Bicycle Rack Clamp Structure Without Bolts for Fast Frame Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bicycle rack clamping devices require adjustable bolts for securing and releasing the upright frame, which is cumbersome and increases production costs due to the need for multiple molds to accommodate different bicycle sizes.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with a pivotably connected first and second part, utilizing a locking member without bolts, allowing the upright frame to be easily positioned and secured between the parts, accommodating various bicycle sizes without the need for adjustable bolts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an adjustable bolt is used to secure the clamp to the upright frame, then the clamp can be tightened and loosened to secure or release the frame, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the adjustable bolt from the clamping mechanism entirely. Instead, it uses a pivotable first part that can be manually opened and closed to secure or release the upright frame, eliminating the need for bolt tightening and loosening operations while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional clamping approach by using a pivotable connection that relies on gravity and manual positioning rather than threaded fastening. The first part pivots to open/close the clamp, reversing the conventional bolt-tightening mechanism and achieving faster operation without compromising security.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the U-shaped clamp opening size is made adjustable to accommodate different bicycle types, then various bicycles can be secured, but multiple molds and parts are required increasing production cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the first part pivotable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the clamp opening size. This single movable component can adapt to different bicycle frame sizes and types without requiring multiple pre-fabricated clamp sizes, thereby reducing mold and part inventory requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable first part serves multiple functions: it acts as both the clamping structure and the adjustment mechanism. A single universal clamp design can accommodate various bicycle types through the pivotable action, eliminating the need for multiple specialized clamp sizes and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A clamping device for a bicycle rack includes a first clamp and a second clamp respective formed to two ends of a shaft. The first clamp is secured to an upright frame of a bicycle rack, and the second clamp clamps a bicycle top tube or seat tube. The first clamp is a C-shaped clamp and includes a first part and a second part which is pivotably connected to the first part. A restraining hole is formed when the first part is pivoted toward second part. A locking member is pivotably connected to the second part and has a protrusion. The first part has a notch. When the locking member is pivoted to engage the protrusion with the notch, the first part is restricted from being pivoted away from the second part so as to securely restrain the upright frame of the bicycle rack in the restraining hole.