Transport system for bicycle components

Abstract

A transport system (50) for bicycle components (100) comprising a transport box unit (1) and a plurality of pocket units (40) for receiving bicycle components (100), wherein the transport box unit (1) comprises several wall sections (21-30) which, in a transport position (3), form wall units (10-15) that define a receiving space (4). Bicycle components (1) can be received in the receiving space (4) in pocket units (40) arranged adjacent to one another. The transport box unit (1) and the pocket units (40) can each be transferred into a flat and stackable storage position (2). Each wall section (21-30) is articulated to at least one other wall section (21-30) such that, in the storage position (2), several wall sections (21, 22, 23, 24, 29, 29) lie flat against one another.In the storage position (2), the wall sections (29, 30) attached to the longitudinal side wall (11) for the ceiling wall (14) and the floor wall (15) are folded backwards and lie close to the outside of the longitudinal side wall. One wall section (30) is shorter than the other wall section (29). Together, both wall sections (29, 30) correspond to the height (33) of a side wall.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a transport system for bicycle components, and in particular for bicycle wheels. The transport system comprises a transport box unit for holding a plurality of bicycle components, and in particular bicycle wheels.

[0002] Various transport systems for bicycle components and wheels are known in the prior art. A typical transport system consists of a cardboard box into which, for example, six wheels are placed. A cardboard template is usually inserted into the box to position the individual wheels at defined intervals. Such a transport system works in principle and is currently in regular use. A disadvantage of this known packaging system is that the individual components are regularly disposed of after transport, resulting in a considerable amount of packaging material being disposed of as waste each time. This incurs additional costs, is not sustainable, and is generally undesirable.

[0003] Therefore, transport systems are known in the state of the art in which reusable packaging is used, which is sent from the manufacturer to the customer and then back again.

[0004] EP 2 716 573 B1 shows a reusable packaging for transporting tires, rims, complete wheels, and similar items via parcel services. This packaging incorporates a bellows between a base and a lid, forming three side walls. One hinged side wall serves to close the transport container. The bellows allow empty containers to be compressed, thus reducing their dimensions for return transport. These known reusable packaging solutions are functional and enable the efficient shipping of individual wheels via parcel services. A disadvantage is the considerable effort involved in packing and unpacking the wheels. Therefore, this reusable system is not particularly suitable for shipping large quantities.

[0005] From EP 3 556 678 B1, a transport system for wheels of two-wheeled vehicles is known, with which a multiple of wheels can be shipped efficiently. The transport system comprises a stackable container with walls forming a ring around its perimeter and defining the interior of the stackable container. The stackable container can be attached to a separate base using detachable locking elements. Several stackable containers can be positioned on top of each other, and only the topmost stackable container requires a lid. After transport, the wheels can be removed. The base and lid can then be removed from the stackable container. The perimeter ring of the stackable container can be disassembled to reduce the packaging size for return shipping. After the return shipment, the individual parts can be reassembled, and the system can be transported again.This well-known transport system for bicycle wheels allows for the reuse of the transport system itself, thus enabling sustainable, reusable packaging. However, a disadvantage is the considerable effort involved in packaging the wheels, as well as in disassembling the transport system and the stacking container, and then reassembling them before the next packaging session.

[0006] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a transport system for bicycle components and in particular for bicycle wheels, which enables sustainable use, the shipping of large quantities of bicycle components and efficient packing and unpacking of the bicycle components.

[0007] This problem is solved by a transport system for bicycle components, and in particular bicycle wheels, with the features of claim 1. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the general description and the description of exemplary embodiments.

[0008] A transport system according to the invention for bicycle components, and in particular bicycle wheels, comprises a transport box unit and a plurality of pocket units for receiving bicycle components, and in particular wheels. The transport box unit comprises several wall sections which, in a transport position, form wall units that define a receiving space. Several bicycle components can be received in the receiving space in pocket units arranged adjacent to one another. The transport box unit and the pocket units can each be moved into a flat and stackable storage position. Each wall section of the transport box unit is pivotally connected to at least one other wall section, so that in the storage position several wall sections of the transport box unit lie flat against one another.In particular, when stored, the wall sections attached to the longitudinal side wall for the ceiling and floor walls are folded backwards and lie flush against the outside of the longitudinal side wall. Preferably, one wall section is shorter than the other. Particularly preferably, both wall sections together correspond to the height of one side wall.

