Bicycle transport support and bicycle

Abstract

To facilitate the work for making a bicycle conduct wheel movement.SOLUTION: A supporter 1 for wheel movement is installed on a rear end part of a frame 20 of a bicycle 10 and includes a vehicle body support part 11. The vehicle body support part 11 supports the bicycle 10 whose longitudinal direction is along the vertical direction against a ground plane 100 so that a portion constituting the bicycle 10 does not come in contact with the ground plane 100 with a pair of wheels 21 (a front wheel 211 and a rear wheel 212) removed from the bicycle 10.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a wheel-carrying support tool used when carrying a bicycle using, for example, public transportation, etc., and to a bicycle.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a carrier / stand for a folding bicycle for storing the folding bicycle vertically.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide a wheel-carrying support tool that facilitates the operation for making a bicycle wheel-carryable, and a bicycle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To achieve the above object, a wheel-carrying support tool according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a wheel-carrying support tool attached to the rear end portion of a frame of a bicycle, and includes a vehicle body support portion. The vehicle body support portion supports the bicycle whose longitudinal direction is along the vertical direction with respect to the ground surface so that the portions constituting the bicycle do not touch the ground surface in a state where a pair of wheels are removed from the bicycle.

[0006] Also, a bicycle according to one aspect of the present disclosure has the wheel-carrying support tool attached to the rear end portion of the frame, and the pair of wheels is configured to be detachable from the frame.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] The bicycle transport support device described in this disclosure has the advantage of making it easier to perform the work required to prepare a bicycle for transport. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a side view of a bicycle according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating a bicycle transport support device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a bicycle in a state where it can be transported by train, viewed from the side. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a view from below of a bicycle in a state that allows it to be transported by train. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating the case where the auxiliary support part of the bicycle transport support device according to the first modified example is in the first position. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating the case where the auxiliary support part of the bicycle transport support device according to the first modified example is in the second position. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating the wheel support portion of a bicycle transport support device according to a second modified example. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the wheel support portion of the bicycle transport support device according to the second modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are all specific examples of this disclosure. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement and connection configurations of components, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples only and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Accordingly, any components in the following embodiments that are not described in an independent claim will be described as optional components.

[0010] Furthermore, each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Therefore, for example, the scale and other aspects may not necessarily match in each figure. Also, in each figure, substantially identical components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0011] Furthermore, in this specification, terms indicating relationships between elements such as parallel and perpendicular, terms indicating the shapes of elements such as cylinders, cylindrical shapes, and rectangles, and numerical ranges do not represent only strict meanings, but also include substantially equivalent ranges, such as differences of a few percent.

[0012] Furthermore, in this specification and the drawings, "front" and "rear" correspond to the front and rear in the direction in which the bicycle is traveling, "up" and "down" correspond to the up and down in the vertical direction, and "left" and "right" correspond to left and right as seen from the perspective of the user riding the bicycle.

[0013] Furthermore, in this specification, ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," etc., do not mean the number or order of components unless otherwise specified, but are used to avoid confusion and to distinguish similar components.

[0014] (Embodiment) <Structure> [bicycle] First, before describing the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment, the bicycle 10 on which the bicycle transport support device 1 is used will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a side view of the bicycle 10 according to the embodiment. Note that the illustration of the sprocket 35, which will be described later, is simplified in Figure 1. In the following, unless otherwise specified, the bicycle 10 will be described as being in a state in which it can be driven. Here, the state in which the bicycle 10 can be driven means that a pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212) are attached to the bicycle 10, and both of the pair of wheels 21 are in contact with a ground surface 100 or the like.

[0015] In the embodiment, the bicycle 10 is a road bike. Note that the bicycle 10 is not limited to a road bike, and may be, for example, a gravel road bike, a land rider, a cross bike, a mini velo, or a mountain bike, etc. Specifically, the bicycle 10 may be any bicycle that can be carried on public transportation such as a train, etc. in a state where a pair of wheels (front wheel and rear wheel) are removed.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the bicycle 10 includes a frame 20, a pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212), a handle 22, a saddle 23, a drive mechanism 3, and a pair of brakes 4 (front brake 41 and rear brake 42). Further, the bicycle 10 includes a wheel-carrying support 1, a front carrier 5, a front fender 61, and a rear fender 62.

[0017] The frame 20 is the framework of the bicycle 10. The frame 20 is made of a metal such as, for example, an aluminum alloy, iron, chromium molybdenum steel, steel, or titanium. Note that the frame 20 may be made of carbon, a synthetic resin, or the like.

[0018] The frame 20 has a head tube 201, a top tube 202, a down tube 203, a seat tube 204, a pair (one in the drawing) of chain stays 205, and a pair (one in the drawing) of seat stays 206.

[0019] The front fork 201a and handlebars 22 are attached to the head tube 201 so as to be rotatable around an axis along the longitudinal direction of the head tube 201. The front wheel 211 is rotatably attached to the lower end (a pair of front ends 201b) of a pair (one in the illustration) of blades of the front fork 201a. In this embodiment, the front wheel 211 is detachably attached to the pair of front ends 201b of the front fork 201a using a quick-release skewer (not shown). The handlebars 22 and front fork 201a are rotatably connected to the head tube 201 via a head part 201c. Therefore, by turning the handlebars 22 left or right, the direction of the front wheel 211, which is supported by the front fork 201a, can be rotated left or right.

[0020] The front end of the top tube 202 and the front end of the down tube 203 are both connected to the head tube 201. The rear end of the top tube 202 and the rear end of the down tube 203 are connected to the upper and lower ends of the seat tube 204, respectively.

