the fastening point, wherein the coupling partner can have a loop, for example an elastic loop, a hook, a snap fastener, an eyelet, a hook-and-loop fastener or a magnet, and wherein the fastening point has or forms a second coupling partner matching the first coupling partner.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the first coupling partner is a loop, for example an elastic loop, and the fastening partner has a hook or is hook-like.

[0025] According to one embodiment, each separating area has a zipper.

[0026] According to one embodiment, each zipper has a single slider.

[0027] According to one embodiment, each zipper has two sliders so that the central region can be separated from opposite ends of the cover.

[0028] According to one embodiment, each slider has an integrated lock that prevents the slider from moving unintentionally and opening the zipper.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the animal transport cage has a rain cover for covering the top.

[0030] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage comprises at least one carrying tray for receiving an animal, the carrying tray being open at its top, and a rain cover for covering the top, wherein the animal transport cage may comprise one or more features of animal transport cages according to other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the rain cover has at least one loop and / or at least one clamp, wherein each loop and / or each clamp is configured for coupling to the carrying tray.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the support tray has a fastening point, for example a hook. The fastening point can be provided on a lateral wall section of the support tray.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the rain protection cover can be configured such that outer sides of the lateral wall sections remain largely uncovered when the rain protection cover is installed.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the carrying tray may have a carrying handle portion. The clamp may be configured to couple to the carrying handle portion. The carrying handle portion may be provided at an upper end of the lateral wall portion.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the carrying tray may have carrying handle sections on opposite sides.

[0036] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage for a bicycle is provided, comprising a carrying tray for accommodating an animal, the carrying tray being open at its top, the carrying tray having carrying handle sections on opposite sides. The animal transport cage may have features as described in connection with other embodiments of animal transport cages.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the carrying tray has two lateral carrying handle sections, a right carrying handle section and a left carrying handle section, which are provided in lateral wall sections of the animal transport cage.

[0038] According to one embodiment, each lateral carrying handle portion is provided in the lateral wall portion at the upper end of the lateral wall portion.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the carrying tray has four carrying handle sections. Two carrying handle sections can be provided on each opposite side of the carrying tray. According to one embodiment, the carrying handle sections are provided in pairs. According to one embodiment, the carrying handles are provided in pairs on two opposite wall sections of the carrying tray. According to one embodiment, the opposite carrying handle sections are arranged symmetrically with respect to the carrying tray. According to one embodiment, the carrying tray has four sides, two of which are provided on each opposite side of the carrying tray, wherein each of the four sides has a carrying handle. According to one embodiment, the four carrying handles are distributed crosswise or crosswise when viewed from above or are provided on the wall sections.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the carrying tray has four carrying handle sections, two of which are provided on opposite wall sections of the carrying tray, wherein two first carrying handle sections are located at a first height relative to a bottom section of the carrying tray and two second carrying handle sections are provided at a second height which is smaller than the first height.

[0041] According to one embodiment, at least one carrying handle section is integrated into or attached to a wall section of the carrying tray.

[0042] According to one embodiment, at least one second carrying handle section is provided on a wall section extending in the transverse direction of the carrying tray, in particular on a rear wall section or a front wall section. The second carrying handle section can be formed in a transverse component extending between the lateral wall sections. The transverse component can be attached to an upper edge of the rear wall section or the front wall section. The transverse component can be coupled to a lateral wall section at each of its transverse ends.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cross member can be used by an animal to support itself with its paws when changing its position within the animal transport cage. This allows the animal to move more easily and avoids having to remain in a static position.

[0044] According to one embodiment, at least one lateral wall section has a ventilation opening.

[0045] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage for a bicycle is provided, comprising a carrying tray for receiving an animal, wherein the carrying tray is open at its top, wherein the carrying tray has two opposing lateral wall sections, wherein at least one lateral wall section has a ventilation opening.

[0046] According to one embodiment, both lateral wall sections each have at least one ventilation opening.

[0047] According to one embodiment, two or more ventilation openings are provided in each lateral wall section.

[0048] According to one embodiment, at least one ventilation opening is elongated and has a horizontal main extension direction.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the length of at least one ventilation opening is twice as long or longer than the height of the same ventilation opening, for example four times as long or longer.

[0050] According to one embodiment, each lateral wall section has a plurality of ventilation openings extending parallel to each other.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the ventilation openings extend in the longitudinal direction of the lateral wall section over 60% or more of the lateral wall section.

[0052] According to one embodiment, a ventilation opening is designed as a carrying opening into which a user can insert his fingers to carry the animal transport cage, wherein the carrying opening can be an opening of a carrying handle portion provided at an upper end of the lateral wall portion.

