EP1487668A1 - Bicycle carrier which can be attached to a vehicle - Google Patents

Bicycle carrier which can be attached to a vehicle

Info

Publication number
EP1487668A1
EP1487668A1 EP03725282A EP03725282A EP1487668A1 EP 1487668 A1 EP1487668 A1 EP 1487668A1 EP 03725282 A EP03725282 A EP 03725282A EP 03725282 A EP03725282 A EP 03725282A EP 1487668 A1 EP1487668 A1 EP 1487668A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
support structure
bicycle carrier
branch
carrier according
branches
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP03725282A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Frédéric O. Médit. de Brevets et d'Invent. GIROD
Olivier O. Médit. de Brevets et d'Inv. LALLEMENT
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
SIEPA France Societe dInnovation et dEtudes pour lAutomobile SA
Original Assignee
SIEPA France Societe dInnovation et dEtudes pour lAutomobile SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from FR0203660A external-priority patent/FR2837440B1/en
Application filed by SIEPA France Societe dInnovation et dEtudes pour lAutomobile SA filed Critical SIEPA France Societe dInnovation et dEtudes pour lAutomobile SA
Publication of EP1487668A1 publication Critical patent/EP1487668A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R9/00—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like
    • B60R9/08—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear
    • B60R9/10—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear for cycles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a bicycle carrier comprising a support structure for at least one bicycle and connectable to a vehicle by two anchoring means, each at the end of a branch connected at its other end to the support structure.
  • This bicycle carrier will particularly find its application for bicycle carriers of the type which can be fixed to the rear end of a motor vehicle.
  • bicycle carriers Traditionally configured to be positioned on the roof of motor vehicles, bicycle carriers have seen major improvements in recent years. In particular, it is more and more widespread to provide bicycle carrier devices which can be positioned at the rear end of the vehicle and particularly at the level of a tailgate.
  • a bicycle carrier device comprising a frame with pairs of uprights parallel to each other.
  • the uprights are connected by a crossmember with hooks capable of hanging on the upper edge of the tailgate of the vehicle.
  • the uprights are then inserted into other uprights which, in the lower part, are connected by a cross also.
  • the second crossmember has hooks that apply to the lower edge of the tailgate of the vehicle.
  • the two types of uprights cooperate so that one slides in the other.
  • the bicycle carrier further comprises blocking devices so as to keep the hooks engaged in the upper and lower edges of the tailgate of the vehicle and this by blocking the relative translation of the various uprights.
  • the bicycle carrier device is held integral with the vehicle by clamping in a vice in which the distance separating the lower and upper anchoring hooks is progressively shortened by means of a translation until a good fit is obtained. Tightening.
  • a first drawback of this type of device is that the tightening allowing the fixing of the device to the vehicle is carried out by a manual operation generating a low clamping force.
  • the structure is highly stressed in bending, which is not very advantageous for general embodiments in the form of tubes.
  • the relatively flat devices are not adaptable to all types of vehicles and in particular when a significant relief is present at the rear of the vehicle.
  • the present invention proposes to find an alternative to fixing devices for bicycle carriers on vehicles using a holding in position by tightening by means of a translation.
  • the present invention has the advantage of maintaining the bicycle carrier in position by a rotational movement of two parts of the bicycle carrier.
  • the tightening carried out by the user is much more effective because it benefits from a tightening torque which can be significant, in particular by keeping a good distance between the rotation operating zone and the anchoring zones.
  • the constituent parts of the bicycle carrier work mainly in traction, which facilitates their design and reduces the risk of breakage or deterioration.
  • Another advantage of the invention is, according to a preferred embodiment, allowing adjustment of the tightening of the device by means of an actuation of a rotary handle and therefore particularly easy to use.
  • the present invention relates to a bicycle carrier comprising a support structure for at least one bicycle, connectable to a vehicle by two anchoring means each at the end of a branch connected at its other end to the support structure, at at least one branch being pivotally mounted relative to the support structure and the bicycle carrier comprising means for adjusting the angular position of said pivoting branch relative to the support structure.
  • the bicycle carrier is such that:
  • the other branch is pivotally mounted relative to the support structure
  • the support structure comprises a support surface capable of being applied to the vehicle
  • the adjustment means have a helical slide, controlled in rotation, between the pivoting branch and the support structure,
  • the rotation control is operated by a rotary handle provided with a rotation locking device
  • the pivoting branch is adjustable in length.
  • Figure 1 is a front view of the bicycle carrier according to the invention in a preferred embodiment.
  • Figures 2 and 3 are respectively a side view and a top view.
  • Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 5 is a partial sectional view, at the handle.
  • Figure 6 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 7 is an exploded view.
  • Figure 8 is a partial sectional view.
  • Figures 9 and 10 show a particular element of the invention in the last illustrated embodiment.
  • the bicycle carrier comprises anchoring means capable of cooperating with a part of the vehicle preferably, on the one hand, in the upper portion of the vehicle and, on the other hand, in the lower portion of the vehicle.