[0021] The seat tube 204 holds the saddle 23 via a seat post 231. Specifically, the seat post 231 is attached to the seat tube 204 so as to be movable along the longitudinal direction of the seat tube 204. The saddle 23 is attached to the upper end of the seat post 231. The seat tube 204 is located in the front-rear direction between the front wheel 211 and the rear wheel 212.

[0022] Each of the pair of chainstays 205 has its front end connected to the lower end of the seat tube 204. Each of the pair of seatstays 206 has its front end connected to the upper end of the seat tube 204. The rear ends of the pair of chainstays 205 and the rear ends of the pair of seatstays 206 are connected to each other, and the rear wheel 212 and the sprocket 35 which is linked to the axle of the rear wheel 212 are attached to these parts (a pair of rear ends 208). In this embodiment, the rear wheel 212 is detachably attached to the pair of rear ends 208 using a quick-release skewer (not shown).

[0023] A chainring 34 having an inner ring and an outer ring is attached to the bottom bracket shell where the lower end of the seat tube 204 and the rear end of the down tube 203 are connected. A chain 33 is stretched between the chainring 34 and the sprocket 35. As a result, the rotational force of the crank 31 and chainring 34, which are rotated when the pedal 32 is pressed, is transmitted to the rear wheel 212 via the chain 33 and sprocket 35. In this embodiment, the crank 31, pedal 32, chain 33, chainring 34, and sprocket 35 constitute a drive mechanism 3 that drives the rear wheel 212 using human power. The drive mechanism 3 also includes a rear derailleur 36 and a front derailleur 37, which are gear shifters described later.

[0024] The front wheel 211 has a tire 211a for the bicycle 10 to travel on. The front wheel 211 is the front wheel 21 of a pair of wheels 21 arranged in the front-to-back direction. The front wheel 211 is supported by a pair of front ends 201b so that it can rotate around an axis along the left-to-right direction.

[0025] The rear wheel 212 has a tire 212a for the bicycle 10 to run on. The rear wheel 212 is the rear wheel 21 of a pair of wheels 21 arranged in the front-to-back direction. The rear wheel 212 is supported by a pair of rear ends 208 so that it can rotate about an axis along the left-to-right direction. The rear wheel 212 has a sprocket 35. The sprocket 35 is connected to a chainring 34 via a chain 33.

[0026] The saddle 23 is the part on which the user sits. The saddle 23 is attached to the front end of the seat post 231 and is configured to be adjustable in the vertical direction by moving the seat post 231 vertically relative to the seat tube 204.

[0027] The handlebars 22 change the steering angle of the bicycle 10, for example, when a user steers the bicycle 10. A pair of grips, a pair of shift levers, and a pair of brake levers are provided at both ends of the handlebars 22. The pair of grips are the parts that the user holds with their hands when riding in a proper posture.

[0028] The right-hand shift lever of the pair of shift levers drives the rear derailleur 36, switching the gear on which the chain 33 is mounted to one of the multiple gears on the sprocket 35. The left-hand shift lever of the pair of shift levers drives the front derailleur 37, switching the ring on which the chain 33 is mounted to either the inner or outer ring of the chainring 34. In this embodiment, the pair of shift levers drive the rear derailleur 36 and the front derailleur 37 via wires, respectively, but the rear derailleur 36 and the front derailleur 37 may also be driven electrically.

[0029] The right brake lever of the pair of brake levers drives the front brake 41, thereby applying mechanical braking force to the front wheel 211. The left brake lever of the pair of brake levers drives the rear brake 42, thereby applying mechanical braking force to the rear wheel 212.

[0030] The crank 31 comprises a crank spindle 311 and a pair of crank arms 312. One crank arm 312 is provided on each side of the bottom bracket shell, where the lower end of the seat tube 204 and the rear end of the down tube 203 are connected, and is fixed to both ends of the crank spindle 311, which extends in the left-right direction. One end of the crank arm 312 is rotatably fixed to the crank spindle 311, and the pedal 32 is rotatably fixed to the other end of the crank arm 312.

[0031] The pedal 32 receives the user's pedaling force, for example, when the user is riding the bicycle 10. The pedal 32 is attached to the end of each crank arm 312 in the longitudinal direction, on the side opposite to the crank shaft 311. The pedal 32 is rotatably mounted to the crank arm 312. The axis of rotation of the pedal 32 is approximately parallel to the axis of rotation of the crank shaft 311 of the crank 31.

[0032] The chainring 34 is attached to the crank axle 311 of the crank 31. When the pedal 32 is pressed down by the user, the chainring 34 rotates via the crank arm 312 and the crank axle 311. The rotation of the chainring 34 causes the sprocket 35 to rotate via the chain 33, and the rear wheel 212 to rotate as well.

[0033] The chain 33 transmits the rotational force of the chainring 34, which is rotated when the pedal 32 is pressed down, to the sprocket 35. The chain 33 is a power transmission body such as a belt, shaft, wire, or gear.

[0034] The rear derailleur 36 is mounted on one of the pair of rear dropouts 208 (in this case, the right one). The rear derailleur 36 is configured to shift gears by operating the right-hand shift lever of a pair of shift levers located on the handlebars 22, thereby switching between the multiple gears of the sprocket 35.

[0035] The front derailleur 37 is mounted on the seat tube 204. The front derailleur 37 is configured to shift gears by operating the left-hand shift lever of a pair of shift levers located on the handlebars 22, which switches between the inner and outer rings of the chainring 34.

