Spring-Loaded Hook for One-Handed Bike Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bike carriers require manual stabilization and operation of hooks or claws for securing bikes, which can be difficult, especially for individuals lacking strength or height, often necessitating multiple people for loading and securing bikes.
Innovation Solution
A bike retaining device with an elongated arm and a hook that automatically transitions between configurations by pressing a bike frame portion against a shank, allowing for one-handed loading and securing without needing to open or close the hook manually, providing a "third hand" function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hook or claw is used to secure the bike frame, then the bike can be retained during transportation, but the loading and securing process becomes difficult and requires multiple people
Solution Approach 1:
The hook is designed to automatically transition between open and closed configurations through spring-loaded mechanisms. When the bike frame is inserted, the spring force automatically closes the hook to secure the bike, eliminating the need for manual operation of the hook by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
A cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's manual input and the hook's closing action. By pressing a release button, the cam mechanism controls the hook's opening and closing, providing mechanical advantage and making the operation easier for users of varying strength.
2Reliability
If the hook needs to be opened before loading and closed afterwards, then the bike can be securely retained, but the process requires strength and coordination that may need multiple people
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded hook automatically closes when the bike frame is inserted, using the insertion motion itself to trigger the securing action. This eliminates the need for the user to apply additional force to close the hook separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook transitions from a static open position to a dynamic closing motion triggered by the bike insertion. The spring mechanism provides the necessary force dynamically during the loading process rather than requiring the user to provide constant force.
3Stability of the object's composition
If manual stabilization of the bike is required during loading, then the bike can be positioned correctly, but individuals lacking strength or height find it difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic hook mechanism performs the stabilization function by maintaining constant pressure on the bike frame through the spring mechanism. This continuous automatic stabilization replaces the need for manual stabilization during loading and transportation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical stabilization action is replaced by an automatic spring-loaded mechanical system that continuously applies force to maintain bike stability without requiring human intervention or physical effort.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a bike retaining device (1) for retaining a bike in a bike carrier arrangement on a vehicle, said bike retaining device comprising an elongated arm (2) having a longitudinal extension, a first portion (4) and a second portion (6) projecting laterally away from said elongated arm, a hook (8) connected to said first portion, said hook comprising a first shank (10) and a second shank (12). Said hook is arrangeable at least in a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein in said first configuration said first shank is arranged such that a distance between said first portion and said second portion is at least partially covered by the first shank and such that it allows a user of said bike retaining device to press a frame portion of said bike against said first shank. Further, said hook is movable from said first configuration to said second configuration when said user of said bike retaining device presses a frame portion of said bike against said first shank. Wherein in said second configuration said second shank is arranged such that the distance between said first and second portion is at least partially covered by said second shank, whereby a space is defined by said first portion, said second portion and said second shank for securing said frame portion of said bike.