Field of Invention

This invention relates generally to a locking device, in particular a compact locking device for securing a bicycle. The invention also relates to an adapting apparatus for mounting accessory equipment to a bicycle, such accessory equipment including for example a compact locking device.

Background to the Invention

Various bicycle locks, chains, cables, and solid bar type have been previously designed to secure bicycles to fixed objects such as fence posts, bicycle racks, and the like. Whilst these locks provide means for securing a bicycle, they are generally large and cumbersome and inconvenient to transport and store.

Previous attempts to overcome the transportability and storage issues have included taking existing locking mechanisms and incorporating a proprietary holder or bracket assembly to accommodate the locking mechanism on the bicycle itself, usually on the frame of the bicycle. The result is either additional hardware bulk and/or weight on the bicycle, or an unorganized method of wrapping cables, chains, and locks around the frame and/or saddle post of the bicycle.

The issues of storage and transportability is most prevalent for recreational cyclists such as mountain bikers or road cyclists or hybrid type enthusiasts such as cyclocross and gravel cyclists. After a ride, riders may choose to unwind and socialise with other riders by going to a bar or cafe for refreshments. However, they are confronted with the real issue of how to secure their bicycles and can be left with little option but to either leave it unsecured or choosing to head home if they did not take a bicycle lock with them.

Modern bicycles can be highly specialised and complex equipment and include various technical components such as front suspension shocks, rear shocks, dropper seat posts and the like to handle rugged conditions. The components enable the bicycles to flex and give to adapt to the surrounding terrain encountered by the rider and makes accommodating/storing a locking device more difficult to achieve as any device will need to be stored in a manner which does not interfere with the various components on the bicycle. Modern bicycles, particularly, road bicycles, are also designed to be as lightweight as possible with some riders ( so called weight weenies) reluctant to carry around excess weight, particularly as the bicycles have little room to accommodate/store extraneous items. Riders are also reluctant to carry around bags to store items and typically prefer to only carry small essential items such as bank cards, keys and/or electronic devices in pockets during rides.

Modern bicycles can also be particularly expensive and frequently targeted by thieves, further adding to the anxiety of riders engaging and post ride social activities.

Object of the Invention

It is an object of the invention to provide a bicycle locking device that at least overcomes some of the disadvantages described above.

Alternatively, or in addition, it may be an object of the invention to provide a compact locking device which offers both security and inherent portability.

Alternatively, or in addition, it may be an object of the invention to provide in adapting apparatus for mounting accessory equipment to a bicycle, such as for example, but not exclusively, a compact locking device.

Alternatively, or in addition, it may be an object of the invention to provide an adapting apparatus for mounting accessory to a bicycle, and/or a compact locking device for a bicycle, with enhanced security features.

Alternatively, or in addition, it may be an object of the invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a compact, weatherproof, locking device for a securing a bicycle. In one example, the locking device includes a housing body, attachment means for attaching the device onto a bicycle, and a locking mechanism, wherein the device is configured to be mounted on to a saddle.

In a preferred example, the locking device is configured to be mounted on an underside of the saddle.

In a further example, the attachment means is pivotably attached to the housing body to allow the housing body to be moved into position once attached to the underside of the saddle.

In one example, the attachment means is configured to be mounted on to rails of the saddle.

In one example, the locking device is permanently mounted to the saddle using tamper proof mechanisms to resist unauthorised detachment of the device from the saddle.

In another example, the locking mechanism includes a retractable wire assembly, and a locking aperture on the housing body.

In a further example, the locking mechanism further includes a combination barrel dial.

In one example, the retractable wire assembly includes a locking head, the locking head being configured to engage with the locking aperture in a locked configuration.

In a further example, locking mechanism includes a locking plate coupled with a release button and a locking wedge.

In another example, the locking plate is coupled in between the release button and locking wedge. The locking wedge is coupled to the combination barrel dial and is configured to control the locking mechanism to either enable or restrict movement of the locking plate in the locked and unlocked configuration of the locking device when the release button is actuated. The locking wedge may be spring biased to an engaged position to abut the locking plate. When in the locked configuration, the locking wedge is locked in the engaged position by the combination barrel dial to prevent movement of the locking plate, such that the release button cannot be pressed/moved.

In another example, the locking plate includes an opening configured to receive a portion of the locking head. In one example, the locking plate is configured to move to a position such that the opening substantially aligns with the locking aperture in an unlocked configuration to allow for the insertion or release of the locking head into the locking device.