[0009] The transport system according to the invention has many advantages. A significant advantage of the transport system according to the invention for bicycle components, and in particular bicycle wheels, lies in its ease of handling when packing and unpacking the bicycle components. Furthermore, the transport system allows for simple and space-saving storage. Assembly and disassembly of the transport system are quick and easy. This ensures cost-effective use of the transport system.

[0010] It is possible to reduce the packing and unpacking times for bicycle wheels, so that the more efficient use of the transport system alone results in a time and therefore cost advantage for the transport system according to the invention. It is very advantageous that the protection of the product is guaranteed at all times, even with this quick and easy handling.

[0011] Since no knife or similar tool is required to open the packaging, the risk of damaging a product is actually reduced.

[0012] Because each wall section of the transport box unit is articulated to at least one other wall section, a flexible transport box unit is created in which the individual wall sections are formed as a cohesive unit. This prevents individual parts from being lost or having to be searched for in order to move the transport box unit into the transport position.

[0013] The assembly, disassembly and storage of the transport system are significantly simplified and accelerated compared to the previous method and the current state of the art.

[0014] Preferably, no tools are required for assembling and disassembling the bag units, the transport box unit, and the entire transport system. Preferably, no tools are needed when stowing the bicycle components in the bag units or when placing and packing them in the transport box unit. Likewise, preferably, no tools are needed when opening the transport box unit (at the destination), removing the bag units from it, or removing the bicycle components from the bag units. Moving the transport box unit and the bag units into storage position is also preferably done without tools.

[0015] Tools may be needed for the assembly or disassembly of separate attachments such as speedometers, sprocket assemblies, brake discs, or similar items, but this has nothing to do with transport, but rather with the normal assembly of bicycle components.

[0016] Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous that no parts of the transport box unit or the bag units need to be stored separately. No separate parts are required to assemble the transport box unit. All parts are preferably connected. Consequently, individual parts of the transport box unit or the bag unit cannot be lost.

[0017] The articulated connection of the wall sections allows several wall sections to lie flush against each other, resulting in a particularly compact form when stored. In this configuration, more than two wall sections lie flush against each other.

[0018] In a particular embodiment, the transport system comprises at least one transport box unit and a plurality of bicycle components held in pocket units. The transport box unit comprises several wall sections which, in a transport position, form wall units that define a receiving space. Within this receiving space, bicycle components are held in pocket units arranged adjacent to one another. The transport box unit and the pocket units can each be moved into a flat and stackable storage position. Each wall section is pivotally connected to at least one other wall section, so that in the storage position, several wall sections lie flat against each other. Particularly preferably, the transport system includes bicycle wheels held in the pocket units within the receiving space of the transport box unit.

[0019] In all embodiments, it is preferred that the transport box unit comprises a total of six wall units, with two wall units preferably forming the longitudinal side walls and, in particular, two wall units forming the two transverse side walls. One wall unit forms a top wall and one wall unit forms the bottom wall. Each wall unit can consist of several wall sections. A single wall section, and especially each individual wall section, is particularly preferably formed in one piece. The longitudinal side walls are particularly preferably each formed (at least substantially or completely) from a single wall section. The size of the longitudinal side walls is, in particular, dimensioned such that it does not exceed the surface area of ​​a Euro pallet.

[0020] In preferred embodiments, each bicycle component is accommodated in a separate compartment of the bag unit. This protects each bicycle component from direct contact with another bicycle component in a different bag unit by means of a padded bag wall. In particular, the bicycle components, and preferably wheels, are not held or positioned within the transport box unit by a template, but are positioned next to each other within the interior and protected from mutual contact by the bag units. It has been found that sufficient and reliable protection is achieved with (padded) bag walls.

[0021] In advantageous embodiments, a bag unit comprises two, in particular rectangular, padded bag walls that are sewn together. A storage compartment is sewn onto the outer surface of one bag wall, which can serve to hold small parts or assembly or operating instructions for a bicycle component.

[0022] Preferably, the pocket compartment of the bag unit comprises at least one multi-layered fabric. This ensures reliable protection against damage. It is conceivable and preferred that the bag unit be reinforced at, for example, exposed areas, so that it can withstand numerous transports and reliably protect the product it contains. Exposed areas include, in particular, the corners of the bag unit or a central area, as this is where the hub and its end stops are located on wheels. Separate reinforcing elements can be applied or incorporated at exposed or suitable locations.