[0053] According to one embodiment, ventilation openings are provided only in the lateral wall sections and not in any other wall sections of the carrying trough. In particular, the front wall section can be free of openings to prevent the animal from being exposed to strong winds during travel.

[0054] By providing suitable ventilation openings, improved air exchange in the interior of the animal transport cage can be achieved.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the animal transport cage comprises an animal restraint assembly for tethering the animal to the carrying trough, wherein the animal restraint assembly is configured to couple the animal to opposite wall portions of the carrying trough.

[0056] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage for a bicycle is provided, comprising a carrying tray for receiving an animal, the carrying tray being open at its top, and an animal restraint assembly for tethering the animal to the carrying tray, the animal restraint assembly being configured to couple the animal to opposite wall portions of the carrying tray. The animal transport cage may include features as described in connection with other embodiments of animal transport cages.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the support tray has a rear wall section and a front wall section. According to one embodiment, the animal restraint assembly has two animal restraint sections, of which a rear animal restraint section is coupled to the rear wall section and a front animal restraint section is coupled to the front wall section. For example, the front animal restraint section can be secured in an opening in the front wall section and the rear animal restraint section can be secured in an opening in the rear wall section.

[0058] According to one embodiment, each animal restraint section comprises an animal harness coupling section, for example a hook, and a carrying tray coupling section, which may be provided at opposite ends of the respective animal restraint section. Each animal restraint section may comprise a flexible elongated member, for example a webbing, connecting the animal harness coupling section to the carrying tray coupling section, wherein the flexible elongated member may be adjustable in length.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the support tray has a bottom section, a rear wall section, a front wall section, and two lateral wall sections.

[0060] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage for a bicycle, for example an animal transport cage with features according to another embodiment disclosed herein, is provided with a carrying tray for receiving an animal, the carrying tray being open at its top, the carrying tray having a bottom portion, a rear wall portion, a front wall portion, and two lateral wall portions.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the lateral wall sections extend further upward relative to the floor section than the rear wall section and / or the front wall section. In other words, the lateral wall sections are higher than other adjacent wall sections of the carrying case. This offers the advantage that the carrying case alone provides better protection for the animal, for example, in the event that the animal is leashed in the transport cage and the bicycle falls over, without an additional protective top part being attached to the carrying case.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the base section, the rear wall section and the front wall section may form a support section which is arranged between the two lateral wall sections, wherein the support section may be formed in one piece and / or may be formed in the manner of a laterally open trough and the lateral wall sections extend over side openings of the support section.

[0063] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage, for example an animal transport cage according to one of the embodiments described herein, comprises a carrying tray for receiving an animal, wherein the carrying tray is open at its top, and a coupling portion for attaching a reflector and / or a headlight or a taillight.

[0064] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage, for example an animal transport cage according to one of the embodiments described herein, has a carrying tray for receiving an animal, wherein the carrying tray is open at its top, and a cover and / or a rain cover, wherein the cover and / or the rain cover are formed at least partially from a reflective fabric.

[0065] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage, for example an animal transport cage according to one of the embodiments described herein, has a carrying tray for accommodating an animal, wherein the carrying tray is open at its top and has a bottom portion, and a floor insert for covering the bottom portion of the carrying tray, wherein the bottom insert has an anti-slip surface, and / or wherein the floor insert is formed from a shock-absorbing material, for example from a plastic foam, and / or wherein the floor insert can be an anti-fatigue mat. Such an anti-fatigue mat can absorb shocks and ensure better distribution of the animal's body weight, thus reducing pressure or strain on the paws. This can improve the animal's comfort.

[0066] The floor insert can be removed by a user, allowing for easy cleaning.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the animal transport cage may comprise a fastening arrangement for fastening the animal transport cage to the bicycle, wherein the fastening arrangement may be configured for coupling the carrying tray to a luggage rack of the bicycle or for coupling the carrying tray to a handlebar of the bicycle.

[0068] According to one embodiment, an animal transport cage, for example an animal transport cage according to one of the embodiments described herein, has two opposite lateral wall sections, wherein each wall section is formed in multiple parts, for example with an inner wall component, an intermediate wall component, and an outer wall component, wherein the intermediate wall component is held between the inner wall component and the outer wall component, and / or wherein a receiving geometry for receiving a longitudinal edge section is formed between the inner wall component and the outer wall component. Alternatively or additionally, the outer wall component can have a removable sub-section which, when removed, provides access to the receiving geometry.Alternatively or additionally, the outer wall component can be designed in the manner of a frame which surrounds an edge region of the intermediate component and / or the inner wall component at least in part.

