GB2519343A

GB2519343A - A transformable bicycle wheel lock with multifunction capability

Info

Publication number: GB2519343A
Application number: GB1318447.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: George Crook
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-10-18
Filing date: 2013-10-18
Publication date: 2015-04-22
Anticipated expiration: 2033-10-18
Also published as: GB2519343B; GB201318447D0

Abstract

A bicycle lock comprises a casing (A), a horizontal pin (L) and a locking pin (P). The casing has means for attachment of the casing to a bicycle frame adjacent to a wheel of the bicycle, and has an aperture (B) through which the horizontal pin can be inserted. The horizontal pin is capable of being inserted through the aperture in the casing so that it is located between wheel spokes to prevent wheel rotation. The horizontal pin is removable from the aperture when the lock is not locked. The horizontal pin has a profiled portion (R) capable of engaging with a pin perpendicular to the horizontal pin. The locking pin is secured or capable of being secured within the casing in a position substantially perpendicular to the horizontal pin whereby it engages the profiled portion to prevent removal of the horizontal pin.

Description

A transformable bicycle wheel lock with multifunction capability This invention relates to a bicycle wheel locking device, which is adaptable in part or in its entirety to allow multifunction capability. When a bicycle is locked to an object by its frame, both wheels and the seat of the bicycle can be left vulnerable to theft.

The most popular types of bicycle locking devices used to secure a bicycle are the plastic coated types of chain or c4ble. These types of locks come in varied lengths; this allowing the cyclists perhaps to interweave the chain or cable through the wheels and frame of the bicycle, but these types of lock can be easily cut through with bolt cutters and is regularly done so due to the relatively ease of access to the cable or chain. Long cable or chain type locks are clumsy objects that may have to be carried by the cyclist when not being used to secure the bicycle, and may be removed by authorities if left locked to an object in the absence of the bicycle.

Continual use of these types of locks will mar the finished coatings of the bicycle, and when the lock is being carried by the bicycle when cycling.

There is no warning to the cyclist that any part of the bicycle is being rcmovcd or tampered with in any way using these types of locks.

These days there are many types of cyclist and many types of bicycles to suit the cyclists requirements, such as: the shopping cyclist, the to and from work cyclist, the touring cyclists, the adventure cyclists, etc. All these types of cyclist will have bicycles that suit their needs and will have different views and values towards the security of both their bicycles, and in some case themselves. To overcome this, the present invention proposes a Transformable' bicycle wheel lock, which is partly or filly adaptable to the required needs of the individual cyclist. In one aspect of the invention this type of locking system can be transformed from a simple locking security system to a more advanced form of security system that gives the cyclist a wider choice of security and safety.

To overcome this, the present invention proposes a bicycle wheel locking device.

The locking device has a number of features consisting of: a lock casing with the means to house a locking system. The locking system comprises a horizontal locking pin which is locked in place with a vertical pin. The vertical locking pin is stabilised with the use of a compression spring.

The casing may also house a piston barrel lock which has the means to be turned and locked with a key to secure the system.

A means is provided to attach the lock casing to the bicycle frame, for example by use of a clamp.

The lock casing may provide a means for lubrication and de-icing for the locking system.

The casing preferably provides a means to store the horizontal locking pin, and means for locking the horizontal pin safely when not in use to lock the wheel.

The casing may provide a means for storing and securing the key when the bicycle is being used.

The horizontal locking pin may provide a means for which a bicycle light can be attached.

This wheel lock allows wheels to be locked independently to the frame of the bicycles, and ensures the wheels cannot be removed when the lock is in place.

The wheel lock when in place will limit the amount of rotation of the wheel to the given amount of space between any twospokes of the wheel.

This wheel lock is generally suitable for use on all makes of bicycle, tricycle, some motorbikes, and could be suitable for other applications in the marine industry.

The horizontal pin, when in the locked position, should be relatively inaccessible to being cut by any means.

The horizontal pin is preferably free to spin along its axes when in the locked position, and preferably the pin is made of stainless steel, and of sufficient diameter to withstand any bending or cutting of the pin.

Preferably the pin is adjustable along its length so as to compensate for varying frame widths.

Preferably the horizontal locking pin can be stabilised when in the locked position, but the pin still should be free to spin along its horizontal axes.

Preferably the horizontal locking pin should not come into contact with any part of the finished paint or coatings of the bicycle frame to prevent any surface damage, The horizontal pin should be completely retractable from the casing when not being used to lock the wheel.

When the horizontal locking pin is not being used to lock the wheel, the casing can provide a safe and locked position to store the pin. This should prevent any loss of the pin and for any need to carry the pin around. When the horizontal locking pin is in this safe locked position, the horizontal pin can provide a location for which a night cycling light can be attached.

Preferably both the horizontal locking pin and the night cycling light have knurled sections along the length and a compression washer used between the two.

Ideally the lock casing will be welded to the bicycle frame during the manufacturing process. If the casing is welded to the frame, the need for a clamping device is eliminated. A clamping device can be supplied with the casing for bicycles already manufactured and for bicycle frames that cannot be welded to, The clamping surfaces on both the clamp and the casing should be flexible enough to ensure a tight fit around the frame to be clamped to.

Preferably partially none return screws should be used to tighten the casing device around the frame.

