Foldable Load Carrier Latching Brace for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle carriers lack a convenient and efficient mechanism to retract their backward-extending bicycle engaging portions into a compact, traveling configuration when not in use, while still being mounted on a vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible brace with a pivot connection and latch system allows the load carrying platform to transition between a deployed load supporting configuration and a compact, undeployed traveling configuration, utilizing a pivot joint and latch mechanism to adjust the orientation of the platform and brace, enabling easy storage and transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the bicycle carrier extends backward significantly to engage bicycles, then the bicycle engaging capability is improved, but the storage efficiency and traveling configuration are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is designed as a dynamic component that can pivot between an extended position (for bicycle engagement) and a retracted position (for compact storage). The pivot connection at the rearwardmost end of the brace enables it to change orientation, allowing the carrier to adapt between load-bearing and traveling configurations, thus resolving the contradiction between extension length and storage volume.
2Volume of moving object
If the brace is made collapsible to improve storage efficiency, then the storage efficiency is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brace is segmented into multiple parts: a main body portion, a rearward extending portion, and a pivot connection mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling the overall structure to collapse into a compact form for storage, reducing the trade-off between storage efficiency and structural complexity.
3Length of moving object
If the load carrying platform is retracted to improve traveling configuration, then the traveling configuration is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage with the hub when the brace is in the extended position, providing self-locking functionality. This self-service feature maintains ease of operation by eliminating the need for manual locking, while still enabling the platform to be securely retracted for traveling configuration.
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 the bicycle carrier to be easily converted between load supporting and traveling configurations, enhancing storage efficiency and usability by allowing the platform to be securely folded and stored when not in use, maintaining stability and ease of installation.
Implementation Method 1
a pivot connection (28) between the brace (20) and the load carrying platform (12)
Implementation Method 2
A latch (30) is provided at the articulated joint (26) and is configured to releasably fix the upper arm (31) and lower arm (34) relative to one another
Data Source
AI summary
A cargo load carrier configured to be mounted at the rear of a carrying vehicle and having a support frame mountable to the vehicle. A load carrying member is coupled to the support frame and is deployable from an undeployed configuration to a deployed configuration. A collapsible brace is coupled between the support frame and the load carrying member and has an articulated joint between a pair of pivot arms. A latch is releasably coupled between the pair of pivot arms and the latch has a plurality of latched configurations that releasably lock the load carrier in at least the travelling configuration and the load supporting configuration.