[0069] Drainage openings can be provided in the bottom section of the support tray. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0070] The invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures. Fig. 1 shows a side view of a bicycle on which animal transport cages are mounted. Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an animal transport cage. Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a carrying tray of the animal transport cage of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of a partially closed carrying tray. Fig. 5 shows a further perspective view of the Fig. 2 animal transport cage shown. Fig. 6 shows a rear view of a carrying tray. Fig. 7 shows a sectional view of a carrying handle portion on a lateral side wall of the animal transport cage. Fig. 8 shows an exploded view of the animal transport cage of Fig. 2. Fig. 9 shows the animal transport cage of Fig. 2 with a rain cover installed.

[0071] The figures are schematic and not to scale. Like reference numerals refer to like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Embodiments and modifications are described with reference to the Fig. 1 to 9 described.

[0073] A basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to create a system with which the top of an animal transport cage can be variably opened and closed.

[0074] Another basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to create a system that provides improved protection against rain.

[0075] Another basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to improve the handling of the animal transport cage by providing several carrying handle sections.

[0076] Another basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to enable improved air exchange inside the animal transport cage by providing suitable ventilation openings.

[0077] Another basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to provide an improved animal restraint arrangement that enables reliable leashing of an animal.

[0078] Another basic idea of ​​some embodiments is to achieve improved protection through an improved geometry of the animal transport cage.

[0079] Another basic idea behind some designs is to make the floor of the animal transport cage comfortable for the animal.

[0080] Fig. Figure 1 shows a side view of a bicycle 1 on which an animal transport cage 10 according to an embodiment is mounted. More specifically, Fig. 1 an arrangement in which an animal transport cage 10 is fastened to a luggage carrier 2 of the bicycle 1 by means of a fastening device 12, and another animal transport cage 10 is fastened to the handlebar 3 of the bicycle 1 by means of a fastening device 14.

[0081] Possible designs of the animal transport cage 10 are described below with reference to the Fig. 2 to 9 described.

[0082] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an animal transport cage 10 according to one embodiment. The animal transport cage 10 has a carrying tray 11. Furthermore, the animal transport cage 10 has a cover 80 that covers or closes an upper side of the carrying tray 11.

[0083] The structure of the support tray 11 is made of Fig. 3 can be seen. Fig. 3 shows the Fig. 2 shown animal transport cage 10 without cover 80. In other words, in Fig. 3 only the carrying tray 11 of the animal transport cage 10 is shown.

[0084] In the embodiment shown, the support tray 11 is formed by a support section 60 and two lateral wall sections 20, 40.

[0085] The support section 60 is arranged between the lateral wall sections 20, 40. Each lateral wall section 20, 40 is assigned to a lateral side of the support section 60. A first lateral wall section 20 is attached to a first lateral side of the support section 60, and a second lateral wall section 40 is attached to a second lateral side of the support section 60.

[0086] The support section 60 is designed in the manner of a trough that is open on its lateral sides. The support section 60 has a rear wall section 62 and a front wall section 63. The rear wall section 62 extends upwards from a rear end of a base section 61. The front wall section 63 extends upwards from a front end of the base section 61. In the embodiment shown, the base section 61, the rear wall section 62, and the front wall section 63 are formed in one piece, for example, by a molding process such as injection molding. Viewed from a lateral side, the support section 60 can be U-shaped, as can be seen, for example, in Fig. 8, which shows an exploded view of the animal transport cage 10.

[0087] A lateral wall section 20, 40 is attached to each lateral side of the support section 60, thus forming a lateral boundary wall on the support section 60. The interior of a support tray 11 constructed in this way is thus defined by the base section 61, the rear wall section 62, the front wall section 63, a right lateral wall section 20, and a left lateral wall section 40. All wall sections are formed from a rigid material, so that each wall section and the support tray 11 formed therefrom are dimensionally stable. The support tray 11 thus formed is open at the top.

[0088] The rear wall section 62 and the front wall section 63 can each have a transverse component 71, 72 at their respective upper ends, in particular a rear transverse component 71 and a front transverse component 72, which extends in the transverse direction of the support trough 11 from the right lateral wall section 20 to the left lateral wall section 40. The transverse component 71, 72 is in the Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 6 and Fig. 8 can be clearly seen.

[0089] Each cross member 71, 72 may have a carrying handle section 73. This is, for example, in Fig. 5. The carrying handle portion 73 extends longitudinally outward from the transverse component 71, 72. In other words, each carrying handle portion 73 on the transverse component 71, 72 forms or is designed as a projection on the outer side of the support portion 60, more precisely on an upper edge of the rear wall portion 62 and on an upper edge of the front wall portion 63. The projections can be grasped by a user to carry the animal transport cage 10. In this respect, an arrangement can be created in which carrying handle portions 73 are provided on opposite wall portions, here on a front wall portion 63 and a rear wall portion 62.