  • hooks 4a, 4b positioned in the lower region of the bicycle carrier can cooperate with the vehicle at this level and hooks 5a, 5b positioned in the upper region of the bicycle carrier can cooperate with the upper part of the vehicle.
  • the bicycle carrier proposed here further comprises a support structure 1 allowing the support and the maintenance of at least one bicycle.
  • the support structure 1 advantageously comprises a frame 12 formed of two longitudinal bars 11a, 1 1b connected together by crosspieces in the form of transverse bars 10a, 10b.
  • the frame 12 also advantageously comprises a bearing surface 7 at its end opposite to that for holding bicycles, the bearing surface 7 being able to be applied to a portion of the vehicle.
  • the frame 12 receives one or more hanging bars 8 projecting towards the rear of the vehicle to receive the bikes to be transported.
  • the hooks 4a, 4b and 5a, 5b are connected to the support structure 1 by means of branches, respectively lower branches 2a, 2b and upper 3a, 3b.
  • branch is understood in its broadest sense, namely any member capable of extending from the support structure (1) to the anchoring means to put them in mechanical connection. It could in particular be bars, tubes, mechanically welded structures, plates, rods ...
  • hooks and branches receiving them is not limiting but there will be at least one hook and a lower branch and a hook and an upper branch.
  • the lower and upper branches 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b have a second end connected to the support structure 1.
  • a preferred embodiment is described below with two lower branches 2a, 2b forming a pair of branches and two upper branches 3a, 3b forming another pair.
  • the present invention can be implemented with a single lower branch and a single upper branch.
  • the lower branches 2a, 2b are connected by pivot at an axis 9 to the support structure 1.
  • means for adjusting the angular position of the lower branches 2a, 2b are present between said lower branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1.
  • the adjustment means may for example be formed by means of a connecting member 26 provided with a helical slide comprising a tube with threaded bore 18 cooperating with a threaded rod 20 capable of being controlled in rotation by a rotary handle 14 .
  • the operator performing a rotation movement of the handle 14 generates a rotation of the rod in the tube 18 and thus transforms the rotation movement into a translational movement capable of reducing the angle of the lower branches relative to the support structure 1 .
  • the slide is mounted on the structure 1 by a fastening 19 advantageously having freedom of movement in rotation.
  • the upper branches 3a, 3b are also pivotally mounted relative to the structure 1.
  • pivot axes 13 are shown in FIG. 2.
  • the axis of rotation of the rotary handle 14 is substantially different from the axis of translation of the helical slide formed by the combination of type 18 and the threaded rod 20. According to this situation, it will be necessary to provide an angle return system 23 between the handle 14 and the slide.
  • the bevel gear 23 can be operated by a flexible portion connecting the two moving parts in rotation or even by means of a gimbal.
  • FIG. 4 there is shown another embodiment of the invention in which the axis of rotation of the rotary handle 14 is brought more into alignment with that of the slide.
  • the handle 14 is carried by an inclined plane 24 whose inclination is adapted to the desired angle for the axis of the handle.
  • FIGS 6 to 10 show yet another embodiment of the invention.
  • the connecting member 26 connects the support structure 1 and the branches 2a, 2b, and has a bar 25 for connecting said connecting member 26 to each of the branches 2a, 2b.
  • a bar 25 in the form of a tube folded at each of its ends to form a U connected via connecting pieces 29a, 29b on each of the branches 2a, 2b.
  • the connecting member 26 also includes a fastening 19 from its end to the support structure 1.
  • the fixing 19 is able to receive the end of the tube 18.
  • the connecting member 26 is pivotally mounted relative to the branches 2a, 2b and to the support structure 1.
  • the relative pivot of the connecting member 26 and of the branches 2a, 2b can be operated by means of the connecting pieces 29a, 29b.
  • the connecting member comprises a body 27 advantageously made up of two parts forming a half-shell and able to receive, in their internal volume, the helical slide system.
  • the rotation control handle 14 is attached to the body 27.
  • the body 27 is mounted on the bar 25 via a passage
  • the pivot connection between the branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1 is carried out by connecting pieces 30a, 30b shown in detail in particular in FIG. 7 and composed, like the connecting pieces 29a, 29b, of several assemblable elements that can be joined to the tubes and two of which are pivotally mounted.
  • the lower branches 2a, 2b are adjustable in length to allow a preset of the fixing of the bicycle carrier.
  • a length adjustment by sliding of two nested tubes forming a lower branch 2a, 2b is possible. Maintaining the desired relative position of the two tubes being achieved by a lug system 21 cooperating with holes 22 positioned spaced along one of the tubes.
  • the bicycle carrier according to the invention is very easy to use. First, the user positions the hooks 5a, 5b, 4a, 4b on the corresponding parts of the vehicle. If necessary, the length of the lower branches 2a, 2b is adjusted beforehand. When the bicycle carrier is thus pre-positioned, the operator actuates the handle 14 in order to carry out the tightening. During this operation, the operator tends to reduce the angle formed by the lower branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1. When the tightening is sufficient, the operator only has to stop its rotation movement of the handle 14.
  • a blocking device is produced in cooperation with the handle 14. In this way, any untimely loosening of the bicycle carrier is avoided during transport.
  • a locking device in the form of a toothed wheel 15 integral with the handle 14, and cooperating with a pawl 16 whose finger 17 is capable of being applied to the teeth of the wheel 15 to form a stop in one of the directions of rotation, can be formed.