A vertical locking pin is situated inside the lock casing with the purpose of locking the horizontal pin in position.

Preferably the vertical locking pin will be stabilised inside the casing by means of a spring.

Preferably the vertical locking pin and the spring will be floating inside the casing and not attached to each other, or the casing.

There are variations to the internal workings in the safe locking device. To describe the safe locking device, and the variations of the internal workings; examples in more detail will now be described by referring to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 shows a frontal view of the safe locking device casing A as secured around part of a bicycle frame E with the use of a clamp device D. Figure 1 also shows the aperture B through the lock casing A for which a horizontal locking pin would be inserted to prevent removal and rotation of a bicycle wheel, not shown on this drawing. Figure 1 also shows the position where an insertable locking device C is located, on the underside of the lock casing A. Figure 2 shows an end view of the clamp device D as secured around part of a bicycle frame E. Figure 2 also shows the aperture F located through the clamp device D. The aperture F is a lockable and safe storage position for which the horizontal locking pin is stored when not in use to secure the bicycle wheel.

Figure 2 also shows the position for the lock device C from this view. 5.

Figure 2 also shows the four locations H for which four partially retractable fixings are used to tighten the clamp device D to the lock casing A around part of a bicycle frame E, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a cross sectional view which offers an internal view of the safe lock components as if placed inside the lock casing A. This view also reveals the internal shapes I of the casing A, and Figure 3 shows one of the three variations to be described with the accompanying drawings.

In Figure 3 a lock casing A is supplied revealing the internal Profile I of the lock casing A. The internal Profile I of the lock casing A houses, and allows smooth operation of, the component parts.

Figure 3 shows a horizontal locking pin L which is lockable by means of a vertical locking pin P, which is operated by a locking device C, The locking device C is operated by means of a key, not shown on this drawing.

Figure 3 also shows the aperture F where the horizontal locking pin L would be locked and stored when not in use to secure a bicycle wheel. The aperture F is located directly above the vertical locking pin P. Figure 3 also shows the position of the lubrication, and defrosting aperture 0, situated directly above the component parts.

The following description options the operation of this version of safe lock system to secure a bicycle wheel with the accompanying drawings.

As in Figure 3, a horizontal locking pin L is inserted through the aperture B in the lock casing A. When the horizontal locking pin L has reached the desired distance of travel through or in-between the spokes of the bicycle wheel the locking device C is inserted through the underside of the lock casing A, pushed upwards, which will in turn connect with the vertical locking pin seat K, the vertical pin P will then be pushed upwards, and locate into a profile on the horizontal locking pin L, the locking device C is then twisted around and will locate into the lock casing's internal Profile I. A key is then used to further twist the locking device C to locate tabs or tags U into the internal profile I of the casing A. The key can then be retracted and the lock safe system is now left locked in this state. Reversing this procedure will unlock the system.

To store and lock the horizontal locking pin in a safe position in the lock casing A, the horizontal locking pin L is withdrawn from aperture B and reinserted through aperture F, which is located at 900 to aperture B as shown in Figure 3.

The horizontal locking pin L can now be locked in this position using the same lock system and procedure as described above.

When the horizontal locking pin L is locked in this position a bicycle wheel is free to rotate as the horizontal locking pin L will be locked safely in position and run parallel with the bicycle wheel. When the horizontal locking pin L is in the safe locked position, as described above, a night cycling light can be attached to the horizontal pin L. (this is not shown in Figure 3).

In the.lock shown in Figure 3, the vertical locking pin P is free to float inside the internal profile I of the lock casing A. Figure 3 also shows the vertical locking pin has a wide base K to stabilise the movement of the vertical locking pin P, and restrict the downward movement of the vertical locking pin P to a given internal profile I in the lock casing A. The vertical locking pin P is tapered at the opposite end from the wide base K, which enables the vertical locking pin P to locate tightly into a machined cam profile R supplied on the horizontal locking pin L, as shown in Figure 3, and in Figure 4. Figure 4 shows more than one cam profile R along the horizontal locking Pin L, this allows ad] ustments to the horizontal locking pin L through its length to achieve a desired length in securing a bicycle wheel.

As shown in Figure 4, if a horizontal locking pin stabiliser J is welded or fixed in some way to bicycle frame B, this would be a desired position to lock the horizontal locking pin L with the vertical locking pin P. When the horizontal locking pin L is locked with the vertical pin P the horizontal locking pin L will still be free to spin around its horizontal axis as indicated by the arrow T, Figure 4.

As shown in Figure 4, the horizontal locking pin L has a knurled end Q to give good finger grip contact when operating the pin, for example, pulling pushing or twisting the pin. Figure 4 shows the horizontal locking pin L has a tapered end opposite the knurled end to allow ease of insertion through apertures B and F shown on Figure 3.

Figure 4 also shows the horizontal locking Pin L has an internal thread V at its tapered end, this thread V is supplied in the horizontal locking Pin L, to attach a night cycling light, not shown on this drawing.

Figure 5 shows a version of the locking mechanism similar to that of Figure 3, but with additional features. Figure 5 shows a cover M is supplied over the lubrication hole 0, to prevent dirt entering and blocking the lubrication hole 0.