[0036] The front brake 41 is mounted on the upper end of the front fork 201a. The front brake 41 is a rim brake type, and when the right brake lever of a pair of brake levers provided on the handlebars 22 is operated, a pair of brake shoes clamp the rim of the front wheel 211, thereby applying mechanical braking force to the front wheel 211.

[0037] The rear brake 42 is attached to a pair of seat stays 206. The rear brake 42 is a rim brake, and when the left brake lever of a pair of brake levers provided on the handlebars 22 is operated, a pair of brake shoes clamp the rim of the rear wheel 212, thereby applying mechanical braking force to the rear wheel 212. Note that both the front brake 41 and the rear brake 42 may be disc brakes.

[0038] The front carrier 5 is constructed by assembling multiple metal pipes and is mounted on the frame 20 so as to be positioned above the front wheel 211. The front carrier 5 has a loading section 51, an upright section 52, a pair (one in the illustration) of upright pipes 53, and a pair of connecting members (not shown). The loading section 51 has a loading surface on which luggage is placed. The upright section 52 rises upward from the rear end of the loading section 51 and supports the luggage placed on the loading section 51 from the rear.

[0039] The upper ends of each of the pair of vertical pipes 53 are connected to the mounting section 51. The lower ends of each of the pair of vertical pipes 53 are connected to the pair of front ends 201b. The front ends of each of the pair of connecting members are connected to the mounting section 51. The rear ends of each of the pair of connecting members are connected to the upper ends of the front forks 201a. The pair of vertical pipes 53 and the pair of connecting members secure the front carrier 5 to the frame 20.

[0040] The front fender 61 covers a portion of the outer circumference of the front wheel 211 and has the function of preventing foreign objects such as mud or pebbles from being scattered onto the frame 20 or the user while the bicycle 10 is in motion. The front fender 61 is connected to the rear end of the support pipe 611. The front end of the support pipe 611 is connected to the lower end of one of the pair of blades of the front fork 201a (in this case, the right blade). The support pipe 611 is configured to rotate along the circumferential direction of the front wheel 211, with its front end as the pivot point. Therefore, the front fender 61 is configured to rotate along the outer circumference of the front wheel 211 as the support pipe 611 rotates (see the white arrow on the right in Figure 1).

[0041] In this embodiment, the front carrier 5 has a stopper 54 located on the rotational trajectory of the support pipe 611. The stopper 54 is provided at the lower end of the vertical pipe 53 and is positioned so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the left-right direction when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can travel. The stopper 54 is located on the rotational trajectory of the support pipe 611 to which the front fender 61 is attached, and by contacting the support pipe 611, it restricts the rearward rotation of the support pipe 611.

[0042] Therefore, the front fender 61, which rotates together with the support pipe 611, is also restricted from rotating backward by the stopper 54. This makes it possible to fix the front fender 61 in an appropriate position that allows it to perform its function effectively.

[0043] The rear fender 62 covers a portion of the outer circumference of the rear wheel 212 and has the function of preventing mud, pebbles, and other foreign objects from being scattered onto the frame 20, the user, the bicycle transport support 1, or the luggage supported by the bicycle transport support 1 while the bicycle 10 is in motion. The rear fender 62 is connected to the rear end of the support pipe 621. The front end of the support pipe 621 is connected to the right rear end 208 of a pair of rear ends 208. The support pipe 621 is configured to rotate along the circumferential direction of the rear wheel 212, with its front end as a pivot point. Therefore, the rear fender 62 is configured to rotate along the outer circumference of the rear wheel 212 as the support pipe 621 rotates (see the white arrow on the left in Figure 1).

[0044] In this embodiment, as will be described later, the bicycle transport support 1 has a stopper 16 located on the rotational trajectory of the support pipe 621. Therefore, the rotation of the support pipe 621 backward is restricted by the stopper 16. Consequently, the rear fender 62, which rotates together with the support pipe 621, is also restricted from rotating backward by the stopper 16. This makes it possible to fix the rear fender 62 in an appropriate position that allows it to perform its function effectively.

[0045] [Cycling support] Next, the bicycle transport support 1 will be described using Figures 1 to 4. Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the bicycle transport support 1 according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is a side view of the bicycle 10 in a transportable state. Figure 4 is a bottom view of the bicycle 10 in a transportable state. Note that the illustration of the sprocket 35 is simplified in Figure 3. Also, some parts such as the chain 33 are omitted from the illustration in Figures 3 and 4.

[0046] Here, the state in which the bicycle 10 is ready for transport means that the pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212) removed from the bicycle 10 are assembled so as to sandwich the frame 20 from both the left and right sides, and the bicycle 10 is standing upright on the ground surface 100 so that the longitudinal direction of the bicycle 10 (the direction in which the pair of wheels 21 are aligned) is aligned vertically. In this embodiment, the bicycle 10 is made to stand upright on the ground surface 100 by using the transport support 1. By storing the transportable bicycle 10 in a transport bag, the user can carry the bicycle 10 using the shoulder strap provided on the transport bag.

[0047] As shown in Figure 1, the bicycle transport support 1 is attached to the rear end of the frame 20 of the bicycle 10. Specifically, the bicycle transport support 1 is fixed to a pair of seat stays 206 by appropriate mounting means, such as screws, using a pair (one in the illustration) of first connecting members 17a made of metal pipes. The bicycle transport support 1 is also fixed to a pair of rear ends 208 by appropriate mounting means, such as screws, using a pair (one in the illustration) of second connecting members 17b. The pair of second connecting members 17b are the parts to which the lower ends of a pair of vertical pipes 14 and the front ends of a pair of horizontal pipes 15, respectively, are connected. The bicycle transport support 1 may be attached during the manufacture of the bicycle 10, or it may be attached to the manufactured bicycle 10 afterwards.

