Device for mounting a bag to a bicycle

Abstract

Some embodiments described herein are directed to a device (200) for mounting a bag (100) to a side panel (206) of a bicycle rack (400) in an upright orientation. The device (200) includes a mounting panel (202) having an upper portion (225) and a lower portion (223), and a lock (234). The lower portion (223) of the mounting panel (202) is configured to be rotatably coupled to the side panel (206) of the bicycle rack (400) about an axis (304) parallel to a travel direction (300) of the bicycle. The lock (234) is configured to be coupled to the side panel (206) of the bicycle rack (400) and to hold the mounting panel (202) in a locked position relative to the side panel (206) of the bicycle rack (400). The upper portion (225) of the mounting panel (202) is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion (102) of the bag (100).

Description

DEVICE FOR MOUNTING A BAG TO A BICYCLECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number 63 / 667,651, filed July 3, 2024, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle.BACKGROUND

[0003] When riding a bicycle, users sometimes prefer to attach a bag to the bicycle (e.g., as a pannier bag) to carry the bag rather than wear the bag (e.g., on the user’s back or shoulder). Rigid elements provided on some pannier bags to allow the bag to be attached to a bicycle rack can make the bag uncomfortable to carry on the user’s back or shoulder.SUMMARY

[0004] Some embodiments described herein are directed to a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle. The device can include a side panel and a mounting panel rotatably coupled to the side panel. In some embodiments the mounting panel is rotatable relative to the side panel from an open position to a closed position. In some embodiments, the mounting panel extends from the side panel at an angle when the mounting panel is in the open position. In some embodiments, the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of the bag when the mounting panel is in the open position.

[0005] In some embodiments, the receiving portion of the bag is a sleeve.

[0006] In some embodiments, the mounting panel extends out from the side panel at an angle of between 0 degrees and 10 degrees when the mounting panel is in the closed position.

[0007] In some embodiments, the mounting panel extends out from the side panel at an angle of between 5 degrees and 30 degrees when the mounting panel is in the open position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a lower portion rotatably coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, the mounting panel is rotatable from the open position to the closed position about an axis parallel to a travel direction of the bicycle.

[0010] In some embodiments, the mounting device includes a stop that inhibits the mounting panel from rotating beyond the open position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the mounting device includes a lock configured to hold the mounting panel in the closed position.

[0012] In some embodiments, a portion of the lock is configured to extend around a portion of the mounting panel to hold it in the closed position.

[0013] In some embodiments, a portion of the lock is rotatable to move the lock from a locked position to an unlocked position.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lock is biased to a locked position.

[0015] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a lower portion rotatably coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion, and the lock is configured to engage the free upper portion of the mounting panel when the mounting panel is inserted into the receiving portion of the bag.

[0016] In some embodiments, the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into the receiving portion of the bag by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel when the mounting panel is in the open position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a base configured to be mounted to a bicycle, wherein the side panel is coupled to the base.

[0018] Some embodiments described herein are directed to a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle in an upright orientation. The device can include a side panel and a mounting panel coupled to the side panel. In some embodiments, the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of a bag by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel.

[0019] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a lower portion coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion.

[0020] In some embodiments, a first width of the mounting panel at an upper portion of the mounting panel is smaller than a second width of the mounting panel at a lower portion of the mounting panel.

[0021] In some embodiments, the mounting panel has a trapezoidal shape.

[0022] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a frame with a hollow center area.

[0023] In some embodiments, the side panel includes a connector configured to connect the side panel to a base of a bicycle rack.

[0024] In some embodiments, the connector includes a clamp configured to clamp around a frame of the base of the bicycle rack.

[0025] In some embodiments, the connector includes a rod configured to be inserted into an opening of the base of the bicycle rack.

[0026] Some embodiments described herein are directed to a device for mounting a bag to a side panel of a bicycle rack in an upright orientation. The device can include a mounting panel having an upper portion and a lower portion, and a lock. In some embodiments, the lower portion of the mounting panel is configured to be rotatably coupled to the side panel of the bicycle rack about an axis parallel to a travel direction of the bicycle. In some embodiments, the lock is configured to be coupled to the side panel of the bicycle rack and to hold the mounting panel in a locked position relative to the side panel of the bicycle rack. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of the bag.

[0027] In some embodiments, the mounting panel includes a frame with a hollow center area, and the lock extends around a portion of the frame to hold the mounting panel in the locked position.

[0028] In some embodiments, a first width of the mounting panel at the upper portion of the mounting panel is smaller than a second width of the mounting panel at the lower portion of the mounting panel.

[0029] Some embodiments described herein are directed to a bag configured to be carried in an upright orientation on a mounting device. The bag can include a sleeve configured to receive a mounting panel of the mounting device. In some embodiments, a bottom of the sleeve is open such that the mounting panel can be inserted into the sleeve by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel. In some embodiments, a top of the sleeveis partially closed such that the top of the sleeve bears a weight of the bag when the bag is mounted to the mounting device.