Abstract

The invention relates to a bicycle carrier comprising a support structure (1) for at least one bicycle, able to be attached to a vehicle by two anchoring means each of which are disposed at the end of a branch (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b) connected on the other end thereof to the support structure (1), at least one branch (2a,2b) being pivotably mounted in relation to the support structure (1) and the bicycle carrier comprising means for adjusting the angular position of said pivoting branch (2a,2b) in relation to the structure of the support (1). The invention applies to bicycle carriers which can, in particular, be fixed to the rear part of a motor vehicle.

Description

"Porte-vélos rapportable à un véhicule" "Bike carrier attached to a vehicle"
La présente invention concerne un porte-vélos comportant une structure de support pour au moins un vélo et rapportable à un véhicule par deux moyens d'ancrage, chacun à l'extrémité d'une branche reliée à son autre extrémité à la structure de support.The present invention relates to a bicycle carrier comprising a support structure for at least one bicycle and connectable to a vehicle by two anchoring means, each at the end of a branch connected at its other end to the support structure.
Ce porte-vélos trouvera particulièrement son application pour les porte- vélos du type fixable à l'extrémité arrière d'un véhicule automobile.This bicycle carrier will particularly find its application for bicycle carriers of the type which can be fixed to the rear end of a motor vehicle.
Traditionnellement configurés pour être positionnés sur le toit des véhicules automobiles, les porte-vélos ont connu de larges améliorations ces dernières années. En particulier, il est de plus en plus répandu de proposer des dispositifs porte-vélos positionnables à l'extrémité arrière du véhicule et particulièrement au niveau d'un hayon.Traditionally configured to be positioned on the roof of motor vehicles, bicycle carriers have seen major improvements in recent years. In particular, it is more and more widespread to provide bicycle carrier devices which can be positioned at the rear end of the vehicle and particularly at the level of a tailgate.
Dans le domaine des porte-vélos se montant à l'arrière de véhicules, on connaît du document BE 1 006841A3, un dispositif de porte-vélos comprenant un cadre avec des paires de montants parallèles entre eux. Les montants sont raccordés par une traverse dotée de crochets susceptibles de s'accrocher au bord supérieur du hayon du véhicule. Les montants sont ensuite insérés dans d'autres montants qui, dans la partie inférieure, sont reliés par une traverse également. Comme pour la première traverse, la seconde traverse est dotée de crochets qui s'appliquent sur le bord inférieur du hayon du véhicule. En outre, les deux types de montants coopèrent de façon à ce que les uns coulissent dans les autres. Le porte-vélos comporte en outre des dispositifs de blocage de manière à maintenir les crochets engagés dans les bords supérieurs et inférieurs du hayon du véhicule et ce en bloquant la translation relative des différents montants.In the field of bicycle carriers mounted at the rear of vehicles, document BE 1 006841A3 discloses a bicycle carrier device comprising a frame with pairs of uprights parallel to each other. The uprights are connected by a crossmember with hooks capable of hanging on the upper edge of the tailgate of the vehicle. The uprights are then inserted into other uprights which, in the lower part, are connected by a cross also. As with the first crossmember, the second crossmember has hooks that apply to the lower edge of the tailgate of the vehicle. In addition, the two types of uprights cooperate so that one slides in the other. The bicycle carrier further comprises blocking devices so as to keep the hooks engaged in the upper and lower edges of the tailgate of the vehicle and this by blocking the relative translation of the various uprights.
Selon cet art antérieur, le dispositif de porte-vélos est maintenu solidaire du véhicule par un serrage en étau dans lequel on raccourci progressivement la distance séparant les crochets d'ancrage inférieurs et supérieurs par le biais d'une translation jusqu'à obtenir un bon serrage. Un premier inconvénient de ce type de dispositif est que le serrage permettant la fixation du dispositif sur le véhicule s'effectue par une opération manuelle engendrant un faible effort de serrage.According to this prior art, the bicycle carrier device is held integral with the vehicle by clamping in a vice in which the distance separating the lower and upper anchoring hooks is progressively shortened by means of a translation until a good fit is obtained. Tightening. A first drawback of this type of device is that the tightening allowing the fixing of the device to the vehicle is carried out by a manual operation generating a low clamping force.
Par ailleurs, un tel serrage opéré par translation de deux tubes implique la réalisation d'un porte-vélos assez plat pour que les zones d'ancrage inférieures et supérieures et les tubes soient sensiblement dans le même plan.Furthermore, such tightening effected by translation of two tubes implies the production of a bicycle carrier flat enough for the lower and upper anchoring zones and the tubes to be substantially in the same plane.
Dans le cas contraire, la structure est fortement sollicitée en flexion, ce qui est peu avantageux pour des réalisations générales sous forme de tubes.Otherwise, the structure is highly stressed in bending, which is not very advantageous for general embodiments in the form of tubes.
Par ailleurs, les dispositifs relativement plats ne sont pas adaptables à tous types de véhicules et notamment quand un relief important est présent à l'arrière du véhicule.Furthermore, the relatively flat devices are not adaptable to all types of vehicles and in particular when a significant relief is present at the rear of the vehicle.
Un autre inconvénient du dispositif antérieur précité est que le verrouillage en position serrée s'effectue de manière peu aisée.Another drawback of the above-mentioned prior device is that the locking in the tight position is not very easy.
La présente invention se propose de trouver une alternative aux dispositifs de fixation de porte-vélos sur des véhicules utilisant un maintien en position par serrage par le biais d'une translation.The present invention proposes to find an alternative to fixing devices for bicycle carriers on vehicles using a holding in position by tightening by means of a translation.
Dans ce cadre, la présente invention a l'avantage d'opérer un maintien en position du porte-vélos par un mouvement de rotation de deux pièces du porte-vélos.In this context, the present invention has the advantage of maintaining the bicycle carrier in position by a rotational movement of two parts of the bicycle carrier.
Suivant cette configuration, le serrage opéré par l'utilisateur est beaucoup plus efficace car il bénéficie d'un couple de serrage qui peut être important, notamment en gardant une bonne distance entre la zone d'opération de rotation et les zones d'ancrage. Par ailleurs, par le biais de liaisons pivot, les organes constitutifs du porte-vélos travaillent majoritairement en traction, ce qui facilite leur conception et diminue les risques de casse ou de détérioration.According to this configuration, the tightening carried out by the user is much more effective because it benefits from a tightening torque which can be significant, in particular by keeping a good distance between the rotation operating zone and the anchoring zones. Furthermore, by means of pivot links, the constituent parts of the bicycle carrier work mainly in traction, which facilitates their design and reduces the risk of breakage or deterioration.