Figure 5, shows four rollers or balls N are provided at each end of the aperture B. This will allow a smoother movement through aperture B when inserting the horizontal locking pin L, and enhance the spinning feature of the horizontal locking pin L, thus making the pin L more difficult to cut.

Figure 5 shows a spring S situated on top of the wide base K of the vertical locking Pin P. The spring S is provided to stabilise the vertical locking pin P, and will exert a pressure between the top of the vertical locking pin P and a cam R. Figure 5 shows a key located on the vertical locking pin P and provided with a ringed end as indicated by the at-row X. The ringed end X assists in the operations of the locking mechanism. The key X is inserted into the locking device C and with a finger inserted through the ringed end of the key X, the key X is pushed upwards to connect onto a nipple 34 provided on the underside of the wide base K. The key X is then pushed upwards again to compress a spring S provided above and inserted on the wide base K when the vertical locking pin P is inserted firmly into a cam R on the horizontal locking Pin L. The Key X can then be turned which will locate tabs provided on the wide base K, and tabs provided on the locking device C and turn them into the internal profile I in the lock casing A. Mother version of this locking system will now be described with reference to Figure 6 of the drawings. On Figure 6, a spring S is provided on the underside to the wide base K of the vertical locking pin P. In this version, the vertical locking Pin P is both the locking device and the locking pin P, so there is no locking device C on this drawing on Page 6, Figure 6.

To remove or adjust the horizontal locking pin L through the aperture B, the spring S must be compressed to release the vertical locking pin P from the locked position. For example, the key X is provided with a finger ring end indicated by arrow X. The key X is inserted into the vertical locking pin P and twisted to release the tabs 0 from the internal profile I. The key X is then pulled down to compress the spring S to release the vertical pin P from the cam R provided on the horizontal locking pin L. This will allow the horizontal pin L to be moved in and out of the aperture B. The vertical locking pin P will return automatically to a locked position when the key X is released but will have to be twisted to lock tabs 0 back into the profile I of the casing A, Where the key X is inserted, the lock casing A has a concave profile U and the key X has a convex disc profile 39 provided on the underside of the finger ring end X. As the correct amount of Key X insertion is to be achieved in operating this lock the Key X must be inserted filly until the Convex Disc 39 is in contact with the Concave Profile U. The Concave Profile U on the casing A also helps to conceal the location of the lock entrance and may have an external cover to protect the entrance from dirt contamination. A lock cover is not shown on Figure 6.

Figure 8 shows a cross-section of the Clamp D, and the lock casing A in two half sections. Figure 8 shows the end section of the lock casing A with a battery compartment for a lock casing light unit 18, and shows the fixing screws 6 provided to secure the light unit.

Figure 8 also shows a threaded tube screw receiver 31 provided to receive lock casing screws 13 provided to tighten the two halves of the lock casing A together. In order that the two halves of the lock casing A are screwed together in good alignment, alignment guides 3 are provided as part of the lock casing A, shown as a convex guide on the mid section and a concave guide on the end section of the lock casing A. This helps the locking system to work smoothly.

When the two halves of the lock easing A have been pulled together and tightened with the screws 13, the lock casing A can then be attached to the clamp D around the frame B. Figure 9 shows a partially returnable screw 35 provided with two half collet washers 7 designed to prevent the screw 35 being fully withdrawn from the lock casing A, but allowing enough slack between the clamp D and the frame E, so the clamp D and the lock casing A can be adjusted up and down the frame E to the desired position on the frame B then tightened in position.

To tighten the clamp D to the lock Casing A, the partially returnable screw 35 is pushed into and through the clamp D until it is restricted by a fixed shoulder washer 9. The two half collet washers 7 are then pushed into the clamp D between the shoulder washer 9 and a bolt restrictor 8 provided on the screw 35. With the two half collet washers 7 in place inside the clamp D, this effectively reduces the diameter inside the clamp screw hole to that of the body of the screw 35. The bolt restrictor 8 provided on the screw 35 will not now be able to pass back through the clamp D, but the screw 35 is still attached to the lock casing A to prevent the removal of the lock casing A from the clamp D. A recess 16 shown in Figure 8 is provided inside the lock casing A to house the bolt restrictor when the clamp D is fully tightened to the lock casing A. To remove the two half collet washers 7, a special tool designed for that purpose can be provided.

Figure 10 shows an end view of lock 11 for the clamp D and lock casing A. Figure 10 also shows an end view of the two half collet washers 7 and shows an end cap 12 used to plug the holes 1 on the clamp D of Figure 8. The plug 12 can be pushed or screwed into the hole 1 of the clamp D, and may be filled with a grease to eliminate moisture entering the clamp D. Figure 12 shows the clamp D and the lock casing A screwed together around a frame E. The version of the lock in Figure 12 shows a mounting point 17 used to mount a detachable light Z, optionally with multiple functions, not shown on Figure 12.

Figure 12, also shows the plugs 12 inserted into the clamp D to conceal the screws 35 shown on Figure 9.

Figure 12 also shows the lock casing light 18 in position. The lock casing light 18 is provided as a fixed night cycling light, and can be powered either with rechargeable batteries or solar powered battery. The lock casing light 18 is designed to be seen from the rear and both right and left of the lock casing A, and has flash and constant light functions. The lock casing light 18 is designed to hold three separate and individually operational l.e.d lights. The led lights are operated remotely by a chip and pin system 19 shown on Figure 12. The lock light inner casing and lens 18 are provided and designed to throw light in the three directions, rear, right and left of the lens 18, so that if one bulb fails the light will still be seen in all three directions with the remaining two bulbs.