[0030] In some embodiments, a top of the sleeve is partially open such that a portion of the mounting panel is accessible at the top of the sleeve when the bag is mounted to the mounting device.

[0031] In some embodiments, the bag is free from rigid mounting hardware.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0032] FIG. 1 shows a system including a bag and a device for mounting the bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a bag with a receiving portion for mounting the bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 3 shows a rear view of a bag with a receiving portion for mounting the bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 4 shows a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 5 shows a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 6 shows a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 7 shows a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 8 shows a system including a bag and a device for mounting the bag to a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of a bag and mounting device, with the mounting panel in an open position, and with the bag unmounted, according to an embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 9B shows a perspective view of the bag and mounting device of FIG. 9 A, with the bag mounted to the mounting panel, and with the mounting panel in an open position.

[0042] FIG. 9C shows a perspective view of the bag and mounting device of FIG. 9 A, with the bag mounted to the mounting panel, and with the mounting panel in a closed position.

[0043] FIG. 10A shows a locking portion of a device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, with the locking portion in an unlocked position, according to an embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 10B shows the locking portion of FIG. 10A, with the locking portion in a locked position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments, including structures, systems, and methods, may be practiced without these specific details. The description and representation herein comport with standards used by those experienced or skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and elements have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the disclosure.

[0046] References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, this disclosure has been prepared such that when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to apply such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0047] The following examples are illustrative, but not limiting, of the present disclosure. Other suitable modifications and adaptations of the variety of conditions and parameters normally encountered in the field, and which would be apparent to those skilled in the art, are within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0048] People use bags to carry a variety of personal items, including clothing, electronic devices, and sports equipment. When riding a bicycle, a user may prefer to attach a bag to the bicycle (e.g., as a pannier bag) to carry the bag rather than wear the bag (e.g., on the user’s back or shoulder). But when not riding a bicycle, a user may want to carry the same bag on the user’s back or across the user’s shoulder. However, rigid elements provided on some pannier bags to allow the bag to be attached to a bicycle rack can make the bag uncomfortable to carry on the user’s back or shoulder. It may therefore be desirable to have a bag which can be attached to a bicycle but is also comfortable for a user to carry on their back or shoulder.

[0049] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a bag that is free from rigid mounting hardware (and thus more comfortable for a user to wear or carry than a bag with rigid mounting hardware) and a mounting device for mounting the bag to a bicycle. The mounting device can be mounted to a bicycle (e.g., as part of a bicycle rack or by attaching to a bicycle rack) and can include a mounting panel that is inserted into a complementary receiving portion (e.g., a sleeve) provided on the bag to carry the bag.

[0050] In some embodiments, the mounting panel of the mounting device and the receiving portion of the bag are vertically oriented such that a user can insert the mounting panel into the receiving portion of the bag by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel. This can, for example, contribute to an easy mounting experience and a secure hold since gravity helps pull the bag to and holds the bag in the mounted position.

[0051] In some embodiments, the mounting panel is rotatable relative to a side panel of the mounting device from an open position to a closed position (and vice versa). When the mounting panel is in the open position, a gap between a free end of the mounting panel and the side panel can allow a user to easily slide the receiving portion of the bag over the mounting panel. Once mounted, a user can rotate the mounting panel along with the mounted bag to the closed position. In the closed position, the bag can be carried closer to a midplane of the bicycle, which can improve balance. In some embodiments, the mounting panel can be locked in the closed position.

[0052] In some embodiments, an end of the receiving portion of the bag is partially open such that a distal end of the mounting panel is accessible from outside the receiving portion when the mounting panel is inserted into the receiving portion. This can, forexample, allow a lock to directly engage the mounting panel to lock the mounting panel in the closed configuration.

[0053] These and other embodiments are discussed below in more detail with reference to the figures.

[0054] FIG. 1 shows a system 10 for mounting a bag to a bicycle. System 10 can include a bag 100 and a mounting device 200 for mounting a bag to a bicycle. In some embodiments, mounting device 200 includes a mounting panel 202. In some embodiments, bag 100 includes a receiving portion 102 (e.g., sleeve 102). In use, mounting panel 202 can be inserted into receiving portion 102 to carry bag 100 on mounting panel 202.

[0055] System 10 can include bag 100 (e.g., bag 100 according to FIG. 2 or 3).

[0056] Bag 100 can be any type of bag, such as, for example, a pannier bag, a backpack, a purse, a pouch, a case, or a basket.

[0057] Bag 100 can include a main body 104 for holding items, including, for example, clothing, electronic devices, and sports equipment. Main body 104 can be any shape and size suitable for holding a user’s items while also avoiding interference with a bicycle’s wheels or other moving parts when mounted on a bicycle using mounting device 200. Main body 104 can be made of a soft material such as fabric or leather. In some embodiments, main body 104 is made of a lightweight material.