[0023] Preferably, in the transport position, a (single) wall section forms one or the entire longitudinal side wall. Particularly preferably, both longitudinal side walls are each a single, one-piece wall unit. This gives the transport box unit a defined basic structure. This allows for easy assembly of the transport box unit into the transport position and equally straightforward and simple transfer to the storage position.

[0024] Preferably, in the transport position, two hinged wall sections (together) form a (complete) transverse side wall. The transverse side wall is a wall unit of the transport box unit.

[0025] In advantageous embodiments, the longitudinal side wall is hingedly connected at both longitudinal ends to a wall section of a transverse side wall. Preferably, the longitudinal side wall, or at least one of it, is hingedly connected at its upper end (in the assembled state) to a wall section that forms at least part of the ceiling wall. Preferably, the longitudinal side wall, or at least one of it, is hingedly connected at its lower end (in the assembled state) to a wall section that forms at least part of the floor wall. Particularly preferably, a longitudinal side wall is hingedly connected at both longitudinal ends, as well as at its upper and lower ends, to at least one wall section each.

[0026] In advantageous embodiments, the wall sections, which are hingedly connected to a longitudinal side wall at their upper and lower ends, lie folded back against the outside of the longitudinal side wall when stored. In particular, when folded back, the wall sections do not overlap or regularly abut each other. However, it is possible for these wall sections to almost touch or nearly abut each other with their front edges without overlapping. This provides a particularly space-saving transport system.

[0027] Preferably, the wall sections, which are hinged to a longitudinal side wall at their upper and lower ends, are of unequal width in the transverse direction. This means that the wall section hinged to the upper end of a longitudinal side wall has a different width than the wall section hinged to the lower end of the longitudinal side wall. In particularly advantageous embodiments, the two different widths of the wall sections together (approximately) determine the height of the transport box unit in the transport position.

[0028] Preferably, in the transport position, the wall section hinged to one longitudinal side wall at its upper end overlaps at least partially with the wall section hinged to the upper end of the other longitudinal side wall. The same applies to the wall sections hinged to the lower ends of the longitudinal side walls.

[0029] In the storage position, four wall sections are arranged parallel to each other in the middle of the longitudinal side wall, centered between the longitudinal and transverse ends of the longitudinal side wall. Specifically, in the storage position, six wall sections lie parallel (and close together) at the longitudinal ends of the longitudinal side wall. In the middle, two wall sections of a transverse side wall lie on top of each other. Towards the outside (perpendicular to the longitudinal side wall), a longitudinal side wall adjoins these on both sides. Further outwards are the folded-over wall sections, which form the floor wall and the ceiling wall.

[0030] Preferably, in the storage position, the wall sections attached to the longitudinal side wall for the ceiling wall and the floor wall are folded back and lie flush against the outside of the longitudinal side wall. The term "flush" here means that the wall sections do not overlap and thus both lie directly and completely against the outside of the side wall.

[0031] A significant advantage of this design is that the transport box unit (packaging) has no exposed areas in its storage position, such as corners and edges that could be prone to premature damage from bumps or snagging. Stackability and removal from a stack are also improved. This extends the lifespan of the transport box unit, making it more sustainable.

[0032] Preferably, one wall section is shorter than the other, and both wall sections together have a width or height that corresponds to the height of a side wall. Deviations of 2% or 5%, or optionally 7.5% or even 10%, are possible. Preferably 5% or less.

[0033] Preferably, a hinged connection between two wall sections is provided by a reinforced adhesive strip. This reinforced adhesive strip forms a hinged connection between the two wall sections. The reinforced adhesive strip preferably extends over a substantial portion of the contact length of the two wall sections. In particular, the reinforced adhesive strip extends over the entire length of the joint between the connected wall sections. This ensures high stability and a reliable and tight seal of the transport box unit.

[0034] The use of reinforced adhesive strips makes the transport box unit easy to repair, as defective wall sections can be replaced quickly and easily. Similarly, a defective adhesive strip can be easily replaced if necessary. Fabric tape and thread-reinforced adhesive tape are particularly suitable as reinforced strips, with the adhesive strip being applied to both parts that are to be joined together (flexibly).