In a further example the combination barrel dial is coupled with the locking wedge and configured to control movement of the locking plate between the locked and unlocked configuration when the release button is actuated.

In one example, the combination dial is configured to release the locking head from the locking aperture in the locked configuration by inputting a pre-configured unlocking code into the combination dial by allowing the locking plate to move when the release button is actuated.

In another example, the housing body is adapted to be positioned in between the rails of the saddle.

In a further example, the locking device may be adapted to receive additional components such as lights via the locking aperture.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is the use of a locking device for specialised mountain or road bicycles, the locking device configured to be mounted on a saddle of the bicycle, the locking device including a housing body, attachment means, and a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism includes a retractable wire assembly, a combination dial and a locking aperture located on the housing body.

In one example, the specialised bicycle includes a dropper post.

In one example, the retractable wire includes a locking head, the locking head being configured to engage with the locking aperture in a locked configuration.

In a further example, locking mechanism includes a locking plate coupled with a release button and a locking wedge.

In another example, the locking plate is coupled in between the release button and locking wedge. In another example, the locking plate includes an opening configured to receive a portion of the locking head.

In one example, the locking plate is configured to move to a position such that the opening substantially aligns with the locking aperture in an unlocked configuration to allow for the insertion or release of the locking head into the locking device.

In a further example the combination barrel dial is coupled with the locking wedge and configured to control movement of the locking plate between the locked and unlocked configuration when the release button is actuated.

In one example, the combination dial is configured to release the locking head from the locking aperture in the locked configuration by inputting a pre-configured unlocking code into the combination dial.

In another example, the housing body is adapted to be positioned in between the rails of the saddle.

According to another aspect of the invention there is a device as set forth in any one of the appended claims.

Further aspects of the invention, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

One or more examples of the invention will be described below by way of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1: is a perspective view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 2: is a perspective view of the locking device of the present invention as mounted on to a bicycle saddle. Figure 3: is an exploded view of the components of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a view of a locking head according to one example of the invention.

Figure 5: is a first cross section view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 6: is a second cross section view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 7: is a rear view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 8: is a front view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 9: is a bottom view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 10: is a cross section top view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 11: is a cross section bottom view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 12: is a cross section perspective view of the locking device of the present invention

Figure 13: is a cross section view of the locking device of the present invention with the locking head depicted in the retracted position.

Figure 14: is a further perspective view of the locking device of the present invention.

Figure 15: is a perspective side view of the internal components of the locking device of the present invention in the locked configuration.

Figure 16: is a perspective side view of the internal components of the locking device of the present invention in the unlocked configuration.

Figure 17: is a perspective illustration of a one example of mounting component according to the invention. Figure 18: is a side view of the mounting component.

Figure 19: is a bottom view of the mounting component.

Figure 20: is a side view of an example accessory component for a mounting component.

Figure 21: is an example of a locking component for use with a mounting component.

Figure 22: is another example of mounting component according to the invention.

Figure 23: is an example of an accessory mounting component for use with the mounting component of figure 17 or figure 22.

Brief Description of Preferred Examples of the Invention

With reference to Figures 1-3 which illustrate an example of a compact, weatherproof locking device 100 of the present invention. In one example the locking device 100 is configured to be detachably attached onto a seat or saddle 200 of a bicycle. In some examples of the invention the locking device is securely attached to the saddle 200 of the bicycle using fixing devices that have a security type head requiring a special or non-standard tool to release the fixings. The locking device 100 includes a housing body 110, attachment means 150 for securing to the bicycle saddle 200 and a locking mechanism.

The housing body 110 may include a first side portion 111 and a second side portion 112 configured to retain the internal components of the locking device 100 within the housing body 110. In some examples the first and second side portions 111, 112 may each respectively include a central member 113, 114 which are configured to complement each other and provide a point of attachment for the first and second side portions 111, 112. When combined together, the housing body 110, first side portion 111 and second side portion 112 provide a sealed weatherproof enclosure to protect the internal components from the external environment. In some examples of the invention the housing body 110 and side portions 111, 112 may be made from a strong lightweight material. In some examples the strong lightweight material may be aluminium. In some examples the strong lightweight material may be plastic. In some examples the strong lightweight material may be Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene ABS. In some examples the strong lightweight material may be a combination of aluminium and plastic. In one example the housing body 110 may be made from CNC machined aluminium and the first side portion 111 and second side portion 112 may be made from CNC machined aluminium. In some examples one or more of the first side portion 111 and second side portion 112 may be made from a strong plastics material such as ABS. In some examples the first side portion 111 may be made from aluminium and the second side portion 112 may be made from a strong plastics material such as ABS.