[0058] Receiving portion 102 can be provided on main body 104 of bag 100. In some embodiments, receiving portion 102 is formed as a sleeve. In some embodiments, receiving portion 102 is formed as a webbing.

[0059] In embodiments in which receiving portion 102 is formed as a sleeve, sleeve 102 can be formed by attaching (e.g., by sewing, gluing, or other suitable attachment mechanism) a panel 110 to an outside surface 105 of main body 104. When mounting panel 202 is inserted into sleeve 102, mounting panel 202 can extend between outside surface 105 of main body 104 and sleeve panel 110.

[0060] In some embodiments, panel 110 is made of a soft material such as fabric or leather. In other embodiments, panel 110 is made of a rigid material such as a hard plastic.

[0061] In some embodiments, panel 110 is made of the same material as main body 104. In other embodiments, panel 110 is made of a different material than main body 104.

[0062] In embodiments in which receiving portion 102 is formed as a webbing, receiving portion 102 can be formed by attaching (e.g., by sewing, gluing, or other suitable attachment mechanism) webbing to an outside surface 105 of main body 104. When mounting panel 202 is inserted into the webbing, mounting panel 202 can extend between inside and outside portions of the webbing.

[0063] Receiving portion 102 can have an open end 114, side edges 115, and a distal end 116 opposite open end 114. In use, mounting panel 202 can be inserted into open end 114 and be positioned between side edges 115 and distal end 116 of receiving portion 102 when fully inserted.

[0064] Sides edges 115 of receiving portion 102 can be closed (e.g., sewn, glued, or otherwise secured to main body 104 of bag 100) such that when mounting panel 202 is inserted into receiving portion 102, side edges 115 inhibit lateral movement of mounting panel 202 relative to bag 100.

[0065] In some embodiments, distal end 116 of receiving portion 102 is at least partially closed (e.g., sewn, glued, or otherwise secured to main body 104 of bag 100) such that when mounting panel 202 is inserted into receiving portion 102, closed end 117 of distal end 116 inhibits mounting panel 202 from extending all the way through receiving portion 102. In some such embodiments, when mounting panel 202 is fully inserted into receiving portion 102, mounting panel 202 contacts closed end 117 of receiving portion 102. This contact can, for example, help transfer a weight of bag 100 to mounting panel 202 and mounting device 200 when bag 100 is mounted on mounting device 200.

[0066] In some embodiments, distal end 116 of receiving portion 102 is only partially closed. In some such embodiments, receiving portion 102 includes opening 118 along all or a part of closed end 117. In some such embodiments, when mounting panel 202 is fully inserted into receiving portion 102, a portion of mounting panel 202 is accessible from outside receiving portion 102 through opening 118. As will be discussed, this can allow a lock 234 of mounting device 200 (shown, e.g., in FIG. 4) to engage a portion of mounting panel 202 even when mounting panel 202 is inserted into receiving portion 102.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 3, receiving portion 102 can have a trapezoidal shape. However, receiving portion 102 is not limited to the shape and size shown. Receiving portion 102 can have any suitable size and shape to receive complementary mounting panel 202.

[0068] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, opening 118 has a trapezoidal shape. However, opening 118 is not limited to the shape and size shown. Opening 118 can have any suitable size and shape such that when mounting panel 202 is fully inserted into receiving portion 102, a portion of mounting panel 202 is accessible from outside receiving portion 102 through opening 118.

[0069] In some embodiments, a width (w) of receiving portion 102 (measured in a direction perpendicular to an insertion direction 302 of mounting panel 202) is greater at open end 114 of receiving portion 102 than at distal end 116 of receiving portion 102. This can, for example, allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 because a user does not need to precisely align open end 114 of receiving portion 102 to mounting panel 202 to begin inserting mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102. As the user continues to insert mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102, sides edges 115 of receiving portion 102 can help guide mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102, and when fully inserted, mounting panel 202 can fit snugly within receiving portion 102.

[0070] Width (w) of receiving portion 102 can be approximately 200 mm to 300 mm (such as approximately 250 mm) at open end 114, and approximately 170 mm to 270 mm (such as approximately 220 mm) at distal end 116.

[0071] A height (h) of receiving portion 102 (measured in a direction parallel to insertion direction 302 of mounting panel 202) can be approximately 115 mm to 205 mm (such as approximately 165 mm).

[0072] Opening 118 can have a width of approximately 15 mm to approximately 115 mm (such as approximately 65 mm) at its top and a width of approximately 10 mm to approximately 110 mm (such as approximately 60 mm) at its bottom.

