Bicycle Carrier Structure with Quick-Release Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle cargo racks face challenges such as requiring tools for attachment, being bulky, having limited load capacity, and not being compatible with all bicycle frames, especially those without standard mounting points, and they often compromise on ride quality due to lack of rigidity.
Innovation Solution
A cycle carrier structure with quick-release mechanisms for tool-less attachment and detachment, featuring a bifurcated design with overcentre action lower attachment mechanisms and a hand-tightened screw mechanism for the seat post, allowing secure attachment to a wide range of bicycles without damaging carbon-fiber frames, and providing a rigid connection for panniers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional threaded fasteners are used to secure the rack to the frame, then the rack achieves high load capacity and rigid structure, but it requires tools for attachment and cannot be quickly released
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a skewer with threaded sections for securing to the frame, and distinct mounting brackets with quick-release mechanisms. This segmentation allows the rack to achieve high load capacity through the rigid skewer connection while enabling tool-less quick attachment through the separate quick-release mechanisms on the mounting brackets.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets incorporate dynamic quick-release mechanisms that transition between locked and unlocked states, allowing the rack to be securely attached during use and quickly removed when needed, combining the benefits of rigid connection and ease of operation.
2Strength
If the rack is welded in the final shape to achieve a rigid structure, then the rack becomes strong and stiff, but it becomes bulky and difficult to transport or store
Solution Approach 1:
The rack is constructed from separate modular components that assemble into the final structure, allowing it to be compact for storage and transport while forming a rigid, strong structure when assembled and used.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack components are designed to nest within each other when not in use, with the mounting brackets and skewer sections collapsing into a compact configuration that is easy to store and transport, yet forms a rigid structure when assembled.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pipe clamps, U-bolts, or P-clips are used to attach to seat stays, then the rack can be secured to frames without standard mounting points, but it requires tools, adds excess weight, and may damage carbon-fiber frames
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are designed with specific local features including threaded sections for secure attachment and padded contact points to protect carbon-fiber frames. The quick-release mechanisms provide localized strengthening areas that distribute loads while maintaining frame protection and reducing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system uses adjustable parameters including variable clamp positions and customizable pad thicknesses to adapt to different frame types and sizes, achieving frame compatibility without requiring excessive weight or specialized tools for attachment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional plates with threaded holes are sandwiched to create fixation points, then the rack can be attached to frames without lower mounting points, but it increases complexity and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets combine multiple functions into single integrated components: they provide the threaded sections for securing to the frame, the quick-release mechanisms for tool-less attachment, and the structural support for the rack. This merging reduces assembly complexity and weight compared to using separate plates and fasteners.
Data Source
AI summary
A cycle carrier structure mounted on a cycle comprises an integral bifurcated structure comprising a pair of limbs which are connected at their ends to complementary projections (6, 13) mounted on the ends of a skewer (12) by way of quick release connectors. The bifurcated structure (1) is pivotably connected at the interconnection between the limbs to one end of an adjustable strut (2). The strut (2) is connected at its other end to a seat post (10) by a quick release coupling (3). The bifurcated structure (1) has apertures (7) which can receive a pin (34) of a pannier (29) to secure the pannier (29) to the carrier frame (1). A hook (36) engages a limb of the bifurcated structure (1) to provide additional stability. The bifurcated structure (1) may be an integral component, for example a moulded, hollow component of composite material or alloy.