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Title:
BICYCLE CARRIER AND BICYCLE STORAGE RACK
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2020/033256
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A hitch mounted bicycle carrier that vertically mounts a plurality of bicycles. The bicycles are secured by the front tire in a wheel receiving member structure at the top of the bicycle carrier. The bicycle carrier secures a rear tire to a lower mounting structure. The bicycle carrier is configured to be mounted to the vehicle with an anti-rattle hitch mounting method. The bicycle carrier when not in use for transportation doubles as a bicycle storage and access rack. The bicycle carrier also acts as a bicycle tuning, repair, and workstation when on the back of a vehicle or when in use as a storage access rack.

Inventors:
OWEN CHARLES BLAKE (US)
OWEN BRYCE ALLEN (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2019/044865
Publication Date:
February 13, 2020
Filing Date:
August 02, 2019
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
EAST MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS LLC (US)
International Classes:
B60R9/10; B62H3/08; B62H3/12
Domestic Patent References:
WO2017001224A12017-01-05
WO2003064214A12003-08-07
Foreign References:
US20160129847A12016-05-12
US6062451A2000-05-16
US5190195A1993-03-02
Other References:
ALTA RACKS, 6 August 2017 (2017-08-06), XP055683679, Retrieved from the Internet [retrieved on 20190930]
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
CONLEE, David C. (US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a post;

a first support member coupled to the post and extending substantially

perpendicular to the post;

a first wheel receiving member coupled to the first support member and having a shape like a letter C, the wheel receiving member being configured to receive a wheel of a bicycle such that the bicycle is suspended vertically when the wheel is placed in the wheel receiving member.

2. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the wheel receiving member defines a plane substantially perpendicular to the post.

3. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the wheel receiving member holds the wheel at an angle greater than 20 degrees from vertical.

4. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the wheel receiving member and the first support member are positioned so that a tire of the bicycle contacts the first support member when the wheel is positioned in the wheel receiving member.

5. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, further comprising a second wheel receiving member coupled to the first support member and having a shape like a letter C.

6. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the wheel receiving member includes:

a first termination; and

a second termination, the first and second terminations defining a gap between the first and second terminations.

7. The bicycle carrier of claim 6, wherein the first termination and the second termination are positioned so that spokes of the wheel are not contacted by the wheel receiving member.

8. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, further comprising a hitch bar configured to be received in a tow hitch of an automobile.

9. The bicycle carrier of claim 8, further comprising a hinge assembly coupling the hitch bar to the post, wherein the hinge assembly holds the post substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar in a transport position, and wherein the post extends substantially vertically in the transport position.

10. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the hinge assembly enables the post to rotate more than 90 degrees from the transport position.

11. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, further comprising a second support member coupled to the post and extending substantially perpendicular to the post, the second support member configured to contact a second wheel of the bicycle when the bicycle is suspended via the wheel receiving member.

12. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein the wheel receiving member is coupled to the first support member by an angled support member that extends from the first support member at an angle greater than 20 degrees from vertical.

13. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a vertical post;

a first horizontal support member coupled to the vertical post and extending substantially perpendicular to the vertical post; and wheel receiving means for receiving a wheel of a bicycle, wherein the wheel receiving means is coupled to the first horizontal support member.

14. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a hitch bar configured to couple to a tow hitch of an automobile; a vertical post coupled to the hitch bar;

a first horizontal support member coupled to the vertical post; and a plurality of wheel receiving members coupled to the first horizontal support member, wherein each wheel receiving member includes:

a first termination; and

a second termination, the first and second terminations defining a gap between the first and second terminations.

15. The bicycle carrier of claim 14, wherein each wheel receiving member includes a bar configured in a shape of a C, the first and second terminations corresponding to ends of the bar.

16. The bicycle carrier of claim 15, wherein the bar includes: a first bend that bends more than 90 degrees; and

a second bend that bends more than 90 degrees.

17. The bicycle carrier of claim 16, wherein the bar includes a straight portion extending between the first and second bends.

18. The bicycle carrier of claim 16, wherein the bar defines a plane substantially perpendicular to the vertical post.

19. The bicycle carrier of claim 14, further comprising a hinge assembly that rotatably couples the hitch bar to the vertical post.

20. The bicycle carrier of claim 19, wherein the hinge assembly is configured to enable the vertical post to rotate between a first stable position in which the vertical post is substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar and a second stable position less than 90 degrees from the first stable position.

21. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a post;

a hitch bar configured to couple to a hitch receiver of an automobile; and a hinge assembly coupled to the post and the hitch bar and configured to enable the post to rotate relative to the hitch bar, the hinge assembly including a damper that dampens rotation of the post relative to the hitch bar.

22. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the damper includes a hydraulic damper.

23. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the hydraulic damper includes: a fluid chamber; and

a piston configured to move within the fluid chamber.

24. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the damper includes a spring.

25. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the damper includes a gas spring.

26. The bicycle carrier of claim 25, wherein the hinge assembly includes a damper yoke coupled to the damper.

27. The bicycle carrier of claim 26, wherein the damper yoke is configured to be coupled in a damping position in which the damper is coupled to dampen rotation of the post relative to the hitch bar.

28. The bicycle carrier of claim 27, wherein the damper yoke is configured to be coupled in a damper release position, wherein in the damper release position the damper does not dampen rotation of the post.

29. The bicycle carrier of claim 28, wherein the damper release position decouples the damper from at least one of the hitch bar or the post.

30. The bicycle carrier of claim 26, further comprising:

a damper pin; and

a first damper pin receiver, wherein placing the damper yoke in the damping position and inserting the damper pin in a first damping position secures the damper yoke in the damping position.