In some examples of the invention one of the side panels 111, 112 may be made from a semi-rigid plastic material which is resiliently deformable in at least a portion of the side cover, as will be described in further detail later.

In one example, the locking device 100 is configured to be mounted on an underside of a bicycle saddle 200, with a portion of housing body 110 being accommodated in between the rails 210 of the saddle 200. This mounting arrangement allows for the locking device 100 to be discretely positioned on the bicycle. In some examples the housing body 110 may be entirely accommodated between the rails 210 of the bicycle saddle 200. In some examples the housing body 110 may be accommodated behind the seat rails 210. In the some examples the housing body 110 may be accommodated beneath a rear portion 220 of the bicycle saddle 200.

In some examples the mounting arrangement 150 allows for the device to be used on bicycles with specialist equipment such as seat/dropper posts or full suspension systems, used on some mountain or mother off/road type bicycles, without interring with its operation. Dropper posts allows for quick adjustment of saddle height without requiring the rider to get off or even stop moving. The height of the saddle can be adjusted at the push of a button or pull of a lever. It is used is to quickly go between seated pedalling and standing to navigate steep drops or jumps. Combined with full suspension systems, in the lowered position, the saddle position can be close to the rear wheel. Having the locking device 100 located on an underside of the saddle 200 may not interfere with the operation of the specialist components of the bicycle in any way. In position, the locking device does not interfere with the rear wheel of the bicycle when the saddle position is lowered and allows for worry free riding for the user.

In some examples the attachment means 150 is located on a first end of the locking device 100 and is configured to be attached to an underside of saddle. In a preferred example, the attachment means is configured to be attached to the saddle rails 210. In some examples the attachment means 150 may be in the form of a clamp which is configured to clamp on to the saddle rails of the bicycle. The clamp may include a top jaw 1501 and a bottom jaw 1502 with complimentary clamping recesses 1503, 1504 formed in a gripping surface to accommodate the saddle rails 210. In some examples the top jaw 1501 and bottom jaw 1502 extend laterally and have complimentary recesses 1503, 1504 at distally remote opposite ends for accommodating the clamp 150 between parallel saddle rails 210. In some examples top and bottom jaws 1501, 1502 may be held in place by screws 1505 extending between the jaws. The screws 1505 can be manipulated to bias the jaws towards each other to clamp the seat rails 210 between the complimentary clamping recesses 1503, 1504. In some examples a biasing arrangement may be included to automatically bias the top and bottom jaws apart when releasing the clamp 150 from the saddle rails 210.

In will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that bicycle saddles are generally well known in the art and include standard core components across the various saddles available. For example, typical components of a saddle include a shell that forms the shape of the saddle, a cover to provide some form of padding on top of the shell and saddle rails to provide a connection point for the saddle to the bicycle.

In general, most saddles have two parallel rails that is configured to provide a point of attachment for the seat post. The rails generally extend from one end of the saddle to the other, with the rails diverging away from each other towards the rear end of the saddle. However, it will be appreciated that designs may vary from one to four rails. It should be appreciated that the attachment means described herein may be adjusted to suit such designs without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

One example of mounting of the locking device on a saddle described above is best shown in Figure 2. As illustrated therein, the locking device 100 of the present invention is positioned discretely with a portion between the saddle rails 210. In some examples the locking device 100 generally does not extend beyond the rear edge 230 of the saddle, with the overall height of the device extending to a point slightly lower than the saddle rails 210. This compact placement ensures the locking device does not interfere to other components on the bicycle and can be used with specialist equipment such as dropper posts.

In some examples the attachment means 150 may include tamper proof mechanisms to prevent the unauthorised removal of the locking device 100 from the saddle rails 210. Such mechanisms would be well known to a person skilled in the art and may include the use of proprietary screws 1505 for the use of clamps or may include integrally forming the attachment means to the saddle rails. In some examples the attachment means does not include tamper proof mechanisms. In some examples the locking device 100 is configured to be environmentally sealed to the external elements to ensure the internal components are protected from the ingress of moisture and external contaminates. This ensures the internal components remains free from unnecessary exposure and degradation.