[0073] In some embodiments, receiving portion 102 is vertically oriented on bag 100. In such embodiments, open end 114 can be positioned at a bottom of receiving portion 102, side edges 115 can be positioned at left and right sides of receiving portion 102, and distal end 116 can be positioned at a top of receiving portion 102. As will be discussed, when vertically oriented receiving portion 102 is paired with vertically oriented mounting panel 202, mounting panel 202 can be inserted into receiving portion 102 while bag 100 is held in an upright orientation and lowered relative to mounting panel 202. Vertically oriented as used herein does not require that receiving portion 102 or mounting panel 202 beoriented along a vertical axis that is perfectly perpendicular to a travel direction of the bicycle. Rather, receiving portion 102 can be vertically oriented if it is oriented 45 degrees or less from a vertical axis that is perfectly perpendicular to a travel direction of the bicycle, such as 30 degree or less, such as 15 degrees or less. Similarly, mounting panel 202 can be vertically oriented if it is oriented 45 degrees or less from a vertical axis that is perfectly perpendicular to a travel direction of the bicycle, such as 30 degree or less, such as 15 degrees or less.

[0074] In some embodiments in which open end 114 is positioned at a bottom of receiving portion 102, and distal end 116 is positioned at a top of receiving portion 102, receiving portion 102 has a width that is greater at the bottom of receiving portion 102 than at the top of receiving portion 102. This can, for example, allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 as described above.

[0075] In FIG. 2, receiving portion 102 is provided on a rear 109 of main body 104. However, receiving portion 102 can be provided on a different area of main body 104. In embodiments in which bag 100 is intended to be carried as a backpack, for example, receiving portion 102 can be provided on rear 109 of main body 104, and straps 107 can extend from a rear of main body 104. With such an arrangement, receiving portion 102 is hidden from view when a user carries bag 100 as a backpack.

[0076] In some embodiments, bag 100 is free from rigid mounting hardware.

[0077] In some embodiments, main body 104 includes a main compartment to hold the user’s items. In some embodiments, main body 104 includes additional compartment(s) (e.g., pocket(s)) on an exterior or interior of the main body to hold additional items separate from items in the main compartment.

[0078] In some embodiments, a main compartment of bag 100 is accessible from opening 106 at a top 108 of bag 100. A closure can be provided at opening 106 to selectively close opening 106 to keep a user’s items securely within the main compartment. The closure can be, for example, a zipper, a buckle, or a hook-and-hoop fastener.

[0079] In some embodiments, bag 100 includes straps 107 to help a user carry the bag. For example, bag 100 can include shoulder straps to carry the bag (e.g., as a backpack) or straps to be held in a user’s hand to carry the bag (e.g., as a purse or duffel bag).

[0080] System 10 can include mounting device 200 (e.g., mounting device 200 according to any of FIGS. 4—8). Mounting device 200 can include a side panel 206 and mounting panel 202 coupled to side panel 206.

[0081] In some embodiments (e.g., the embodiment shown in FIG. 4), mounting device also includes a base 204. However, mounting device 200 need not include base 204. Rather, in some embodiments (e.g., the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5-8), mounting device 200 can be configured to be attached to a separate base, such as a bicycle rack 400.

[0082] In some embodiments in which mounting device 200 is configured to be attached to a separate base, such as a bicycle rack 400, side panel 206 includes openings 244 to secure side panel 206 to studs 402 of bicycle rack 400 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5-7).

[0083] In some embodiments in which mounting device 200 is configured to be attached to a separate base, such as a bicycle rack 400, side panel 206 includes a clamp 242 to secure side panel 206 to a frame of bicycle rack 400 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8).

[0084] In embodiments in which mounting device includes base 204, base 204 can be configured to be mounted to a front of a bicycle or a rear of bicycle using any suitable mounting elements. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, base 204 can include a platform 205 that extends over a frame or a wheel of a bicycle when base 204 is mounted on the bicycle.

[0085] In some embodiments in which mounting device includes base 204, side panel 206 is configured to be coupled to base 204 on one side of platform 205 (e.g., to a left side of the bicycle frame or wheel when base 204 is mounted on the bicycle). In some such embodiments, mounting device 200 includes a second side panel 206 configured to be coupled to base 204 on the other side of platform 205 (e.g., to the right side of the bicycle frame or wheel when base 204 is mounted on the bicycle).

[0086] In some embodiments in which mounting device includes base 204, side panel 206 is configured to be coupled to base 204 via a connector 208. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, connector 208 includes a rod 210 that can be inserted though openings 212 in base 204 and then ends 214 of rod 210 can be secured to side panel 206 (e.g., using screws) to couple side panel 206 to base 204. However, connector 208 is not limited to the arrangement shown in the figures. For example, in some embodiments, openings can be provided on side panel 206 and a rod can be provided on base 204. In other embodiments, side panel 206 can be configured to be coupled to base 204 via a differenttype of connector 208. For example, connector 208 can be or include a clamp configured to clamp around a frame of base 204, or can be or include openings configured to connect to studs of base 204.