31. The bicycle carrier of claim 30, wherein removing the damper pin from the first damper pin receiver enables the damper yoke to move to the damper release position.

32. The bicycle carrier of claim 31, wherein when the damper yoke is in the damper release position, the hinge assembly enables the post to rotate more than 100 degrees relative to the hitch bar.

33. The bicycle carrier of claim 31, wherein the hitch bar includes a second damper pin receiver, wherein placing the damper yoke in the damper release position and placing the damper pin in the second damper pin receiver fixes the damper yoke in the damper release position.

34. The bicycle carrier of claim 26, wherein the hinge assembly includes a bracket coupled to the post.

35. The bicycle carrier of claim 34, wherein the damper yoke is coupled to the bracket.

36. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, further comprising a hitch wedge coupled to an end of the hitch bar and configured to be received into the hitch receiver of the automobile.

37. The bicycle carrier of claim 36, wherein the hitch wedge is configured to be selectively tightened and loosened relative to the hitch bar.

38. The bicycle carrier of claim 37, wherein the hitch bar includes hitch pin apertures configured to receive a hitch pin, wherein when the hitch pin is passed through both the hitch pin apertures of the hitch bar and the hitch pin apertures of the hitch receiver, the hitch bar is coupled to the hitch receiver.

39. The bicycle carrier of claim 38, wherein when the hitch bar is coupled to the hitch receiver by the hitch pin, and wherein tightening the hitch wedge includes tightening the hitch wedge to the hitch pin.

40. The bicycle carrier of claim 38, further comprising a hitch wedge bolt coupled to the hitch wedge, wherein selectively tightening and loosening the hitch wedge includes turning the hitch bolt.

41. The bicycle carrier of claim 40, further comprising:

a hitch wedge spring positioned within the hitch bar and coupled to the hitch wedge; and a hitch wedge spring stop positioned in the hitch bar and coupled to the hitch wedge spring, wherein tightening the hitch wedge compresses the hitch wedge spring against the hitch wedge spring stop.

42. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the hinge assembly enables the post to rotate between a transport position and a loading position.

43. The bicycle carrier of claim 42, wherein the hinge assembly includes: a bracket fixed to the hitch bar and including a first stop pin aperture; and a stop pin, wherein when the stop pin is positioned in the first stop pin aperture, the stop pin defines the first loading position and the post is prevented from rotating past the stop pin.

44. The bicycle carrier of claim 43, wherein the bracket includes a second stop pin aperture, wherein the stop pin can be selectively placed in either the first stop pin aperture or the second stop pin aperture to define the loading position.

45. The bicycle carrier of claim 43, wherein the bracket includes a second stop pin aperture, wherein the stop pin can be selectively placed in the second stop pin aperture to prevent the post from rotating from the transport position.

46. The bicycle carrier of claim 21, wherein the hinge assembly includes: a bracket fixed to the hitch bar; and

an axle coupled to the bracket and passing through the post, wherein the hinge assembly enables the hitch bar to rotate around the axle.

47. The bicycle carrier of claim 46, wherein the bracket is welded to the hitch bar.

48. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a post;

a hitch bar configured to be received by a tow hitch of an automobile; and a hinge assembly coupled to the post and the hitch bar and configured to enable the post to rotate more than 90 degrees from a transport position.

49. The bicycle carrier of claim 48, wherein the hinge assembly enables the hitch bar to rotate more than 110 degrees from the transport position.

50. The bicycle carrier of claim 48, wherein the hinge assembly defines a transport position and a loading position for the post relative to the hitch bar.

51. The bicycle carrier of claim 50, wherein in the transport position, the post is substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar.

52. The bicycle carrier of claim 51, wherein in the loading position, the post is rotated less than 90 degrees from the transport position.

53. The bicycle carrier of claim 52, wherein the hinge assembly includes a damper configured to resist rotation of the post.

54. The bicycle carrier of claim 53, wherein the hinge assembly incudes a damper yoke coupled to the damper, wherein the damper is selectively couplable to the post, and wherein when the damper yoke is coupled to the post, the damper resists rotation of the post.

55. The bicycle carrier of claim 54, wherein the hinge assembly includes a bracket and a hinge stop pin, wherein when the stop pin is positioned in the bracket, the post is unable to rotate beyond the loading position.

56. The bicycle carrier of claim 55, wherein the hinge assembly enables the post to rotate more than 90 degrees from the transport position when the damper yoke is decoupled from the post and the stop pin is not positioned in the bracket.

57. The bicycle carrier of claim 54, wherein the damper is coupled between the hitch bar and the damper yoke.

58. The bicycle carrier of claim 57, wherein the damper is coupled to the hitch bar by a bolt.

59. A bicycle carrier, comprising:

a post;

a hitch bar configured to be received by a tow hitch of an automobile; and hinge means for coupling the post to the hitch bar and enabling the post to rotate relative to the hitch bar.

Description:
BICYCLE CARRIER AND BICYCLE STORAGE RACK

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority benefit from U.S. provisional patent application number 62/715,203, filed on August 6, 2018, titled“BICYCLE

CARRIER AND BICYCLE STORAGE RACK”. The present application also claims priority benefit from U.S. provisional patent application number 62/841,933, filed on May 02, 2019, titled“BICYCLE CARRIER AND BICYCLE STORAGE RACK”. U.S. provisional patent applications 62/715,203 and 62/841,933 are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to the field of bicycle carriers. Description of the Related Art

Hitch mounted bicycle carriers have been in use for many years.