In some examples the attachment means 150 may be pivotably connected to the housing body 110 and configured to provide a degree of movement to the housing body 110 once the locking device 100 has been mounted to the saddle to allow the housing body to be placed into position between the saddle rails 210. In some examples the attachment means 150 may have a pivotable connection includes a fixing screw 160 that is configured to lock the rotation of the attachment means 150 with respect to the housing body 110, tightening the fixing screw 160 will engage the thread 161 onto a pivot member 162 and rotate the housing body 110 into position. A split pin 163 is provided to allow for the pivotable rotation when the fixing screw is not tightened. The split pin provides additional structural support to the pivotable connection. In some examples the pivotal connection includes a pair of complimentary engagement surfaces 1601, 1602 to cause a friction engagement of the pivotal connection when the fixing screw 160 is tightened. Frictional engagement resists unwanted rotation of the pivotal connection. In some examples the complimentary engagement surfaces are a wavey washer. In some examples the complimentary engagement surfaces are a pair of complimentary wavey washers. In some examples the complimentary engagement surfaces are complimentary detent surfaces.

In some examples it will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that once the housing body 110 has been placed into position between the saddle rails 200, that the pivotable connection will be configured so that it is fixed in place. This ensures the locking device does not come loose and affect or interfere with any other components of the bicycle while in operation.

In some examples the housing body 110 may include a first curved top portion adapted to be accommodated on an underside of the seat saddle 210. The curved top portion is configured to provide an efficient and effective fit on the underside of the seat saddle.

In some examples the locking mechanism includes a retractable wire assembly 1201, a combination barrel dial 130, and a wire aperture 145, a locking aperture 146 on the housing body 110. The retractable wire assembly 1201 is in communication with the combination barrel dial 130 to provide for locking and unlocking functions. In some examples the retractable wire assembly 1201 includes a rotatably mounted wire spool 120 that is configured to retain a locking wire 1202 around it when not in use. In some examples the wire spool 120 is configured to be retained within the housing body 110 with central members 113, 114 intersecting the centre of the wire spool and hold it in place internally. In some examples the spool is rotationally mounted on the central members 113, 114. In some examples the coiled locking wire 1202 may be extended through the wire aperture 145 into a locking configuration.

In some retractable wire assembly 1201 includes biasing means to automatically retract the wire 1202 onto the spool 120 when not in use. In some examples the biasing means is a coiled torsion, or spiral, spring arranged concentrically with the spool 120. In some examples the biasing means or mechanisms may include biasing means that have a 'stepped' locking arrangement rachet which is configured to bypass the automatic retraction of the wire and allow a length of wire that has been extended to remain fixed. Pulling the wire again will allow the wire to either be automatically retracted again or allow the user to pull additional wire out of the wire assembly.

The retractable wire assembly includes a locking head 140 at a free end of the wire 1202 which is configured to engage with the locking aperture 146 on the housing body 110 in a locked position. An opposite end of the wire is attached to the wire spool 120. The locking head 140 provides a natural stop to the retractable wire assembly to ensure the wire is not fully retracted into the housing body when not in use. In some examples of the invention the main body assembly includes a magnetic holder for the locking head 140. The main body assembly includes a cable aperture 146 through which the wire cable extends when withdrawn to the locking position. In the retracted position the locking head 140 stops against the cable aperture 146 in the natural stop position. In some examples the cable aperture 146 may include a magnetic periphery in the form of an annular magnetic ring 1461 having a bore comprising the cable aperture. The locking head includes an engagement boss or flange 1401 about its cable attachment end. The engagement boss or flange 1401 is made from a ferromagnetic material adapted to magnetically engage with the annular magnetic ring 1461 of the cable aperture 146 when the cable 1201 is in the retracted/stored position. The magnetic holder for the locking head provides additional retracted security for the wire cable as well as providing a sealing engagement between the blocking head 140 and main body assembly 110 to exclude the ingress of moisture and dirt into the interior of the main body assembly. In some examples of the invention the magnetic holder may be a resiliently deformable holder 1461. In some examples the annular magnetic ring comprising the periphery of the cable aperture may instead be a resiliently deformable member such as a rubber grommet 1461 into which the cable attachment end 1401 of the locking head is inserted in a friction fit arrangement. A friction fit between the rubber grommet 1461 and cable attachment end 1401 of the locking head helps retain the locking head il40 n the wire retracted condition as well as forming a water and dirt excluding seal between the locking head 140 and the main body housing 110 to exclude the ingress of moisture and dirt into the housing.