[0090] An upper portion of the transverse member 71, 72 can be used by an animal to support itself with its paws when the animal wishes to change its position within the animal transport cage 10. This allows the animal to move more easily or to assume different positions, and it does not have to remain in a static position for a long period of time.

[0091] How particularly good Fig. 6, according to one embodiment, the lateral wall sections 20, 40 of the animal transport cage 10 can extend further upwards than the rear wall section 62 and the front wall section 63 of the carrying tray 11. In this way, an animal is better protected, for example if the bicycle 1 carrying the animal transport cage 10 falls over, even if the top of the carrying tray 11 is not closed. The area of ​​a lateral wall section 20, 40 that extends above the rear wall section 62 and the front wall section 63 can also be referred to as a gable section, since this section is suitable for supporting a cover 80 and, according to one embodiment, is also configured to support the cover 80.

[0092] Each lateral wall section 20, 40 can be formed in several parts, as in Fig. 6. For example, each lateral wall section 20, 40 may have an inner wall component 30, an outer wall component 32, and an intermediate wall component 31 arranged between the inner wall component 30 and the outer wall component 32.

[0093] The intermediate wall component 31 can be held, for example, clamped, between the inner wall component 30 and the outer wall component 32. The outer wall component 32 can be designed as a closed frame from which a partial section 33 can be removed. The outer wall component 32 can be designed to accommodate the inner wall component 30 and the intermediate wall component 31.

[0094] According to one embodiment, each lateral wall component 20, 40 has a plurality of ventilation openings 21, 22, 23, 24. Each ventilation opening is elongated in the manner of a slot-like through-opening.

[0095] A carrying handle section 25 can be provided in the upper region of each lateral wall section 20, 40. The carrying handle section 25 is configured so that a user can grasp the upper edge of the lateral wall sections 20, 40. The uppermost ventilation opening 21 can be configured so that a user can insert their fingers through the uppermost ventilation opening to grasp the carrying handle section 25.

[0096] In the upper region of each lateral wall section 20, 40, a receiving geometry 34 in the form of a channel is created. In the embodiment, the receiving geometry is formed between the inner wall component 30 and the outer wall component 32. The receiving geometry is delimited by a section of the inner wall component 30 and by a section of the outer wall component 32, as shown in Fig. 7, which shows a transverse cross-section through the upper region of the right lateral wall section 20. By removing the aforementioned partial section 33 of the outer wall component 32, access to the receiving geometry 34 can be created, so that a cover 80 can be inserted into the receiving geometry 34.

[0097] In Fig. 7 shows a state in which the partial section 34 is mounted on the wall section 20. The receiving geometry is therefore closed and fixes a longitudinal edge section 88 of the cover 80 arranged therein.

[0098] The animal transport cage 10 may include a cover 80. A possible structure of the cover 80 is described with reference to the figures.

[0099] In Fig. 2, the cover is shown in a state in which it completely closes or covers the top of the support tray 11. Such a state is also referred to as the closed state of the cover.

[0100] In Fig. 4, the cover is shown in a state in which the cover 80 is partially opened to create an access opening 13 to the interior of the animal transport cage 10.

[0101] The cover 80 is made of a flexible material. The cover 80 has a flat fabric arrangement 81, which, according to the illustrated embodiments, is designed as a mesh fabric. A mesh fabric cover offers the advantage that air can pass through the cover.

[0102] The cover 80 may be substantially rectangular.

[0103] The cover 80 may have two longitudinal edge portions 88, 89 extending on opposite sides, as well as in Fig. 8. The longitudinal edge sections 88, 89 can be configured for coupling with the previously described lateral wall sections 20, 40.

[0104] Each longitudinal edge section 88, 89 may have a larger cross-sectional dimension than an adjacent section of the planar fabric arrangement 81. Each longitudinal edge section 88, 89 may be reinforced compared to an adjacent section of the planar fabric arrangement 81.

[0105] Each longitudinal edge section 88, 89 may be thickened compared to an adjacent section of the planar fabric arrangement 81.

[0106] Each longitudinal edge section 88, 89 can be enlarged compared to an adjacent section of the flat fabric arrangement 81.

[0107] Each longitudinal edge section may have a reinforced border and may, for example, be designed as a piping.

