Tool-Free Motorcycle Saddlebag Mounting Hardware

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mounting and theft deterrent systems for motorcycle saddlebags are inefficient and require additional tools for installation, lacking in secure fastening mechanisms, and are not easily retrofittable.

Innovation Solution

A theft deterrent device comprising a hand knob with a threaded screw, a U-clip, and a lock washer, which can be installed without additional tools, replacing stock retaining clips and securing the saddlebag to the motorcycle frame, providing enhanced security and ease of installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional mounting systems are used to secure saddlebags to motorcycles, then the saddlebags can be mounted, but additional tools are required for installation and the security against theft is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetheft deterrent capabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated mounting device that simultaneously provides secure fastening and theft deterrent capabilities. The mounting device integrates the fastening mechanism, security features, and installation components into one unified structure that replaces traditional separate mounting systems, eliminating the need for additional tools while enhancing security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting device is designed to be self-installing without requiring external tools. The device incorporates self-contained fastening and security mechanisms that can be installed directly by the user through simple manual operations, making the installation process accessible to average consumers without mechanical expertise or specialized tooling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If stock retaining clips are used to mount saddlebags, then installation is simple, but the security against theft is inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidmounting system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into distinct functional segments including the mounting device with integrated fastening mechanism, security features, and saddlebag interface components. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system simplicity and ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional mounting hardware is used, then saddlebags can be secured to the motorcycle frame, but the installation requires additional tools and is not easily retrofittable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveretrofit capabilityVSAvoidinstallation tool requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting device is designed with universal compatibility to fit various motorcycle frame types and saddlebag configurations. The device can be retrofitted to existing motorcycles without requiring specialized tools or complex modifications, making it adaptable to different applications while maintaining simple installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9840296B2Theft deterrent apparatus
Publication Date: 2017.12.12 LAURENZO MICHAEL
  • US9840296B2 patent drawing
  • US9840296B2 patent drawing
  • US9840296B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mounting hardware and theft deterrent device includes a hand knob; a threaded screw coupled to the hand knob; a U-clip configured to replace a stock retaining clip on a motorcycle frame and for placement on the motorcycle frame to receive the threaded screw coupled to the hand knob and thereby to secure a motorcycle saddlebag to the motorcycle; and a lock washer for placement over the threaded screw coupled to the hand knob before the threaded screw is inserted into the U-clip. The hand knob, threaded screw fixedly coupled to an underside surface of the hand knob, U-clip, and lock washer collectively form the theft deterrent device. The theft deterrent device is configured for utilization to secure a motorcycle saddlebag to a motorcycle frame without a need for any additional installation tools. The theft deterrent device includes a retaining clip to hold the hand knob to the motorcycle saddlebag.