It should be appreciated that the length and size of the retractable wire 1202 can be adapted based on the size of the bicycle to be secured. In various examples of the invention various lengths and diameters of wire may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

In some examples of the invention, the locking mechanisml201 includes a locking plate 135 coupled with a release button 115 and a locking wedge 121. The locking plate 135 includes an opening 136 configured to receive an engagement portion 1402 of the locking head 140. The position of the opening on the locking plate 135 is configured to be substantially aligned with the locking aperture 146 in an unlocked configuration in order to receive or release the engagement portion 1402 of the locking head when inserted into the locking aperture 146. In the locked configuration, the alignment of the opening and the locking aperture 146 is misaligned and offset in order to retain the locking head within the locking device.

In some examples, the locking plate 135 is coupled in between the release button 115 and locking wedge 121 in a configuration to allow for movement of the locking plate by actuating the release button 115. In the unlocked configuration, pressing the release button allows for movement of the coupled locking plate 135 in a direction to realign the opening and the locking aperture 145 with respect to one another and allow for the release of the locking head 140 from the locking device.

In some examples, a the release button 115 is pivotally connected 116 to the housing body 110. In some examples the release button 115 includes a protruding ridge 11 located near an end of the release button 115 opposite the pivotal connection 116. The protruding ridge 117 couples with the locking plate 135 at a lower face in a manner where when the release button 115 is pressed in the unlocked configuration, the protruding ridge 117 engages and catches the locking plate 135 and forces the locking plate to move upwards to realign the opening 136 with the locking aperture 146 to allow the locking head 140 to be released .

In some examples the locking wedge 121 is coupled to the combination barrel dial 130 and is configured to control the locking mechanism to either enable or restrict movement of the locking plate 135 in the locked and unlocked configuration of the locking device when the release button is actuated. In some examples the combination barrel dial 130 is positioned in between the first and second side portions 111, 112. The combination barrel dial 130 may be pre-configured with an unlock code of the user's choice to release the locking head from the locked position. Without the unlock code, the locking head 140 will remain in the locked position within the locking aperture 146.

In some examples the locking wedge 121 is spring biased to an engaged position to abut the locking plate 135. When in the locked configuration, the locking wedge 121 is locked in the engaged position by the combination barrel dial 130 to prevent movement of the locking plate 135, such that the release button 115 is also unable to be pressed/moved, and with the locking head locked 140 in the locking aperture.

In some examples, entering the pre-configured unlocking code into the combination barrel dial 130, enables the locking wedge 121 to move against the spring bias away from the engaged position to allow for the locking plate 135 to move when the release button 115 is pressed and allow for the opening 136 of the locking plate to realign with the locking aperture 146 to release the locking head 140 from the locked position.

In use, to release the locking head 141, a user inputs the unlock code on the combination dial 130 and presses the release button 115 to disengage the locking head 140 from the locking aperture 146. In some examples, failure to enter the correct unlock code will not allow the locking wedge 135 to move away from the engaged position and allow for a change of locking state.

It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that while a three-combination barrel dial is shown in some figures, in other examples of the invention other combination barrel dials may be incorporated to the bicycle locking device of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In some examples, four or five combination barrel dials may be used. Similarly, in some example the use of letters rather than numeric dials may also readily be incorporated for use in the locking device 100 of the present invention.

In some examples the locking device includes a pivotal cover member 118 to cover the combination barrel 130 and locking aperture 146 in order to exclude dirt and moisture ingress into the locking aperture 146 and from fouling the combination barrel 130. In some examples the pivotal cover member includes a semi-cylindrical cover having a longitudinal axis aligned along the rotation axis of the combination barrel 130. In some examples a top edge of the semi-cylindrical cover 118 is pivotally coup, led to the housing body 110 at a hinge 119. In some examples the hinge is a piano hinge 119. In other examples other known hinges may be used. The semi-cylindrical cover 118 may be rotated between a closed position in order to cover the combination barrel 130 to exclude dirt and moisture from the barrel and an open position in which the semi-cylindrical cover rotatably pivots around the hinge 119 exposing the combination barrel 130 so that the user may select the unlocking combination. In some examples of the invention the semi-cylindrical cover 118 has a flange or tab portion 123 extending along one edge which in the closed position is arranged to provide a cover for the locking aperture 146 to exclude the ingress of dirt and moisture into the locking aperture 146. In some examples the cover 118 is made from over-moulded metal. A magnetic latch 124 is located on the housing body 110 proximate the locking aperture 146 to magnetically seal the cover in a closed position.

