NL2022655B1

NL2022655B1 - Baggage carrier for a bicycle

Info

Publication number: NL2022655B1
Application number: NL2022655A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Persoon Vincent; Rink Ronald; Valster Ilona; Jurre Miedema Jan; Marinus Gerardus Henrikus Van Balveren Marthijn; Jan Willy Bruntink Danny
Original assignee: Invented Here B V
Priority date: 2018-10-30
Filing date: 2019-02-28
Publication date: 2020-05-14
Also published as: NL2021900B9; DE112019005443T5; NL2021900B1

Abstract

A baggage carrier for a bicycle is disclosed comprising a support platform and at least a rear leg, and a front leg part, wherein the rear leg may be provided With an additional longitudinally extending rod that is hingedly connected to the rear leg. The support platform may comprise a receiving space for receiving a module therein. [Fig. 1]

Description

Title: Baggage carrier for a bicycle

The invention relates to a baggage carrier for a bicycle.

Baggage carriers are widely used on bicycles, in particular on bicycles having a single rear wheel, such as two-wheel bicycles. The baggage carrier is typically positioned over the single rear wheel, to allow baggage to be supported and transported with the bicycle. The bicycle can be an electrically supported bicycle, of which the battery is often placed at the rear baggage carrier. A baggage carrier may also be provided over a single front wheel.

A baggage carrier typically has a two longitudinally extending rods that are more or less parallel to each other, and, when mounted to the bicycle, extend in a lying direction, i.e. in a front-rear direction of the bicycle. The two longitudinally extending rods are usually connected to each other by at least one transverse rod, typically a rear transverse rod, for forming a support platform. Advantageously, there is one transverse rod positioned more forward and one transverse rod positioned more rearward with respect to the longitudinally extending rods. Further, the baggage carrier typically also has two front standing legs extending downwardly from each associated longitudinally extending rod towards the rear wheel axle to be connected to the rear wheel axle. Additionally, a rear leg extending downwardly from the longitudinally extending rod towards the wheel axle can be provided for strength, stiffness and stability. For some baggage carriers, the front standing legs are absent and only the rear legs are provided. So, when mounted to the bicycle, at each side of the rear wheel at least a rear leg is provided extending downwardly from the longitudinally extending rod.

The longitudinally extending rod is often used for bags and other accessories that can be hooked onto the longitudinally extending rod. To that encl, such bags and accessories may be provided with hooks or other connection elements to be removable connectable to the longitudinally extending rod.

A drawback however is that, when the bag is attached to the baggage carrier that a rider of the bicycle may encounter the bag with its heel when pedaling. This is a problem encountered for already a long time. Bicycle bag manufactures have for example made bags to which the connection elements are mounted obliquely such that the bag, when mounted to the baggage carrier, hangs inclined at the bicycle. Patent publication DE 19731641 proposes inclined parts on the longitudinally extending rod such that the bag can be mounted to the baggage carrier in an inclined way. DE 19731641 also proposes to have a pivotable rod as an additional rod mounted to the baggage carrier just below the longitudinally extending rod.

A drawback of this pivotable rod is that it is difficult for a user to connect a bag onto the pivoted rod, since it is difficult to access. Also, the system proposed is difficult to adjust in position, and rather vulnerable. Therefor, there is a need for a more user friendly and more robust system.

Thereto, the invention provides for a baggage carrier according to claim 1.

By providing an adjustable rod that is adjustable mounted to the rear leg and adjustable engageable to the front leg part at a distance below the longitudinally extending rod of the support platform, the adjustable rod becomes accessible for a bag to be hooked on it. Then, the support platform can be used for supporting a baggage piece and a bag can be connected to the adjustable rod. Additionally, the position of the adjustable rod can be adjusted such that it becomes inclined with respect to the support platform, and the bag, when connected to it, hangs in an inclined way to the baggage carrier. As such, the bag comes free of the heels of the rider when pedaling. Also, by using the front leg part as a mounting support for the adjustable leg, the construction becomes more robust and the adjustable leg, and the bag connected to it, and heavier loads can be accommodated. The front leg part can be a relatively short rod that extends downwardly from the longitudinally extending rod of the support platform. Such a front leg part may have a length of between 5 cm to about 20 cm. However, the front leg part can be a portion of a front leg as well, wherein the front leg extends from the longitudinally extending rod of the support platform downwardly to the mounting element for mounting to the axle of the wheel. For a baggage carrier mounted over a front wheel, the above becomes opposite. Then, there is at least a front leg, and a rear leg part.