[0108] In general, each longitudinal edge section 88, 89 can be configured for positive coupling with the lateral wall sections 20, 40, in particular such that the longitudinal edge sections 88, 89 can be received in the receiving geometry 34 in the lateral wall sections 20, 40. In this way, a cover can be suspended in the lateral wall sections 20, 40.

[0109] In one embodiment, the receiving geometry 34 may have a channel, for example in the form of a piping groove. Fig. 7 shows an embodiment in which a longitudinal edge section 88 is designed as a piping and is received in a receiving geometry 34 in the form of a piping groove.

[0110] According to one embodiment, the fabric assembly 81 has two separation regions 82, 83, each of which extends adjacent to and along a respective adjacent longitudinal edge portion 88, 89.

[0111] The separating areas 82, 83 can be realized by zippers. Fig. 7 shows respective sliders 86, 87 of zippers at the ends of the separating areas 82, 83. By opening the zippers, a central area 81a of the fabric arrangement 81 can be separated from the adjacent longitudinal edge sections 88, 89. The separated area 81b can then be folded away or rolled up to form the access opening 13.

[0112] An end portion 81c, 81d of the central portion 81a or the separated portion 81b can be attached to a predetermined attachment point 26.

[0113] A first coupling partner 84, 85 may be provided at the end portion 81c, 81d of the severed portion. The coupling partner 84, 85 may be an elastic loop.

[0114] The fastening point 26 can be formed by a second coupling partner matching the first coupling partner 84, 85, for example a hook.

[0115] In the embodiment shown, a plurality of attachment points 26 are provided on the outer side of the lateral wall sections 20, 40, making it possible, for example, to attach rolled or folded, detached sections of different lengths to different positions on the wall sections 20, 40, thereby forming access openings 13 of different sizes. More specifically, in the embodiment shown, hook sections are integrated into the outer wall component 32, for example, six hook sections, such that two hook sections are provided in each of a front section of the outer wall component 32, an upper section of the outer wall component, and a rear section of the outer wall component.

[0116] To facilitate the maintenance of a desired access opening 13, each slider may have an integrated lock that prevents the slider from moving unintentionally and opening the zipper further.

[0117] The animal transport cage 80 can be configured so that, in addition to or alternatively to the cover 80, a rain protection cover 90 can be attached to the top of the animal transport cage 10.

[0118] In Fig. Figure 9 shows a possible embodiment of the rain protection cover 90. The rain protection cover is designed such that the outer sides of the lateral wall sections 20, 40 remain substantially uncovered when the rain protection cover 90 is mounted, in particular such that the ventilation openings 21, 22, 23, 24 in the lateral wall sections 20, 40 are not covered.

[0119] The rain protection cover 90 may have two lateral sections 92, 93 which are configured to partially encompass an edge section of the lateral wall sections 20, 40.

[0120] The rain cover 90 can have elastic fastening loops 94, 95 at its end sections 97, and can be coupled by means of the loops 94, 95 to the lowest fastening points 26 of the lateral wall sections 20, 40. In addition, the rain cover 90 has at least one clamp 96 on each of its lateral sides, which is configured for coupling to a respective carrying handle section 25, in particular for clasping a profile of the carrying handle section 25.

[0121] At the Fig. 9, the rain cover 90 is arranged over the cover 80. The cover 80 is in Fig. 9 through a window section 91 of the rain cover 90 and through the ventilation openings 21 and 22.

[0122] As in the Fig. 4 and Fig. As can be seen in Figure 8, the animal transport cage 10 can include an animal restraint assembly 66. The animal restraint assembly 66 is configured for leashing the animal to the animal transport cage 10, in particular for leashing the animal to the carrying tray 11. In the embodiment shown, the animal restraint assembly 66 is configured to couple the animal to opposite wall sections 62, 63 of the carrying tray 11.

[0123] The animal restraint assembly 66 may include two animal restraint sections 67a, 67b, of which a rear animal restraint section 67a is coupled to the rear wall section 62 and a front animal restraint section 67b is coupled to the front wall section 63. The front animal restraint section 67b may be secured in an opening 65 in the front wall section 63, and the rear animal restraint section 67a may be secured in an opening 64 in the rear wall section 62.