Un autre avantage de l'invention est, suivant un mode préféré de réalisation, de permettre un réglage du serrage du dispositif par le biais d'un actionnement d'une poignée rotative et donc particulièrement facile d'utilisation.Another advantage of the invention is, according to a preferred embodiment, allowing adjustment of the tightening of the device by means of an actuation of a rotary handle and therefore particularly easy to use.
D'autres buts et avantages apparaîtront au cours de la description qui suit qui présente un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention qui n'est cependant pas limitatif. La présente invention concerne un porte-vélos comportant une structure de support pour au moins un vélo, rapportable à un véhicule par deux moyens d'ancrage chacun à l'extrémité d'une branche reliée à son autre extrémité à la structure de support, au moins une branche étant montée pivotante par rapport à la structure de support et le porte-vélos comportant des moyens de réglage de la position angulaire de ladite branche pivotante relativement à la structure de support.Other objects and advantages will appear during the description which follows which presents a preferred embodiment of the invention which is however not limiting. The present invention relates to a bicycle carrier comprising a support structure for at least one bicycle, connectable to a vehicle by two anchoring means each at the end of a branch connected at its other end to the support structure, at at least one branch being pivotally mounted relative to the support structure and the bicycle carrier comprising means for adjusting the angular position of said pivoting branch relative to the support structure.
Suivant des modes de réalisation préférés, le porte-vélos est tel que :According to preferred embodiments, the bicycle carrier is such that:
- l'autre branche est montée pivotante par rapport à la structure de support, - la structure de support comporte une surface d'appui apte à s'appliquer sur le véhicule,the other branch is pivotally mounted relative to the support structure, the support structure comprises a support surface capable of being applied to the vehicle,
- il comporte deux autres moyens d'ancrage sur deux autres branches formant chacune une paire de moyens d'ancrage et de branches avec l'un des deux premiers moyens d'ancrage et l'une des deux premières branches, - les moyens d'ancrage sont des crochets,- It comprises two other anchoring means on two other branches, each forming a pair of anchoring means and branches with one of the first two anchoring means and one of the first two branches, - the means of anchor are hooks,
- les moyens de réglage présentent une glissière hélicoïdale, commandée en rotation, entre la branche pivotante et la structure de support,the adjustment means have a helical slide, controlled in rotation, between the pivoting branch and the support structure,
- la commande en rotation est opérée par une poignée rotative dotée d'un dispositif de blocage en rotation, - la branche pivotante est réglable en longueur.- the rotation control is operated by a rotary handle provided with a rotation locking device, - the pivoting branch is adjustable in length.
Les dessins ci-joints sont donnés à titre d'exemples et ne sont pas limitatifs de l'invention. Ils représentent seulement un mode de réalisation de l'invention et permettront de la comprendre aisément. La figure 1 est une vue de face du porte-vélos selon l'invention dans un mode préféré de réalisation.The attached drawings are given by way of examples and are not limitative of the invention. They represent only one embodiment of the invention and will make it easy to understand it. Figure 1 is a front view of the bicycle carrier according to the invention in a preferred embodiment.
Les figures 2 et 3 en sont respectivement une vue de côté et une vue de dessus. La figure 4 montre un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figures 2 and 3 are respectively a side view and a top view. Figure 4 shows another embodiment of the invention.
La figure 5 en est une vue en coupe partielle, au niveau de la poignée.Figure 5 is a partial sectional view, at the handle.
La figure 6 montre une vue en perspective d'un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figure 6 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.
La figure 7 en est une vue éclatée. La figure 8 en est une vue en coupe partielle.Figure 7 is an exploded view. Figure 8 is a partial sectional view.
Les figures 9 et 10 présentent un élément particulier de l'invention dans le dernier mode de réalisation illustré.Figures 9 and 10 show a particular element of the invention in the last illustrated embodiment.
En se référant à la figure 1 , on visualise un porte-vélos réalisé essentiellement par assemblage de pièces sous formes de barres ou de tubes, bien que cette configuration ne soit pas une limitation de l'invention.Referring to Figure 1, we visualize a bicycle carrier made essentially by assembling parts in the form of bars or tubes, although this configuration is not a limitation of the invention.
Le porte-vélos comprend des moyens d'ancrage aptes à coopérer avec une partie du véhicule préférentiellement, d'une part, dans la portion supérieure du véhicule et, d'autre part, dans la portion inférieure du véhicule. En particulier, des crochets 4a, 4b positionnés dans la zone inférieure du porte-vélos pourront coopérer avec le véhicule à ce niveau et des crochets 5a, 5b positionnés dans la zone supérieure du porte-vélos pourront coopérer avec la partie supérieure du véhicule.The bicycle carrier comprises anchoring means capable of cooperating with a part of the vehicle preferably, on the one hand, in the upper portion of the vehicle and, on the other hand, in the lower portion of the vehicle. In particular, hooks 4a, 4b positioned in the lower region of the bicycle carrier can cooperate with the vehicle at this level and hooks 5a, 5b positioned in the upper region of the bicycle carrier can cooperate with the upper part of the vehicle.
Le porte-vélos ici proposé comporte en outre une structure de support 1 permettant le support et le maintien d'au moins un vélo. Tel que représenté aux figures et notamment en figure 3, la structure de support 1 comporte avantageusement un cadre 12 formé des deux barres longitudinales 11a, 1 1 b raccordées entre elles par des traverses sous forme de barres transversales 10 a, 10 b.The bicycle carrier proposed here further comprises a support structure 1 allowing the support and the maintenance of at least one bicycle. As shown in the figures and in particular in Figure 3, the support structure 1 advantageously comprises a frame 12 formed of two longitudinal bars 11a, 1 1b connected together by crosspieces in the form of transverse bars 10a, 10b.
Le cadre 12 comporte également avantageusement une surface d'appui 7 à son extrémité opposée à celle de maintien de vélos, la surface d'appui 7 étant apte à s'appliquer sur une portion du véhicule.The frame 12 also advantageously comprises a bearing surface 7 at its end opposite to that for holding bicycles, the bearing surface 7 being able to be applied to a portion of the vehicle.