In some examples the cover member 118 may be a retractable cover member 118 having a semi- cylindrical cover having a longitudinal axis aligned along the rotation axis of the combination barrel 130. The semi-cylindrical cover 118 may be rotated between a closed position in order to cover the combination barrel 130 to exclude dirt and moisture from the barrel and an open position in which the semi-cylindrical cover rotatably retracts around the combination barrel 130 to within the housing body 110 exposing the combination barrel 130 so that the user may select the unlocking combination. In some examples of the invention the semi-cylindrical cover has a flange or tab portion 123 extending along one edge which in the closed position is arranged to provide a cover for the locking aperture 146 to exclude the ingress of dirt and moisture into the locking aperture.

In one example, the release button 115 is located on a bottom surface of the locking device. The release button 115 and engagement ridge 117 couple to the combination barrel dial 120 , locking wedge 121, and locking plate 135, wherein when the correct unlock code has been entered into the combination dial, pressing the release button 115 engages a locking plate 135 to move the position of the opening 116 to allow the locking head 140 to be released from the locked position and removed from the locking aperture 145.

In one example the wire may 1202 retract into and extend from wire aperture 145 on a bottom face of the locking device, with the locking aperture 146 being located on a rear face of the locking device to receive the locking head 140 at the free end of the locking wire 1202. As generally shown in some figures the generally rearward facing direction of the locking aperture 146 allows the user to easily insert the locking head 140 into the locking aperture 146. However, it will be appreciated that in some examples the locking aperture 146 and wire aperture 145 may be reconfigured to have the reverse arrangement where the locking aperture 146 is located on the bottom face of the locking device with the wire and wire aperture 145 extending and retracking from and into the rear face.

In a further example, the locking device may optionally include transmitting means. Such means are well known in the art and may include satellite communication unit, GPS unit, Bluetooth unit, or the like. Such means could be used to automatically transmit the location of the locking device to a registered device. This would provide the user with an extra layer of security in knowing the device can be located at all times. Additionally, such means may be also used to record or track the ride undertaken by the rider.

In some examples a tracking unit such as Apple's AirTag may be incorporated into the device. In some examples a tracking unit such as Samsung's Galaxy SmartTag may be incorporated into the device. In some examples a tracking unit such as a CHIPOLO tag (www.Chipolo.net) may be incorporated into the device. In some examples a tracking unit such as a Bluetooth enabled tracking tag may be incorporated into the device. In some example a near field communication (NFC) tracking tag may be incorporated into the device. In some examples a tracking tag using a community or decentralised tracking arrangement may be incorporated into the device. A community or decentralised tracking arrangement may use a distributed population of tracking community members to detect and anonymously update a location tacking system of the location of another community member in close proximity. In some example a satellite location and tracking system may be incorporated into the device. In other example a non-proprietary transmitting unit may be incorporated into the device. It is envisaged that the transmitting units will be configured to correspond with a pre-registered device to transmit the relevant information.

In some examples the locking device 100 includes a side cover member 111 made from a non-metallic type material such as plastic or ABS plastic. This may allow a transmitting or tracking unit of a tracking tag or chip to have better signal strength by eliminating interference or shielding of the cover member. In some examples the non-metallic side cover 111 may be resiliently deformable to facilitate a tactile interface between a tracking chip, or other, unit or tag and a user. The resiliently deformable side cover 111 can be depressed by a user to activate a button or contact associated with the tracking chip for pairing or activating the tracking chip. In other embodiments the non-metallic side cover my facilitate pairing with a tracking chip via a wireless communication protocol such as for example near field communication NFC. In some examples the non-metallic side cover may include an NFC antenna. In some examples the non-metallic side cover 111 may be removably fixed in place with suitable fixings and seals to enable removal for battery replacement of the tracking chip or tag or unit.

