BONSAI D-RACK

SUPPORT EN D COMPACT

English Abstract

A conversible bicycle rear article carrier attachment that will fit on most
conventional rear article carriers, particularly designed for folding/20"
wheeled bicycles, is disclosed.
Foremost, this attachment exploits the hereto untapped vertical space
immediately behind the seat post on folding bikes, enabling the carrying of
a single, large duffel type bag or suitcase, with particular aim at the
touring
market. Alternatively, the unit improves cargo carrying capacity for urban
commuting, permitting the secure carrying of large box-like containers.
The expansible features function in vertical, lateral and longitudinal
directions. In collapsed mode the unit maintains a streamlined position
relative to the existing main carrier.

Claims

Page 6
CLAIMS:
1. An expansible rear article carrier attachment/accessory for use on
folding/20" wheeled bicycles comprising:
a. a main platform frame consisting of a multiplicity of
tubes that attaches to existing rear article carrier
b. a telescoping inner platform consisting of a multiplicity of
tubes that slides into the main platform frame
c. hinged side fences expandible via slotted flat bars that slide
across channeled flat bar on main platform frame
d. hinged side fences at 180 degree stop positions via spring, pin
and hole mechanisms
e. broad flathead bolt knobs that tighten expandible side fences
at variable increments
f. spring/pin lock mechanism for inner platform
2. An expansible rear article carrier attachment/accessory whose
expanding features function in vertical, lateral and longitudinal
directions
3. An expansible rear article carrier attachment whose primary
features may be incorporated into a single, stand-alone rear article
carrier

Description

Page 2
Background of the Invention
1. Field of the Invention:
1-001] This invention relates to bicycle cargo racks, bicycle article
carriers,
bicycle trailers, hitches and related cargo carrying methods.
2. Prior Art
[002] Since the inception of the rear article carrier, a variety of cargo
expansion adaptations have been developed ranging from collapsible
baskets, platform enlargements, platform outriggers and carrier frame
modifications to enhance pannier attachment.
(003] A number of existing art examples that expand the capacity of
the rear article carrier can be referenced. US Patent 8,910,842 B2
employs an outrigger system, while US Patent 3934770A comprises
collapsible baskets.
(further references to follow)
CA 2975345 2017-07-12

Page 3
Summary of the Invention
[0/0] The impetus for this invention is based on the premise that a single
piece of lugge/container is a superior method for travel with respect
to ergonomic simplicity, organizational efficiency, security and
elegance.
[011] The placement of a single luggage type container on conventional
bicycles is problematic in two respects: top heaviness/
wobbliness if placed on carrier platform, lopsidedness/imbalance if
placed on the side. Both methods are limited in volume capacity.
[012] Whereas the industry has recognized the need for the single-load
cargo method in the form of trailers, the two pannier/sack method
employed on both on rear and front carriers continues to dominate the
touring market.
[013] While the trailer solves an ergonomic/organizational problem, it
creates another in terms of weight, space occupation and
manueverability.
[014] In the context of the folding bicycle which this invention addresses, it
is interesting to note that both pannier style and trailer
method of cargo carrying are the accepted norms.
As will become evident upon further examination, this invention
eliminates the need for both trailer and panniers on folding/20"
wheeled bicycles, comfortably permitting a single load cargo volume
upwards of 75 liters.
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Brief Description of the Drawings
FIG. 1 shows a top view of unit in collapsed mode
FIG. 2 shows an isometric left view in collapsed mode
FIG. 3 is top view with side fences raised
FIG. 4 is a left isometric view with side fences raised
FIG. 5 is a top view with fences and telescoping tail piece fully expanded
FIG. 6 is an isometric bottom view of fastening details
FIG. 7 shows spring pin stop/lock mechanism for telescoping tail piece
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Page 5
Detailed Description of the Invention
[015] FIGS. 1 through 7 show the primary elements and components of this
invention:
outer platform sides-- tubular metal 3
hinged side fences tubular metal 13 connected to outer platform 3
via flat metal channel bar 22
hinged side fences 13, revolving around tube 15, locked at 180 degree
positions via pin, hole and spring, 19, 17, 14
hinged side fences 13 attached to slotted flatbars 21, 23, that slide
across channeled flatbar 22, tightened with broad flat head knob/bolts 25
crossbars 7 connecting main frame 3 with crossbar bottom pieces 8 that
attach to bicycle carrier platform 2 with bolts 11
telescoping tubular tail piece 9 via slotted tube 5 on outer platform tube
3, tail piece cross bar 10, tail piece fence 12
tail piece spring lock mechanism 26, 27
(further details to follow)
CA 2975345 2017-07-12

Representative Drawing