Typically, hitch mounted bicycle carriers have a few less than desirable

characteristics. For example, many bicycle carriers require the bicycles to be loaded and unloaded sequentially. Bicycles are loaded by mounting the frame and many parts of the adjacent bicycles and the bicycle carrier can rub and scratch each bicycle. In some cases, only standard frame bicycles or bicycles with a special adaptor can be placed on certain bicycle carriers. In some cases, at most four bicycles can be carried on a hitch mounted bicycle carrier. In some cases, when the bicycle carrier isn’t in use on the back of a vehicle, it requires storage and isn’t used. Another drawback of many hitch mounted bicycle carriers is the wobbly or loose connection to the vehicle. Typical bicycle carriers have a difficult time with varying bicycle types and sizes at the same time.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a post and a first support member coupled to the post and extending substantially perpendicular to the post. The bicycle carrier includes a first wheel receiving member coupled to the first support member and having a shape like a letter C. The wheel receiving member is configured to receive a wheel of a bicycle such that the bicycle is suspended vertically when the wheel is placed in the wheel receiving member.

In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a first horizontal support member coupled to the vertical post and extending substantially

perpendicular to the vertical post. The bicycle carrier includes wheel receiving means for receiving a wheel of a bicycle, wherein the wheel receiving means is coupled to the first horizontal support member.

In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a hitch bar configured to couple to a tow hitch of an automobile, a vertical post coupled to the hitch bar, a first horizontal support member coupled to the vertical post, and a plurality of wheel receiving members coupled to the first horizontal support member. Each wheel receiving member includes a first termination and a second termination. The first and second terminations define a gap between the first and second

terminations.

One embodiment is a bicycle carrier configured to be used on a vehicle and adjacent to a wall for bicycle storage. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier includes a hinge that allows transport, loading, and storage positions. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier allows easy hinge usage for quick and easy bicycle loading and unloading when wall or vehicle mounted. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier is configured to hold a plurality of bicycles. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier allows a rear vehicle door to open even with all bicycles loaded. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier includes an open hoop design that prevents spoke loading on all bicycle types. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier is also a bicycle tune up station. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier pivots to the ground while attached or detached to a stationary vehicle allowing for a quick and convenient on-ground standing storage. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier holds bicycles with 29” wheels or smaller. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier mounts using only tire touch points. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier includes an anti-rattle hitch mounting method to secure the bicycle carrier to the vehicle preventing undesirable motion. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier allows unmounted on-ground bicycle usage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle carrier, according to an embodiment.

Figure 2 is an illustration of a bicycle carrier coupled to an automobile and carrying a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

Figure 3 illustrates a bicycle carrier carrying a bicycle and coupled to an automobile while at a loading position, according to one embodiment.

Figure 4 is a side view of a bicycle carrier coupled to an automobile and in a stabilization configuration, according to an embodiment.

Figure 5 is a side view of a bicycle carrier positioned on the ground and stabilizing a bicycle, according to an embodiment.

Figure 6 is a view of the bicycle carrier during a loading sequence of the bicycle, according to an embodiment.

Figure 7 is a view of the bicycle carrier after a loading sequence of the bicycle, according to an embodiment.

Figure 8 is a view of a bicycle carrier supporting a first bicycle and a second bicycle, according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is a side view of a bicycle carrier in a wall mounted configuration, according to an embodiment.

Figure 10 is a side view of a bicycle carrier in a loading position, according to an embodiment.

Figure 11 is a side view of a bicycle carrier in a storage position, according to an embodiment.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a wheel receiving member and angled support members, according to an embodiment.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a wheel receiving member and angled support members, according to an alternate embodiment.

Figure 14 is an isometric view of a hinge assembly of a bicycle carrier, according to an embodiment.

Figure 15 illustrates four views of a hinge assembly of a bicycle carrier, according to an embodiment.

Figure 16 is a bottom sectional view of the hinge assembly and a hitch bar, according to an embodiment.

Figure 17 illustrates two views of a hinge assembly of a bicycle carrier, according to an embodiment.

Figure 18 is a cross section view of a bicycle carrier vertical post showing the lever actuation of the locking latch pin, according to an embodiment.

Figure 19 is a side sectional view of a first horizontal support member of a bicycle carrier showing a stored internal locking cable, according to an embodiment.

Figure 20 illustrates a bicycle carrier that can telescope to reduce the number of wheel receiving members, according to an embodiment.

Figure 21 illustrates a wheel receiving member and a portion of angled support members, according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle carrier 100, according to an embodiment. The bicycle carrier 100 includes a vertical post 102, a first horizontal support member 104, wheel receiving members 106, angled support members 108, a second horizontal support member 110, a hitch bar 112, and a hitch assembly 114 that rotatably couples the hitch bar 112 to the vertical post 102, according to an embodiment.

In the view of Figure 1, the bicycle carrier 100 is in a transport position. In the transport position the hitch assembly 114 holds the vertical post 102 at a position substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar 112. The hitch bar 112 is configured to be placed in and fixed to a tow hitch of an automobile. In the transport position, the bicycle carrier 100 can safely carry a plurality of bicycles while coupled to a moving automobile.

Each wheel receiving member 106 is configured to receive a front wheel of a bicycle. The front wheel of a bicycle can be positioned, lowered into, or rolled into, a wheel receiving member 106. After being positioned in a wheel receiving member 106, the wheel of the bicycle comes to rest at an angle other than vertical. The wheel of the bicycle rests against the angled support members 108 and on the first horizontal support member 104. The bicycle is suspended vertically when the wheel is positioned in the wheel receiving member 106. This is illustrated in Figure 2 and elsewhere in the figures. The angled support members can 108 can be coupled to the first horizontal support member 104 by bolts, welds, or other coupling devices or methods.