This version of the lock casing light 18 is attached to the rear of the lock casing A, as shown in Figure 12, by inserting the light casing and lens through the face of the lock casing A. The light and lens 18 is pushed inwards into the rear end of the lock casing A and is held in place magnetically with the four tabs 36.

Figure 13 shows a solar powered detachable light Z attached to a horizontal locking pin L. The internal body of the solar powered light Z is made up of individual battery cells interlocked together by means of negative and positive pin terminals. The battery cells are encased in a tubular solar panel segment covering 38 as shown on Figure 13, and the solar covering is directly connected to the internal battery cells provided by means of pin connections not shown on the drawing. The solar light Z shown on Figure 13 has a twist on and off light function Y at the base of the light lens, and the direction of twist is shown by the arrow 20.

Different degrees of twist on Y will operate different light sequences, e.g. Flash, Constant, and SOS flash. If SOS mode is selected, an audible SOS tone may be emitted.

To prevent overcharging the light Y is arranged to illuminate when batteries are fully charged to manage the input solar power system of the solar powered light Z. The solar light Z may have means to operate a lock casing light such as light 18 shown on Figure 12. The solar light Z has one or more button type switches 23 to operate a pin system 19 located on the Clamp D to operate a lock casing light 18.

Figure 14 shows a ifirther version of lock casing A provided with previously described features, and with a clamp device D as previously described. In the version of Figure 14. both the clamp D and the two halves of the lock casing A are constructed from battery cells. Both the clamp D and the lock casing A are directly charged from solar panel pieces 24, which encase both the clamp D and the lock casing A. The solar panel pieces 24 are coimected together by means of electrical spade connectors 10 provided on the solar pieces 24 to create a box solar unit around the clamp D and the lock casing A. Figure 14 shows a lock casing light 18 provided on the lock casing A, which is electrically powered by the lock casing A. A pin device 19 located on the clamp D is provided to operate the lock casing light 18.

Figure 14 shows a variation of the solar light Z. This solar light Z is made up of a main body of circular solar chargeable battery cells. The battery cells are encased in solar Panel Pieces 39.

The solar panel pieces 38 are arranged so the solar battery cells of the solar light Z can be charged independently from the lock casing A. The detachable solar light Z provided has a twist function Y provided to operate the varying light sequences of the detachable solar light Z, as previously described, these functions include: Flash, Constant and SOS sequences.

In this version of the solar light Z on Figure 14, a transmitter is provided inside the main body of the solar light to transmit information to the lock casing A through the pin system 19 provided on the clamp D, The solar light Z has a transmitter and a receiver unit built into the main body of the solar light Z, and has micro chip teclmology built in to the main body of the solar light Z to assist in the transmitting and receiving functions of the solar light Z. The transmitter and receiver inside the solar light Z allow the solar light Z to function as a distress beacon via satellite communication so the exact location of the solar light Z can be triangulated via satellite in emergencies. An antenna 25 is provided inside the solar light Z to aid the satellite communications. The antenna 25 may be telescopic or built in to the solar light Z shown on Figure 14.

The distress beacon mode on the solar light Z is activated by twisting the lower body of the solar light Z shown by arrow 22 on Figure 14. When the distress mode is activated the twist light Y will flash in SOS mode and an SOS tone will emit from the solar light Z to alert the user that SOS mode has been activated.

On the version of the solar light Z shown in Figure 14, a mounting screw W is provided, which allows the solar light Z to be mounted on the lock casing A..

An electrical circuit is provided inside the lock casing A. If extra power is needed to operate the solar light for any reason, power can be drawn or transferred from the lock casing A through the mounting screw W to charge the main body of battery cells of the solar light Z shown on Figure 14. To prevent battery cells overcharging from solar energy, both the solar light Z and the lock casing have built-in safety circuits.

To manage the relationship between solar panel arid battery capacity, a sensor and safety circuit are provided inside the lock casing A. When batteries are filly charged, the sensor provided will activate a circuit to divert any extra power automatically and directly to the lock casing light 18, the lock casing light 18 will then illuminate and operate as a battery management system as and when required. The same battery management system is built into the solar light Z and is managed through the light Y shown on Figure 14.

The solar light Z of Figure 14 is designed to maximise the outward light emission by providing a concave mirror behind the light source and a convex magnification lens as an outer lens. This would be the preferred beacon light assembly as a good visual aid at night in the event of any air-sea rescue operation.

When the two half segments of battery lock casing A of Figure 14 are clamped together they are internally connected to each other by means of electrical pin connectors 27 shown on Figure 15 of the drawings. The electrical pin connectors allow electrical current to pass through the two half segments of battery lock casing A and to maintain even charging of the battery lock casing A. The two halves of the battery lock casing A are each independently encased in an outer shell of solar panel segments 24 shown on Figure 14 to charge each battery lock casing segment A. Figure 14 also shows a revolution sensor 57 located above the lock casing light 18. The revolution sensor 57 directs a laser beam on to a given part of the bicycle's rear wheel or spokes. The revolution sensor 57 compares revolutions of the rear wheel in a given time period. When the revolution sensor 57 detects a reduction in revolutions in a given time, the revolution sensor 57 will activate a brake light system, which is housed inside the lock casing light 18 shown in Figure 14. When an increase in revolutions is detected by the revolution sensor 57 the brake light system will deactivate. If no revolutions are detected over a period of given time the brake light system will deactivate.