[0048] As shown in Figure 2, the bicycle transport support device 1 is constructed by assembling multiple metal pipes and includes a frame support section 11, a luggage support section 12, a pair of wheel support sections 13, a pair of vertical pipes 14, a pair of horizontal pipes 15, a stopper 16, a pair of first connecting members 17a, and a pair of second connecting members 17b. Note that the pair of first connecting members 17a and the pair of second connecting members 17b are not shown in Figure 2.

[0049] The vehicle support section 11 includes a pair of first pipes 111 and a first connecting pipe 112. The pair of first pipes 111 are arranged such that their longitudinal direction aligns with the vertical direction (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the ground surface 100) when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state. The pair of first pipes 111 are also arranged side by side in the left-right direction with a certain distance between them when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state, and the rear wheel 212 is located in the space between them.

[0050] The first connecting pipe 112 is connected to the pair of first pipes 111 by having one end connected to one of the first pipes 111 and the other end connected to the other first pipe 111. The first connecting pipe 112 has the function of reinforcing the pair of first pipes 111 so that the relative positional relationship of the pair of first pipes 111 does not change. The first connecting pipe 112 also has the function of making it easier for the user to hold it in their hand, for example, when preparing the bicycle 10 for transport.

[0051] The pair of first pipes 111 and first connecting pipe 112 are placed on the ground surface 100 when the bicycle 10 is ready for transport (see Figure 3). As a result, the bicycle 10 is supported by the frame support 11 with its longitudinal direction aligned with the vertical. In other words, the bicycle 10 stands upright on the ground surface 100 with its longitudinal direction aligned with the vertical.

[0052] Here, the pair of first pipes 111 and first connecting pipe 112 are located behind the rear derailleur 36 when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state. In other words, the pair of first pipes 111 and first connecting pipe 112 are located behind the parts that make up the bicycle 10 (excluding the rear wheel 212, rear fender 62, and support pipe 621). Therefore, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported, the parts that make up the bicycle 10 are located above the pair of first pipes 111 and first connecting pipe 112, and do not touch the ground surface 100 (see Figure 3).

[0053] In this way, the vehicle support section 11 supports the bicycle 10 with respect to the ground surface 100 such that, with the pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212) removed from the bicycle 10, the parts that make up the bicycle 10 do not touch the ground surface 100. The bicycle 10 is positioned with its longitudinal direction aligned vertically.

[0054] Furthermore, as described above, the bicycle transport support 1 is fixed to the rear end of the frame 20 using a pair of first connecting members 17a and a pair of second connecting members 17b. Therefore, the relative position of the bicycle transport support 1 with respect to the frame 20 is the same whether the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden or in a state where it can be transported. In other words, the frame support 11 is fixed to the rear end of the frame 20 without changing its relative position with respect to the frame 20. Consequently, it is possible to make the bicycle 10 stand upright on the ground surface 100 using the frame support 11 without requiring any work such as deforming the bicycle transport support 1.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the luggage support section 12 includes a pair of second pipes 121, a second connecting pipe 122, and a third connecting pipe 123. The pair of second pipes 121 are arranged so that their longitudinal direction aligns with the front-to-back direction (i.e., the direction parallel to the ground surface 100) when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can travel. The pair of second pipes 121 are also arranged so that they are spaced apart from each other in the left-to-right direction when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can travel. Furthermore, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can travel, the rear ends of the pair of second pipes 121 are each connected to the upper ends of the pair of first pipes 111. In other words, the luggage support section 12 is integrally constructed with the vehicle body support section 11.

[0056] The second connecting pipe 122 is connected to the pair of second pipes 121 by having one end connected to the front end of one of the pair of second pipes 121 and the other end connected to the front end of the other second pipe 121. The third connecting pipe 123 is connected to the pair of second pipes 121 by having one end connected to one of the pair of second pipes 121 and the other end connected to the other second pipe 121. When the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state, the third connecting pipe 123 is located behind the second connecting pipe 122. Both the second connecting pipe 122 and the third connecting pipe 123 have the function of reinforcing the pair of second pipes 121 so that the relative positional relationship of the pair of second pipes 121 does not change.

[0057] In this configuration, when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state, the surface enclosed by the pair of second pipes 121 and second connecting pipes 122 in a plan view of the luggage support section 12 from above functions as a loading surface on which luggage is placed. Furthermore, luggage can be attached to the pair of second pipes 121 and second connecting pipes 122.

[0058] Thus, the luggage support section 12 is integrally formed with the vehicle body support section 11 and is located above the rear wheel 212 of the pair of wheels 21 when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state, and supports the luggage. In other words, in this embodiment, the bicycle transport support device 1 also functions as a rear carrier that supports luggage at the rear of the bicycle 10.

[0059] Each of the pair of wheel support sections 13 is integrally configured with the pair of first pipes 111 of the vehicle body support section 11. Specifically, the right wheel support section 13 of the pair of wheel support sections 13 is connected to the longitudinal central portion of the right first pipe 111 of the pair of first pipes 111. Also, the left wheel support section 13 of the pair of wheel support sections 13 is connected to the longitudinal central portion of the left first pipe 111 of the pair of first pipes 111.