Each wheel receiving member 106 is coupled to the first horizontal support member 104 by a pair of angled support members 108. In the example of Figure 1, the support members 108 extend from the first horizontal support member 104 at an angle other than vertical. In one embodiment, the support members 108 extend at an angle of about 55° from horizontal. In this case, the wheel of the bicycle will rest in a wheel receiving member 106 at an angle of about 45° from horizontal. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that other angles are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the vertical post 102 is about 48 inches in length. The vertical post 102 can have width dimensions of about 2 inches by 3 inches. The first horizontal support member 104 is about 68 inches in length. The first horizontal support member 104 has width dimensions of about 2 inches by 2 inches. The second horizontal support member 110 has a length of about 64 inches. The second horizontal support member 110 has width dimensions of about 1.75 inches by 1.75 inches. The hitch bar 112 has a length of about 20 inches, with width dimensions of about 2 inches by 2 inches. In one embodiment, the vertical post 102, the first horizontal support member 104, the second horizontal support member 110, and the hitch bar 112 are each made of steel. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that dimensions and materials described herein are given by way of example and that other suitable dimensions and materials can be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the first horizontal support member 104 is coupled to the vertical post 102 by mounting tabs 118. The mounting tabs 118 can include steel and can be fixed to the first horizontal support member 104 by bolts, by welding, or by other fasteners or methods. The mounting tabs 118 can be fixed to the vertical post 102 by welding, bolts, or by other fasteners or methods.

In one embodiment, the vertical post 102 includes a release lever 116. Pulling the release lever 116 enables the vertical post 102 to be rotated relative to the hitch bar 112 via the hinge assembly 114. The vertical post 102 can be rotated between various stopping positions, as will be described in greater detail below. The structure, components, and function of the hinge assembly 114 will also be described in greater detail below with respect to Figures 14-17. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier 100 includes a plurality of first straps 120 each coupled to the first horizontal support member 104. There is a first strap 120 for each wheel receiving member 106. When a bicycle wheel is placed in a wheel receiving member 106, the corresponding first strap 120 is looped around the wheel between two of the spokes and is fastened to a strap anchor on one of the support members 108. This can keep the wheel from moving or shifting when positioned in the wheel receiving member 106.

In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier 100 includes a plurality of second straps 122 each coupled to the second horizontal support member 110. There is a second strap 122 for each wheel receiving member 106. When a bicycle suspended from a wheel receiving member 106 by placing the wheel in the wheel receiving member 106, the bicycle will be suspended vertically, and the rear wheel will be in contact with the second horizontal support member 110. The second strap 122 can be looped between two spokes on the rear wheel and connected to a fastener positioned on the second horizontal support member 110. This will keep the keep the rear wheel from shifting relative to the second horizontal support member 110 during transport. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that other fastening methods can be used to secure the bicycle one suspended from one of the wheel receiving members 106.

The word“vertical” in the term vertical post 102 refers to the position of the vertical post 102 when in the transport configuration. The transport configuration corresponds to the configuration in which the bicycle carrier 100 is coupled to a vehicle, is carrying one or more bicycles, and is actively being transported. In this case, the vertical post 102 is substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar 112 and extends substantially vertically relative to flat ground. Those of skill in the art will recognize, that the vertical post 102 can be rotated to positions other than vertical. Additionally, the bicycle carrier 100 can be laid in positions in which the vertical post 102 would not extend in a vertical direction. Accordingly, the word“vertical” in the term vertical post 102 refers to the orientation of the vertical post 102 in a particular transport configuration. Similarly, the word “horizontal” in the terms first and second horizontal support member 104, 110, refers to the orientation of the support member 104, 110 during the transport configuration. The bicycle carrier 100 could be laid in positions in which the first and the second horizontal support members 104, 110 would not extend in the horizontal direction. In one embodiment, the bicycle carrier 100 can include a post 102 that is not necessarily vertical in the transporting position. Additionally, the bicycle carrier 100 can include first and second support members 104, 110 that are not horizontal.

Figure 2 is an illustration of a bicycle carrier 100 coupled to an automobile 124 and carrying a bicycle 126, according to an embodiment. The hitch bar 112 of the bicycle carrier 100 has been inserted in and coupled to a tow hitch 127 of the automobile 124. The hitch bar 112 can be coupled to the tow hitch 127 by bolts and pins or other common fastening configurations, as will be described in more detail below. As used herein, the term“tow hitch” can include a hitch receiver that receives a hitch bar 112.

The front wheel 128 of the bicycle 126 is positioned in one of the wheel receiving members 106. When the front wheel 128 is positioned in the wheel receiving member 106, the front wheel 128 rests at a non-vertical angle. The front wheel 128 rests on the first horizontal support member 104. The front wheel 128 is also in contact with two of the support members 108. The bicycle 126 is suspended vertically. The rear wheel 129 rests against the second horizontal support member 110. When describing how the front and the rear wheels 128, 129 rest on or are supported by various support members, it is understood that the tires may actually be in contact with the various support members.

The vertical post 102 is in the transport position in which the vertical post 102 extends substantially perpendicularly from the hitch bar 112.

While Figure 2 shows a single bicycle 126 carried by the bicycle carrier 100, in practice, the bicycle carrier 100 can carry multiple bicycles 126. In particular, the bicycle carrier 100 can carry a bicycle 126 for each wheel receiving member 106. Accordingly, each wheel receiving member 106 can receive a front wheel 128 of a respective bicycle 126.