In yet other examples of the invention the locking device 100 may optionally include an alarm system. In some examples the alarm system may be activated for example via an NFC communications protocol with an app on a user's smartphone. In some examples the alarm system may be activated for example via a Bluetooth communications protocol with an app on a user's smartphone. The alarm system in some examples may include a tracking function whereby if the alarm is activated a tracking chip or tag initiates a tracking signal which can be accessed by user. In some examples the tracking chip or tag may be selectively activated by the alarm or continuously activated. In some examples the alarm system may include an audible alarm signal to deter interference with the bicycle. In some examples the alarm system may include an anti-tamper module which activates the alarm if the locking device 100 is unlocked before the alarm is deactivated. In some examples the alarm system may include a movement sensor to detect movement of the bicycle and to activate an alarm if the bicycle is moved. In some examples movement of the bicycle may be detected using movement detection members and or accelerometer and the like.

In a further example, it will be appreciated that additional accessories such as lights may also be incorporated onto the locking device of the present invention. It is envisaged that such accessories will be configured to clip into the locking device. For example, a light accessory could be adapted to have an attachment point in form of a locking head for insertion into the locking aperture. The light can be attached to the locking device while the user is on a ride as the locking function of the device is not required.

In some examples, additional components such as motion detection sensors, accelerometers or the like can be incorporated to the device to assist with gathering further information to record/track the ride. Such components can be housed within the locking device. In some examples such components may be configured to be attached on the locking device via the locking aperture 146 as described above for the additional light accessory. In some embodiments the accessory component may include as an attachment means a locking head 140 so that the accessory component may engage with and releasably lock with the locking aperture 146. In some examples an accelerometer may be used to gather information regarding acceleration or deceleration of the bicycle and activate different modes of a light configured with the locking device. In one mode the light may be configured to illuminate with a first intensity or a first flashing arrangement or a combination of flashing speeds in order to act as a safety rear light for a cyclist. In a second mode which may be activated buy a signal from the accelerometer, the light may illuminate in a different configuration from the first mode to indicate the bicycle is changing speeds, for example slowing down. The illumination in the second mode may be, for example, to illuminate the light with a brighter intensity or to stop a flashing and illuminate the light in a solid glow. In some examples the accelerometer may be used to activate a bicycle alarm as previously described.

In use, the locking device 100 is mounted to the underside of the saddle 200 by attachment to the saddle rails 210. The locking device 100 rests naturally in an unlocked state. To secure the bicycle, the locking head 140 on the free end of the wire is simply pulled away from the wire aperture 145 and can be extended either around the bicycle itself or an object or structure in which to secure the bicycle to, and the locking head 140 inserted into the locking aperture 146 to engage the locked position. The user may also loop the wire around a part of the bicycle, such as around a portion of the frame of the bicycle, so that the securement of the bicycle is not solely reliant on the integrity of the connection of the locking device to the saddle, or connection of the saddle to the bicycle frame. The locking device can also be used to secure to neighbouring bicycles if multiple bicycles are required to be secured, or if there is no object or structure around to secure the bicycle to. The user should ensure the combination dial 130 is reset so that the unlock code it not inadvertently exposed.

To unlock, the user simply enters the unlock code into the combination dial 130 and presses the release button 115 to engage the locking blade and release the locking head from the locking aperture. In some examples, once released, the wire 1202 may be configured automatically retract back into its retracted position wound onto the spool in the unlocked state and the rider is able to access the bicycle.

As can be seen in some Figures, the locking device of the present invention is a compact and weatherproof device that allows a rider to easily secure a bicycle. The device is lightweight and conveniently attached to the saddle and does not interfere with any components of the bicycle.

In some examples of the invention the locking device may include a mounting component 1002 and a locking component 1001. In some examples the mounting component 1002 includes the mounting bracket assembly 150 as previously described for securing to rails 210 of a bicycle saddle 200. The mounting component 1002 further includes an extension arm 1003 extending away from the mounting bracket assembly 150 a component attachment assembly 1004. The component attachment assembly 1004 comprises a releasable securing assembly for releasably securing the locking component 1001 to the mounting component 1002. In some embodiments the releasable securing assembly includes a rotatable releasing assembly such as a bayonet type assembly where a first releasable assembly half has a first set of rotateable engagement members and a second releasable assembly half has complementary rotateable engagement receivers. In yet further examples of the invention the releasable securing assembly may comprise a sliding type engagement assembly with a first releasable assembly half having sliding type receiver engagement members 1005 and a second releasable assembly half having complementary slide type receivable engagement members 1006. The receivable engagement members 1006 are received within the receiver engagement members 1005 for securing the locking component 1001 to the mounting component 1002. Any some examples of the invention the releasable securing assembly may include a magnetic type engagement assembly. In some examples of the invention the engagement member is a FIDLOCK (www.fidlock.com) type connector that may combine a twisting and magnetic locking elements. In some examples the engagement member is a FIDLOCK (www.fidlock.com) type connector that may combine a sliding and magnetic locking elements. In some examples the engagement member is a FIDLOCK (www.fidlock.com) type connector that may combine a suction and magnetic locking element.