[0035] Tests have shown that even after several hundred cycles, there was no significant wear.

[0036] Preferably, all wall sections are articulated together. Particularly preferably, all parts of the transport box unit are rigidly (and articulatedly) connected to one another. Separate parts are not necessary. This simplifies handling. No parts can get lost.

[0037] It is particularly preferred that at least some wall sections, and especially all wall sections, are at least partially made of a hollow chamber material.

[0038] The material used for the wall sections can be either plastic or a natural material. In particular, it is also possible to use recycled material. For example, the wall sections can be made from recycled cardboard, recycled paper, or recycled plastic.

[0039] At least some, and preferably all, wall sections are constructed in all designs, particularly in multiple layers, similar to corrugated cardboard. This keeps the transport box unit lightweight yet highly durable.

[0040] Preferably, fastening units, for example in the form of hook-and-loop fasteners or similar devices, are attached to the wall sections forming the floor and ceiling walls to allow for easy detachment of these two wall sections. The fastening units are positioned on the inner and outer surfaces in such a way that they interlock, providing a reliable closure and hold. It is possible and preferred that the fastening units are sewn or attached to the wall sections. This allows for easy positioning, enabling a quick and reliable closure.

[0041] Preferably, additional connecting elements in the form of, for example, locking strips and / or securing strips can be attached to wall sections. These locking or securing strips can also be designed as hook-and-loop fasteners, allowing for quick and easy connection and equally quick and easy release.

[0042] Individual locking units or connecting elements can also be formed by snap fastener elements.

[0043] Preferably, the height of a transport box unit in the transport position is less than 80 cm, and in particular, the height of a transport box unit in the storage position is less than 15 cm, less than 10 cm, or less than 5 cm.

[0044] In preferred embodiments, the transport box units are designed such that, in the transport position, two transport box units fit precisely side-by-side (without overhang) on ​​a Euro pallet. In particular, in the storage position, a stack of folded transport box units can be positioned completely (without overhang) on ​​a Euro pallet.

[0045] The transport system can comprise a Euro pallet and two transport box units positioned on it, each containing a plurality of, for example, six bicycle wheels. It is possible to stack several transport box units on top of each other. In particularly preferred embodiments, three layers of two transport box units each are transported per pallet. Preferably, six bicycle wheels are contained and transported as bicycle components in each transport box unit. This means that preferably a total of 36 bicycle wheels are transported per Euro pallet. This achieves the optimal "filling" of "common" trucks and transport vehicles. Positioning on a pallet, and especially a Euro pallet, contributes to stabilization.

[0046] In all embodiments and further developments of the invention, the bicycle components, and in particular the wheels, can be packaged and / or shipped with or without tires, with or without brake discs, with or without sprockets, and with or without other attachments and accessories. This depends on the customer's needs, as they will then assemble the bicycle components and wheels in their own workshop. Generally, delivery is made to a commercial enterprise, such as an assembly workshop, rather than to an end customer, although the latter is also possible.

[0047] It may also include other parts and attachments, such as tires, hoses, valves, brake discs, sprocket assemblies, rim tapes, reflectors, spoke protectors, speedometer components and other parts and accessories.

[0048] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the exemplary embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0049] The figures show: Figure 1: A schematic representation of a mountain bike; Figure 2: A schematic representation of a racing bike; Figure 3: A schematic perspective view of a transport system with a transport box unit; Figure 4: A wheel, a bag unit, and a wheel positioned in the bag unit; Figure 5: A schematic view of the transport system in a storage position; Figure 6: A schematic top view of the transport system after Figure 5 Figure 7 shows the transport system made of Figure 5in a partially assembled state; Figure 8 shows a development of the wall sections of a transport box unit of the transport system according to the invention; and Figures 9 and 10 show the transport box unit of the transport system according to the invention in schematic views when being moved into the transport position.

[0050] In the Figures 1 and 2 The diagram shows bicycles 200, each with several bicycle components 100. The mountain bike, racing bike, or gravel bike 200 each has a front wheel 101 and a rear wheel 102. The rear wheel 102 has a sprocket assembly 111. Both wheels 101 and 102 have spokes 109 and a rim 110. Conventional rim brakes or other brakes, such as disc brakes, can be used.