Figure 3 illustrates a bicycle carrier 100 carrying a bicycle 126 and coupled to an automobile 124 while at a loading position, according to one embodiment. The hinge assembly 114 defines a loading stop position. When the release lever 116 is pulled, the hinge assembly 114 enables the vertical post 102 to rotate relative to the hinge bar 112 to a loading stop position. At the loading stop position, the vertical post 102 is oriented at about 33° from vertical, in one example. This enables bicycles 126 to more easily be loaded onto or off of the bicycle carrier

100. This is because the wheel receiving members 106 are both lower to the ground and oriented at an angle that facilitates easy loading and unloading of bicycles 126.

As will be described in more detail below, hinge motion is slowed by dampers/gas springs included in the hinge assembly 114. This damping enhances the safety of rotating between the transport position and the load position.

In one embodiment, each bicycle 126 can be accessed without the removal of other bicycles 126. Loading bicycles 126 can also be done in the full vertical (transport mode) or in the angled back loading position. In one

embodiment, moving from the hinged position requires an upward and forward force toward the automobile 124 to move from the loading (hinged) position until the vertical post automatically locks in the vertical or transport position.

Figure 4 is a side view of a bicycle carrier 100 coupled to an automobile 124 and in a stabilization configuration, according to an embodiment. In the stabilization configuration, the vertical post 102 is rotated more than 90° from the transport position by operation of the hinge assembly 114. The wheel receiving members 106 rest on the ground. A bicycle 126 is stabilized by the bicycle carrier 100. In particular, the rear wheel 129 of the bicycle 126 is positioned in the wheel receiving member 106. The wheel receiving member 106 stabilizes the rear wheel 129 so that the bicycle 126 will not fall over. The first strap 120 can be utilized to strap the rear wheel 129 to the wheel receiving member 106.

This configuration is useful in situations in which the automobile 124 will be parked and bicycles 126 will be periodically used. When a bicycle 126 is not used, it can be positioned in the wheel receiving member 106 as shown in

Figure 4. When a bicycle 126 is to be used, the bicycle 126 can easily be removed from the wheel receiving member 106. This configuration can be particularly useful in situations like camping when bicycles 126 may be ridden to and from camp. Instead of being laid on the ground are rested against trees or other structures, each bicycle 126 can be positioned in a wheel receiving member 106 for stabilization.

Figure 5 is a side view of a bicycle carrier 100 positioned on the ground and stabilizing a bicycle 126, according to an embodiment. In this example, the vertical post 102 and the hinge part 112 are oriented in the transport position by the hinge assembly 114. However, the bicycle carrier 100 is not coupled to an automobile 124. Instead, the bicycle carrier 100 is laid on the ground. The wheel receiving members 106 rest on the ground similar to the configuration shown in Figure 4. The bicycle carrier 100 can stabilize a plurality of bicycles 126 in this configuration by positioning the rear wheels 129 of the bicycles 126 in the wheel receiving members 106.

Figure 6 is a view of the bicycle carrier 100 during a loading sequence of the bicycle 126, according to an embodiment. The front wheel 128 of the bicycle 126 is lowered into the wheel receiving member 106. While the front wheel 128 is loaded into the wheel receiving member 106, the front wheel 128 can be substantially vertically oriented. After loading, the front wheel 128 will settle at an angle other than vertical.

Figure 7 is a view of the bicycle carrier 100 after a loading sequence of the bicycle 126, according to an embodiment. The front wheel 128 of the bicycle 126 is positioned in the wheel receiving member 106. The front wheel 128 has settled to a position such that the front wheel 128 is not oriented vertically, but rather is oriented at an angle relative to vertical. In one example, the angle is 45°.

Figure 8 is a view of a bicycle carrier 100 supporting a first bicycle l26a and a second bicycle l26b, according to an embodiment. The first bicycle l26a is supported in a standard fashion with the front wheel 128 position in a wheel receiving member 106. The second bicycle l26b is supported by positioning a seat post within a wheel receiving member 106 such that a seat 125 of the second bicycle l26b rests on and is supported by the wheel receiving members 106.

The shape of the wheel receiving member 106 enables the second bicycle l26b to be suspended by the seat 125. Because the wheel receiving member 106 includes first and second terminations 130, 132 (see Figures 12 and 13), the seat post of the second bicycle l26b can be easily maneuvered through a gap 131. The second bicycle l26b can then be suspended by the seat 125, as shown in Figure 8

In one embodiment, when the second bicycle l26b is suspended by the seat 125, maintenance or repairs can be performed easily on the second bicycle l26b. Accordingly, the bicycle carrier 100 can act as a repair station for bicycles 126.

Figure 9 is a side view of a bicycle carrier 100 in a wall-mounted configuration, according to an embodiment. The hinge assembly 114 is operated such that the vertical post 102 has rotated more than 90° from the transport position to a storage or wall-mounted position. In one example, in the wall-mounted or storage position, the vertical post 102 is rotated about 150° relative to the hinge bar 112 from the transport position.

In one embodiment, the wall-mounted position is suitable for coupling the bicycle carrier 100 to a wall mount structure 144. The wall mount structure 144 can include one or more boards, beams, or bent sheet metal coupled to a wall 145 of a structure, such as a garage. One or more hooks 146 are coupled to the wall mount structure 144. The bicycle carrier 100 is coupled to the wall mount structure 144 by positioning one or more of the wheel receiving members 106 on one or more of the hooks 146. The vertical post 102 and the hitch bar 112 are in contact with a floor 148 or on top of a small spacer sitting on the floor 148.