[0087] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4), side panel 206 can be or include an outer frame 216 with a hollow center area 220. This can, for example, allow side panel 206 to be lightweight. This can also, for example, allow side panel 206 to support a horizontal tube 218, as will be discussed. In other embodiments, side panel 206 can be formed as a solid plate, or a plate with one or more openings (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5-7), or can have another suitable structure. Side panel 206 can be formed as a single piece or multiple connected pieces (e.g., rods).

[0088] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4), side panel 206 includes horizontal tube 218 extending between opposite sides of outer frame 216. Horizontal tube 218 can, for example, allow conventional pannier attachment devices (including, e.g., clamps) to be attached to side panel 206. In this way, side panel 206 can be used with conventional pannier bags, which a user may already own, as well as the type of bag 100 described herein.

[0089] In some embodiments, horizontal tube 218 can be coupled to outer frame 216 of side panel 206 by positioning horizontal tube 218 between opposite sides of outer frame 216 and securing ends 221 of horizontal tube 218 to outer frame 216 (e.g., using screws).

[0090] Side panel 206 and portions thereof can be made from any suitable material, including metal(s), aluminum, stainless steel, composite materials, and / or plastic.

[0091] Mounting panel 202 can be coupled to side panel 206.

[0092] In some embodiments, mounting panel 202 has a proximal end 222 coupled to side panel 206 and a distal end 224 opposite proximal end 222. In use, a user can first place open end 114 of receiving portion 102 of bag 100 over distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 and then move bag 100 toward proximal end 222 of mounting panel 202 to insert mounting panel 202 farther into receiving portion 102.

[0093] Mounting panel 202 can have any suitable size and shape to be inserted into receiving portion 102 of bag 100. For example, in FIGS. 4 and 5, mounting panel 202 has a trapezoidal shape. However, mounting panel 202 is not limited to the shape and size shown in FIG. 4 or 5. For example, FIGS. 6 and 7 show alternative shapes for mounting panel 202.

[0094] In some embodiments, mounting panel 202 has a width (w) (measured in a direction perpendicular to insertion direction 302 of mounting panel 202) that increases from distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 toward proximal end 222 of mounting panel 202. This can, for example, allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 because a user does not need to precisely align distal end 224 to open end 114 of receiving portion 102 to begin inserting mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102. As the user continues to insert mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102, side edges 115 of receiving portion 102 can help guide mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102, and when fully inserted, mounting panel 202 can fit snugly within receiving portion 102.

[0095] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5), width (w) of mounting panel 202 increases over the entire height of mounting panel 202 from distal end 224 to proximal end 222.

[0096] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), width (w) of mounting panel 202 decreases toward proximal end 222 of mounting panel 202. This can, for example, allow for an overall narrower mounting panel 202 (compared to a mounting panel having a width that increases over the entire height of mounting panel 202 from distal end 224 to proximal end 222) for use on a narrower base 204.

[0097] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), width (w) of mounting panel 202 first increases from distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 toward proximal end 222 and then decreases toward proximal end 222. This can, for example allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 and allow mounting device 200 to be used on a narrower base 204.

[0098] In some embodiments, mounting panel 202 is vertically oriented on mounting device 200. In such embodiments, a lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 (e.g., including proximal end 222) can be coupled to side panel 206, and an upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 (e.g., including distal end 224) can be free. When vertically oriented mounting panel 202 is paired with vertically oriented receiving portion 102, mounting panel 202 can be inserted into receiving portion 102 while bag 100 is held in an upright orientation and lowered relative to mounting panel 202.

[0099] In some embodiments in which lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is coupled to side panel 206 and an upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free,mounting panel 202 has a width w that increases from upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 toward lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202. This can, for example, allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 as described above.

[0100] In some embodiments in which lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is coupled to side panel 206 and an upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free, width (w) of mounting panel 202 increases over the entire height of mounting panel 202 from upper portion 225 to lower portion 223.

[0101] In some embodiments in which lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is coupled to side panel 206 and an upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free, width (w) of mounting panel 202 decreases toward lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202. This can, for example, allow for an overall narrower mounting panel 202 for use on a narrower base 204 as described above.

[0102] In some embodiments in which lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is coupled to side panel 206 and an upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free, width (w) of mounting panel 202 first increases from upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 toward lower portion 223 and then decreases toward lower portion 223. This can, for example allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202 and allow mounting device 200 to be used on a narrower base 204 as described above.

[0103] In some embodiments, mounting panel 202 can be or include an outer frame 226 with a hollow center area 228. This can, for example, allow mounting panel 202 to be lightweight. As will be discussed, in some embodiments, this can also allow for a lock to be disposed around a portion of mounting panel 202. In some embodiments outer frame 226 is formed as a tube. In other embodiments, mounting panel 202 can be formed as a solid plate, or a plate with one or more openings, or can have another suitable structure. Mounting panel 202 can be formed as a single piece or multiple connected pieces (e.g., rods).