Figure 15 of the drawings show a sectional view of a battery lock casing A provided to house a locking mechanism. Figure 15 also shows alignment guides 3 provided to ensure a good alignment is achieved for battery lock casing assembly. Figure 15 also shows battery lock casing connectors 27 provided to allow electrical current to pass through each battery segment When the two battery lock casing segments A are pulled tightly together the solar panel segments 24 are interlocked together through solar connecting tabs 10 shown on Figure 14 of the drawings. Solar energy is transferred through terminals 28 to the battery lock casing A shown on Figure 15 of the drawings and the electrical current is then allowed to flow evenly between the battery lock casings A, through the battery connection pins 27.

The clamp D may be called a battery clamp D as it is made up of solar battery cells, and has the same electrical connections as the battery lock casing.

Although these three battery segments, when joined together, will charge evenly, varied amps of power may be drawn from the electrical system to allow different functions to operate efficiently through electronic circuitry.

Figure 15 of the drawings shows internally moulded compartments 30 recessed into the battery lock casing A. These compartments 30 and provided to allow clcctrical components to be housed and sealed in when the battery lock casing segments A are pulled together. These electrical components will receive power from battery component connectors 29 provided in the moulded compartments 30.

These compartments 30 may be provided on any battery segment or all battery segments depending on the amount of functions required. Electrical components can be selected from micro-chips, transmitters, receivers, sim cards, etc. Figure 16 of the drawings shows a battery lock casing A where the battery segments have been split into further segments that allows more components to be introduced into the segments without the need to increase the overall size of the battery lock casing A. In this version of the battery lock casing A and the battery clamp device D a tracking device is provided and concealed inside the clamp device Ii) in a moulded compartment shown on Figure 16.

In other battery segments compartments such as 30 are provided to house component parts that allow communication abilities to be established between the battery lock casing A, the solar light Z and a mobile phone. In this version of the battery lock casing A, a micro chip and sim card are provided and housed inside the battery lock casing A in moulded compartments such as 30. This allows the battery lock casing components to be programmed with a mobile phone and activate a series of code numbers to allow communications through components circuits and the mobile phone.

Once programming is complete and the battery lock casing A is armed with the horizontal locking pin L in a locked position as shown on Figure 18, the battery lock casing A must be switched off or disarmed with the same mobile phone or the solar light Z prior to unlocking the horizontal Pin L. In this version of the battery lock casing A, a camera with video function is provided on the lock casing A. The camera is not shown on any drawings, but is disguised as a solar panel piece to avoid detection. This could be any solar panel piece on the battery lock casing A. The camera is powered by the battery lock casing A and the camera will activate automatically by means of a laser activated switch concealed inside the battery lock casing A; the laser beam switch is activated by any downward movement of the vertical locking pin P whilst the battery lock casing is armed as shown on Figure 18.

The camera on the lock casing may allow activation of the camera in video mode when the bike is being cycled. When the camera is directed rearwards, it can relay rear footage to the cyclist in real time via a mobile phone or other monitor mounted in front of the cyclist.

Once the vertical locking pin P has activated the laser beam, the camera will automatically video any activity outside the battery lock casing A. At the same time, once the vertical pin P shown on Figure 18 has activated the laser beam inside the battery lock casing A an automatic dial up circuit is activated and the owner's mobile phone is automatically contacted. Pre-programmed information will be sent to the owner's mobile phone and live video frontage will be sent to the owner's mobile phone.

At the same time when this circuit has been activated, an alarm will be activated inside the battery lock casing A and an audible alarm will be heard emitting from the battery lock casing A, and a pre programmed vocal message may be relayed from the battery lock casing A and would be heard by anyone close to the battery lock casing A. The same automatic video and communications circuits will be activated if any of the battery lock casing bolts or screws 35 shown on Figure 9 of the drawings are partially released when the battery lock casing A is in activated mode. Each screw 35 if partially released while the batter lock casing A is in active mode, will activate a circuit controlled by a laser beam and the same sequence of events will be activated as described above..

The same sequence of events will occur with any attempt to remove the battery lock casing light 18 shown on Figures 8,12 and 14 of the drawings when the battery lock casing A is in active mode.

Figure 18 of the drawings shows an alternative locking mechanism.

Figure 18 shows a battery lock casing A housing a horizontal locking pin L and a vertical locking pin P operated by a pin slide 49. Figure 18 also shows two electro magnets 48 powered by a battery lock casing A. The electro magnets 48 can be operated with the mobile phone or the solar light Z shown on Figure 14.

To operate the electro magnets 48 shown on Figure 18, the mobile user dials up the pre programmed battery lock casing A through a sim card concealed inside the battery lock casing A. Through a set of pre programmed codes the user can then operate the electro magnets 48 by directing power from the battery lock casing A to lock or unlock the mechanism.