[0124] Each animal restraint section 67a, 67b may include an animal harness coupling section 68 and a carrying tray coupling section 69, which may be provided at opposite ends of the respective animal restraint section 67a, 67b. The animal harness coupling section may include a hook. Additionally or alternatively, each animal restraint section 67a, 67b may include a flexible elongated member, such as a webbing, connecting the animal harness coupling section 68 to the carrying tray coupling section 69. The flexible elongated member may be adjustable in length.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the cover 80 and / or the rain cover 90 may be formed at least partially from a reflective fabric.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the animal transport cage 10 includes a floor insert 70 for covering the floor portion 61 of the support tray 11. The floor insert 70 may be formed from a shock-absorbing material. The floor insert may have an anti-slip surface. The floor insert 70 may be an anti-fatigue mat. REFERENCE SYMBOL 1 bicycle 2 luggage racks 3 handlebars 10 animal transport cages 11 Carrying tray 12 Mounting arrangement (luggage rack) 13 Access opening 14 Mounting arrangement (handlebar) 20 lateral wall section (right boundary wall) 21 Ventilation opening (top ventilation opening) 22 Ventilation opening 23 Ventilation opening 24 Ventilation opening 25 Carrying handle section 26 attachment point 30 inner wall component 31 Partition wall component 32 external wall component 33 subsection 34 Recording geometry (channel) 35 Opening area 40 lateral wall section (left boundary wall) 60 supporting section 61 floor section 62 rear wall section 63 front wall section 64 Opening 65 Opening 66 Animal restraint order 67a Animal retention section 67b Animal retention section 68 Animal harness coupling section 69 Supporting trough coupling section 70 floor inserts 71 Transverse component 72 transverse component 73 Carrying handle section 80 Cover 81 Tissue arrangement 81a Middle area 81b separated area 81c final section 81d final section 82 Separation area 83 Separation area 84 coupling partners 85 coupling partners 86 sliders of a zipper 87 Sliders of a zipper 88 Longitudinal edge section 89 Longitudinal edge section 90 Rain cover 91 window section 92 lateral section 93 lateral section 94 loop 95 loop 96 bracket 97 final section