Le cadre 12 reçoit une ou plusieurs barres d'accrochage 8 faisant saillie vers l'arrière du véhicule pour recevoir les vélos à transporter. Les crochets 4a, 4b et 5a, 5b sont reliés à la structure de support 1 par l'intermédiaire de branches, respectivement des branches inférieures 2a, 2b et supérieures 3a, 3b.The frame 12 receives one or more hanging bars 8 projecting towards the rear of the vehicle to receive the bikes to be transported. The hooks 4a, 4b and 5a, 5b are connected to the support structure 1 by means of branches, respectively lower branches 2a, 2b and upper 3a, 3b.
Le terme « branche » s'entend dans son acception la plus large, à savoir tout organe apte à s'étendre depuis la structure de support (1 ) vers les moyens d'ancrage pour les mettre en liaison mécanique. Il pourra notamment s'agir de barres, tubes, structures mécano-soudées, plats, tiges ...The term "branch" is understood in its broadest sense, namely any member capable of extending from the support structure (1) to the anchoring means to put them in mechanical connection. It could in particular be bars, tubes, mechanically welded structures, plates, rods ...
Il est à noter que le nombre de crochets et de branches les recevant n'est pas limitatif mais on constituera au moins un crochet et une branche inférieure et un crochet et une branche supérieure.It should be noted that the number of hooks and branches receiving them is not limiting but there will be at least one hook and a lower branch and a hook and an upper branch.
Outre une extrémité libre recevant les crochets 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, les branches inférieures et supérieures 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b comportent une seconde extrémité reliée à la structure de support 1.In addition to a free end receiving the hooks 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, the lower and upper branches 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b have a second end connected to the support structure 1.
En référence aux figures, on décrit ci-après un mode de réalisation préféré avec deux branches inférieures 2a, 2b formant une paire de branches et deux branches supérieures 3a, 3b formant une autre paire. Cependant, la présente invention peut être mise en œuvre avec une seule branche inférieure et une seule branche supérieure.With reference to the figures, a preferred embodiment is described below with two lower branches 2a, 2b forming a pair of branches and two upper branches 3a, 3b forming another pair. However, the present invention can be implemented with a single lower branch and a single upper branch.
Les branches inférieures 2a, 2b sont reliées par pivot au niveau d'un axe 9 à la structure de support 1.The lower branches 2a, 2b are connected by pivot at an axis 9 to the support structure 1.
Par ailleurs, tel que cela est particulièrement visible en figure 2, des moyens de réglage de la position angulaire des branches inférieures 2a, 2b sont présents entre lesdites branches inférieures 2a, 2b et la structure de support 1 . Les moyens de réglage pourront par exemple être formés par l'intermédiaire d'un organe de liaison 26 doté d'une glissière hélicoïdale comportant un tube à alésage taraudé 18 coopérant avec une tige filetée 20 apte à être commandée en rotation par une poignée rotative 14.Furthermore, as is particularly visible in FIG. 2, means for adjusting the angular position of the lower branches 2a, 2b are present between said lower branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1. The adjustment means may for example be formed by means of a connecting member 26 provided with a helical slide comprising a tube with threaded bore 18 cooperating with a threaded rod 20 capable of being controlled in rotation by a rotary handle 14 .
L'opérateur réalisant un mouvement de rotation de la poignée 14 engendre une rotation de la tige dans le tube 18 et ainsi transforme le mouvement de rotation en un mouvement de translation apte à réduire l'angle des branches inférieures relativement à la structure de support 1 . A l'extrémité opposée à la poignée 14, la glissière est montée sur la structure 1 par une fixation 19 présentant avantageusement une liberté de mouvement en rotation.The operator performing a rotation movement of the handle 14 generates a rotation of the rod in the tube 18 and thus transforms the rotation movement into a translational movement capable of reducing the angle of the lower branches relative to the support structure 1 . At the end opposite to the handle 14, the slide is mounted on the structure 1 by a fastening 19 advantageously having freedom of movement in rotation.
A titre préféré, les branches supérieures 3a, 3b sont également montées pivotantes par rapport à la structure 1. A cet effet, des axes de pivot 13 sont représentés en figure 2.As a preference, the upper branches 3a, 3b are also pivotally mounted relative to the structure 1. For this purpose, pivot axes 13 are shown in FIG. 2.
Il est possible que l'axe de rotation de la poignée rotative 14 soit sensiblement différent de l'axe de translation de la glissière hélicoïdale formée par la combinaison du type 18 et de la tige filetée 20. Suivant cette situation, il sera nécessaire de prévoir un système de renvoi d'angle 23 entre la poignée 14 et la glissière. A titre d'exemple, le renvoi d'angle 23 peut être opéré par une portion flexible raccordant les deux pièces mobiles en rotation ou encore par l'intermédiaire d'un cardan.It is possible that the axis of rotation of the rotary handle 14 is substantially different from the axis of translation of the helical slide formed by the combination of type 18 and the threaded rod 20. According to this situation, it will be necessary to provide an angle return system 23 between the handle 14 and the slide. For example, the bevel gear 23 can be operated by a flexible portion connecting the two moving parts in rotation or even by means of a gimbal.
En se référant maintenant aux figures 4 et 5, on a représenté un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention dans lequel l'axe de rotation de la poignée rotative 14 est amené plus en alignement avec celui de la glissière. Pour ce faire, la poignée 14 est portée par un plan incliné 24 dont l'inclinaison est adaptée à l'angle souhaité pour l'axe de la poignée.Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, there is shown another embodiment of the invention in which the axis of rotation of the rotary handle 14 is brought more into alignment with that of the slide. To do this, the handle 14 is carried by an inclined plane 24 whose inclination is adapted to the desired angle for the axis of the handle.
Les figures 6 à 10 présentent encore un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention.Figures 6 to 10 show yet another embodiment of the invention.
A ces figures, l'organe de liaison 26 relie la structure de support 1 et les branches 2a, 2b, et dispose d'une barre 25 de raccordement dudit organe de liaison 26 à chacune des branches 2a, 2b.In these figures, the connecting member 26 connects the support structure 1 and the branches 2a, 2b, and has a bar 25 for connecting said connecting member 26 to each of the branches 2a, 2b.
On pourra en particulier utiliser une barre 25 sous forme de tube replié à chacune de ses extrémités pour former un U raccordé par l'intermédiaire de pièces de raccordement 29a, 29b sur chacune des branches 2a, 2b.We can in particular use a bar 25 in the form of a tube folded at each of its ends to form a U connected via connecting pieces 29a, 29b on each of the branches 2a, 2b.
A son extrémité opposée, l'organe de liaison 26 comporte également une fixation 19 de son extrémité sur la structure de support 1.At its opposite end, the connecting member 26 also includes a fastening 19 from its end to the support structure 1.
Dans le cas de l'utilisation d'une glissière hélicoïdale, la fixation 19 est apte à recevoir l'extrémité du tube 18.In the case of the use of a helical slide, the fixing 19 is able to receive the end of the tube 18.
A titre préférentiel, et pour adapter l'orientation de l'organe de liaison 26 suivant les positions angulaires relatives des branches 2a, 2b et de la structure de support 1 , l'organe de liaison 26 est monté pivotant par rapport aux branches 2a, 2b et à la structure de support 1. En particulier, le pivot relatif de l'organe de liaison 26 et des branches 2a, 2b peut être opéré par l'intermédiaire des pièces de raccordement 29a, 29b.Preferably, and to adapt the orientation of the connecting member 26 according to the relative angular positions of the branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1, the connecting member 26 is pivotally mounted relative to the branches 2a, 2b and to the support structure 1. In particular, the relative pivot of the connecting member 26 and of the branches 2a, 2b can be operated by means of the connecting pieces 29a, 29b.
Toujours à titre préféré, l'organe de liaison suivant ce mode de réalisation comporte un corps 27 avantageusement constitué en deux parties formant demi coquille et aptes à recevoir, dans leur volume intérieur, le système de glissière hélicoïdal.Still preferably, the connecting member according to this embodiment comprises a body 27 advantageously made up of two parts forming a half-shell and able to receive, in their internal volume, the helical slide system.
En outre, la poignée 14 de commande en rotation est rapportée sur le corps 27. Le corps 27 est monté sur la barre 25 par l'intermédiaire d'un passageIn addition, the rotation control handle 14 is attached to the body 27. The body 27 is mounted on the bar 25 via a passage
28 traversant ledit corps 27. On notera que le pivot relatif entre les branches 2a, 2b et l'organe de liaison 26 peut également être réalisé entre le corps 27 et la barre 25.28 passing through said body 27. It will be noted that the relative pivot between the branches 2a, 2b and the connecting member 26 can also be produced between the body 27 and the bar 25.
Suivant le mode de réalisation illustré aux figures 6 à 8, la liaison pivot entre les branches 2a, 2b et la structure de support 1 est effectuée par des pièces de raccordement 30a, 30b montrées en détail en particulier en figure 7 et composées, comme les pièces de raccordement 29a, 29b, de plusieurs éléments assemblables solidarisables sur les tubes et dont deux parties consécutives sont montées pivotantes. Toujours à titre préféré, les branches inférieures 2a, 2b sont réglables en longueur pour permettre un préréglage de la fixation du porte-vélos.According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 8, the pivot connection between the branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1 is carried out by connecting pieces 30a, 30b shown in detail in particular in FIG. 7 and composed, like the connecting pieces 29a, 29b, of several assemblable elements that can be joined to the tubes and two of which are pivotally mounted. Still as a preference, the lower branches 2a, 2b are adjustable in length to allow a preset of the fixing of the bicycle carrier.
Notamment, un réglage de longueur par coulissement de deux tubes emboîtés réalisant une branche inférieure 2a, 2b est possible. Le maintien en position relatif souhaité des deux tubes étant réalisé par un système d'ergot 21 coopérant avec des trous 22 positionnés espacés le long d'un des tubes. Le porte-vélos selon l'invention s'utilise de façon très aisée. En premier lieu, l'utilisateur positionne les crochets 5a, 5b, 4a, 4b sur les parties correspondantes du véhicule. Si nécessaire, une adaptation de la longueur des branches inférieures 2a, 2b est préalablement opérée. Lorsque le porte-vélos est ainsi pré-positionné, l'opérateur actionne la poignée 14 afin de procéder au serrage. Durant cette opération, l'opérateur tend à diminuer l'angle formé par les branches inférieures 2a, 2b et la structure de support 1 . Lorsque le serrage est suffisant, l'opérateur n'a qu'à stopper son mouvement de rotation de la poignée 14.In particular, a length adjustment by sliding of two nested tubes forming a lower branch 2a, 2b is possible. Maintaining the desired relative position of the two tubes being achieved by a lug system 21 cooperating with holes 22 positioned spaced along one of the tubes. The bicycle carrier according to the invention is very easy to use. First, the user positions the hooks 5a, 5b, 4a, 4b on the corresponding parts of the vehicle. If necessary, the length of the lower branches 2a, 2b is adjusted beforehand. When the bicycle carrier is thus pre-positioned, the operator actuates the handle 14 in order to carry out the tightening. During this operation, the operator tends to reduce the angle formed by the lower branches 2a, 2b and the support structure 1. When the tightening is sufficient, the operator only has to stop its rotation movement of the handle 14.
A titre préférentiel, et par sécurité, un dispositif de blocage est réalisé en coopération avec la poignée 14. De cette façon, on évite tout desserrage intempestif du porte-vélos au cours du transport.Preferably, and for safety, a blocking device is produced in cooperation with the handle 14. In this way, any untimely loosening of the bicycle carrier is avoided during transport.
Un dispositif de blocage sous forme de roue dentée 15 solidaire de la poignée 14, et coopérant avec un cliquet 16 dont le doigt 17 est apte à s'appliquer sur les dents de la roue 15 pour former une butée dans l'un des sens de rotation, peut être formé. Lors du démontage du porte-vélos, il suffira de libérer le cliquet 16 pour actionner la poignée 14 en sens inverse et desserrer le porte-vélos.A locking device in the form of a toothed wheel 15 integral with the handle 14, and cooperating with a pawl 16 whose finger 17 is capable of being applied to the teeth of the wheel 15 to form a stop in one of the directions of rotation, can be formed. When disassembling the bicycle carrier, it will suffice to release the pawl 16 to actuate the handle 14 in the opposite direction and loosen the bicycle carrier.
Il suffit alors de dégager les crochets 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b du véhicule pour finaliser le démontage. It then suffices to release the hooks 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b from the vehicle to finalize the disassembly.
REFERENCESREFERENCES
1. Structure de support 2a, 2b. Branches inférieures 3a, 3b. Branches supérieures1. Support structure 2a, 2b. Lower branches 3a, 3b. Upper branches
4a, 4b. Crochets 5a, 5b. Crochets4a, 4b. Hooks 5a, 5b. Hooks
6. Traverse6. Traverse
7. Surface d'appui 8. Barre d'accrochage7. Support surface 8. Hanging bar
9. Pivot9. Pivot
10a, 10b. Barres transversales10a, 10b. Cross bars
1 1a, 1 1 b. Barres longitudinales1 1a, 1 1 b. Longitudinal bars
12 Cadre 13 Pivot12 Frame 13 Pivot
14 Poignée14 Handle
15 Roue15 Wheel
16 Cliquet16 Ratchet
17 Doigt de cliquet 18 Tube17 Ratchet finger 18 Tube
19 Fixation19 Attachment
20 Tige filetée20 Threaded rod
21 Ergot21 Ergot
22 Trou 23 Renvoi d'angle22 Hole 23 Angle transmission
24 Pan incliné24 Inclined pan
25 Barre25 Bar
26 Organe de liaison26 Liaison body
27 Corps 28 Passage de tube27 Body 28 Tube passage
29a, 29b. pièce de raccordement 30a, 30b. Pièce de raccordement 29a, 29b. connecting piece 30a, 30b. Connection piece