In the wall-mounted position, a bicycle 126 can be loaded into a wheel receiving member 106 by rolling the back wheel 129 with the front wheel 128 in the air until the front wheel 128 can be positioned in the wheel receiving member 106. In some cases, this may require lifting the bicycle 126 to enable the front wheel 128 to slide into the wheel receiving member 106. The downward tilting angle of the wheel receiving member 106 makes it relatively easy to place the front wheel 128 of a bicycle 126 in the wheel receiving member 106. Each wheel receiving member 106 of the bicycle carrier 100 can receive a respective bicycle 126 in the wall-mounted configuration.

Figure 10 is a side view of a bicycle carrier 100 in a loading position, according to an embodiment. The hitch assembly 114 has enabled the vertical post 102 to rotate about 33 degrees from the transport position to the loading position.

Figure 11 is a side view of a bicycle carrier 100 in a storage position, according to an embodiment. The hitch assembly 114 has enabled the vertical post 102 to rotate about 150 degrees from the transport position to the storage position.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a wheel receiving member 106 and angled support members 108, according to an embodiment. The wheel receiving member 106 is substantially in the shape of a letter C. The wheel receiving member 106 includes two terminations, 130, 132. The two terminations 130, 132 define a gap 131 between the two terminations 130, 132. The wheel receiving member 106 includes a first bend 134, a second bend 136, and a straight portion 138 extending between the first and second bends 134, 136.

In one embodiment, the length of the wheel receiving member 106 is 26 inches. The length is defined as the internal distance between the farthest points of the first bend 134 and the second bend 136. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that a wheel receiving member 106 can have a length other than 26 inches without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the width of the wheel receiving member 106 is 3.5 inches. The width is defined as the shortest distance between the straight portion 138 and either of the terminations 130 or 132. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that a wheel receiving member 106 can have a width other than 3.5 inches without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the distance D between the first termination 130 and the second termination 132 is about 10 inches. Accordingly, the gap 131 between the first and second terminations 130, 132 is 10 inches. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that the wheel receiving member 106 can include a gap 131 of other than 10 inches between the first and second terminations 130, 132 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the shape of the wheel receiving member 106 provides many benefits. For example, when a front wheel 128 is inserted into the wheel receiving member 106, the front wheel 128 can enter at an angle substantially perpendicular to the plane defined by the wheel receiving member 106. Because the wheel receiving member 106 terminates at terminations 130, 132 without additional structure extending downward from the area of the terminations 130, 132, the front wheel 128 can be loaded at a convenient perpendicular angle. If the wheel receiving member 106 did not terminate at terminations 130, 132, but rather extended downward at an angle similar to the angled support members 108, then the front wheel 128 would need to be loaded at an angle other than perpendicular so it can slide into the wheel receiving member 106. Loading the front wheel 128 at an angle other than perpendicular is highly inconvenient and awkward. Accordingly, the shape of the wheel receiving member 106 as shown in Figure 12 avoids this drawback. After the front wheel 128 has been inserted into the wheel receiving member 106, the front wheel 128 will then come to a resting position at an angle other than perpendicular. In the resting position, the tire is in contact with an interior surface of the angled support members 108 and the first horizontal support member 104.

Another benefit of the wheel receiving member 106 is that the gap 131 is situated so that in the resting position, the spokes of the front wheel 128 do not contact the wheel receiving member 106. If the wheel receiving member 106 was a complete hoop instead of having the gap 131, then it is possible that the spokes would be in contact with the wheel receiving member 106 when in the resting position. The resulting pressure on the spokes could result in bent or otherwise damaged spokes.

In one embodiment, the wheel receiving member 106 is a single integral structure. For example, the wheel receiving member 106 can correspond to a single bar or rod that is bent into the shape shown in Figure 12. Alternatively, the wheel receiving member 106 can include multiple sections connected together to form the shape shown in Figure 12.

In one embodiment, the wheel receiving member 106 is steel. Other sufficiently strong materials can be used for the wheel receiving member 106.

In one embodiment, when the bicycle carrier 100 is in the transport position, the wheel receiving member 106 defines a plane substantially parallel to the ground, or perpendicular to the vertical direction. For example, if a flat board is laid on top of the wheel receiving member 106 when in the transporting

configuration, the plane of the board would be parallel to the ground or

perpendicular to the vertical direction.

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a wheel receiving member 106 and angled support members 108, according to an alternate embodiment. The wheel receiving member 106 is substantially in the shape of a C. However, instead of a straight portion 138 extending between the first and second bends 134, 136, a bent portion 142 extends between the first and second bends 134, 136. Otherwise, the wheel receiving member 106 of Figure 13 is substantially similar to and provides similar benefits as the wheel receiving member 106 of Figure 12.

Figure 14 is an isometric view of a hinge assembly 114 of a bicycle carrier 100, according to an embodiment. Figure 14 also shows portions of the hitch bar 112 and vertical post 102 coupled to the hinge assembly 114. The hinge assembly 114 allows rotation of the vertical post 102 relative to the hitch bar 112.

In one embodiment, the hitch assembly 114 includes a bracket 150, dampers 152, a damper yoke 154, a damper pin 155, a hinge stop pin 156, and a bolt 159. The bracket 150 is fixed to the hitch bar 112 by one or more bolts or welds. The bolt 159 is coupled to the bracket 150 and passes through the vertical post 102. The bolt 159 acts as an axle for rotation of the vertical post 102. When the vertical post 102 rotates, it rotates about the bolt 159.

In one embodiment, the bracket 150 is a unitary structure. In one embodiment, the bracket 150 is steel.