[0104] Mounting panel 202 and portions thereof can be made from any suitable material, including metal(s), aluminum, stainless steel, composite materials, and / or plastic.

[0105] Mounting panel 202 can extend from side panel 206 at an angle 9 greater than 0 degrees. In some embodiments, angle 0 between mounting panel 202 and side panel 206 is between 0 degrees and 45 degrees, such as between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, such as between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, such as about 15 degrees. Having mounting panel202 extend from side panel 206 at an angle 0 greater than 0 degrees can, for example, create a gap between distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 and side panel 206. In turn, this can give a user space to manipulate bag 100 to insert mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102.

[0106] As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, in some embodiments, mounting panel 202 is movably coupled to side panel 206. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, mounting panel 202 can be rotatably coupled (e.g., via a hinged connection) to side panel 206 about axis 304. However, mounting panel 202 need not be movably coupled to side panel 206. In other embodiments, for example, mounting panel 202 can be fixed in position relative to side panel 206.

[0107] In embodiments in which mounting panel 202 is rotatably coupled to side panel 206, when mounting device 200 is mounted on a bicycle, axis 304 can extend in a direction generally parallel to a travel direction 300 of the bicycle. However, axis 304 need not be limited to this direction. Axis 304 can, for example, extend in a vertical direction perpendicular to travel direction 300.

[0108] In embodiments in which mounting panel 202 is rotatably coupled to side panel 206, mounting panel 202 can be rotatable relative to side panel 206 from an open position (shown in FIGS. 9A-9B) to a closed position (shown in FIG. 9C) (and vice versa). In such embodiments, mounting panel 202 can be rotated from the closed position to the open position by rotating mounting panel 202 in an opening direction 306, and from the open position to the closed position by rotating mounting panel 202 in a closing direction opposite opening direction 306.

[0109] In the open position, mounting panel 202 can extend from side panel 206 at an angle 0. In some embodiments, for example, angle 0 between mounting panel 202 and side panel 206 in the open position can be between 0 degrees and 45 degrees, such as between 5 degrees and 30 degrees, such as between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, such as about 15 degrees. When mounting device 200 is mounted on a bicycle, mounting panel 202 can extend outward from a midplane of the bicycle. When mounting panel 202 is in the open position, a gap between a distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 and side panel 206 can, for example, allow a user to easily slide receiving portion 102 over mounting panel 202.

[0110] In the closed position, angle 0 between mounting panel 202 and side panel 206 can be less than in the open position. In some embodiments, for example, angle 0 between mounting panel 202 and side panel 206 in the closed position can be between 0 degrees and 10 degrees. In some embodiments, mounting panel 202 is generally parallel to side panel 206 when in the closed position.

[0111] In some embodiments, lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is rotatably coupled to side panel 206 and upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free. In such embodiments, upper portion 225 is rotated away from side panel 206 when in the open position, and mounting panel 202 can be inserted into receiving portion 102 of bag 100 by lowering bag 100 relative to mounting panel 202.

[0112] In embodiments in which mounting panel 202 is movable relative to side panel 206 to an open position, mounting device 200 can include a stop 232 (shown in FIG. 4) to inhibit movement of mounting panel 202 beyond the open position. For example, in embodiments, in which mounting panel 202 is rotatable relative to side panel 206 to an open position, stop 232 can inhibit rotation of mounting panel 202 in opening direction 306 beyond the open position.

[0113] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, stop 232 is a cap disposed at proximal end 222 of mounting panel 202. When mounting panel 202 is rotated to the open position, the cap engages side outer frame 216 of side panel 206, which inhibits further rotation of mounting panel 202 in an opening direction. In some embodiments, stop 232 can be integrally formed with mounting panel 202. In some embodiments, stop 232 can be or include another structure for inhibiting rotation of mounting panel 202 in opening direction 306, for example, an interference or friction lock.

[0114] In some embodiments in which mounting panel 202 is movable relative to side panel 206 from an open position to a closed position (and vice versa), mounting device 200 includes a lock 234 to hold mounting panel 202 in the closed position.

[0115] In some embodiments, lock 234 automatically engages to hold mounting panel 202 in the closed position when mounting panel 202 is moved to the closed position. In other embodiments, a user sets lock 234 separate from moving mounting panel 202 to the closed position in order to engage lock 234.

[0116] Lock 234 can be coupled to side panel 206. In FIGS. 4—8, lock 234 is positioned to engage a distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 to hold mounting panel 202 in a lockedposition relative to side panel 206. In other embodiments, lock 234 can be positioned on side panel 206 to engage another portion of mounting panel 202 (e.g., a portion of mounting panel between distal end 224 and proximal end 222).

