Bicycle trailer and combination

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle trailer (10) comprising a main frame (12) and a wheel axle (14), preferably configured as a rigid axle, which is connected to the main frame (12) for rotating mounting of trailer wheels (18) on the main frame (12); wherein the wheel axle (14) is movable relative to the main frame (12) in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer (10). Furthermore, the invention relates to a combination (100) comprising a vehicle and a bicycle trailer (10) of this type.

Description

[0001] Bicycle trailer and sidecar

[0002] The invention relates to a bicycle trailer and a bicycle combination.

[0003] Bicycle trailers, which can be coupled to a bicycle, are used to transport objects and people by bicycle.

[0004] For example, there are bicycle trailers, often referred to as child trailers, which are designed for transporting children. There are also cargo trailers that have, for example, a tub or box on a trailer frame for transporting objects. Such bicycle trailers generally have large external dimensions, meaning that parking the bicycle trailer requires a lot of space, moving the bicycle trailer without the bicycle is difficult, and / or the overall length of the bicycle combination consisting of bicycle and bicycle trailer is considerable, which can lead to disadvantages when maneuvering, for example. Furthermore, such bicycle trailers are heavy.

[0005] On the other hand, there are bicycle trailers for transporting objects, e.g., according to US Pat. No. 8,419,035 B2, which are similar to a hand truck that can be coupled to a bicycle for transport. One problem with this is that, especially when the bicycle trailer is loaded, it can lead to adverse handling and / or braking behavior, especially for the bicycle and / or the bicycle trailer.

[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a bicycle trailer and a bicycle trailer with improved maneuverability. These objects are achieved according to the invention by a bicycle trailer according to claim 1 and a bicycle trailer according to claim 17.

