Dual-Use Articulated Cycle Accessory for Mudguard and Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cycle locks are bulky, heavy, and inconvenient to store and transport, and existing cycle accessories contribute to the overall weight of bicycles, while individual components like wheels and mudguards can still be stolen despite the cycle being locked.
Innovation Solution
A dual-use cycle accessory device comprising elongate rigid members that can be articulated to form either a mudguard or a lock, using hinges, chains, or cables for articulation and featuring a mounting bracket for secure attachment to the bicycle, allowing the same components to serve both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional cycle locks are used, then security is provided, but the device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single device that serves dual purposes: as a mudguard when mounted on the cycle and as a cycle lock when detached. The articulated rigid members can be configured to protect the wheel (mudguard function) or extended and looped to secure the cycle to an object (lock function), eliminating the need for separate lock and mudguard accessories.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of a mudguard and a cycle lock into a single integrated device. The same articulated rigid members that form the mudguard structure can be reconfigured to create a secure loop for locking, combining two previously separate accessories into one unified device that reduces overall weight and component count.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cycle accessories are added, then functionality is enhanced, but the overall weight of the cycle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual-use device provides enhanced functionality (mudguard protection plus cycle locking capability) while maintaining lower weight by using a single multi-functional accessory instead of multiple separate items. The articulated structure allows the same components to perform different functions based on configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining mudguard and lock functions into one device, the patent reduces the total weight of cycle accessories compared to using separate mudguard and lock items. The merged design eliminates redundant materials and structural components while providing both protective and security functions.
3Reliability
If individual components are not protected, then the cycle can be locked, but components like wheels and mudguards can still be stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides universal protection by functioning both as a mudguard (protecting the wheel from debris) and as a secure lock mechanism. When configured as a lock, the articulated members form a rigid loop that can secure the entire cycle including its components to an immovable object, preventing theft of wheels and other parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The merged design allows the same structure to provide both component protection (as mudguard) and anti-theft security (as lock). The integration means that when locked, the mudguard structure itself becomes part of the security system, making it harder for thieves to remove individual components like wheels.
4Reliability
If conventional locks are mounted on the cycle, then security is provided, but the device becomes inconvenient to store and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-functional device eliminates the need for separate lock storage by integrating the locking mechanism into the mudguard structure. When not in use as a lock, the articulated members simply fold into the compact mudguard configuration, requiring no separate storage space or bracket installation on the cycle frame.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the lock function into the mudguard structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate lock mounting brackets and storage mechanisms. The lock components are integrated into the mudguard's articulated structure, allowing the entire device to be mounted once on the cycle and used for both protection and security without additional storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a dual use cycle accessory which may adopt a first folded configuration in which it forms a mudguard and a second unfolded configuration in which is comprises tow free ends (101, 201) which may be locked together to form a locked loop suitable for locking a cycle, preferably a bicycle, to a stationary object. Thus in accordance with one aspect, of the invention there is provided a dual use cycle accessory device comprising a plurality of elongate rigid members (1, 2, 3, 4) that are articulated one to another so that the rigid members (1, 2, 3, 4) may be arranged in a first folded configuration in which at least some of the members are arranged side by side to define an elongate mudguard and a second extended configuration in which at least some of the members are arranged in series so that a free end region of one member 1, 10) and a free end region of another distal member (4, 404) may be looped together, and wherein said free end regions (19,404) are adapted to be lockable together to form an elongate looped cycle lock (8). The rigid elongate members preferably have a generally planar configuration with a greater width than depth.