Bicycle Carrier Holding Device with Automatic Tensioning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle carrier devices require manual operation to close jaws around the chassis, which can be uncomfortable and difficult, especially when loading a second bicycle, as it necessitates accessing the chassis to position and close the clamp jaws.
Innovation Solution
A device with actuating means that allows simultaneous closure and locking of catching means onto the bicycle carrier and bicycle chassis without manual operation, utilizing a rotatable second jaw and a sliding fitting element to generate rotation and keep the jaws tightened, enabling easy installation and secure fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used to close the jaws around the chassis, then the gripping means can be tightened, but the operation becomes uncomfortable and difficult especially when loading a second bicycle
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning means automatically tighten the gripping means without requiring manual operation on the jaws. The system self-regulates by using the insertion motion of the bar to activate the tensioning mechanism, which then automatically applies the necessary clamping force to secure the bicycle to the carrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of closing and tightening jaws is replaced by an automatic tensioning mechanism. The tensioning means converts the simple insertion motion into automatic jaw closure and tightening, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the gripping means.
2Reliability
If manual operation is required to close the jaws, then the device can secure the bicycle, but the installation time increases and single-person installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs the securing function automatically through the tensioning means, which activates upon insertion of the bar. This eliminates the time-consuming manual steps of positioning and tightening jaws, allowing single-person installation while maintaining secure fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning means is pre-configured to automatically activate when the bar is inserted. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the gripping means are tightened immediately upon installation, securing the bicycle without requiring additional manual intervention or time.
3Ease of operation
If the jaws need to be positioned around the chassis, then the gripping means can function, but accessing the chassis becomes difficult when multiple bicycles are loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The complex manual positioning and closing of jaws around the chassis is replaced by an automatic tensioning system. The operator only needs to insert the bar, and the tensioning means automatically positions and secures the gripping means around the chassis, maintaining reliability without requiring difficult manual access.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (10) is described for holding bicycles on a bicycle-carrier comprising a bar (11) having two ends, one connected to first catching means (14) adapted to lock the device (10) onto a chassis of the bicycle-carrier, and one connected to second catching means (15) adapted to lock the device (10) onto a chassis of a bicycle, and actuating means (20) connected to the first catching means (14) and to the second catching means (15) and adapted to close them and lock them respectively on the chassis of the bicycle-carrier and on the chassis of the bicycle.