When power is directed to the right hand electro magnet 48 the pin slide 49 shown on Figure 18 is attracted and pulled towards the right hand magnet 48 and the vertical locking pin P is lowered down on the slope of the pin slide 49.

The locking pin P is forced upwards on the pin slide 49 when power is directed to the left hand electro magnet 48 to lock the horizontal pin L. The power to the electro magnets 48 is automatically cut off by means of laser activated beams when the pin slide 49 is in contact with any one of the electro magnets 48.

In this version of the battery lock casing A, a means is provided to charge a mobile phone, an Ipod and other ancillary devices on given power points on the underside of the battery lock casing clap D and shown as item 52 on Figure 14 of the drawings.

Figure 17 shows the preferred type of battery lock casing fixing designed to pull and lock all the battery lock casing segments together as one. Figure 17 shows two battery lock casing segments A. Figure 17 shows a tube screw receiver 31 as inserted through a fixing hole provided on the battery lock casing segment A on the right hand side of Figure 17. This battery segment would be the end segment of battery lock casing A and is recessed to accommodate the tube screw receiver's lock 32 and flat end 33 to ensure a flush finish. Two female slots are provided on the end battery lock casing A to accoimnodate the two key locks 32 to stop the tube screw receiver 31 from turning inside the battery lock casing fixing hole, and prevents the tube screw receiver from being removed from the battery lock casing.

The remaining battery segments are then mounted over the tube screw receiver 31 until the last battery lock segment shown on the left hand side of Figure 17.

This battery lock segment has a recess to accommodate a tapered end lock casing screw 26. The lock casing screw 26 has a fixed shoulder washer 9 to restrain the lock casing screw 26 in the recess provided on this battery lock casing segment A. The lock casing screw 26 can be turned and threaded into the tube screw receiver 31 to pull and tighten all the battery lock casing segments together by means of the internal thread 40 provided in the tube screw receiver 31. This process ensures a watertight seal between the battery segments, connects the battery pins 27 between each battery segment shown on Figure 15, and connects each section of the solar panel pieces 24 together by interlocking the solar connectors 10 shown on Figure 14.

Although the primary function of the battery lock casing device is to prevent the removal of a wheel, and to establish comrnunicatibns to relay information to the owner if the battery lock casing device being interfered with, a further locking system can trigger the alarms and communication features to alert the owner in the event of the bicycle being removed from a fixed object. The battery lock casing A shown on Figure 18 has a retractable wire pulley lock 44 mounted underneath the battery lock casing A. The pulley lock 44 is locked into the battery lock casing A during assembly and sandwiched between the two battery lock casing segments that house the electro magnets 48 shown on figure 18 of the drawings, so requires no fixing screws. The retractable wire pulley lock 44 consists of a central inner shaft 50 provided to activate a laser light circuit. A coiled tensile steel spring 45 is housed inside a wire lock casing 46 and attached to the central inner shaft 50 to create a mechanically activated switch.

To set up the pulley lock 44, the stainless wire 43 with the ringed end 42 is pulled out from the lock casing 46. The stainless wire 43 is then wrapped around a fixed object 51. The stainless wire 43 then can be passed through the underside supports of a bicycle seat and then returned to the battery lock casing A and locked off by threading the stainless wire ring 42 over the horizontal locking pin L. As shown on Figure 18, when the stainless wire ring 42 is threaded over the horizontal locking pin L and with the vertical locking pin P in the locked position the pulley lock 44 is now set in a locked position and the pulley lock 44 will trigger off the alarm feature as described on Page 37 of this description of the tensile spring 45 recoils, and rotates the central inner shaft 50 to activate the light switch circuit.

To avoid setting off the alarm features when unlocking the pulley lock 44 the battery lock must be switched off or deactivated.

To describe in more detail how the pulley lock 44 works, when the stainless wire 43 is pulled out from the lock casing 46, the wire reel pulley 44 will rotate and exert a tension on the tensile spring 45 and rotate the central shaft 50. If the stainless wire 43 is detached from the horizontal locking pin L and tension is released from the tensile spring 45, the tensile spring will retract and pull the stainless wire 43 back into the lock casing 46 and rotate the central inner shaft 50. The hole provided through the inner shaft 50 will then trigger a laser light switch circuit by altering the length of light that was previously set when the stainless wire 43 was attached to the horizontal locking pin L. Figure 19 of the drawings shows a twin pulley system. In this version of the pulley lock system used in conjunction with the battery lock casing A, a twin pulley lock is provided inside a pulley lock casing 46. This system has an additional pulley lock 55 situated in the bottom half of pulley lock casing 46. A tensile spring 54 and a flexible stainless type wire with a ringed end 56 is provided for the bottom pulley lock 44 to work in the same way as previously described with the single pulley lock system. A central shaft 53 provided and attached to the bottom pulley lock 55 and the tensile spring 54. The central shaft 53 has a hole drilled through the top of the shaft to operate a mechanically activated light switch.

The two pulleys shown inside the pulley lock casing 46 operate independently from each other. The advantage of this type of pulley lock allows the bicycle to be alarmed when tethered to a fixed object, and allows both bicycle wheels and the bicycle seat to be alarmed with only one battery lock system required to operate the alarms and communication systems.

Circuitry inside the battery lock casing A may comprise a series of wormholes incorporated into the battery lock casing A during the manufacturing process. Fibre Optic material is inserted into each section or segment of battery lock casing A so the wormholes are independently lined with the Fibre Optic material. The wormholes and Fibre Optic are in line when the battery lock casing segments A are screwed together.

When the battery lock casing is screwed together a network of Fibre Optic wormholes is created inside the battery lock casing A, operating a light activated Photo Cell and Micro Chip.

A light source is contained inside the battery lock casing A, light from the source is beamed on to strategic points inside the battery lock casing A, and the light source is powered by the battery lock casing A. If the light is beamed onto a strategic point such as a battery lock casing screw and any attempt to remove the screw at some point light will be allowed to pass through the Fibre Optic network to the Photo Cell and complete a circuit. When the circuit is complete, the sequence of events described above in connection with Figures 16 and 18 is set in motion. Information such as text, video and photo can then be transmitted to the user's mobile phone through their network provider. This light operated and wormhole system means no electrical wiring is required within the battery lock casing A. Parts Reference A Lock casing B Horizontal locking pin aperture C Locking device D Clamp device E bicycle frame F Horizontal locking pin storage aperture G Locking device tabs H Clamp device screw locations I lock casing internal profile J Horizontal locking pin stabiliser K Vertical locking pin wide base (or seatO L Horizontal locking pin stabiliser M Oil hole cover N Bearings 0 Lubrication aperture P Vertical locking pin Q Knurled section R Horizontal locking pin cam profile S Vertical locking pin spring T Directional arrow U Concave profile V in profile and thread W Mounting screw on Z X Key ring part Y Twist light Z Solar light 1. Plug holes 2. Recess for bolt restrictor 3. Alignment guide 4. Battery screw holes 5. Battery storage compartment 6. Lock casing light screws 7. Collet washers 8. Bolt restrictor 9. Shoulder washer (fixed) 10. Solar interlock connectors 11. Screw head tool 12. Clamp screw plug 13. Lock casing screw 14. Directional arrow 15. Direction arrow 16. Arrow indicator 17. Mounting point 18. Lock casing light 19. Pir 20. Direction arrow 21. Hinge 22. Twist beacon 23. Transmitter Pir 24, Solar pieces 25. Antenna 26. Tapered lock casing screw with thread 27. Battery connection pins 28. Solar connection points 29. Component connectors 30. Component compartments 31. Tube screw receiver 32. Tube screw key lock 33. Tube screw flat lock end 34. Wide base nipple 35. Partially returnable screw 36. Lock casing light tabs 38. Solar pieces on solar light Z 39. Convex key profile 40. Tube screw thread 41. Printed circuit 42. Stainless wire ring 43. Stainless wire 44. Wire real pulley 45. Tensile spring 46, Wire lock casing 47. Casing lock pins 48. Electro magnet 49. Pin slide 50. Central pin switch 51. Fixed object 52. Outer shaft 53. Bottom pulley shaft 54. Bottom pulley spring 55. Bottom pulley 56. Bottom pulley wire and ring 57. Laser

