Bicycle Support Structures for Long Loads and Pets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bicycles lack effective support structures for safely carrying long, heavy, or bulky objects and pets, posing safety risks as riders must use one hand to control the vehicle, leaving the other hand unavailable for steering or managing the load.
Innovation Solution
Adaptable support structures that can be mounted to various points on a bicycle frame, including the front steer tube and rear seat post or rack, featuring keyed mounting tubes and quick-release mechanisms to securely hold objects and pets, allowing for easy installation and removal without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional storage racks or baskets are used on bicycles, then small objects can be held, but they are inadequate for long, heavy, or bulky objects such as surfboards and pets
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple independent components: a mounting tube that attaches to the bicycle frame, side supports that can be adjusted and removed, and quick-release mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to be configured for different load types (surfboards, pets, cargo) while keeping each component simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The side supports are designed to be dynamically adjustable and removable via quick-release mechanisms operated by push buttons. This allows the support structure to adapt its configuration based on the specific loading requirements, transforming a static storage solution into a dynamic, versatile system that can accommodate various object sizes and weights.
2Reliability
If support structures are made strong and stiff to carry heavy loads, then load stability is improved, but the structures may interfere with bicycle storage or handling when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The side supports are designed to be easily extracted from the mounting tube when not needed. The quick-release mechanism allows the supports to be removed without tools, enabling convenient bicycle storage and handling while maintaining strong load-carrying capability when the supports are installed and engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The push button quick-release mechanism enables the user to quickly install and remove the side supports without requiring tools or complex operations. The keyed mounting tube and round clamps are designed to work together in a self-contained system that simplifies the attachment and detachment process, making the structure as easy to remove as it is reliable when loaded.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mounting points are established at the front and back of the bicycle, then versatility and load distribution are improved, but the mounting structures become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting tube design with keyed features and round clamps creates a universal attachment system that can be installed at multiple locations on the bicycle (front steer tube, rear seat post, rear rack). This universal design allows the same mounting components to serve multiple functions and locations, increasing versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a new assembly of components which comprise a support arm on the side of a bicycle or similar mobility device. The structure is capable of carrying long thin items such as a long surfboard, or it can be used to secure a pet such as a dog to allow them to walk or run safely alongside a bicycle. The invention is designed to fit a wide range of devices, and is optimized for maximum ease of installation and quick release removal without any tools.