In one embodiment, when the release lever 116 is pulled, the hinge assembly 114 enables rotation of the vertical post 102 relative to the hitch bar 112. The dampers 152 slow, resist, or oppose the rotation. This enhances the safety of the bicycle carrier 100. This is because when rotating between the transport and loading positions, the rotation cannot happen rapidly due to the dampers 152. This ensures that the vertical post 102 will not quickly fall or rotate when rotation is enabled, potentially injuring somebody or damaging the bicycle carrier 100.

Instead, after rotation is enabled by pulling the release lever 116, some force may need to be applied by an individual to cause rotation against the force of the dampers 152.

In one embodiment, the dampers 152 include hydraulic damping. The dampers 152 can include the fluid chamber and a piston. Flow of a fluid into or out of the fluid chamber is inhibited by a relatively small aperture, and potentially by the viscosity of the fluid. Rotation of the vertical post 102 relative to the hitch bar 112 is opposed by this hydraulic effect. In one embodiment, the fluid is a liquid. In one embodiment, the fluid is an oil. In one embodiment, the fluid is a gas.

In one embodiment, the dampers 152 can include one or more springs that resist rotation of the vertical post 102 relative to the hitch bar 112. In one embodiment, the dampers 152 can include gas springs. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that many other types of dampers 152 can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the dampers 152 are mounted between the hitch bar 112 and the damper yoke 154. The dampers 152 are coupled to the hitch bar 112 by a bolt 161.

In one embodiment, the hinge stop pin 156 defines a stop point for rotation of the vertical post 102 relative to the hitch bar 112. In particular, when rotating from the transport position to the loading position, the hinge stop pin 156 stops rotation at the transport position. In one embodiment, the loading position is a 33° rotation from the transport position. The bracket 150 includes multiple sets of apertures 176, 177, 178 for receiving the hinge stop pin 156. The hinge stop pin 156 is placed in the apertures 177 in Figure 14. The hinge stop pin 156 can be placed in the apertures 178 to reduce the angle of the loading position relative to the transport position. The hinge stop pin 156 can be placed in the apertures 176 to substantially prohibit rotation of the vertical post 102 from the transport position. The hinge stop pin 156 can be tied to the bracket 150 by a tie.

The vertical post includes 102 include first damper pin receivers 157 for receiving a damper pin 155. The damper yoke 154 is placed in the damping position as shown in Figure 14. In the damping position, the dampers 152 dampen or resist rotation of the vertical post 102. The damper pin 155 is placed in the first damper pin receivers 157, thereby fixing the damper yoke 154 to the vertical post 102 in the damping position. The damper pin 155 can be tied to the damper yoke 154 by a tie. In one embodiment, to enable rotation of the vertical post 102 to the wall mounting position, the damper pin 155 and the hinge stop pin 156 are removed. With the damper pin 155 removed, the damper yoke 154 can be decoupled from the vertical post 102 and moved to a damper release position in which the dampers 152 do not dampen or resist rotation of the vertical post 102.

With the damper pin 155 removed from the first damper pin receivers 157, the hinge stop pin 156 removed, and the release lever 116 pulled, the vertical post 102 can rotate beyond the loading position to the wall mounting position. This can correspond to rotation of up to 150 degrees from the transport position.

The hitch bar 112 includes a second damper pin receiver 158. The damper pin 155 can be received in the second damper pin receiver 158 to secure the damper yoke 154 in the damper release position.

In one embodiment, the hitch wedge 160 helps to secure the hitch bar 112 in the hitch receiver 127 of an automobile 124. For example, after the hitch bar 112 is positioned in the hitch receiver 127, the hitch wedge 160 will be positioned within the hitch receiver 127. The hitch pin 162 can then be placed through apertures in the hitch receiver 127 and apertures 170 (see Figure 15) in the hitch bar 112. A hitch pin lock 172 can lock the hitch pin 162 in place. A hitch wedge bolt 166 (see Figure 15) can then be tightened. The tightening of the hitch wedge bolt 166 pulls or tightens the hitch wedge 160 into place, thus locking the entire bicycle carrier 100 to the vehicle hitch mounting point and stopping relative motion between the bicycle carrier 100 and the automobile 124. This greatly reduces rattling of the bicycle carrier 100 and, by extension, the bicycles 126, during transport. Loosening the hitch wedge bolt 166 loosens the hitch wedge 160, allowing a hitch wedge spring 164 (see Figure 15) to fully release the hitch wedge

160, thereby allowing the bicycle carrier 100 to be removed from the automobile 124. Figure 14 also illustrates an expanded view of the hitch wedge 160.

In one embodiment, as the hitch wedge 160 is tightened, the hitch wedge 160 presses against an interior of the hitch receiver 127 of the automobile 124, preventing motion of the hitch bar 112 relative to the hitch receiver 127 of the automobile 124. This effect can be sufficient to secure the bicycle carrier 100 to the automobile 124 without using the hitch pin 162.

In one embodiment, the hinge assembly 114 also includes a damper pin 155. By pulling the damper pin 155, the dampers 152 are decoupled from the vertical post 102. The damper yoke 154 and the dampers 152 can be rotated downward and the damper pin 155 can be placed in the second damper pin receiver 158. In this configuration, the vertical post 102 can rotate beyond the loading position into the wall mounting or storage position.

Figure 15 illustrates four views l500a, l500b, l500c, l500d, of a hinge assembly 114 of a bicycle carrier 100, according to an embodiment. View l500a is a side view of a portion of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112, and the portion of the vertical post 102 in the transport position. View l500b is a side sectional view of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112, and a portion of the vertical post 102 in the transport position. View l500c is a side view of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112, and a portion of the vertical post 102 in the loading position. View l500d is a side sectional view of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112, and a portion of the vertical post 102 in the loading position.