Claims

CLAIMSA bicycle lock comprising a casing (A) having means for attachment of the casing to a bicycle frame adjacent to a wheel of the bicycle, and having an aperture (B) through which a horizontal pin (L) can be inserted; a horizontal pin (L) capable of being inserted through the aperture (B) in the casing so that the horizontal pin (L) is located between wheel spokes to prevent wheel rotation, the horizontal pin (L) being removable from aperture (B) when the lock is not locked and having a profiled portion (R) capable of engaging with a pin perpendicular to the pin (L); and a locking pin (P) secured or capable of being secured within the casing (A) in a position substantially perpendicular to the horizontal pin (L) whereby it engages the profiled portion (R) of horizontal pin (L) to prevent removal of the horizontal pin (L).
2. A bicycle lock according to Claim I wherein casing (A) has an aperture through which the locking pin (P) can pass, and has an internal profile (I) capable of engaging with tabs (U) on the locking pin (P) to secure the locking pin (P) within the casing (A).
3. A bicycle lock according to Claim 2 wherein the locking pin (P) has tabs (U) operable by a key to engage with the internal pofile (I) of the casing 4. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 3 wherein the locking pin (P) carries a spring (S) urging the locking pin (P) to the position whereby it engages the profiled portion (R) of horizontal pin (L).5. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 4 comprising means to secure the horizontal pin (L), when not in locking use, within the casing (A) in a position wherein the horizontal pin (L) does not engage the wheel of the bicycle.6. A bicycle lock according to Claim 5 wherein said means comprises an aperture (F), perpendicular to aperture (B), through which the horizontal pin (L) can pass to hold the horizontal pin (L) in a position parallel to the bicycle wheel when not in locking use.7. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 6 wherein the horizontal pin (L) is free to spin about its axis when in the locked position.8. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims Ito 7 wherein the lock casing is at least partially constructed from battery cells.9. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 8 having solar cells mounted on the lock casing.10. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 7 further comprising a night cycling light secured to or within the lock and powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 8 or solar cells as defined in Claim 9.11. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 7 further comprising a brake light secured to or within the lock, means for detecting the speed of revolution of a wheel of the bicycle and means for automatically switching on the brake light when a reduction in speed of the wheel is detected, the brake light, the means for detecting the speed of revolution and the means for automatically switching on the brake light being powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 8 or solar cells as defined in Claim 9.12. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 11 further comprising an alarm system arranged to detect any downward movement of the locking pin P whilst the lock is locked.13. A bicycle lock according to Claim 12 wherein downward movement of the locking pin P activates a laser controlled switch which activates a camera on the lock casing (A).14. A bicycle lock according to Claim 13 wherein the camera when activated transmits pictures to a remote monitoring device.15. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 12 to 14 wherein downward movement of the locking pin P activates an audible alarm.16. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 12 to 15 wherein the alarm system is powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 8 or solar cells as defined in Claim 9.17. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims I to 16 further comprising a retractable wire pulley lock (44) fixed to the lock casing (A) and capable of being passed around a fixed object and secured around the horizontal pin (L) when the lock is locked.18. A bicycle lock according to Claim 17 having an alarm system whereby cutting or releasing the pulley wire activates a camera and/or an audible alarm.Amendments to the claims have been made as follows:CLAIMSA bicycle lock comprising a casing (A) having means for attachment of the casing to a bicycle frame adjacent to a wheel of the bicycle, and having an aperture (B) through which a horizontal pin (L) can be inserted; a horizontal pin (L) capable of being inserted through the aperture (B) in the casing so that the horizontal pin (L) is located between wheel spokes to prevent wheel rotation, the horizontal pin (L) being removable from aperture (B) when the lock is not locked and having a profiled portion (R) capable of engaging with a pin perpendicular to the pin (L); and a locking pin (P) secured or capable of being secured within the casing (A) in a position substantially perpendicular to the horizontal pin (L) wherein the locking pin (P) carries a spring (S) urging the locking pin (P) to a locking position whereby it 00t000 O 0 engages the profiled portion (R) of horizontal pin (L) and has means for securing the locking pin (P) in said locking position, thereby preventing removal of the horizontal pin (L).2. A bicycle lock comprising a casing (A) having means for attachment of the casing to a bicycle frame adjacent to a wheel of the bicycle, and having an aperture (B) through which a horizontal pin (L) can be inserted and an aperture having an internal profile (I) capable of engaging with a locking device, and; a horizontal pin (L) capable of being inserted through the aperture (B) in the casing so that the horizontal pin (L) is located between wheel spokes to prevent wheel rotation, the horizontal pin (L) being removable from aperture (B) when the lock is not locked and having a profiled portion (R) capable of engaging with a locking pin (P) perpendicular to the pin (L); and a locking pin (P) secured or capable of being secured within the casing (A) in a locking position substantially perpendicular to the horizontal pin (L) whereby it engages the profiled portion (R) of horizontal pin (L) to prevent removal of the horizontal pin (L), and a locking device (C) which can be inserted through the aperture having internal profile (I) to urge the locking pin (P) to its locking position, the locking device (C) having tabs capable of engaging with the internal profile (I) to secure the locking pin (P) to its locking position.3. A bicycle lock according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 comprising means to secure the horizontal pin (L), when not in locking use, within the casing (A) in a position wherein the horizontal pin (L) does not engage the wheel of the bicycle.
4. A bicycle lock according to Claim 3 wherein said means comprises an aperture (F), perpendicular to aperture (B), through which the horizontal pin (L) can pass to hold :°* the horizontal pin (L) in a position parallel to the bicycle wheel when not in locking use.* ... 0* * . * *0 * . .
5. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims ito 4 wherein the horizontal pin (L) is free to spin about its axis when in the locked position. * . . ** * *. * * . * * ..
6. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 5 wherein the lock casing is at least partially constructed from battery cells.
7. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims Ito 6 having solar cells mounted on the lock casing.
8. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 7 further comprising a night cycling light secured to or within the lock and powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 6 or solar cells as defined in Claim 7.
9. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 7 further comprising a brake light secured to or within the lock, means for detecting the speed of revolution of a wheel of the bicycle and means for automatically switching on the brake light when a reduction in speed of the wheel is detected, the brake light, the means for detecting the speed of revolution and the means for automatically switching on the brake light being powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 6 or solar cells as defined in Claim 7.
10. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 1 to 9 further comprising an alarm system arranged to detect any downward movement of the locking pin P whilst the lock is locked.*
11. A bicycle lock according to Claim 10 wherein downward movement of the locking *...*.* pin P activates a laser controlled switch which activates a camera on the lock casing (A). ***** :
12. A bicycle lock according to Claim 11 wherein the camera when activated transmits * : * pictures to a remote monitoring device.
13. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 10 to 12 wherein downward movement of the locking pin P activates an audible alarm.
14. A bicycle lock according to any of Claims 10 to 13 wherein the alarm system is powered by lock casing battery cells as defined in Claim 6 or solar cells as defined in Claim 7.
15. A bic'c1e lock according to any of Claims ito 14 further comprising a retractable wire pulley lock (44) fixed to the lock casing (A) and capable of being passed around a fixed object and secured around the horizontal pin (L) when the lock is locked.
16. A bicycle lock according to Claim 15 having an alarm system whereby cutting or releasing the pulley wire activates a camera and/or an audible alarm. S... * S * . * C.. * S.... * .. a. *S