[0060] Each wheel support section 13 has a bottom section 131 and an upright section 132. The bottom section 131 is made up of a pair of pipes that protrude outward from the first pipe 111 when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven. The upright section 132 is made up of a U-shaped pipe that protrudes from the ends of the pair of pipes that make up the bottom section 131 when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven.

[0061] Here, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported, the bottoms 131 of the pair of wheel support parts 13 are in contact with the ground surface 100 (see Figures 3 and 4). Therefore, it is possible to place a pair of wheels 21 removed from the bicycle 10 on the bottoms 131 of the pair of wheel support parts 13. The upright parts 132 of the pair of wheel support parts 13 are raised along the sides of the wheels 21 when the wheels 21 are placed on the bottoms 131 (see Figure 3). Therefore, the upright parts 132 of the pair of wheel support parts 13 can prevent the pair of wheels 21 from falling outwards.

[0062] Thus, the pair of wheel support sections 13 are integrally formed with the frame support section 11, and support the pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212) respectively when the bicycle 10 is supported by the frame support section 11. Each of the pair of wheel support sections 13 has an upright section 132 that rises from the frame support section 11 along the side surface of the corresponding wheel 21.

[0063] The pair of vertical pipes 14 are arranged so that their longitudinal direction aligns with the vertical direction (i.e., the direction perpendicular to the ground surface 100) when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden. The pair of first pipes 111 are arranged so that they are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden. The upper ends of the pair of vertical pipes 14 are connected to the longitudinal central part of the pair of second pipes 121. The lower ends of the pair of vertical pipes 14 are connected to the pair of second connecting members 17b (see Figure 1).

[0064] The pair of horizontal pipes 15 are arranged such that, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden, their longitudinal direction is inclined at a predetermined angle to the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden, the pair of horizontal pipes 15 are arranged side-by-side in the left-to-right direction with a certain distance between them. The rear ends of the pair of horizontal pipes 15 are each connected to the lower ends of the pair of first pipes 111. The front ends of the pair of horizontal pipes 15 are each connected to the pair of second connecting members 17b (see Figure 1).

[0065] The stopper 16 is connected to one of the pair of horizontal pipes 15 (in this case, the right-hand pipe). The stopper 16 is positioned so that its longitudinal direction aligns with the left-right direction when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state. The stopper 16 is located on the rotational trajectory of the support pipe 621 to which the rear fender 62 is attached, and by contacting the support pipe 621, it restricts the rearward rotation of the support pipe 621.

[0066] [Steps to take when transporting your bicycle by train / bus] The following describes the process by which a user transforms bicycle 10 from a rideable state to a transportable state when transporting it by train.

[0067] First, the user rotates the support pipe 621 to which the rear fender 62 is attached clockwise, thereby storing the rear fender 62 and support pipe 621 in front of the bicycle transport support 1. This prevents the rear fender 62 from coming into contact with the ground surface 100 and interfering with the work when the bicycle support 11 is placed on the ground surface 100.

[0068] Furthermore, the user rotates the support pipe 611 to which the front fender 61 is attached clockwise, thereby storing the front fender 61 and support pipe 611 in the space between the front fork 201a and the vertical pipe 53 of the front carrier 5. This prevents the front fender 61 and support pipe 611 from protruding outward and making it difficult to store in the carrying bag when the handlebars 22 are rotated and tilted.

[0069] Next, the user removes the pair of wheels 21 from the bicycle 10. Specifically, the user operates a lever on the skewer of the front wheel 211 to release the skewer from the pair of front ends 201b, and removes the front wheel 211 from the pair of front ends 201b. The user also operates a lever on the skewer of the rear wheel 212 to release the skewer from the pair of rear ends 208, and removes the rear wheel 212 from the pair of rear ends 208. At this time, the user removes the chain 33 from the sprocket 35 of the rear wheel 212.

[0070] Next, the user holds the bicycle 10 in their hand and rotates it so that the frame support portion 11 of the bicycle transport support 1 contacts the ground surface 100. At this time, the user can hold the first connecting pipe 112 of the frame support portion 11 of the bicycle transport support 1 in their hand, which makes it easier to rotate the bicycle 10.

[0071] Next, the user rotates the handlebars 22 of the bicycle 10, which is standing upright by the frame support 11, clockwise. This makes it less likely for the handlebars 22 to protrude outward, making it easier to store the bicycle 10 in a carrying bag.

[0072] Next, the user combines the pair of wheels 21 removed from the bicycle 10 by sandwiching them between the frame 20 from both sides. Specifically, the user combines the pair of wheels 21 from both sides of the frame 20 so that the center of each wheel 21 is located in the space enclosed by the seat tube 204, the pair of chainstays 205, and the pair of seatstays 206.

[0073] At this time, the user places the pair of wheels 21 on the bottom 131 of the pair of wheel support parts 13, such that each wheel 21 is positioned inside the upright portion 132 of the pair of wheel support parts 13. In this way, the pair of wheels 21 are supported by the pair of wheel support parts 13, with each wheel 21 being prevented from falling outward by the pair of upright portions 132.

[0074] Furthermore, by combining the pair of wheels 21 such that the sprocket 35 of the rear wheel 212 faces outwards, the frame 20 can be prevented from being damaged by the sprocket 35. A protective cover may also be placed over the sprocket 35.

[0075] Next, the user secures the pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20 using the band 6. Specifically, the user secures the pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20 by wrapping the band 6 around the top of each wheel 21 and the down tube 203. As a result, the pair of wheels 21 are firmly fixed to the frame 20 by the pair of wheel supports 13 and the band 6, making it less likely to collapse when the user carries the bicycle 10.

[0076] By performing the above steps, the bicycle 10 will be in a transportable state as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The user can then carry the transportable bicycle 10 by placing it in a transport bag.

[0077] [Effects and Effects] The following describes the operation and effects of the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment. First, we will explain the problems that arise when transforming the comparative example bicycle from a rideable state to a transportable state. The comparative example bicycle differs from the bicycle 10 according to the embodiment in that it is not equipped with the bicycle transport support device 1.

[0078] When transforming the comparative example bicycle from a rideable state to a transportable state, the user first attaches end fittings to the pair of rear ends of the comparative example bicycle. Then, the user makes the comparative example bicycle stand upright on the ground surface 100 by making sure that the end fittings and the rear end of the saddle are in contact with the ground surface 100. This makes it possible to make the comparative example bicycle stand upright on the ground surface 100 while preventing the rear derailleur of the comparative example bicycle from coming into contact with the ground surface 100.

[0079] Thus, in order to make the comparative example bicycle stand upright on the ground surface 100, it is necessary to attach end fittings to the comparative example bicycle. Therefore, when transporting the bicycle by train, there is a problem that the user must always carry the end fittings with them. In addition, because the user has to perform the task of attaching the end fittings, there is a problem that the work required to make the comparative example bicycle transportable is cumbersome. Furthermore, because the comparative example bicycle stands upright on the ground surface 100 by what is essentially point contact at two points, the end fitting and the rear end of the saddle, the self-supporting state of the comparative example bicycle is relatively unstable, and there is a problem that the work must be performed with the comparative example bicycle supported by, for example, a wall.

[0080] In contrast, the bicycle 10 equipped with the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment allows the bicycle 10 to stand upright on the ground surface 100 simply by placing the frame support part 11 on the ground surface 100 when transforming it from a rideable state to a transportable state, without any parts of the bicycle 10, such as the rear derailleur 36, coming into contact with the ground surface 100. Therefore, the user does not need to attach the end fittings, and the user does not need to carry the end fittings when transporting the bicycle. Furthermore, the bicycle 10 equipped with the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment stands upright on the ground surface 100 with the frame support part 11 in line contact with at least two or more pipes, making it easier to maintain stability in this upright position. Therefore, there is no need to support the bicycle 10 against a wall or the like, making it easier to transform it into a transportable state.

[0081] Thus, the bicycle transport support device 1 according to this embodiment has the advantage of making it easier to perform the work required to prepare the bicycle 10 for transport. Furthermore, when removing the bicycle 10 from the transport bag and assembling it, the bicycle 10 can be made to stand upright on the ground surface 100 by the frame support part 11, which is an advantage compared to the bicycle of the comparative example, as it makes this work easier.

[0082] Furthermore, in the comparative example bicycle, when fixing a pair of wheels to the frame, the user needs to use multiple bands to secure the pair of wheels 21 to the frame at multiple points at approximately equal intervals. In contrast, the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment is equipped with a pair of wheel support parts 13, so when fixing a pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20, it is sufficient to secure the pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20 at only one point using the band 6. Therefore, the bicycle transport support device 1 according to the embodiment has the advantage of making it easier to fix a pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20.

[0083] (Other variations, etc.) Although the present disclosure has been described above based on embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments.

[0084] <First variation> The bicycle transport support 1A according to the first modified example will be described below with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a perspective view illustrating the case where the auxiliary support part 18 of the bicycle transport support 1A according to the first modified example is in the first position. Figure 6 is a perspective view illustrating the case where the auxiliary support part 18 of the bicycle transport support 1A according to the first modified example is in the second position. Note that both Figures 5 and 6 illustrate only a part of the bicycle transport support 1A according to this modified example. Furthermore, in the following, explanations of points common to the bicycle transport support 1 according to the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0085] In the modified bicycle transport support device 1A, the luggage support section 12 has an auxiliary support section 18 that extends rearward from its rear end when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven. The auxiliary support section 18 is composed of a U-shaped pipe 181 when viewed from above in a plan view when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven. Both ends of the pipe 181 are connected to the rear ends of a pair of second pipes 121 of the luggage support section 12 via a hinge structure with an axle pipe 182 as the axis. Therefore, the auxiliary support section 18 is configured to rotate between a first position (see Figure 5) aligned with the luggage support section 12 and a second position (see Figure 6) aligned with the vehicle body support section 11.

[0086] Furthermore, a restricting pipe 183 is connected to the longitudinal center of the shaft pipe 182, extending forward when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state. The restricting pipe 183 rotates together with the shaft pipe 182 and the auxiliary support section 18 (pipe 181). One end of the restricting pipe 183 fits into a semicircular receiving section 123a provided on the third connecting pipe 123 of the luggage support section 12, thereby restricting the counterclockwise rotation of the shaft pipe 182 and the auxiliary support section 18 (pipe 181).

[0087] Here, a ball catch (not shown) is installed inside the receiving portion 123a. Therefore, when one end of the regulating pipe 183 is fitted into the receiving portion 123a, it is fixed in place by the ball catch. Thus, the user can fix the auxiliary support portion 18 in the first position by performing the operation of fitting the regulating pipe 183 into the receiving portion 123a.

[0088] Furthermore, the restricting pipe 183 restricts the clockwise rotation of the shaft pipe 182 and the auxiliary support section 18 (pipe 181) by fitting one end of the restricting pipe 183 into a receiving section 112a with a semicircular cross-section provided on the first connecting pipe 112 of the vehicle body support section 11.