In view l500a, the vertical post 102 is in the transport position. The vertical post 102 is substantially perpendicular to the hitch bar 112. The dampers

152 are in a retracted position.

In view l500b, the vertical post 102 is in the transport position. The release rod 174 extends through the vertical post 102. The release rod 174 can be a release cable. When the release lever 116 is pulled, the locking latch pin 168 is released by action of the release rod 174. This enables rotation of the vertical post

102. The side sectional view of l500b also illustrates the hitch wedge bolt 166 extending through the hitch bar 112 to the hitch wedge 160. The side sectional view of l500b also illustrates apertures 170 in the hitch bar 112, through which the hitch pin 162 can be passed. In view l500c, the vertical post 102 is in the loading position. The locking latch pin 168 has been released, enabling rotation of the vertical post 102 to the loading position. The loading position is achieved when the vertical post 102 abuts the hinge stop pin 156. The hinge stop pin 156 can be placed in the aperture 178 (see view l500b) to reduce the rotation angle of the vertical post 102 relative to vertical. If the hinge stop pin 156 is placed in the aperture 176 (see view l500b), rotation of the vertical post 102 from the transport position is prohibited. This locks the vertical post 102 in the transport position. In the view l500d, the interior of the vertical post 102 can be seen at the loading position.

Figure 16 is a bottom sectional view of the hinge assembly 114 and hitch bar 112, according to an embodiment. From the bottom sectional view, the wedge spring bracket 180, the wedge spring 164, and the wedge spring stop 182 are apparent.

Figure 17 illustrates two views l700a and l700b of a hinge assembly 114 of a bicycle carrier 100, according to an embodiment. View l700a is a side view of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112, and a portion of the vertical post 102 in the wall mounting or storage position. View l700b is a side sectional view of the hinge assembly 114, the hitch bar 112 and a portion of the vertical post 102 in the transport position. To enter into the storage or mounting position, the damper pin 155 is removed, the damper yoke 154 is removed and lowered to the hitch bar

112 and the damper pin 155 is placed in the second damper pin receiver 158. With the dampers 152 and the damper yoke 154 decoupled from the vertical post 102, and the hinge stop pin 156 removed, the vertical post 102 can rotate beyond the loading position into the storage or wall mounting position. In the storage or wall mounting position, the vertical post 102 is rotated more than 90 degrees from the transport position, for example 150 degrees.

Figure 18 is a cross section view of a bicycle carrier vertical post 102 showing the lever actuation of the locking latch pin 168. The rack release lever 116 is moved downward causing the locking latch pin 168 to release the vertical post 102 to rotate to one of the stopping positions, such as the transport position, the loading position, or the mounting or storage position.

Figure 19 is a side sectional view of a first horizontal support member 104 of a bicycle carrier 100, according to an embodiment. The view of Figure 18 illustrates that the first horizontal support member 104 is hollow. An internal locking cable 184 is positioned within the hollow first horizontal support member 104. An end of the first horizontal support member 104 can be opened and the internal locking cable 184 can be drawn out. The internal locking cable 184 can then be used to lock any or all of the bicycles 126 that are carried by the bicycle carrier 100. Figure 19 also illustrates a strap anchor 186 coupled to the support member 108. The first strap 120 can be looped between the spokes of a front wheel 128 and then latched onto the strap anchor 186.

Figure 20 illustrates a bicycle carrier 100 that can telescope to reduce the number of wheel receiving members 106, according to an embodiment. The first and second horizontal support members 104, 110 can telescope between maximum lengths and minimum lengths. For example, after removing the two wheel receiving members 106 on either end of the first horizontal support member 104 via removing screws or bolts, portions of the first horizontal support member 104 can be removed from or telescoped into an inferior of the first horizontal support member 104. The second horizontal support member 110 can be removed or telescoped in the same manner. In one example, the bicycle carrier 100 includes a maximum number of seven wheel receiving members 106. After removal and telescoping, the bicycle carrier 100 includes a minimum of five wheel receiving members 106. Those of skill in the art will recognize in light of the present disclosure that other maximum or minimum numbers of wheel receiving members

106 are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Figure 21 illustrates a wheel receiving member 106 and a portion of angled support members 108, in accordance with an embodiment. The wheel receiving member 106 includes a straight portion 138 coupled to the angled support members 108 extending between a first bend 134 and a second bend 136. The wheel receiving member 106 includes lengths 190 and 192 extending from the first and second bends 134 and 136. The lengths 190 and 192 extend outward. This outward extension helps to ensure that the spokes of a bicycle wheel will not contact the lengths 190 and 192 when the wheel is positioned in the wheel receiving member 106. The lengths 190 and 192 may connect to each other. Alternatively, the lengths 190, 192 can end in terminations 130, 132 that define a gap 131, as shown in Figures 12 and 13. In one embodiment, the lengths 190, 192 extend outward at an angle between 5 degrees and 45 degrees. The wheel receiving member 106 can include single unitary bar or rod bent in the shape shown in

Figure 21. Alternatively, the wheel receiving member 106 can include multiple segments connected together.

The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. All of the U.S. patents, U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications, foreign patents, foreign patent applications and non-patent publications referred to in this specification and/or listed in the Application Data Sheet are incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety. Aspects of the embodiments can be modified, if necessary, to employ concepts of the various patents, applications and publications to provide yet further

embodiments.

These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosure.