FR2764262A1 - Fixing of baby seat onto bicycle handlebars - Google Patents

Abstract

The device for fixing a baby seat (1) onto a bicycle handlebars comprises a support fork (5) terminated by two U's supported under the handlebars. An adjustable stirrup (4) fixed on the fork is supported on the bracket (2). The stirrup has two slots which enable adjusting the height of the seat. The position of the seat fixing enables the baby to grip the handlebars and push or pull them without any harmful effects.

Description

 The present invention relates to a device for fixing a baby seat on a bicycle, of mountain bike, hybrid bike or other cycle for adults.

 The traditionally used attachment methods place the seat either in the rear position, with all the discomfort that results for the baby and the balance of the bicycle, or in the front position with attachment to the frame. In the latter case, if the baby clings to the handlebars, this causes a change in the trajectory, with all the risks that this may cause.

 On the other hand, all existing systems require a relatively long assembly and disassembly time, or leave often unsightly fastening elements on the bicycle.

 The advantages of the front seat are no longer to be proven, whether for the balance of the masses, the monitoring of the baby, but above all for his field of vision and the possibility of exchanges between the two passengers.

 The device described here uses a connection not to the frame, but to the handlebars.

 This solution has the advantage of allowing the baby to grip the handlebars, push or pull without causing any harmful effect, since it is itself integral with the handlebars.

 On the other hand, the lateral protections constituted by the driver's arms follow all the movement of the handlebars and therefore of the seat, and their efficiency is thereby improved.

 Finally, the increase in mass and therefore of inertia of the handlebar and front wheel assembly improves trajectory stability without limiting the steering angle too much, which constitutes a guarantee of safety.

The fixing system is described on the attached drawings:
Figure 1 describes the situation of the seat on the cycle in side view.

Figure 2 shows the different elements that make up the binding in perspective.

Figure 3 specifies a possible connection mode between the seat and the support.

 With reference to FIG. 2, the system consists of a support fork (5) terminated by two U-shaped shapes intended to bear on the handlebars. Their curvature is designed to be compatible with the most common handlebars, and allow easy installation.

 On this fork, a stirrup (4) has been fixed, the suitably curved shape of which will allow it to bear on the stem (2). The system offers several positioning possibilities to adapt to the different stem lengths, and includes two lights which allow the seat height to be adjusted according to the geometry of the bicycle, leaving sufficient space between the support (5) and the frame of the bicycle.

 Locking in position after adjustment can be achieved using simple screw-nut systems of suitable shape so as not to constitute sharp angles, and to avoid untimely loosening, for obvious safety reasons.

 In the case of a seat that does not have an original connecting element, the method of attachment described in FIG. 3 can be adopted.

 The position of the seat (1) on the support (5) is adjustable in front-rear. The device ensuring this connection, which can be integrated into the seat or added to and adapted to it depending on the model, acts by pinching on the cylindrical bars which form the support. This adjustment is necessary to ensure that the footrests of the seat limit the steering angle as little as possible.

 To improve passenger comfort and free the handlebars, the system can be fitted with a small handlebar used as hand support for the baby. This handlebar is simply linked to the support (5) by two cylindrical bars of suitable shape to ensure maximum comfort for the baby.

 In the event that a regulation requires it, the system may include a quick locking device on the stem.

 In order to avoid marking or deterioration of the equipment, protective rings may be placed beforehand on the handlebars or the stem, if the elements of the system themselves do not include an elastic coating of elastomer type.

 Finally, the fastening system described in the present invention can be used for accessories other than a baby seat, with the same characteristics as the system which is the subject of the description.

Claims (5)

 1. Device for fixing a baby carrier for a bicycle, in the front position, characterized by its connection to the handlebars and placed behind it, facing the road.  2. Fastening device according to claim 1 characterized by a fork (5) terminated by two U bearing on the hanger, as well as a stirrup (4) adjustable in position and resting on the bracket (2), allowing very mounting fast and an adjustment according to the sizes and forms of stems.  3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means allowing a displacement forwards or backwards of the seat (1) relative to the support fork (5), thus allowing the system to adapt to most models of bicycles on the market by offering a minimal gene for the cyclist.  4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes a small handlebar for the passenger.  5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the possibility of adapting a quick locking system on the stem and the hanger.