Quick-Release Frame Clamp for Fast Bike Rack Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bike rack clamps require dismantling of bike tires and are time-consuming to secure bikes during transport, necessitating a rapid and secure clamping mechanism that does not involve tire dismantling.
Innovation Solution
Development of tension-adjustable frame clamps with a vacuum-based system and self-closing mechanism, featuring pivotally joined jaws with a coil spring tension system and cushioning pads, allowing for quick and secure attachment of bike frames and wheels without the need for tire removal, using vacuum cups for attachment to vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional clamping mechanisms are used to secure bikes to racks, then the bikes can be held securely during transport, but the clamping process requires dismantling bike tires and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the clamping action from the tire itself and applies it directly to the bike frame. The clamp engages with the frame tube through a jaw mechanism that applies pressure without requiring tire removal, separating the securement function from tire manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded jaw mechanism automatically applies clamping force when the clamp is positioned on the frame tube. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain securement without requiring additional adjustment or manual intervention during the clamping process
2Reliability
If conventional clamping mechanisms are used, then securement can be achieved, but the process involves complex steps including tire dismantling
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the tire from the clamping process entirely, extracting it as a necessary component and engaging the frame tube directly. This simplifies the process by eliminating tire dismantling while maintaining securement through direct frame engagement
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of securing the bike through the tire (conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by securing the bike through the frame tube directly. This reversal eliminates the need for tire manipulation while achieving reliable securement
3Productivity
If a rapid clamping mechanism is implemented, then loading and unloading time is reduced, but the clamp must accommodate various bike frame sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw mechanism incorporates a spring-loaded design that dynamically adjusts the clamping force and position. The spring allows the jaw to flex and adapt to different frame tube diameters and shapes while maintaining consistent securement pressure, enabling rapid clamping across various bike types
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 rapid, secure, and adjustable clamping of bike frames and wheels, accommodating various sizes and shapes, allowing for quick loading and unloading without dismantling, and can be used for multiple recreational items.
Implementation Method 1
The clamp includes a coil spring tension system
Implementation Method 2
using vacuum cups for attachment to vehicles
Data Source
AI summary
A quick-release clamp for a vehicular mount or rack having a rigid stationary first jaw with a clamping surface, and a rigid second jaw opposite with a clamping surface oriented to face the first jaw clamping surface. The second jaw is movable between an open and a closed position relative to the first jaw, where the closed position is capable of retaining one or more objects to be clamped transversely between said jaws. A lever, attached to a variable tensioning system operates to open and close the jaws when sufficient force is applied to overcome the tension of the tensioning system.