Bicycle Accessory Coupling Module for Tool-Free Heavy-Load Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for coupling accessories like child seats to bicycles require time-consuming tool-based assembly or fail to provide a solid connection, especially for heavier loads.
Innovation Solution
A module with a main body, fastening part, and coupling means that allows tool-free attachment and detachment, featuring a clamping mechanism with adjustable clamping force and torque control, ensuring a secure connection for weights up to 25 kg.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bolts and nuts are used to connect two plates embracing the bicycle frame, then a solid connection is achieved, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into a first part that attaches to the bicycle frame and a second part that attaches to the accessory, connected through a fastening element. This segmentation allows the fastening element to be detached and repositioned, enabling tool-free assembly while maintaining connection solidity through the distributed fastening mechanism across multiple points.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element is designed to be movable between different positions, allowing it to transition from a detached state to an engaged state that secures the coupling device to the bicycle frame. This dynamic capability enables the user to assemble and disassemble the device without tools, resolving the contradiction between assembly speed and connection reliability.
2Ease of operation
If hand-operatable coupling means are used, then tool-free assembly is achieved, but the connection is insufficient for heavier accessories or child seats
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device incorporates a quick-release mechanism that is pre-configured to engage with the fastening element. This preliminary arrangement of components allows the user to simply press or pull a lever to secure the connection, achieving tool-free assembly while the pre-engineered mechanical advantage ensures sufficient connection solidity for heavy loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element acts as an intermediary between the user's manual operation and the secure connection to the bicycle frame. By designing this intermediary component with appropriate mechanical properties and engagement geometry, the device translates simple hand operations into reliable, tool-free attachment capable of supporting heavy accessories.
3Reliability
If a secure connection for heavy loads is prioritized, then reliability is improved, but the coupling device becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device employs a universal fastening mechanism that serves multiple functions: securing the device to the bicycle frame, accommodating different accessory types, and enabling both heavy and light load applications. This multi-functionality is achieved through a standardized interface and robust fastening element that can be configured for various loading conditions without increasing overall device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a simple, secure, and tool-free coupling of accessories to bicycles, capable of handling weights up to 25 kg, with audible feedback for optimal clamping and enhanced durability.
Implementation Method 1
The torque control means may comprise a spring and a ratchet configured to prevent the further clamping
Implementation Method 2
The torque control means may comprise a spring and a ratchet configured to prevent the further clamping
Implementation Method 3
The ratchet configured to prevent the further clamping, whereby reaching the predefined clamping actuates the spring and the ratchet
Implementation Method 4
The clamping portion having a first end rotatably coupled to the main body and a second, opposite, end rotatably coupled to the adjustment portion
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is enclosed in the area of accessories for bicycles, in particular the coupling of accessories to bicycles, more specifically a module (10) which provides the coupling of accessories of larger volume—such as child seats—to a bicycle. It refers to a module (10) for the coupling of an accessory to the frame (100) of a bicycle. The module (10) comprises a main body (20), a fastening part (30) and coupling means (40) configured to couple the module (10) to an accessory. The fastening part (30) comprises a clamping portion (31) and an adjustment portion (32). These, together with the main body (20), allow to clamp and regulate the clamping of the frame (100) of the bicycle to an accessory by means of the module (10), solidly and without resorting to tools, being particularly suitable for accessories such as child seats.