[0089] Here, a ball catch (not shown) is installed inside the receiving portion 112a. Therefore, when one end of the regulating pipe 183 is fitted into the receiving portion 112a, it is fixed in place by the ball catch. Thus, the user can fix the auxiliary support portion 18 in the second position by performing the operation of fitting the regulating pipe 183 into the receiving portion 112a.

[0090] When the auxiliary support part 18 is in the first position, and the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven, the surface enclosed by the pipe 181 and the axle pipe 182 in a plan view of the auxiliary support part 18 from above functions as a surface on which luggage is placed. When the auxiliary support part 18 is in the second position, and the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported, the auxiliary support part 18 is in contact with the ground surface 100.

[0091] As described above, the bicycle transport support device 1A according to this modified version has the advantage that, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven, luggage can be placed not only on the upper surface of the luggage support part 12 but also on the upper surface of the auxiliary support part 18, thereby increasing the luggage loading space. Furthermore, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported, the auxiliary support part 18, in addition to the frame support part 11, is in contact with the ground surface 100, which has the advantage of providing stronger support for the bicycle 10.

[0092] <Second variation> The bicycle transport support 1B according to the second modified example will be described below with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating the wheel support portion 13 of the bicycle transport support 1B according to the second modified example. Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the wheel support portion 13 of the bicycle transport support 1B according to the second modified example. Figure 8 is a plan view of the wheel support portion 13 seen from above. Figure 8(a) shows the case where the wheel support portion 13 is in the third position, and Figure 8(b) shows the case where the wheel support portion 13 is in the fourth position. Note that both Figures 7 and 8 illustrate only a part of the bicycle transport support 1B according to this modified example. Furthermore, in the following, explanations of points common to the bicycle transport support 1 according to the embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0093] In the modified bicycle transport support 1B, each of the upright portions 132 of the pair of wheel support portions 13 is configured to rotate around the portion connected to the frame support portion 11 as an axis. Specifically, in each of the pair of wheel support portions 13, the bottom portion 131 is connected to the first pipe 111 of the frame support portion 11 via a hinge structure. Therefore, the upright portion 132 is configured to rotate between a third position aligned vertically when the bicycle 10 is transportable (see Figure 8(a)) and a fourth position aligned longitudinally when the bicycle 10 is drivable (see Figure 8(b)).

[0094] Furthermore, a permanent magnet 13a is attached to one end of the bottom portion 131 (the end opposite to the side connected to the upright portion 132). The permanent magnet 13a rotates together with the bottom portion 131 and the upright portion 132. The permanent magnet 13a is attracted to and fixed to a receiving portion 13b made of a magnetic material provided on the first pipe 111. The receiving portion 13b is configured in an L-shape when viewed from above in a plan view when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven.

[0095] As shown in Figure 8(a), when the upright portion 132 is in the third position, the permanent magnet 13a is attracted to and fixed to one end of the receiving portion 13b. Therefore, the upright portion 132 is restricted from rotating counterclockwise from the third position. Also, as shown in Figure 8(b), when the upright portion 132 is in the fourth position, the permanent magnet 13a is attracted to and fixed to the other end of the receiving portion 13b. Therefore, the upright portion 132 is restricted from rotating clockwise from the fourth position. Thus, the user can fix the upright portion 132 in either the third or fourth position by rotating it clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0096] When the upright portion 132 is in the third position, it supports the wheel 21 along the side of the wheel 21 when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported. On the other hand, when the upright portion 132 is in the fourth position, it supports luggage attached to either the left or right side of the bicycle 10, such as a side bag, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven.

[0097] As described above, the bicycle transport support device 1B according to this modified version has the advantage that, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven, luggage attached to the side of the bicycle 10 can be supported by the upright portion 132.

[0098] <Other variations> In this embodiment, the bicycle transport support 1 is equipped with a luggage support section 12, but it is not limited to this. For example, the bicycle transport support 1 does not need to be equipped with a luggage support section 12.

[0099] In this embodiment, the bicycle transport support 1 is equipped with a pair of wheel support parts 13, but is not limited to this. For example, the bicycle transport support 1 does not need to be equipped with a pair of wheel support parts 13. In this case, the user may use multiple bands 6 to fix the pair of wheels 21 (front wheel 211 and rear wheel 212) to the frame 20 at multiple points at approximately equal intervals.

[0100] In this embodiment, the frame support portion 11 of the bicycle transport support 1 may be coated with resin, for example. In this case, when the frame support portion 11 is placed on the ground surface 100, the ground surface 100 is less likely to be damaged.

[0101] In this embodiment, the bicycle transport support 1 is constructed by assembling multiple metal pipes, but it is not limited to this. For example, the bicycle transport support 1 only needs to have sufficient strength to allow the bicycle 10 to stand upright when the bicycle 10 is in a transportable state, and may be constructed by assembling multiple pipes made of materials other than metal (for example, resin, etc.).

[0102] In this embodiment, the bicycle 10 is equipped with a front carrier 5, but it is not limited to this. For example, the bicycle 10 may not be equipped with a front carrier 5.

[0103] In this embodiment, the bicycle 10 is equipped with both a front fender 61 and a rear fender 62, but is not limited to this. For example, the bicycle 10 may be equipped with only one of the front fender 61 and the rear fender 62, or it may not be equipped with both.

[0104] In this embodiment, the stopper 16 is integrated with the bicycle transport support 1, but is not limited to this. For example, the stopper 16 may be attached to the frame 20 of the bicycle 10 by itself. Also, in this embodiment, the stopper 54 is integrated with the front carrier 5, but is not limited to this. For example, the stopper 54 may be attached to the frame 20 of the bicycle 10 by itself.