[0007] The bicycle trailer according to the invention is, in particular, a bicycle trailer for connection, preferably in a coupleable manner, to a bicycle, preferably to a seat post, a seat tube, or a luggage rack of the bicycle. The bicycle trailer is designed, in particular, for transporting loads such as objects. The bicycle trailer has a base frame. The base frame is, in particular, a rod assembly made of one or more profiles. The profile is, in particular, a preferably hollow metal profile, which preferably comprises, and particularly preferably consists of, aluminum and / or steel. A wheel axle for the rotating mounting of trailer wheels on the base frame is connected to the base frame, in particular to a loading element of the base frame. The wheel axle is, in particular, a rigid axle. Instead of the rigid axle, a separate wheel suspension for each trailer wheel is also possible, for example.It is preferred that at least one, preferably exactly two, trailer wheels are connected to the wheel axle. It is possible, for example, for the trailer wheels to be connected to the wheel axle via a wheel bearing or for the trailer wheels to be connected to the wheel axle in a rotationally fixed manner, wherein in the case of a rotationally fixed connection it is preferred that the wheel axle is connected to the base frame, in particular to a loading element of the base frame, via a rotating bearing, e.g. a roller bearing. On the other hand, it is possible, for example, for the wheel axle to be an, in particular virtual, axis of rotation of the trailer wheels. The wheel axle is designed to be movable relative to the base frame in a direction of travel of the bicycle trailer. The wheel axle is preferably designed to be translationally movable relative to the base frame.It is preferred that the mobility of the wheel axle is implemented in such a way that, when the wheel axle is moved, the distance of the wheel axle from the base frame and / or the loading element of the wheel axle changes. In particular, the bicycle trailer essentially has the shape and / or external dimensions of a shopping trolley. In the context of the present disclosure, the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer refers to the direction of travel, in particular the forward direction, of a bicycle to which the bicycle trailer is connected. A pushing direction of the bicycle trailer, on the other hand, refers in particular to the direction opposite to the direction of travel. On the other hand, it is also possible, for example, for the pushing direction to run in the direction of travel. It is preferred that the wheel axle, in particular in the embodiment as a rigid axle, is designed and / or arranged in such a way that the wheel axle is movable by means of a user's foot action.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle is movable relative to the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer, preferably to the center of gravity of the base frame, the loading element of the base frame and / or a loading area. The wheel axle is in particular movable beyond the center of gravity. The mobility of the wheel axle particularly advantageously enables trailer wheels, preferably the wheel contact points of the trailer wheels, to be arranged behind the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer with respect to the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer. This advantageously enables, for example, the center of gravity to be arranged between the wheel axle and the bicycle, particularly when the bicycle trailer is loaded. This preferably results in good driving stability and / or maneuverability of the bicycle trailer, particularly compared to the bicycle trailer from US Pat.The position of the center of gravity ensures, in particular, that the weight of the bicycle trailer transmitted through the connection, in particular the coupling, acts downwards, preferably essentially vertically downwards, on a bicycle connected to the bicycle trailer. In particular, compared to the bicycle trailer from US 8 419 035 B2, in which the weight can act upwards and / or diagonally rearwards on the bicycle, this improves the driving stability and / or maneuverability and / or braking behavior. In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle can be moved from a first driving position into a second driving position which is different from the first. The first driving position is, in particular, a trailer position in which the bicycle trailer is configured to be pulled by a bicycle connected to the bicycle trailer, preferably in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer.The second driving position is in particular a pushing position in which the bicycle trailer is configured to be pushed, for example manually by a user, preferably in the pushing direction of the bicycle trailer. In the first driving position, the wheel axle is preferably arranged behind the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer, in particular a loading area of ​​the bicycle trailer, with respect to the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer. In the second driving position, the wheel axle is preferably arranged in front of the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer, in particular a loading area of ​​the bicycle trailer, with respect to the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer. In a preferred embodiment, the mobility of the wheel axle is restricted by a stop, preferably two stops, arranged in particular on the base frame and / or the loading area.It is preferred that the mobility of the wheel axle in the first driving position is restricted by a stop, in particular prevented in the opposite direction to the direction of the second driving position. It is further preferred that the mobility of the wheel axle in the second driving position is restricted by a stop, in particular prevented in the opposite direction to the direction of the first driving position. It is preferred that the wheel axle directly or indirectly and / or a pivot arm movably connecting the wheel axle to the base frame rests against the stop in the first driving position and / or in the second driving position. It is particularly possible for the wheel axle to be arranged, particularly preferably fixed, in at least one further driving position, preferably a position between the first and the second position. For example.This position, particularly the middle position, can be used to implement a fast-running function, also known as a "fast walk" function. In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle is designed to be movable in such a way that a wheel contact of trailer wheels connected or to be connected to the wheel axle is realized in several positions, particularly in every position of the wheel axle, preferably at least in the first and second driving positions. In particular, the wheel axle is arranged in several driving positions, particularly in every position, preferably at least in the first and second driving positions, in such a way that the trailer wheels are in contact, preferably rolling, with a ground surface.