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Porte-vélos comportant une structure de support (1) pour au moins un vélo, rapportable à un véhicule par deux moyens d'ancrage chacun à l'extrémité d'une branche (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b) reliée à son autre extrémité à la structure de support (1), caractérisé par le fait qu'au moins une branche (2a, 2b) est montée pivotante par rapport à la structure de support (1) et que le porte-vélos comporte des moyens de réglage de la position angulaire de ladite branche pivotante (2a, 2b) relativement à la structure du support (1).1. Bicycle carrier comprising a support structure (1) for at least one bicycle, attached to a vehicle by two anchoring means each at the end of a branch (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b) connected to its other end to the support structure (1), characterized in that at least one branch (2a, 2b) is pivotally mounted relative to the support structure (1) and that the bicycle carrier comprises adjustment means the angular position of said pivoting branch (2a, 2b) relative to the structure of the support (1).
2. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 1 caractérisé par le fait que l'autre branche (3a, 3b) est montée pivotante par rapport à la structure de support (1).2. Bicycle carrier according to claim 1 characterized in that the other branch (3a, 3b) is pivotally mounted relative to the support structure (1).
3. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2 caractérisé par le fait que la structure de support (1) comporte une surface d'appui (7) apte à s'appliquer sur le véhicule.3. Bike carrier according to claim 1 or claim 2 characterized in that the support structure (1) has a bearing surface (7) adapted to be applied to the vehicle.
4. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 3 caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte deux autres moyens d'ancrage sur deux autres branches (2b, 3b) formant chacune une paire de moyens d'ancrage et de branches avec l'un des deux premiers moyens d'ancrage et d'une des deux premières branches (2a, 3a).4. Bicycle carrier according to claim 3 characterized in that it comprises two other anchoring means on two other branches (2b, 3b) each forming a pair of anchoring means and branches with one of the two first anchoring means and one of the first two branches (2a, 3a).
5. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4 caractérisé par le fait que les moyens d'ancrage sont des crochets (5a, 5b, 4a, 4b)5. Bicycle carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the anchoring means are hooks (5a, 5b, 4a, 4b)
6. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5 caractérisé par le fait que les moyens de réglage comportent un organe de liaison (26) de longueur réglable entre la structure de support (1) et la ou les branches (2a, 2b).6. Bike carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 5 characterized in that the adjustment means comprise a connecting member (26) of adjustable length between the support structure (1) and the branch (s) (2a , 2b).
7. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 6 caractérisé par le fait que l'organe de liaison (26) présente une glissière hélicoïdale (18, 20), commandée en rotation, entre la branche pivotante (2a, 2b) et la structure de support (1).7. Bike carrier according to claim 6 characterized in that the connecting member (26) has a helical slide (18, 20), controlled in rotation, between the pivoting branch (2a, 2b) and the support structure (1).
8. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 7 caractérisé par le fait que la commande en rotation est opérée par une poignée (14) rotative.8. Bike carrier according to claim 7 characterized in that the rotation control is operated by a handle (14) rotatable.
9. Porte-vélos selon la revendication 8 caractérisé par le fait que la poignée (14) comporte un dispositif de blocage en rotation.9. Bicycle carrier according to claim 8 characterized in that the handle (14) comprises a rotation blocking device.
10. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 9 caractérisé par le fait que l'organe de liaison (26) est monté pivotant relativement à la ou les branches (2a, 2b).10. Bicycle carrier according to any one of claims 6 to 9 characterized in that the connecting member (26) is pivotally mounted relative to the branch (s) (2a, 2b).
11. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 10 caractérisé par le fait que l'organe de liaison (26) est monté pivotant relativement à la structure de support (1).11. Bicycle carrier according to any one of claims 6 to 10 characterized in that the connecting member (26) is pivotally mounted relative to the support structure (1).
12. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 1 1 en combinaison avec la revendication 3 caractérisé par le fait que l'organe de liaison (26) comprend une barre (25) dont les extrémités sont raccordées aux branches (2a, 2b). 12. Bicycle carrier according to any one of claims 6 to 1 1 in combination with claim 3 characterized in that the connecting member (26) comprises a bar (25) whose ends are connected to the branches (2a , 2b).
13. Porte-vélos selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12 caractérisé par le fait que la branche pivotante (2a, 2b) est réglable en longueur. 13. Bicycle carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 12 characterized in that the pivoting branch (2a, 2b) is adjustable in length.
EP03725282A 2002-03-25 2003-03-13 Bicycle carrier which can be attached to a vehicle Withdrawn EP1487668A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0203660 2002-03-25
FR0203660A FR2837440B1 (en) 2002-03-25 2002-03-25 BIKE CARRIER RELATIVE TO A VEHICLE
FR0212448 2002-10-08
FR0212448A FR2837442B1 (en) 2002-03-25 2002-10-08 BIKE CARRIERS RELABLE TO A VEHICLE
PCT/FR2003/000798 WO2003080395A1 (en) 2002-03-25 2003-03-13 Bicycle carrier which can be attached to a vehicle