[0105] Furthermore, this disclosure also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the embodiments without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0106] (summary) As described above, the bicycle transport support devices 1, 1A, and 1B according to the first embodiment are bicycle transport support devices attached to the rear end of the frame 20 of the bicycle 10, and include a body support portion 11. The body support portion 11 supports the bicycle 10 with respect to the ground surface 100 such that, when the pair of wheels 21 have been removed from the bicycle 10, the parts constituting the bicycle 10 do not touch the ground surface 100, and the longitudinal direction of the bicycle 10 is aligned vertically.

[0107] According to this, there is an advantage in that it makes it easier to perform the work required to prepare bicycle 10 for transport by train.

[0108] Furthermore, the bicycle transport support devices 1, 1A, and 1B according to the second embodiment further include a pair of wheel support parts 13 in the first embodiment. The pair of wheel support parts 13 are integrally formed with the frame support part 11 and support a pair of wheels 21 respectively when the bicycle 10 is supported by the frame support part 11. Each of the pair of wheel support parts 13 has an upright part 132 that rises from the frame support part 11 so as to be along the side surface of the corresponding wheel 21.

[0109] According to this, when fixing a pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20, it is only necessary to fix the pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20 at one point with the band 6, which has the advantage of making the work of fixing the pair of wheels 21 to the frame 20 easier.

[0110] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the bicycle transport support device 1B, the upright portion 132 is configured to be rotatable about the portion connected to the vehicle body support portion 11 as an axis, as in the second embodiment.

[0111] According to this, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven, the luggage attached to the side of the bicycle 10 can be supported by the upright portion 132, which is an advantage.

[0112] Furthermore, the bicycle transport support devices 1, 1A, and 1B according to the fourth embodiment further include a luggage support section 12 in any one of the first to third embodiments. The luggage support section 12 is integrally formed with the frame support section 11 and is located above the rear wheel 212 of the pair of wheels 21 when the bicycle 10 is in a drivable state, and supports the luggage.

[0113] According to this, there is an advantage that when the bicycle 10 is in a rideable condition, the bicycle transport support devices 1, 1A, and 1B can also be used as a rear carrier.

[0114] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment of the bicycle transport support device 1A, in the fourth embodiment, the luggage support portion 12 has an auxiliary support portion 18 that extends rearward from its rear end when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be driven. The auxiliary support portion 18 is configured to be rotatable between a position aligned with the luggage support portion 12 and a position aligned with the vehicle body support portion 11.

[0115] According to this, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be ridden, luggage can be placed not only on the upper surface of the luggage support part 12 but also on the upper surface of the auxiliary support part 18, which has the advantage of expanding the luggage loading space. Furthermore, when the bicycle 10 is in a state where it can be transported, the auxiliary support part 18, in addition to the frame support part 11, is in contact with the ground surface 100, which has the advantage of being able to support the bicycle 10 more firmly.

[0116] Furthermore, in the bicycle transport support devices 1, 1A, and 1B according to the sixth embodiment, in any one of the first to fifth embodiments, the vehicle support portion 11 is fixed to the rear end of the frame 20 without changing its relative positional relationship with the frame 20.

[0117] According to this, there is an advantage in that the process of preparing the bicycle 10 for transport does not require deformation of the frame support part 11, making the above work easier.

[0118] Furthermore, in the seventh embodiment, the bicycle 10 has a transport support device 1, 1A, or 1B of any one of the first to sixth embodiments attached to the rear end of the frame 20. The bicycle 10 is configured so that a pair of wheels 21 can be attached to and detached from the frame 20.

[0119] According to this, there is an advantage in that it makes it easier to perform the work required to prepare bicycle 10 for transport by train. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1,1A,1B Wheel support 10 Bicycles 100 Ground plane 11. Vehicle body support section 12. Luggage support section 13 Wheel support part 132 Standing part 18 Auxiliary support part 20 frames 21 wheels 212 Rear wheel

Claims

1. A support device for transporting a bicycle, which is attached to the rear end of the bicycle frame, With a pair of wheels removed from the bicycle, a body support portion supports the bicycle with its longitudinal direction oriented vertically relative to the ground surface so that the parts constituting the bicycle do not touch the ground surface, It comprises a pair of wheel support parts, which are integrally formed with the frame support part and support the pair of wheels respectively when the bicycle is supported by the frame support part, Each of the pair of wheel support sections has an upright section that rises from the vehicle body support section so as to follow the side of the corresponding wheel. Support for bicycles.

2. The upright portion is configured to be rotatable about the part connected to the vehicle body support portion. The bicycle transport support device according to claim 1.

3. The vehicle further comprises a luggage support section, which is integrally formed with the vehicle body support section and is located above the rear wheel of the pair of wheels when the bicycle is in a drivable state, for supporting luggage. A bicycle transport support device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The aforementioned luggage support section has an auxiliary support section that extends rearward from its rear end when the bicycle is in a state where it can be driven. The auxiliary support portion is configured to be rotatable between a position aligned with the luggage support portion and a position aligned with the vehicle body support portion. The bicycle transport support device according to claim 3.

5. The vehicle body support portion is fixed to the rear end of the frame without changing its relative positional relationship with the frame. A bicycle transport support device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The bicycle transport support device according to claim 1 or 2 is attached to the rear end of the frame, The pair of wheels are configured to be detachably attached to the frame. bicycle.

Images