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle is pivotally connected to the base frame, in particular to a loading element of the base frame. In particular, the wheel axle is pivotable between the first driving position and the second driving position. Preferably, the first driving position and the second driving position are located on different sides of the dead center of the pivoting movement of the wheel axle. It is preferred that the wheel axle is movable with respect to two translational degrees of freedom relative to the base frame, in particular to a loading element of the base frame. It is preferred that, when the wheel axle is pivoted, the distance of the wheel axle from the base frame and / or the loading element of the wheel axle changes, preferably in the pivoting positions.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle is movably connected to the base frame, in particular to a loading element of the base frame, via a pivot arm.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the swivel arm is movable between a position in which the swivel arm is perpendicular to the base frame, in particular the loading element of the base frame, and a position in which the swivel arm is parallel to the base frame, in particular the loading element of the base frame. The position in which the swivel arm is perpendicular to the base frame is in particular the second driving position, whereas the position in which the swivel arm is parallel to the base frame is in particular the first driving position.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle trailer has two trailer wheels mounted for rotation about the wheel axle. In particular, the trailer wheels are mounted for rotation on the wheel axle. The trailer wheels are in particular sized between 5" and 20", preferably between 10" and 16", particularly preferably between 12.5". It is preferred that the trailer wheels have tires and / or rims, in particular those that can be filled with air. In particular, the trailer wheels are designed to be coupled to the wheel axle, preferably by means of a quick-release fastener, so that the trailer wheels are removable. The trailer wheels are in particular removable without tools.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle trailer has at least one, in particular two swivel castors. It is preferred that the at least one swivel castor is connected, preferably directly, to the base frame. The swivel castor is in particular freely rotatable, preferably by at least 360°, connected to the base frame. Rotatable here means in particular rotation about a vertical axis of the bicycle trailer, wherein the vertical axis is preferably perpendicular to a surface on which the bicycle trailer is to be arranged. The at least one swivel castor preferably has a caster. An axis of rotation of the swivel castor, which is in particular parallel to this vertical axis, is preferably skewed to a wool rotation axis around which the swivel castors rotate when driving. Due to this skewed arrangement, the caster trailing of the swivel castor is implemented in such a way that the swivel castor is dragged along.It is preferred that the rotatability of the at least one swivel castor is releasably fixable, preferably fixable in and / or against the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer. The at least one swivel castor is provided in particular in addition to the trailer wheels. It is preferred that the at least one swivel castor has a smaller wheel diameter than the trailer wheels. The wheel diameter of the trailer wheels is, for example, at least 120%, preferably at least 150%, particularly preferably at least 200% of the wheel diameter of the at least one swivel castor. The at least one swivel castor has, in particular, a wheel diameter of 50 mm - 125 mm, preferably a wheel diameter of 50 mm, 75 mm, 100 mm or 125 mm. The at least one swivel castor is designed in particular for steering the bicycle trailer in a configuration of the bicycle trailer decoupled from the bicycle.It is preferred that in the second driving position of the wheel axle, with the at least one steering roller and the trailer wheels, the bicycle trailer has three or four wheel contact points and / or a three- or four-wheel operation of the bicycle trailer occurs. The three- or four-wheel operation leads in particular to advantageous mobility, in particular pushability, and / or stability of the bicycle trailer, preferably when uncoupled from a bicycle. In the first driving position of the wheel axle, it is preferred that the at least one steering roller does not implement a wheel contact point and / or the at least one steering roller has no contact with the ground and / or a two-wheel operation of the bicycle trailer occurs.existing change in distance and / or translational movement due to the rotatability of the at least one steering roller, the at least one steering roller is in particular translationally immovable relative to the base frame and / or the distance of the at least one steering roller from the base frame is preferably fixed, particularly preferably unchangeable. It is preferred that the bicycle trailer, e.g. the base frame and / or the wheel axle and / or the swivel arm and / or the steering roller, are designed in such a way that the movement of the wheel axle leads to the at least one steering roller changing between a state in which the at least one steering roller is in contact with the ground and a state in which the at least one steering roller is contact-free with the ground. For example, a movement of the wheel axle in the direction of the at least one steering roller, e.g. due to a lifting of the at least one steering roller, leads to a contact-free state of the steering roller with the ground.It is possible, for example, that this lifting of the at least one swivel castor occurs due to a larger wheel diameter of trailer wheels connected to the wheel axle than the wheel diameter of the swivel castor and / or due to an angle of attack of the wheel axle to the base frame. The design with a swivel castor and / or movable wheel axle is particularly advantageous in that the bicycle trailer is easily maneuverable when decoupled from the bicycle, whereby the bicycle trailer can thereby be carried optimally, for example when shopping, and / or can be easily transported to a parking location. The design of the bicycle trailer with swivel castors represents a further independent invention. Thus, within the scope of this independent invention, it is not necessary, but preferred, for the wheel axle to be movable relative to the base frame in a direction of travel of the bicycle trailer.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, in the first driving position of the wheel axle, the wheel axle and the at least one steering roller are arranged together on one side in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer relative to a center of gravity of the bicycle trailer. In a second driving position of the wheel axle, it is preferred that the wheel axle and the at least one steering roller are arranged on different sides in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer relative to a center of gravity of the bicycle trailer. In the first driving position, the trailer wheels and the at least one steering roller overlap at least partially in a transverse direction of the bicycle trailer, transverse to the direction of travel. The center of gravity of the bicycle trailer can be, for example, a center of gravity of the base frame and / or the loading element and / or the loading area and / or the entire bicycle trailer, wherein it is in particular a center of gravity in the loaded state.