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1487668A1 true EP1487668A1 (en) 2004-12-22

Family

ID=27806683

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP03725282A Withdrawn EP1487668A1 (en) 2002-03-25 2003-03-13 Bicycle carrier which can be attached to a vehicle

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US20060157523A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1487668A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003227828A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2837442B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2003080395A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7857179B1 (en) * 2007-09-17 2010-12-28 R. A. Allen Company, Inc. Latching assembly for a folding equipment carrier
PL2212156T3 (en) * 2007-11-21 2014-04-30 Thule Sweden Ab Bicycle support assembly for use with a load carrier for vehicles
TWI609805B (en) * 2017-03-22 2018-01-01 高鐵工業股份有限公司 Quick disassembly and clamping device for holding bicycle with frame
US11208167B2 (en) 2018-11-15 2021-12-28 Kuat Innovations Llc Bicycle rack with actuated arm
EP3753789B1 (en) * 2019-06-19 2021-06-09 Thule Sweden AB Load carrier

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2569568B1 (en) * 1984-08-28 1987-04-24 Genovese Louis FOOTBALL GAME TRAINING APPARATUS.
US5211323A (en) * 1992-02-03 1993-05-18 Industri Ab Thule Bicycle carrier adapted to be mounted on the back of a vehicle
IT227654Y1 (en) * 1992-02-07 1997-12-15 Tr Em S R L DEVICE TO ENSURE THE FIXING OF A BICYCLE FRAME TO THE HATCH OF A VEHICLE OF THE VAN TYPE
DE29514270U1 (en) * 1995-09-06 1995-10-26 Wissler Fritz Rear bike rack for passenger cars
US6286738B1 (en) * 1999-12-17 2001-09-11 Yakima Products, Inc. Bicycle carrier

Non-Patent Citations (1)

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Title
See references of WO03080395A1 *

Also Published As

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US20060157523A1 (en) 2006-07-20
AU2003227828A1 (en) 2003-10-08
WO2003080395A1 (en) 2003-10-02
FR2837442A1 (en) 2003-09-26
FR2837442B1 (en) 2004-06-11

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