Claims

[1] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, a flexible cover (80) for variable closure of the top, wherein the flexible cover (80) is removably attachable to the support tray (11), and wherein the flexible cover (80) is configured such that, when mounted on the support tray (11), it can be transferred between a closed state in which the upper side is completely closed and an open state in which an access opening (13) to the interior of the animal transport cage (10) is created. [2] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 1, wherein the flexible cover (80) is configured to be convertible into two or more different open states with different sized access openings (13). [3] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flexible cover (80) has a flat fabric arrangement (81), for example a mesh fabric. [4] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 3, wherein the flat fabric arrangement (81) has two longitudinal edge sections (88, 89) extending on opposite sides, which can be fastened to the animal transport cage (10). [5] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 4, wherein the longitudinal edge sections (88, 89) are reinforced and / or thickened and / or enlarged compared to an adjacent section of the flat fabric arrangement (81), wherein the longitudinal edge portions (88, 89) may have a reinforced border, for example a piping, or a rod or bar incorporated into or held on the longitudinal edge portion (88, 89), and / or wherein the longitudinal edge sections (88, 89) extend over 50% or more of the total length of the fabric arrangement (81), in particular over 70% or more or 80% or more. [6] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 5, wherein the support trough (11) has two receiving geometries (34) spaced apart from one another, in each of which a longitudinal edge section (88, 89) can be received in a form-fitting manner such that the form-fitting action acts in a direction transverse to the main extension direction of the longitudinal edge sections (88, 89). [7] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 6, wherein each receiving geometry (34) has a channel into which a longitudinal edge portion (88, 89) can be inserted and pulled out in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the channel. [8] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 7, wherein the receiving geometry (34) can be opened in an opening region (35) between channel ends, for example by removing a partial section (33) of a component delimiting the channel, in order to create an insertion opening in the channel, the insertion opening thus created enabling insertion of the longitudinal edge section (88, 89) by inserting a first longitudinal edge section end into a front channel section and a second longitudinal edge section end into a rear channel section. [9] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the receiving geometries (34) are provided in mutually facing sides of lateral wall sections (20, 40) of the support tray (11), for example in such a way that when the fabric arrangement (81) is positively coupled to the support tray (11) via the receiving geometries (34), a fabric arrangement (81) held between the lateral wall sections (20, 40) does not extend beyond the upper ends of the lateral wall sections (20, 40). [10] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the flat fabric arrangement (81) has two separating regions (82, 83), each of which extends adjacent to and along the respective adjacent longitudinal edge section (88, 89), wherein a central region (81a) of the flat fabric arrangement (81) located between the separating regions (82, 83) can be separated at least in regions from the respectively adjacent longitudinal edge section (88, 89) into a separated region (81b) by opening the separating regions (82, 83) in order to create an access opening (13) in the fabric arrangement (81). [11] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 10, wherein the central region (81a) is configured to be transferred into a stowed state in which an end portion of the central region (81a) or the separated region (81b) is attached to a predetermined attachment point (26), wherein in the stowed state the separated area (81b) can be folded or rolled up. [12] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 11, wherein the predetermined fastening point (26) is provided on the flat fabric arrangement (81) or on the support tray (11) at a position spaced from one end of the separation region (82, 83), wherein a plurality of fastening points (26) spaced apart along the direction of extension of the separating regions (82, 83) and / or in the longitudinal direction and / or height direction of the animal transport cage can be provided, so that the stowed state can be realized with separated regions (81b) of different lengths, whereby access openings (13) of different sizes can be created, wherein the fastening points (26) can be arranged along an edge region of a lateral wall section (20, 40), in particular at a rear edge section, an upper edge section, and a front edge section, wherein the fastening points (26) can be arranged symmetrically to an imaginary plane of symmetry extending in the vertical direction and in the transverse direction, wherein three or more fastening points (26) can be provided on each lateral wall section (20, 40), for example six fastening points (26). [13] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 12, wherein the central region (81a) has at least one first coupling partner (84, 85) for attachment to the attachment point (26), wherein the coupling partner (84, 85) can have a loop, for example an elastic loop, a hook, a snap fastener, an eyelet, a hook-and-loop fastener or a magnet, and wherein the attachment point (26) has or forms a second coupling partner matching the first coupling partner (84, 85). [14] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 13, wherein the first coupling partner (84, 85) is a loop, for example an elastic loop, and wherein the fastening partner (26) has a hook or is hook-shaped. [15] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein each partition area (82, 83) has a zipper. [16] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 15, wherein each zipper has a single slider (86, 87). [17] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 15, wherein each zipper has two sliders (86, 87) so that separation of the central region (81a) can take place from opposite ends of the cover (80). [18] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 16 or 17, wherein each slider (86, 87) has an integrated lock that prevents the slider (86, 87) from moving unintentionally and opening the zipper. [19] Animal transport cage (10), for example an animal transport cage according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, a rain cover (90) for covering the top, wherein the rain cover (90) has at least one loop (94, 95) and / or at least one clip (96), wherein each loop (94, 95) and each clamp (96) is adapted to be coupled to the support tray (11). [20] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 19, wherein the support tray (11) has a fastening point (26), for example a hook, wherein the fastening point (26) can be provided on a lateral wall section (20, 40) of the support tray (11), and / or wherein the rain protection cover (90) can be configured such that outer sides of the lateral wall sections (20, 40) remain largely uncovered when the rain protection cover (90) is mounted. [21] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 20, wherein the carrying tray (11) has a carrying handle portion (25), and wherein the clamp (96) is adapted to be coupled to the carrying handle portion (25), wherein the carrying handle portion (25) may be provided at an upper end of the lateral wall portion (20, 40). [22] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle, in particular an animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, wherein the carrying tray (11) has carrying handle sections (25, 73) on opposite sides. [23] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 22, wherein the carrying tray (11) has two lateral carrying handle sections (25), a right carrying handle section and a left carrying handle section, which are provided in lateral wall sections (20, 40) of the animal transport cage (10). [24] An animal transport cage (10) according to claim 23, wherein each lateral