Foldable Bike Rack Locking Unit for One-Handed Operation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable bike racks require users to support the rack with one hand while operating the folding or expanding mechanism, which can be inconvenient for some users.
Innovation Solution
A foldable bike rack design featuring pivotably connected supports with a locking unit that includes a torsion spring and C-shaped hooking member, allowing for easy folding or expansion by pressing a hooking member to disengage from U-bars, along with an adjustable frame and vehicle plate for secure mounting and safety features like turning lights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the bike rack uses a conventional folding mechanism, then the rack can be folded for storage, but the user needs to support the rack with one hand while operating the mechanism with the other hand, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is designed to be automatically locked when the support is in the extended position, and automatically unlocked when the support is folded. The torsion spring automatically engages the hooking member with the U-bar during extension, eliminating the need for manual operation during normal use
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate locking unit that can independently engage and disengage from the U-bar, allowing the folding operation to be simplified to just pressing the pressing end without needing to manually manipulate multiple components
2Volume of moving object
If the bike rack is designed to be foldable for storage, then storage space is saved, but the user must use one hand to support the rack while operating the folding mechanism with the other hand
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit automatically locks when the support is extended and automatically unlocks when folded, making the folding operation simple and convenient while maintaining compact storage volume
Solution Approach 2:
The support transitions between extended and folded positions dynamically, with the locking unit adapting its state automatically based on the position of the support, enabling easy one-handed operation
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
Enables easy and convenient folding or expansion of the bike rack, adjustable height and direction for space-saving storage, and enhanced safety during transportation.
Implementation Method 1
Each locking unit includes a seat, a second pivot, a torsion spring and a hooking member. The torsion spring is mounted to the second pivot, wherein one of two ends of the torsion spring is connected to the seat and another one of the two ends of the torsion spring is connected to the hooking member.
Implementation Method 2
each of the supports is pivotably connected to the base by a first pivot so that the supports are pivoted upward to a folded position and pivoted downward to a use position
Implementation Method 3
The hooking member is pivoted about the second pivot and is disengaged from the U-bar
Data Source
AI summary
A bike rack includes a base and a bike rack. The base is connected to a vehicle and the bike rack is foldably connected to the base. The bike rack includes two sets of supports for supporting and securing the bike front wheel and the bike rear wheel. A locking unit is connected to each support and includes a hooking member. By pressing a pressing end of the hooking member, the bike rack is easily folded or expanded relative to the base.