Bicycle U-Lock Strap Mount With Adjustable Multi-Point Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for attaching heavy objects like U-locks to lightweight mobile frames, such as bicycle frames, are often cumbersome, difficult to install, not adjustable, and not versatile, leading to issues like movement during transit and compatibility with various lock sizes and shapes.
Innovation Solution
A strap assembly system with a main strap and ancillary straps, utilizing hook-and-loop engagement mechanisms and rubberized webbing, allowing for secure, adjustable attachment to multiple locations on a bicycle frame without requiring tools, accommodating various lock sizes and shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If strap-type holsters or bracket-type supports are used to attach U-locks to bicycles, then the lock can be transported, but the apparatus becomes difficult to install, requires tools, and is time-consuming to attach or remove
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate modular components: a strap assembly with adjustable webbing, hook-and-loop fasteners, and mounting brackets that can be independently attached to the bicycle frame. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and enables tool-free assembly by simply connecting the pre-fabricated modules together.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets are pre-attached to the bicycle frame in advance, and the strap assembly is pre-configured with hook-and-loop fasteners. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for tools during actual lock attachment, as the user simply needs to connect pre-prepared components rather than assembling anything during the attachment process.
2Strength
If the apparatus is designed to secure heavy locks, then it provides adequate support, but it becomes too weak or breaks easily when concentrating weight on single points
Solution Approach 1:
The load-bearing function is segmented across multiple independent attachment points distributed along the bicycle frame rather than concentrated at a single point. The strap assembly can engage with multiple brackets positioned at different locations, distributing the mechanical stress and preventing any single point from bearing excessive load that could cause failure.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple attachment mechanisms are combined into a unified system: the strap assembly integrates webbing, hook-and-loop fasteners, and connection hardware that work together to distribute and manage the lock's weight across multiple frame attachment points, creating a redundant system where failure of one attachment point does not compromise the entire setup.
3Reliability
If the holder is designed for specific lock styles, then it secures that lock type well, but it cannot accommodate locks of varying shapes or dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The strap assembly incorporates adjustable webbing with movable connection points and flexible hook-and-loop fasteners that can be repositioned to accommodate different lock dimensions and shapes. This dynamic adjustability allows the same basic apparatus to adapt its configuration for various U-lock sizes while maintaining secure attachment through the flexible webbing and repositionable fastening mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus uses multiple components and features, then it provides versatile functionality, but it becomes complicated and expensive to produce
Solution Approach 1:
The strap assembly is designed as a universal multi-functional component that serves multiple purposes: it attaches to various frame locations via adjustable webbing, secures different lock types through repositionable hook-and-loop fasteners, and can be configured for different load distributions. This universality allows a single basic design to replace multiple specialized attachment devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a secure, adjustable, and easy-to-use method for attaching U-locks and other equipment to bicycles, ensuring stability during transit and compatibility with different lock sizes and shapes, without interfering with the rider's operation.
Implementation Method 1
rubberized webbing
Implementation Method 2
hook-and-loop engagement mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for securing articles to structural members includes a main strap assembly having at least three distinct portions configured for forming a secure loop by attachment of at least one of the portions to another of the portions. The apparatus further includes a pair of parallel ancillary strap assemblies attached transversely to the main strap assembly. Each of the pair is attached to a respective one of ancillary releasable engagement mechanisms at an end thereof, for forming an engageable loop. The ancillary strap assemblies can be used to attach the main strap assembly parallel to an elongate structural member. The secure loop of the main strap assembly can be used for securing a heavy article to a bicycle frame, or the like.