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the base frame has a loading element, in particular forming a loading surface, for receiving loads to be transported. The loading element, in particular, spans the loading surface. When the wheel axle is arranged in the first driving position, the loading surface is arranged in particular horizontally, preferably relative to the ground. When the wheel axle is arranged in the second driving position, the loading surface is arranged in particular at an angle, preferably relative to the ground.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the loading element, in particular the loading area, has a length, in particular in the direction of travel, of max. 65 cm, preferably max. 50 cm, particularly preferably max. 40 cm. The loading element, in particular the loading area, preferably has a width, in particular transverse to the direction of travel, of max. 80 cm, preferably max. 60 cm, particularly preferably max. 50 cm. It is preferred that the loading element, in particular the loading area, is rectangular, in particular substantially square. It is particularly possible for a length and / or width of max. 65 cm, with a length of 35 cm and / or a width of 42 cm being particularly preferred.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the base frame has a back element, in particular a vertical one. The back element is designed in particular for manually pushing the bicycle trailer and / or for directly or indirectly connecting the bicycle trailer to the bicycle. The back element is in particular connected to the loading element.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, a handle is connected to the back element, in particular in one piece. The handle is designed and / or arranged in particular for manually pushing the bicycle trailer, preferably in the pushing direction.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the loading element and / or the back element has a rod assembly made up of one or more profiles. The profile is in particular a preferably hollow metal profile, which preferably comprises, and particularly preferably consists of, aluminum and / or steel and / or titanium. The loading element and / or the back element, preferably the respective rod assembly, is in particular covered and / or spanned with a textile. It is preferred that the textile of the loading element forms the, in particular closed, loading surface and / or the textile of the back element forms a, in particular closed, back surface.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle trailer, in particular the base frame, has a drawbar for connection to a bicycle. It is preferred that the bicycle trailer, in particular connected to the drawbar, has a coupling for coupling to the bicycle. The drawbar is preferably designed to be variable in length, particularly preferably telescopic. The drawbars and / or the coupling are designed in particular for connection to a seat post and / or a seat tube and / or a luggage rack of the bicycle. It is preferred that the drawbar is arranged and / or designed such that the drawbar, when coupled to the bicycle, is substantially parallel to a ground surface.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle trailer, in particular the base frame, is foldable, preferably foldable flat. It is preferred that in the unfolded, standing state, the loading area has a smaller width and / or length than the height of the loading area of ​​the bicycle trailer and / or than the height of the bicycle trailer itself. In particular, the back element and loading element are pivotally connected to one another. Preferably, the drawbar and back element are pivotally connected to one another. In particular, the pivotability between the drawbar and back element is implemented such that the drawbar can be transferred into a folded position. In the folded position, the drawbar is arranged at least partially, in particular completely, within the external dimensions of the base frame and / or the back element.In other words, in the folded position, the drawbar is preferably stowed within the base frame and / or the back element. It is preferred that the pivoting between the drawbar and the back element and / or between the back element and the loading element is implemented such that at least two, in particular three, of the back element, loading element, and drawbar, in the folded state, form an angle of less than 10°, preferably less than 5°, to one another, and are particularly preferably substantially parallel to one another.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the bicycle trailer has a spring and / or damping device for shock absorption of the wheel axle's mobility, in particular for shock absorption between the wheel axle and the base frame. The spring and / or damping device is arranged, in particular, between the wheel axle and the base frame and / or between the pivot arm and the base frame. For example, it is possible for the spring and / or damping device to be connected, in particular permanently, to the pivot arm and / or the base frame.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle is fixable, in particular by locking. Preferably, the wheel axle and / or the pivot arm are fixable to the base frame. This fixability preferably allows for a releasable restriction, in particular prevention, of the mobility of the wheel axle. It is preferred that the wheel axle be fixable, in particular by locking, in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0024] The vehicle combination according to the invention is, in particular, a bicycle combination. The vehicle combination comprises a vehicle and a bicycle trailer connected to the vehicle, in particular coupled to it, with one or more features of the bicycle trailer according to the invention. The vehicle is preferably a bicycle, particularly preferably a cargo bike and / or an electric bicycle, in particular a pedelec. The bicycle trailer, in particular in the embodiment in which the vehicle is a bicycle, is preferably connected to a seat post, a seat tube and / or a luggage rack of the vehicle. Instead of the bicycle, the vehicle can also be, for example, a small motorcycle, e.g. a moped or a moped or a motorcycle.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the wheel axle and / or the trailer wheels of the bicycle trailer are arranged in a rear region of the bicycle trailer, in particular in a rear third of the bicycle trailer, with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle. It is preferred that the wheel axle and / or the trailer wheels are arranged behind the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle. It is preferred that the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer, in particular when loaded, lies between the wheel axle and the vehicle, preferably a rear wheel of the vehicle.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the loading area and / or the loading surface of the bicycle trailer is designed to be open, in particular completely, towards the rear in the direction of travel of the vehicle. The loading area and / or the loading surface of the bicycle trailer is preferably designed to be open laterally on one or both sides, in particular with respect to a transverse direction of the vehicle, preferably completely. Open means in particular that the loading area and / or the loading surface is accessible to a user, preferably for removing and adding cargo. It is preferred that the bicycle trailer, in particular the loading area and / or the loading surface, is preferably completely closed off in the direction of travel of the vehicle by the back element.

