Motorized Vehicle Bike Rack for Ground-Level Loading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rooftop bicycle racks face difficulties in safely and conveniently transporting multiple bicycles without causing damage to the vehicle, requiring logistical planning, and do not allow independent loading and retrieval of bicycles.

Innovation Solution

A motorized vehicle rack system that can be coupled to a vehicle hitch, allowing bicycles to be loaded at ground level and automatically raised to an elevated transport position using motors, hydraulic arms, and securement mechanisms to prevent movement during transport.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a stationary bicycle rack is used on the vehicle roof, then bicycles can be transported, but loading and retrieving bicycles becomes inconvenient and requires logistical planning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading and retrieving bicyclesVSAvoidrack system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rack system transitions from a static rooftop configuration to a dynamic system with movable platforms that can be raised and lowered. The platforms are positioned at different heights and can be independently moved, allowing bicycles to be loaded from ground level and retrieved without requiring the user to access the roof or perform complex manual operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical operation of loading bicycles onto a stationary rooftop rack is replaced with an automated motorized lifting system. Motors drive the platforms to raise and lower bicycles automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually lift and position heavy bicycles on the roof.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Quantity of substance

If multiple bicycles are transported on a stationary rack, then transportation capacity is achieved, but access to equipment toward the center of the vehicle is blocked

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of bicycles transportedVSAvoidaccess to vehicle equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rack system adds a vertical dimension to the transportation arrangement by positioning platforms at different heights. This vertical stacking allows multiple bicycles to be transported while keeping the lower platforms accessible from ground level, preventing blockage of access to the vehicle's rear equipment while maintaining high transportation capacity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Quantity of substance

If bicycles are loaded onto a rooftop rack, then transportation is achieved, but risk of damage to the vehicle and bicycles increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebicycles transportedVSAvoiddamage to vehicle and bicycles

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates securement mechanisms that engage with the bicycles before transport begins, firmly attaching them to the platforms. This pre-securing prevents movement and potential damage during transport, eliminating the need for users to repeatedly adjust or reposition bicycles that might become loose.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The motorized lifting system acts as an intermediary between the ground level and the elevated transport position. It provides controlled, smooth movement of bicycles onto and off the vehicle, preventing sudden drops or impacts that could damage the bicycles or the vehicle body during loading and unloading operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Extent of automation

If a motorized lifting system is added to the rack, then loading and retrieving becomes automated, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveloading and retrieving processVSAvoidrack system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The motorized lifting system is divided into separate, modular components with independent motors for each platform. This segmentation allows the system to be constructed from standardized modules, simplifying manufacturing and maintenance while providing automated control over multiple platforms positioned at different locations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 safe, convenient, and automated transportation of multiple bicycles without damage, allowing independent loading and retrieval, and providing secure storage and charging capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

at least one motor operable to raise and lower the rack

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

hydraulic arms

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS20260070491A1Motorized rack for a vehicle

Publication Date: 2026.03.12 ZAPIACH LUIS A

AI summary

The present disclosure provides for a motorized rack having at least one motor, a plurality of attachment mechanisms, and lift mechanism coupled to the at least one motor. The motorized rack may be coupled to the back of a vehicle, provide for a mechanism to attach items, such as a bicycle, to the motorized rack, and will have at least one motor to raise and lower the attached items.