[0117] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some embodiments, a portion of lock 234 can extend around a portion of mounting panel 202 to hold mounting panel 202 in the closed position. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, lock 234 can include a catch 236 that extends around distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 when mounting panel 202 is in the closed position (FIG. 10B). In other embodiments, a different type latch, hook, snap, and / or other locking structure can be used to hold mounting panel 202 in the closed position.

[0118] In some embodiments, catch 236 is curved (e.g., C-shaped) and rotatable (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) about catch axis 308 to move from the locked position (shown in FIG. 10B) to an unlocked position (and vice versa). In some embodiments, catch 236 is biased (e.g., by a spring) toward the locked position and can be moved to the unlocked position by a user (e.g., by pulling tab 240 or other release element such as a lever or button) coupled to catch 236. In some embodiments, in use, as shown in FIG. 10A, when mounting panel 202 is rotated toward the closed position (e.g., in direction 310), distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 can engage catch 236 and cause catch 236 to rotate (e.g., in a clockwise direction 312 about catch axis 308) such that distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 can move into opening 238 of lock 234. As shown in FIG. 10B, catch 236 can rotate back to the closed position (e.g., in direction 314, due to a spring bias or by user manipulation) to lock distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 in opening 238 of lock 234, thereby holding mounting panel 202 in the closed position relative to side panel 206. To open catch 236, a user can, for example, pull tab 240 coupled to catch 236, thereby releasing distal end 224 of mounting panel 202 from lock 234 and allowing mounting panel 202 to be rotated to the open position.

[0119] Lock 234 is not limited to the arrangement shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. For example, lock 234 can be or include a hook, snap fastener (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8), magnetic fastener, strap, and / or other locking element to secure mounting panel 202.

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8, for example, lock 234 is a snap fastener (e.g., press fit, friction fit, magnetic). When snapped closed, the fastener holds mounting panel 202 in a closed position relative to side panel 206.

[0121] In some embodiments, base 204, side panel 206, mounting panel 202, and parts thereof can be separate components to be assembled by a user. For example, side panel 206 and mounting panel 202 can be included together for a user to use with a separate base, such as bicycle rack 400 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5-8). As another example, mounting panel 202 and lock 234 can be included together for a user to assemble with a side panel of a bicycle rack, such as side panel 206.

[0122] Returning to FIGS. 9A-9C, relative positions of bag 100, mounting device 200, and portions thereof during a mounting operation are shown. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 is coupled to side panel 206 while upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 is free (e.g., can disengage from lock 234), and mounting panel 202 is movably coupled to side panel 206. However, mounting device 200 need not include both of these features. For example, lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 can be fixedly coupled to side panel 206 such that mounting panel 202 is disposed at a fixed angle 0 relative to side panel 206. As another example, a side portion of mounting panel 202, rather than a lower portion 223 of mounting panel, can be movably coupled to side panel 206.

[0123] In FIG. 9 A, mounting panel 202 is in an open position and bag 100 is unmounted.As discussed above, when mounting panel 202 is in the open position, there can be a gap between distal end 224 of the mounting panel side panel 206, which can, for example, give a user space to manipulate bag 100 to insert mounting panel 202 into receiving portion 102.

[0124] In FIG. 9B, mounting panel 202 has been inserted into receiving portion 102 to mount bag 100 to mounting device 200, for example, by lowering bag 100 relative to mounting device 200.

[0125] As discussed above, once mounted, a weight of bag 100 is transferred to mounting panel 202 and mounting device 200, for example, through contact of closed end 117 of receiving portion 102 with distal end 224 of mounting panel 202.

[0126] As shown in FIGS. 9A-9C, receiving portion 102 can include opening 118 at distal end 116 of receiving portion 102. Accordingly, when mounting panel 202 is inserted into receiving portion 102, a portion of mounting panel 202 is accessible through opening 118.

[0127] In FIG. 9C, mounting panel 202 has been rotated from the open position shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B to the closed position. As shown, lock 234 of mounting device 200 engages the portion of mounting panel 202 accessible through opening 118 to lock mounting panel 202 in the closed position.

[0128] As mentioned, in some embodiments, mounting panel 202 can be fixed in position relative to side panel 206. In some such embodiments, lower portion 223 of mounting panel 202 can be fixedly coupled to side panel 206 and upper portion 225 of mounting panel 202 can be flexed away from side panel 206 to more easily allow mounting panel 202 can be inserted into receiving portion 102.

[0129] It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the disclosed invention(s) as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the disclosed invention(s) and the appended claims in any way.