[0051] A bicycle 100 has a frame 103, a saddle 107, a fork or suspension fork 104, and in the case of a mountain bike, a rear shock absorber 105 may be provided. A crankset 112 with pedals provides propulsion. An electric assist motor may optionally be provided on the crankset 112 and / or the wheels.

[0052] Figure 3 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a transport system 50 according to the invention with a transport box unit 1 in which several, and here six, wheels 101, 102 of bicycles 200, such as those found, for example, in the Figures 1 and 2 The images show that each individual wheel 101, 102 is enclosed in a separate pocket unit 40 to prevent damage to the individual wheels 101, 102 from contact and collisions within the transport box unit 1.

[0053] A transport box unit 1 can accommodate front or rear wheels, or mixed wheelsets. For example, complete wheel sets can be included, depending on the customer's requirements. It can also accommodate varying amounts of accessories and attachments.

[0054] Figure 3 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of transport box unit 1, revealing its cuboid shape. Transport box unit 1 has two end or transverse side walls 10, 12, two longitudinal side walls 11, 13, a top wall 14, and a bottom wall 15.

[0055] The longitudinal side walls 11, 13 are manufactured in one piece and each consists of only a single wall section 28 or 23 (compare Figure 8 ).

[0056] The two wall sections 21 and 22 are visible on the front transverse side wall 10. These sections are (permanently) hinged to each other via a reinforced adhesive strip 35 that extends vertically over the entire height of the wall. The adhesive strip is applied only once and remains functional for numerous transport operations. The required properties were maintained even after one hundred or several hundred tests.

[0057] A handle or grip 34 is provided in the upper area of ​​wall section 21 to facilitate easy holding and carrying of the transport box unit 1. The edge may be reinforced. The other wall section 22 of the front transverse side wall 10 has a document pocket 36 in its lower area, which may, for example, be transparent and serves to hold small parts and especially documents, in order to provide information about the contents of the closed transport box unit 1.

[0058] Apart from the two longitudinal side walls 11 and 13, the other wall units 10, 12 and 14, 15 are not formed in one piece, but each has at least two (each again formed in one piece) wall sections. The transverse side wall 10 comprises wall sections 21 and 22, and the transverse side wall 12, which is not specifically visible here, has wall sections 26, 27 (compare Figure 8 ).

[0059] The upper surface, including the ceiling wall 14, comprises wall sections 24 and 29, and the lower surface, or floor wall 15, comprises wall sections 25 and 30. Each wall section 21 to 30 is hinged to at least one other wall section via a hinged connection 35 to allow the respective wall sections to fold relative to each other. The two longitudinal side walls 11 and 13 are hinged to a wall section at each of their four edges. The wall sections 21, 22 and 26, 27 of the transverse side walls 10, 12 are not connected to another wall section at their upper and lower ends 7, 8.

[0060] Figure 4 Figure 1 shows a wheel 102 as a bicycle component 100, a bag unit 40 and a schematic representation of a cross-section of a wheel 101 received in the bag unit 40. Preferably six of these are placed in the transport box unit 1.

[0061] The pocket unit 40 has a pocket compartment 41, which is bounded by a front pocket wall 42 and a rear pocket wall 43. The two pocket walls 42 and 43 are sewn together. The seams 46 stabilize the pocket unit. In the upper area shown here, the pocket walls 42 and 43 are not connected to each other in the area of ​​the flap 47, so that a wheel 102 or 101 can be inserted into the pocket compartment 41. The flap 47 can then be folded over and inserted into the pocket compartment 41, thus closing the pocket compartment 41 of the pocket unit.

[0062] For example, a storage compartment 45 can be attached to the outside of the bag wall 42 on the front of the bag compartment 41. This compartment serves to hold small parts or, for example, an instruction manual. The bag walls 42 and 43 are made of a multi-layered fabric, thus protecting a wheel stored in the bag compartment 41 from damage caused by contact with another bicycle component 100. Reinforcing elements 48 (inside or outside) can be applied to the corners, edges, or, for example, in the middle, to better protect the areas of the bicycle components being transported or the bag unit that are subject to particular stress.