[0027] The bicycle trailer and / or the bicycle trailer combination according to the invention advantageously achieve improved maneuverability, particularly compared to the prior art. Maneuverability here includes, for example, improved stability, driving dynamics, and / or braking behavior of the bicycle trailer when towing the bicycle trailer coupled to a bicycle or as a bicycle trailer combination. This advantage arises in particular due to the mobility of the wheel axle. Furthermore, maneuverability here includes, for example, improved mobility, in particular pushability, and / or stability of the bicycle trailer, preferably when decoupled from a bicycle. This advantage arises in particular due to the three- or four-wheel operation of the bicycle trailer according to the invention.

[0028] The invention is explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] They show:

[0030] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a bicycle trailer according to the invention,

[0031] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the bicycle trailer from Fig. 1 in a second state,

[0032] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the bicycle trailer from Fig. 1 in a folded state,

[0033] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the bicycle trailer from Fig. 1 in a further folded state,

[0034] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a combination according to the invention with the bicycle trailer from Fig. 1, and

[0035] Fig. 6 the bicycle trailer from Fig. 1 in the state from Fig. 2 with a user.

[0036] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a bicycle trailer 10 according to the invention. The bicycle trailer 10 has a base frame 12 with a loading element 34, a back element 36 and a drawbar 44.

[0037] The loading element 34 has two longitudinal profiles 26, which are connected to one another, in particular in one piece, via a transverse profile 28. The longitudinal profiles 26 and the transverse profile 28 span a loading surface 36. It is preferred that the loading element 26 be covered and / or spanned with a textile (not shown), so that a closed surface of the loading surface 36 is formed, in particular for receiving loads.

[0038] The loading element 34 is pivotally connected to the back element 36 via two joints 41. The back element 36 has two longitudinal profiles 38, which are connected to one another, in particular in one piece, in the connection area to the loading element 34 via a transverse profile 40. On the side opposite the transverse profile, the longitudinal profiles 38 are connected to one another via another profile, in particular in one piece, which profile forms a handle 42, in particular for handling a user 200 (see Fig. 6).

[0039] The drawbar 44, which is designed to connect the bicycle trailer 10 to a bicycle 1000 (see Fig. 5), is connected to the back element 36. The connection between the drawbar 44 is shown implemented via two joints 45, which pivotally support a transverse profile 46 of the drawbar 44. A longitudinal profile 47 of the drawbar 44 is connected, in particular in one piece, to the transverse profile 46, wherein the longitudinal profile 47 is preferably designed to be coupled to a bicycle 1000 (see Fig. 5). For coupling to a bicycle 1000 (see Fig. 5), the drawbar has a coupling 54, which is in particular detachable. It is preferred that the back element 36 is covered and / or spanned with a textile (not shown), so that a closed surface of the back element 36 is formed. Due to the textile, the bicycle trailer 10, in particular the loading area 35 of the bicycle trailer 10, is designed to be closed in the direction of travel 30.