[0130] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the claimed invention that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the claimed invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

[0131] The breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A device for mounting a bag to a bicycle, the device comprising: a side panel; and a mounting panel rotatably coupled to the side panel, wherein the mounting panel is rotatable relative to the side panel from an open position to a closed position, wherein the mounting panel extends from the side panel at an angle when the mounting panel is in the open position, and wherein the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of the bag when the mounting panel is in the open position.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving portion of the bag is a sleeve.

3. The device according to one of claims 1-2, wherein the mounting panel extends out from the side panel at an angle of between 0 degrees and 10 degrees when the mounting panel is in the closed position.

4. The device according to one of claims 1-3, wherein the mounting panel extends out from the side panel at an angle of between 5 degrees and 30 degrees when the mounting panel is in the open position.

5. The device according to one of claims 1—4, wherein the mounting panel comprises a lower portion rotatably coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion.

6. The device according to one of claims 1-5, wherein the mounting panel is rotatable from the open position to the closed position about an axis parallel to a travel direction of the bicycle.

7. The device according to one of claims 1-6, further comprising a stop that inhibits the mounting panel from rotating beyond the open position.

8. The device according to one of claims 1-7, further comprising a lock configured to hold the mounting panel in the closed position.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein a portion of the lock is configured to extend around a portion of the mounting panel to hold it in the closed position.

10. The device according to one of claims 8-9, wherein a portion of the lock is rotatable to move the lock from a locked position to an unlocked position.

11. The device according to one of claims 8-10, wherein the lock is biased to a locked position.

12. The device according to one of claims 8-11, wherein the mounting panel comprises a lower portion rotatably coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion, and wherein the lock is configured to engage the free upper portion of the mounting panel when the mounting panel is inserted into the receiving portion of the bag.

13. The device according to one of claims 1-12, wherein the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into the receiving portion of the bag by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel when the mounting panel is in the open position.

14. The device according to one of claims 1-13, further comprising a base configured to be mounted to a bicycle, wherein the side panel is coupled to the base.

15. A device for mounting a bag to a bicycle in an upright orientation, the device comprising: a side panel; and a mounting panel coupled to the side panel, wherein the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of a bag by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein the mounting panel comprises a lower portion coupled to the side panel and a free upper portion.

17. The device according to one of claims 15-16, wherein a width of the mounting panel decreases from an upper portion of the mounting panel toward a lower portion of the mounting panel.

18. The device according to one of claims 15-17, wherein a width of the mounting panel first increases from an upper portion of the mounting panel toward a lower portion of the mounting panel and then decreases toward the lower portion of the mounting panel.

19. The device according to one of claims 15-18, wherein the mounting panel has a trapezoidal shape.

20. The device according to one of claims 15-19, wherein the mounting panel comprises a frame with a hollow center area.

21. The device according to one of claims 15-20, wherein the side panel comprises a connector configured to connect the side panel to a base of a bicycle rack.

22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the connector comprises an opening configured to connect to studs of the base of the bicycle rack.

23. The device according to one of claims 21-22, wherein the connector comprises a clamp configured to clamp around a frame of the base of the bicycle rack.

24. The device according to one of claims 21-23, wherein the connector comprises a rod configured to be inserted into an opening of the base of the bicycle rack.

25. A device for mounting a bag to a side panel of a bicycle rack in an upright orientation, the device comprising:a mounting panel having an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion configured to be rotatably coupled to the side panel of the bicycle rack about an axis parallel to a travel direction of the bicycle; and a lock configured to be coupled to the side panel of the bicycle rack and to hold the mounting panel in a locked position relative to the side panel of the bicycle rack, wherein the upper portion of the mounting panel is configured to be inserted into a receiving portion of the bag.

26. The device according to claim 25, wherein the mounting panel comprises a frame with a hollow center area, and wherein the lock extends around a portion of the frame to hold the mounting panel in the locked position.

27. The device according to one of claims 25-26, wherein a width of the mounting panel increases from the upper portion of the mounting panel toward the lower portion of the mounting panel.

28. The device according to one of claims 25-27, wherein a width of the mounting panel first increases from the upper portion of the mounting panel toward the lower portion of the mounting panel and then decreases toward the lower portion of the mounting panel.

29. A bag configured to be carried in an upright orientation on a mounting device, the bag comprising: a receiving portion configured to receive a mounting panel of the mounting device, wherein a bottom of the receiving portion is open such that the mounting panel can be inserted into the receiving portion by lowering the bag relative to the mounting panel, and wherein a top of the receiving portion is partially closed such that the top of the receiving portion bears a weight of the bag when the bag is mounted to the mounting device.

30. The bag according to claim 29, wherein the receiving portion is a sleeve.

31. The bag according to one of claims 29-30, wherein a top of the receiving portion is partially open such that a portion of the mounting panel is accessible at the top of the receiving portion when the bag is mounted to the mounting device.

32. The bag according to one of claims 29-31 , wherein the bag is free from rigid mounting hardware.

Images