[0063] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a side view of transport box unit 1 in storage position 2, in which the transport box unit occupies extremely little space. In storage position 2, the individual wall sections 21 to 30 of transport box unit 1 are folded together. The two wall sections 21, 22 and 26, 27 of the transverse side walls 10, 12 lie flat against each other. A longitudinal side wall 11 or 13 is connected to each of these with the one-piece wall section 23 or 28, respectively. The folded-over wall sections 24 and 29 of the top wall connect to the top and bottom walls, respectively. Thus, a small gap may occur in the middle area between the four wall sections, while at the ends, six wall sections lie flat against each other. Overall, only a very small thickness or height of 37 is achieved in storage position 2.

[0064] While the height 33 of the transport box unit 1 in the transport position (compare Figures 3 and 6) can be 65 cm, 70 cm, or up to 80 cm, the height 37 of the transport box unit 1 in the storage position 2 is less than 10 cm and can be 5 cm or even just 4 cm, or similar. The thickness of a single wall or wall section 21 to 30 is approximately 6 mm in a specific embodiment, resulting in a height 37 of less than 4 cm. This allows for the stacking of many transport box units 1 in the storage position with a very small footprint.

[0065] Figure 6 shows a top view of a transport box unit 1 lying down and still folded in storage position 2 according to Figure 5It can be seen that wall sections 29 and 30 extend over the entire surface of the longitudinal side wall 11 and cover it. Wall sections 29 and 30 are folded back and do not overlap.

[0066] This illustration also shows the locking units 16 and 17, of which three are provided in each direction, offset lengthwise. The locking units 16 are mounted externally on the wall section 29 and are directly visible.

[0067] The locking units 17 are applied to the inside of the wall section 30, so that in the illustration according to Figure 6 In principle, only the seam 20 is visible, with which the locking units 17 are attached to the wall section 30.

[0068] In the exemplary embodiment, the closure units 16, 17 are designed as flat Velcro fastener elements that can be connected to each other by slight pressure.

[0069] The two wall sections 29 and 30 have different heights (31 and 32, respectively). Wall section 29 forms the outer wall section of the ceiling wall 14 and extends across the entire width of the ceiling wall. Wall section 30 forms part of the floor wall 15 and, in transport position 3, overlaps with wall section 25 of the floor wall 15. The overlap of wall sections 25, 30 and 24, 29 creates load-bearing and stable wall units 14, 15.

[0070] Figure 7Figure 1 shows a top view of a transport box unit 1 partially moved into its transport position. Wall sections 21, 22 and 26, 27 of the transverse side walls 10, 12 have been unfolded. Furthermore, wall sections 25, 30 have been folded over to form the bottom wall 15. Inside the transport box unit 1, the receiving compartment 4 is visible, which is laterally bounded by the longitudinal side walls 11, 13 and the transverse side walls 10, 12. To close the unit, wall sections 24, 29 on the longitudinal side walls 11, 13 must be folded over (upwards), placed on top of each other, and connected.

[0071] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a flattened view of the transport box unit 1, in which the individual wall sections 21 to 30 are visible. Wall sections 21 to 30 are each hingedly connected to at least one other wall section. For example, wall section 21 is hingedly connected to wall section 22 and to wall section 28. Wall section 22 is connected to wall section 23 or the longitudinal side wall 13 via a hinged connection, for example, a reinforced adhesive strip 35.

[0072] The longitudinal side wall 23 is connected to wall sections 24 and 25 along its long sides. In transport position 3, wall section 24 at the upper end of wall section 23 forms part of the ceiling wall 14. In transport position 3, wall sections 29 and 24 are connected to each other via locking units 16 and 17 on wall section 29. Connecting elements 18 and 19 can be used for additional securing. Here, connecting elements 18 are designed as additional straps that project laterally from wall sections 24 and 29 and are connected to connecting elements 19 on wall sections 22 and 27 of the transverse side walls 10 and 12.

[0073] In Figure 8 The handles 34 and the two document pockets 36 are also recognizable.

[0074] The locking units 16, 17 and the connecting elements 18, 19 are arranged in such a way that a high load-bearing capacity of the transport box unit 1 is achieved in the transport position 3.

[0075] All wall sections 21 to 30 are interconnected. No additional parts are required to assemble transport box unit 1. No tools are needed for assembly or disassembly. No waste is generated (regularly). No parts can go missing during storage and then need to be searched for during assembly. All parts are interconnected. If a wall section is defective, it can be replaced.

[0076] The pocket units 40 are also made in one piece and can be stacked separately for storage.