[0040] A wheel axle 14 is connected to the loading element 34 via two pivot arms 48. The pivot arms 48 are each pivotally connected to the loading element 34 via a joint 51, such that the wheel axle 14 is movable relative to the base frame 12, in particular to the loading element 34, in a direction of travel (represented by arrow 30) of the bicycle trailer 10. The direction of travel 30 of the bicycle trailer 10 corresponds to a direction of travel 30 of a bicycle 1000 connected to the bicycle trailer 10 (cf. Fig. 5; direction of travel of the bicycle 1000 represented by arrow 30 in Fig. 5). The wheel axle 14 is movable, in particular translationally, relative to the base frame 12 via the pivot arms 48. This translational mobility relates in particular to a movement relative to the base frame 12 in the direction of travel and / or in a vertical direction, preferably perpendicular to a surface on which the bicycle trailer 10 is arranged.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 1, the wheel axle 14 is in a first driving position, which corresponds to a trailer position, so that in this position the bicycle trailer 10 is configured for use as a trailer, in particular for transporting loads, connected to a bicycle (see Fig. 5).

[0042] Two trailer wheels 18 are mounted on the wheel axle 14 and are rotatable about a, in particular virtual, axis of rotation 16.

[0043] In the first driving position, the wheel axle 14 and in particular the trailer wheels 18 are arranged in the direction of travel 30 behind the center of gravity, in particular behind a loading center of gravity, of the bicycle trailer 10 and / or behind the center of gravity of the loading element 34. Preferably, a loading area 35 for receiving loads, which is preferably formed by the loading element 34, particularly preferably largely by the loading element 34, is arranged in the first driving position between the wheel axle 14 and a bicycle 1000 to be connected to the bicycle trailer 10 (see Fig. 5). This arrangement of the wheel axle 14, in particular with respect to the center of gravity, achieves advantageous driving stability and / or maneuverability.

[0044] By means of the pivot arms 48, the wheel axle 14 can be moved, in particular pivoted, between the first driving position and a second driving position (cf. Fig. 2).

[0045] Figure 2 shows the bicycle trailer 10 from Figure 1 in a second state.

[0046] The wheel axle 14 is arranged in the second driving position, which is in particular a pushing position.

[0047] When the wheel axle 14 moves from the first to the second driving position, the wheel axle moves relative to the base frame 12, in particular so that the wheel axle 14 is moved beyond the center of gravity, preferably the loading center of gravity, of the bicycle trailer 10 and / or the loading element 34. In the second driving position, the wheel axle 14 and / or the trailer wheels 18, preferably the wheel contact points of the trailer wheels 18, are arranged in front of the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer 10 and / or the loading element 34 with respect to the direction of travel 30 of the bicycle trailer 10. It is preferred that the pivot arms 48 are arranged substantially perpendicular to the loading element 34 in the second driving position of the wheel axle 14 and / or that the pivot arms 48 are arranged substantially parallel to the loading element 34 in the first driving position of the wheel axle 14 (cf. Fig. 1).

[0048] The bicycle trailer 10 is shown having two swivel casters 24 connected to the loading element 34 via connecting arms 22, in particular consisting of profiles. The swivel casters 24 are rotatable, in particular freely rotatable, about a rotation axis 23, so that the bicycle trailer 10 can be steered, preferably when decoupled from a bicycle 1000. The rotation axis 23 is in particular perpendicular to a surface on which the bicycle trailer 10 is arranged. Preferably, the swivel casters 24 are fixable, in particular releasably, so that the rotatability of the swivel casters 24 is blocked, wherein it is particularly preferred that the swivel casters 24 be fixable in a straight position parallel to the direction of travel 30.Except for the change in distance and / or translational movement due to the rotatability of the steering rollers 24, the steering rollers 24 are in particular translationally immovable relative to the base frame 12 and / or the distance of the steering rollers 24 to the base frame 12 is preferably fixed, particularly preferably unchangeable.

[0049] The casters 24 are designed to rotate about a, in particular virtual, rotational axis 21, allowing the casters 24 to roll on the ground. The rotational axis 21 and the rotational axis 23 are skewed relative to each other, enabling the casters 24 to follow the ground.

