Hitch-Mounted Bicycle Rack Vertical Orientation and Securing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hitch racks struggle to securely and compactly transport multiple bicycles with varying dimensions and weights, especially mountain bikes, due to limitations in carrying capacity and stability when positioned vertically.
Innovation Solution
A hitch-mounted bicycle rack system with a telescoping mast, adjustable top and bottom beams, and secure gripping stations and rear wheel binding devices that allow for vertical orientation and secure positioning of bicycles, accommodating different bicycle types and vehicle designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If bicycles are carried in a vertical orientation on a hitch rack, then the carrying capacity and compactness are improved, but the stability and security of each bicycle deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rack divides each bicycle into multiple secured segments: the front wheel is clamped by a wheel clamp, the frame is held by a frame holder, and the rear wheel is secured by a rear wheel strap. This segmentation ensures that even in compact vertical arrangement, each bicycle is independently stabilized at multiple points, resolving the contradiction between space efficiency and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack combines multiple securing functions into an integrated vertical holding structure. The vertical orientation merges the wheel clamps, frame holders, and rear wheel straps into a compact stacked arrangement, achieving both space efficiency and comprehensive bicycle security through combined structural elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bicycles with varying dimensions and weights are transported, then the versatility and carrying capacity are improved, but the stability and security of bicycles deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rack applies different securing mechanisms tailored to specific bicycle parts: wheel clamps for front wheels, frame holders for frame stabilization, and rear wheel straps for rear wheel security. Each component is optimized for its local function, allowing the rack to accommodate various bicycle dimensions and weights while maintaining stability through appropriately targeted securing at each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack incorporates adjustable elements that can dynamically adapt to different bicycle configurations. The adjustable frame holders and configurable strap tensions allow the securing mechanism to be optimized for each specific bicycle's dimensions and weight, maintaining stability across diverse bicycle types.
3Reliability
If a secure gripping mechanism is added to prevent bicycle motion, then the bicycle security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel clamps and frame holders are designed to automatically grip and secure the bicycle when positioned correctly. The self-adjusting nature of these components reduces the need for complex manual securing mechanisms, achieving reliable bicycle security through intuitive, self-servicing structural elements that minimize operational complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A bicycle rack is disclosed, including a hitch mount device and a mast structure. A proximal portion of the mast structure is connected to the hitch mount device, and a distal portion extends upward from the proximal portion. The bicycle rack further includes an upper beam structure connected horizontally to the distal portion of the mast structure and a first fork crown gripping station mounted on the upper beam structure. The first fork crown gripping station includes a first post structure and a strap configured to cooperatively bind a bicycle front fork crown to the first fork crown gripping station.