Bike Carrier Quick-Release Mounting and Collapsible Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bike carriers are not easily adaptable to different vehicle models and require tools for mounting, lacking collapsibility and quick-release mechanisms for efficient installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
A bike carrier design featuring a carrier frame with adjustable frame members and a quick-release mechanism that can be easily mounted and dismounted from vehicle structures, such as push bumpers, without the need for tools, and is collapsible for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bike carriers are designed to be removable and adaptable to different vehicle models, then versatility and ease of installation are improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for adjustable frame members and quick-release mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The bike carrier is designed with a universal mounting system that can attach to various vehicle structures (bumpers, hitch receivers, roof racks) using a standardized quick-release mechanism. The adjustable frame members allow the same carrier design to accommodate different vehicle types and bike configurations, achieving multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized designs
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier frame is divided into multiple adjustable segments (first frame member with first arm segment and first leg segment, second frame member with second arm segment and second leg segment) that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation allows each part to be adjusted for different vehicle models while maintaining overall structural integrity through the frame connector
2Ease of operation
If bike carriers are designed with tool-free quick-release mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen due to the complexity of securing mechanisms without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanism is designed to be operated without tools by the user through a simple manual release action. The mechanism includes a release lever that, when actuated, automatically disengages the locking components, allowing tool-free installation and removal while maintaining secure attachment during normal use
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic release state through the operation of the quick-release mechanism. The frame members can be quickly adjusted between different positions and securely locked without tools, providing both ease of operation and reliable mounting through the dynamic locking action
3Volume of moving object
If bike carriers are designed to be collapsible, then storage space requirements are reduced, but device complexity increases due to the need for folding mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier frame members are designed to fold and nest within each other when not in use. The first and second frame members can be collapsed into a compact configuration where segments are nested together, significantly reducing the storage volume while maintaining the full structural capability when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members incorporate folding joints that allow the rigid carrier structure to dynamically transition between an extended operational configuration and a collapsed storage configuration. This dynamic capability enables the carrier to adapt its volume based on usage requirements without compromising structural integrity
Data Source
AI summary
A bike carrier includes a carrier frame having movable frame members with bends configured to directly or indirectly engage a structure on a vehicle. The frame members include arm segments configured to support one or more bicycles. The frame members include leg segments directly or indirectly connected to support movement of the arm segments toward and away from each other. The bike carrier also includes a quick-release mechanism positioned in proximity to the leg segments and configured for securing the bike carrier directly or indirectly to the vehicle.