[0077] Figures 9 and 10 further steps are shown in transferring transport box unit 1 into the transport position. This involves... Figure 9The interior space 4 can be seen, which is bounded at the bottom by the floor wall 15 with wall sections 25 and 30. The two wall sections 24 and 29 are each aligned approximately at right angles to the longitudinal side walls 11 and 13. This allows the upper surfaces of the locking units 16 and the rear surfaces of the locking units 17 to be seen.

[0078] Figure 10 Figure 1 shows the state after the wall unit 24 has been folded over by 180°, so that the locking units 17 are now visible from above. By folding over the wall section 29, the locking units 16 come into precise contact with the locking units 17. In simple embodiments, the locking units 16 and 17 and the connecting elements 18, 19 are each designed as hook and loop fasteners, thus enabling easy opening and closing.

[0079] Overall, the invention enables a simple, time-saving, and cost-effective reusable packaging system for transporting bicycle components 100, and in particular wheels 101, 102. This allows a large number of bicycle wheels to be delivered from the wheel manufacturer to the bicycle manufacturer. Assembling and filling the transport box unit 1 with the bicycle components 100 is quick and easy. Likewise, the individual bicycle components 100 can be unpacked quickly, reliably, and without damage. For temporary storage of even a large number of transport box units 1 and associated bag units 40, the transport box unit 1 can be easily and simply folded up, requiring very little space.

[0080] This allows for the cost-effective temporary storage of a large number of transport box units until return transport becomes worthwhile. Due to the small footprint, the necessary storage space is minimal. Storage space for previously required disposable packaging material can also be saved. Furthermore, documentation requirements can be reduced. Disposal costs can also be lowered.

[0081] The transport box unit 1 can be adapted to the size of different bicycle components 100 and, in particular, different sized wheels 101, 102. Transport is possible with or without tires mounted. Transport on Euro pallets is possible, which further reduces costs. Reference symbol list: 1 Transport box unit 28 Wall section (11) 2 Storage position 29 Wall section (of 14) 3 Transport position 30 Wall section (of 15) 4 Recording room 31 Width (of 24, 30) 5 Longitudinal end 32 Width (of 25, 29) 6 Longitudinal end 33 Height 7 upper end, transverse end 34 Handle 8 lower end, transverse end 35 flexible connection, adhesive strip 10 Wall unit, transverse side wall 36 document case 11 Wall unit, long side wall 37 Height 40 Bag unit 12 Wall unit, transverse side wall 41 Pocket chamber 42 Pocket wall 13 Wall unit, long side wall 43 Pocket wall 45 Admission subject 14 Wall unit, ceiling wall 46 seam 15 Wall unit, floor wall 47 tab 16 Closure unit, Velcro fastener 50 Transport system 100 bicycle component 17 Closure unit, Velcro fastener 101 wheel, front wheel 102 wheel, rear wheel 18 Connecting element, additional band 103 Frame 104 Fork, suspension fork 19 Connecting element 105 rear wheel damper 20 seam 107 saddle 21 Wall section (of 10) 108 hub 22 Wall section (of 10) 109 spoke 23 Wall section (13) 110 rim 24 Wall section (of 14) 111 pinion gear 25 Wall section (of 15) 112 crank 26 Wall section (of 12) 200 Bicycle 27 Wall section (of 12)

Claims

1. Transport system (50) for bicycle components (100) comprising a transport box unit (1) and a plurality of pocket units (40) for receiving bicycle components (100), wherein the transport box unit (1) comprises several wall sections (21-30) which, in a transport position (3), form wall units (10-15) that define a receiving space (4), wherein bicycle components (1) can be received in the receiving space (4) in pocket units (40) arranged adjacent to one another, and wherein the transport box unit (1) and the pocket units (40) can each be transferred into a flat and stackable storage position (2), wherein each wall section (21-30) is pivotally connected to at least one other wall section (21-30) such that, in the storage position (2), several wall sections (21, 22, 23, 24, 29, 29) lie flat against one another, characterized by thatIn the storage position (2), the wall sections (29, 30) attached to the longitudinal side wall (11) for the ceiling wall (14) and the floor wall (15) are folded backwards and lie tightly against the outside of the longitudinal side wall, and that one wall section (30) is shorter than the other wall section (29) and both wall sections (29, 30) together correspond to a height (33) of a side wall.