In some examples the locking component 1001 is a locking device 100 without the mounting portion 150, and having receivable engagement features 1006.

In some examples of the invention the mounting component 1005 may include a housing 1007 for containing tracking chip or tag features as aforementioned. In some examples of the invention the mounting component 1005 may include alarm features as aforementioned. In some examples of the invention the mounting component 1005 may include lighting features as aforementioned. In some examples of the invention the mounting component 1005 may be adapted to be used with other accessory components 1008 having complimentary engagement features 1006. In some examples the accessory 1008 may be a race number holder. In some examples the accessory 1008 may be a bicycle saddle bag. In some examples the accessory 1008 may be a separate detachable rear light assembly. In some examples the accessory 1008 may be a bicycle toolkit assembly. In some examples the mounting component my include a mounting component 1010 configured to secure around a frame component of a bicycle. In some examples the mounting component 1010 is configured to secure about the seat tube of a bicycle. In some examples the mountain component 1010 is configured to secure about the downtube of a bicycle. In some examples the mounting component is configured to secure about the top tube of a bicycle. In some examples the mounting component 1010 is configured to secure about the head tube of a bicycle. In some examples the mounting component 1010 is configured to secure about the fork of a bicycle. In some examples the mounting component 1010 includes a generally flexible planar support member 1011. In some examples the first support member includes a first support member 1012 and a second support member 1013. The support member 1011 or 1012 includes adjacent a first edge a wire spool 1014 having secured configuration and released configuration. The wire spool 1014 secures an attachment wire 1015 in a loop. The wire loop 1015 may be extended in a released configuration of the wire spool 1014 and retracted and secured configuration of the wire spool 1014. The support member 1011 or 1012 includes adjacent a first edge a loop engagement tab 1016 configured to engage and hold a free end of the wire loop 1015. The mounting component 1010 may be secured to a bicycle tube, or other bicycle component, by passing the wire loop 1015 around the tube or component and engaging it with the loop engagement tab 1016. Moving the wire spool 1014 to the secured configuration and retracting the wire loop 1015 secures the mounting component 1010 tight about the bicycle tube, or other bicycle component.

In some examples the support member 1011 or 1013 includes one half of a component attachment assembly 1004 are previously described. In some examples the support member 1011 or 1013 includes receiver engagement member 1005. In some examples a locking component 1001 having receivable engagement members 1006 may be releasably secured with the mounting component 1010. In some examples an accessory component 1008 having receivable engagement members 1006 may be releasably secured with the mounting component 1010.

In some examples an accessory component 1029 is configures to secures about a component to be mounted to a bicycle.

In some examples an accessory securing component 1029 includes a generally flexible planar support member 1021. In some examples the flexible support member includes a first support member 1022 and a second support member 1033. The support member 1021 or 1022 includes adjacent a first edge a wire spool 1024 having secured configuration and released configuration. The wire spool 1024 secures a component attachment wire 1025 in a loop. The component wire loop 1025 may be extended in a released configuration of the wire spool 1024 and retracted and secured configuration of the wire spool 1024. The support member 1021 or 1022 includes adjacent a first edge a component loop engagement tab 1026 configured to engage and hold a free end of the wire component loop 1025. The accessory securing component 1029 may be secured to a bicycle component by passing the wire loop 1025 around the component and engaging it with the loop engagement tab 1026. Moving the wire spool 1024 to the secured configuration and retracting the wire loop 1025 secures the securing component 1029 tight about the other bicycle component.

In some examples the support member 1021 or 1023 includes one half of a component attachment assembly 1004 are previously described. In some examples the support member 1021 or 1023 includes receivable engagement member 1006. By using the accessory securing component 1009 to secure about a component the component can be mounted to a bicycle by securing it with a receiver engagement member 1005 of a mounting component 1010 secured to a bicycle frame tube.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements, characteristics, and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements, characteristics or features.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined herein. Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred examples described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present invention.