[0050] Due to the swivel casters 24 and the trailer wheels 18 in the second position (Fig. 2), the bicycle trailer 10 has four wheel contact points; in other words, four-wheel operation of the bicycle trailer 10 is implemented. In this four-wheel operation, the center of gravity, preferably the loading center of gravity, of the bicycle trailer 10 and / or the loading element 34 is located between the swivel casters 24 and the trailer wheels 18. The swivel casters 24 and the center of gravity arrangement implement a steerable pushing function of the bicycle trailer 10 when decoupled from the bicycle 1000, so that the bicycle trailer 10 can be pushed by a user 200, preferably like a stroller (cf. Fig. 6). To do this, the user 200 can push the bicycle trailer 10 in the pushing direction 32 using the handle 42 (cf. Fig. 6). In the first position (cf. Fig.1), in contrast, the bicycle trailer 10 in particular has only two wheel contact points, so that in other words a two-wheel operation of the bicycle trailer 10 for use of the bicycle trailer 10 coupled to a bicycle 1000 (cf. Fig. 5) is implemented. This two-wheel operation is implemented in particular in that in the first position the swivel castors 24 have no contact with the ground. The removal of the contact of the swivel castors 24 with the ground preferably occurs due to a lifting of the swivel castors 24 relative to the ground. In particular, the trailer wheels 18 have a larger wheel diameter than the swivel castors 24, so that the trailer wheels 18 protrude beyond the swivel castors 24, preferably perpendicular to the ground. Alternatively or additionally, the lifting of the swivel castors 24 can occur in particular due to an angle of attack of the wheel axle 14, preferably due to the pivot arms 48.In the first position, it is preferred that the trailer wheels 18 and the steering rollers 24 at least partially overlap in the transverse direction of the bicycle trailer 10 transversely to the direction of travel 30.

[0051] A spring and / or damping device, in this case formed by two dampers 50, is arranged between the pivot arms 48 and the load element 34. As shown (see Fig. 2), the dampers 50 are connected to the pivot arms 48 in such a way that relative movements between the pivot arms 48 and the load element 34, particularly in the direction of the first travel position, are damped and / or cushioned. Instead of connecting the dampers 50 to the pivot arms 48, it is also possible, alternatively or additionally, to connect the dampers 50 to the load element 34.

[0052] Furthermore, in the second state shown in Fig. 2, the drawbar 44 is pivoted into a folded position, preferably so that the drawbar is stowed within the base frame 12, in particular within the back element 36. Figure 3 shows a folded state of the bicycle trailer 10 from Fig. 1.

[0053] Here, the load element 34 and the back element 36 are folded together by means of joints 41, the back element 36 is folded together with the drawbar 44 by means of joints 45, and the pivot arms 48 with the wheel axle 14 are folded together by means of joints 51. In the folded state, at least two, in particular all, of the load element 34, back element 36, drawbar 44, and pivot arms 48 are arranged substantially parallel to one another, so that a flat packing state is particularly advantageously implemented.

[0054] Figure 4 shows the bicycle trailer 10 from Figure 3 in a rear view in a further folded state.

[0055] The trailer wheels 18 are decoupled from the wheel axle 14, as shown in Fig. 4 (in contrast to Fig. 3), and are arranged in particular parallel to the base frame 12, preferably in contact with the base frame 12, so that a flat packing state is also advantageously achieved. It is preferred that the trailer wheels 18 rest on the base frame 12 and / or are accommodated between the base frame 12, for example, clamped.

[0056] It is preferred that at least one, in particular all, of the longitudinal profiles 26, 38, 47 and / or at least one, in particular all, of the transverse profiles 28, 40, 46, the pivot arms 48 and / or the handle 42 and / or the profiles of the connecting arms 22 are preferably hollow tubes, e.g. made of metal, such as steel and / or aluminum and / or titanium. The dampers 50 are hidden in Figures 3-4. However, it is preferred that the dampers 50 in the embodiments of Figures 3-4 are implemented in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 1-2.

[0057] Figure 5 shows a combination 100 with a bicycle 1000 and the bicycle trailer 10 from Figure 1.

[0058] The bicycle trailer 10 is coupled, in particular detachably, to the bicycle 1000 via a coupling 54 connected to the drawbar 44.