2. Transport system (50) according to claim 1, wherein each bicycle component (100) is received in each pocket compartment (41) of the bag unit (40) and is protected from direct contact with another bicycle component (100) by a padded bag wall (42, 43) of the bag unit (40).

3. Transport system (50) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pocket chamber (41) of the pocket unit (40) comprises at least one multilayer fabric.

4. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the transport position (3) a wall section (28, 23) forms a longitudinal side wall (11, 13) and / or wherein in the transport position (3) two wall sections (21, 22; 26, 27) articulated to each other form a transverse side wall (10, 12).

5. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal side wall (11, 13) is hingedly connected at both longitudinal ends (5, 6) to a wall section (22, 26, 21, 27) of a transverse side wall (10, 12).

6. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal side wall (11, 13) is pivotally connected at its upper end (7) to a wall section (24, 29) which forms at least a part of the ceiling wall (14) and / or wherein the longitudinal side wall (11, 13) is pivotally connected at its lower end (8) to a wall section (25, 30) which forms at least a part of the floor wall (15).

7. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall sections (24, 25; 29, 30) which are pivotally connected to a longitudinal side wall (11, 13) at their upper and lower ends (7, 8) are folded back in the storage position (2) and each rests on the outside of the longitudinal side wall (11, 13).

8. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall sections (24, 25; 29, 30) which are pivotally connected to a longitudinal side wall (11, 13) at their upper and lower ends (7, 8) do not overlap or abut each other in the (folded-back) storage position (2) and / or wherein the wall sections (24, 25; 29, 30) which are pivotally connected to a longitudinal side wall (11, 13) at their upper and lower ends (7, 8) are of unequal width (31, 32) in the transverse direction.

9. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall section (24) which is pivotally connected to a longitudinal side wall (11) at the upper end (7) overlaps in the transport position (3) with the wall section (29) which is pivotally connected to the upper end (7) of the other longitudinal side wall (13).

10. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the storage position (2) four wall sections (23, 24, 28, 29) are arranged parallel to each other in the middle of the longitudinal side wall (11, 13) centrally between the longitudinal ends (5, 6) and the transverse ends (7, 8) of the longitudinal side wall (11, 13), and / or wherein in the storage position (3) six wall sections (21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29) lie parallel to each other at the longitudinal ends (5, 6) of the longitudinal side wall (11, 13).

11. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a hinged connection (35) between two wall sections (21, 22) is provided via a reinforced adhesive strip and / or wherein the wall sections (21-30) consist at least partially of a hollow chamber material.

12. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein fastening units (16, 17) e.g. in the form of hook and loop fasteners are attached to the wall sections (25, 30) which form the floor wall (15) and the ceiling wall, in order to connect the two wall sections (25, 30) together and wherein in particular the fastening units (16, 17) are sewn onto the wall sections (25, 30).

13. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein additional connecting elements (18, 19) in the form of, for example, closing strips and securing strips are attached to wall sections.

14. Transport system (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a height (33) of a transport box unit (1) in the transport position is less than 80 cm and wherein a height (37) of a transport box unit (1) in the storage position is less than 10 cm and / or wherein two transport box units (1) in the transport position (3) fit precisely side by side onto a Euro pallet and wherein in the storage position (2) a stack of folded transport box units (1) can be positioned completely (and without overhang) on ​​a Euro pallet.

15. Transport system (50) comprising a transport box unit (1) and a plurality of bicycle components (100) received in pocket units (40), wherein the transport box unit (1) comprises several wall sections (21-30) which, in a transport position (3), form wall units (10-15) that define a receiving space (4), wherein bicycle components (1) are received in the receiving space (4) in pocket units (40) arranged adjacent to one another, and wherein the transport box unit (1) and the pocket units (40) can each be transferred into a flat and stackable storage position (2), wherein each wall section (21-30) is articulated to at least one other wall section (21-30) such that, in the storage position (2), several wall sections (21, 22, 23, 24, 29, 29) lie flat against each other, characterized by thatwherein in the storage position (2) the wall sections (29, 30) attached to the longitudinal side wall (11) for the ceiling wall (14) and the floor wall (15) are folded backwards and lie tightly against the outside of the longitudinal side wall, and that one wall section (30) is shorter than the other wall section (29) and both wall sections (29, 30) together correspond to a height (33) of a side wall.

Images