carrying handle portion (25) is provided in the lateral wall portion (20, 40) at the upper end of the lateral wall portion (20, 40). [25] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 24, wherein the carrying tray (11) has four carrying handle sections (25, 73), and wherein the carrying tray (11) has four sides, two of which are provided on opposite sides of the carrying tray (11), each of the four sides having a carrying handle portion (25, 73). [26] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 25, wherein two first carrying handle sections (25) are located at a first height relative to a bottom section (61) of the carrying trough (11) and two second carrying handle sections (62, 63) are provided at a second height which is smaller than the first height. [27] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 26, wherein at least one carrying handle section (25, 73) is integrated into or attached to a wall section (20, 40, 62, 63) of the carrying trough (11). [28] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 26, wherein at least one second carrying handle section (73) is provided on a wall section (62, 63) extending in the transverse direction of the carrying tray, in particular on a rear wall section (62) or a front wall section (63), wherein the carrying handle portion (73) can be formed in a transverse component (71, 72) extending between the lateral wall portions (20, 40), wherein the transverse component (71, 72) can be attached to an upper edge of the rear wall section (62) or the front wall section (63), wherein the transverse component (71, 72) can be coupled at its transverse ends to a lateral wall section (20, 40). [29] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example an animal transport cage according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, wherein the support trough (11) has two opposite lateral wall sections (20, 40), wherein at least one lateral wall section (20, 40) has a ventilation opening (21, 22, 23, 24). [30] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 29, wherein both lateral wall sections (20, 40) each have at least one ventilation opening (21, 22, 23, 24). [31] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 29 or 30, wherein two or more ventilation openings are provided in each lateral wall section (20, 40). [32] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 29 to 31, wherein at least one ventilation opening (21, 22, 23, 24) is elongated and has a horizontal main extension direction. [33] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 32, wherein the length of at least one ventilation opening (21, 22, 23, 24) is twice as long or longer than the height of the same ventilation opening (21, 22, 23, 24), for example 4 times as long or longer. [34] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 29 to 33, wherein each lateral wall section has a plurality of ventilation openings (21, 22, 23, 24) extending parallel to one another. [35] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 34, wherein the ventilation openings extend in the longitudinal direction of the lateral wall section (20, 40) over 60% or more of the lateral wall section (20, 40). [36] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of claims 29 to 33, wherein a ventilation opening (21) is designed as a carrying opening into which a user can insert his fingers to carry the animal transport cage (10), wherein the carrying opening can be an opening of a carrying handle portion (25) provided at an upper end of the lateral wall portion (20, 40). [37] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example an animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, an animal restraint assembly (66) for leashing the animal to the carrying trough (11), wherein the animal restraint assembly (66) is configured to couple the animal to opposite wall portions (62, 63) of the carrying trough (11). [38] Animal transport cage (10) according to claim 37, wherein the support tray (11) has a rear wall section (62) and a front wall section (63), and wherein the animal restraint arrangement (66) comprises two animal restraint sections (67a, 67b), of which a rear animal restraint section (67a) is coupled to the rear wall section (62) and a front animal restraint section (67b) is coupled to the front wall section (63), wherein, for example, the front animal restraint section (67b) can be fastened in an opening (65) in the front wall section (63) and the rear animal restraint section (67a) can be fastened in an opening (64) in the rear wall section (62), wherein each animal restraining section (67a, 67b) comprises an animal harness coupling section (68), for example a hook, and a carrying tray coupling section (69), which can be provided at opposite ends of the respective animal restraining section (67a, 67b) and / or wherein each animal restraining section (67a, 67b) can comprise a flexible elongate component, for example a webbing, which connects the animal harness coupling section (68) to the carrying tray coupling section (69), wherein the flexible elongate component can be adjustable in length. [39] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example an animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, wherein the support tray (11) has a bottom section (61), a rear wall section (62), a front wall section (63), and two lateral wall sections (20, 40), wherein the lateral wall sections (20, 40) extend further upwards relative to the base section (61) than the rear wall section (62) and / or the front wall section (63), and / or wherein the base section (61), the rear wall section (62) and the front wall section (63) can form a support section (60) which is arranged between the two lateral wall sections (20, 40), wherein the support section (60) can be formed in one piece and / or can be formed in the manner of a laterally open trough and the lateral wall sections (20, 40) extend over side openings of the support section (60). [40] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example an animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, a coupling section for attaching a reflector and / or a headlight or taillight. [41] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example an animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top, a cover (80) and / or a rain cover (90), wherein the cover (80) and / or the rain cover (90) are at least partially formed from a reflective fabric. [42] Animal transport cage (10) for a bicycle (1), for example animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, with a carrying trough (11) for receiving an animal, the carrying trough (11) being open at its top and having a bottom portion (61), and a floor insert (70) for covering the floor section (61) of the support tray (11), wherein the floor insert (70) has an anti-slip surface, and / or wherein the floor insert (70) is formed from a shock-absorbing material, for example from a plastic foam, and / or wherein the floor insert (70) may be an anti-fatigue mat. [43] Animal transport cage (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a fastening arrangement (12, 14) for fastening the animal transport cage (10) to the bicycle (1), wherein the fastening arrangement (12) can be configured to couple the carrying tray (11) to a luggage rack (2) of the bicycle (1) or to couple the carrying tray (11) to a handlebar (3) of the bicycle (1). [44] Animal transport cage (10), for example animal transport cage according to one of the preceding claims, with two opposite lateral wall sections (20, 40), wherein each wall section (20, 40) is formed in several parts, for example with an inner wall component (30), an intermediate wall component (31) and an outer wall component (32), wherein the intermediate wall component (31) is held between the inner wall component (30) and the outer wall component (32), and / or wherein a receiving geometry (34) for receiving a longitudinal edge section (88, 89) is formed between the inner wall component (30) and the outer wall component (32), and / or wherein the outer wall component (32) has a removable section (33) which, when removed, exposes access to the receiving geometry (34), and / or wherein the outer wall component (32) is designed in the manner of a frame which surrounds an edge region of the intermediate component (31) and / or the inner wall component (30) at least in regions.

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