[0059] The bicycle trailer 10 is shown coupled to the seat post 1002 of the bicycle 1000. On the other hand, coupling to a seat tube 1004 and / or a luggage rack (not shown) of the bicycle 1000 is also possible.

[0060] In the coupled state of the bicycle trailer 10 on the bicycle 1000 shown in Figure 5, the wheel axle 14 is arranged in the first driving position, so that a center of gravity, preferably a load center of gravity of the bicycle trailer 10 is arranged between the wheel axle 14 and the bicycle 1000, in particular a rear wheel 1006 of the bicycle 1000, whereby an advantageous driving stability and / or maneuverability of the combination 100 is preferably implemented.

[0061] Figure 6 shows the bicycle trailer 10 from Figure 2 with a schematically illustrated user 200.

[0062] The user 200 grasps the handlebar 42 of the back element 36 with his hands 202, allowing him to steer the bicycle trailer 10. In the illustrated state, particularly with the wheel axle 14 in the second driving position and the drawbar 44 in the folded position, the bicycle trailer 10 can be steered in the pushing direction 32, much like a stroller. Particularly advantageous is a bicycle trailer 10 that is easy to maneuver when decoupled from the bicycle 1000, which can thus preferably be optimally carried, e.g., when shopping, and / or easily transported to a parking location.

Claims

Claims 1. A bicycle trailer (10) comprising a base frame (12); and a wheel axle (14) connected to the base frame (12), preferably designed as a rigid axle, for the rotating mounting of trailer wheels (18) on the base frame (12); wherein the wheel axle (14) is movable relative to the base frame (12) in a direction of travel of the bicycle trailer (10).

2. Bicycle trailer (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) is movable relative to the center of gravity of the bicycle trailer (10), in particular beyond the center of gravity.

3. Bicycle trailer (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) is movable from a first driving position into a second driving position different from the first.

4. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-3, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) is designed to be movable in such a way that a wheel contact position of the trailer wheels (18) is implemented in several, in particular in each, position of the wheel axle (14).

5. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-4, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) is pivotally connected to the base frame (12).

6. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-5, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) is movably connected to the base frame (12), in particular to a loading element (34) of the base frame (12), via a pivot arm.

7. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-6, characterized by two trailer wheels (18) mounted so as to rotate about the wheel axle (14).

8. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-7, characterized by at least one, in particular two, steering rollers (24) connected to the base frame (12).

9. Bicycle trailer (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) and the at least one steering roller (24) are arranged together on one side relative to a center of gravity of the bicycle trailer (10) in a first driving position of the wheel axle (14) in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer (10) and on different sides relative to a center of gravity of the bicycle trailer (10) in a second driving position of the wheel axle (14) in the direction of travel of the bicycle trailer (10).

10. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-9, characterized in that the base frame (12) has a loading element (34), in particular forming a loading surface (36), for receiving loads to be transported.

11. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-10, characterized in that the base frame (12) is a, in particular vertical, Back element (36) in particular for manually pushing the bicycle trailer (10).

12. Bicycle trailer (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the back element (36) is connected, in particular in one piece, to a handle (42).

13. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-12, characterized in that the bicycle trailer (10) has a drawbar, preferably variable in length, particularly preferably telescopic, for connection, in particular coupling, to a bicycle (1000).

14. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-13, characterized in that the bicycle trailer (10), in particular the base frame (12), is foldable.

15. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-14, characterized by a spring and / or damping device for shock absorption of the mobility of the wheel axle (14), in particular for shock absorption between the wheel axle (14) and the base frame (12).

16. Bicycle trailer (10) according to one of claims 1-15, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) can be fixed, in particular by locking.

17. A combination (100), in particular a bicycle combination, comprising a vehicle, in particular a bicycle (1000), and a bicycle trailer (10) connected to the vehicle according to one of claims 1-16.

18. Trailer (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that the wheel axle (14) of the bicycle trailer (10) is arranged in a rear region of the bicycle trailer (10) with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle, in particular in a rear third of the bicycle trailer (10).

19. Trailer (100) according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that a loading area (35) is designed to be open towards the rear, in particular completely, with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle.

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