Advantageously, the engagement of the adjustable rod to the front leg and/or to the rear leg is adjustable, preferably by providing an adjustable connection element. The connection elements can be the same at the front end of the adjustable rod and at the rear end of the adjustable rod. Alternatively, one of the connection elements can be a hinge. By providing at the front end of the adjustable rod and at the rear end of the adjustable rod an adjustable connection element to engage the adjustable rod with the baggage frame, the position of the adjustable rod can be varied. For example, the adjustable rod can be adjusted to an inclined position by mounting one of the connection elements higher or lower than the other. In another example, the position of the adjustable rod can be changed to a higher or a lower position, while the rod may remain approximately horizontal. Thus, the driver or user of the bicycle may have a variety of possibilities to set the adjustable rod to a position optimal for said driver or user.

By providing the same connection element to the front end and to rear end of the adjustable rod for engagement to the baggage carrier, in particular to the front leg and the rear leg of the baggage carrier respectively, the baggage carrier can become more modular and more cost effective. For the manufacturer there are less different components, which is beneficial for costs, efficiency of manufacturing and assembly. Also, providing the rod can be an option to the baggage carrier in that the manufacturer, the seller/retailer or the user can choose to have an adjustable rod at one side of the baggage carrier, or an adjustable rod at both sides of the baggage carrier, or no adjustable rod at all to the baggage carrier. This gives a relatively flexible and modular design of the baggage carrier. Additionally, if providing the adjustable rod to the baggage carrier, also the position of the rod can be choosen dependent on the requirements of the user and/or seller/retailer and/or manufacturer of the baggage carrier to provide the optimal position for transporting a bag connected to the adjustable rod. This gives a relatively large flexibility in use of the baggage carrier. It also gives the possibility to add the adjustable rod later as an after-sales module to the baggage carrier. By providing the same adjustable connection element to both the front end and the rear end of the adjustable rod, the adjustable rod can in fact become removable and optional to the baggage carrier, which gives a large flexibility to the user, the seller/retailer and the manufacturer. The connection element can be provided with a damping element as is described further. The connection element is configured to allow some movement of the adjustable rod with respect to the connection element due to adjustment of the connection element, e.g. a slit in which the rod is movable, such that, when adapting the position of the connection element on the respective leg of the baggage carrier, the change in position and/or inclination of the rod is accommodated.

Various baggage carriers are available and may be provided with such an adjustable additional longitudinally extending rod. For example, a baggage carrier may be provided on which the support platform is not present. Such a baggage carrier is in fact only suitable for bags to be hung on the longitudinally extending rod or, preferably, to the adjustable additional longitudinal rod. In another alternative of a baggage carrier, the baggage carrier may be mounted floatingly over the rear wheel, connected to the saddle frame bar only. Then, the rear leg does not extend fully downwardly until the wheel axle, but a rear leg part may suffice for mounting the hinge of the adjustable additional longitudinally extending rod to. Many variants of a baggage carrier are possible to which an adjustable longitudinally extending rod according to the invention can be hingedly mounted.

Advantageously, the adjustable rod is positioned at a distance below the longitudinally extending rod, preferably between about 3 to about 10 cm below, more preferably about 4 cm to about 8 cm, advantageously about 5 cm. As such, sufficient distance and space is created between the longitudinally extending rod and the adjustable rod such that a bag can be connected to the adjustable rod in a simple and user-friendly manner. Also, then an upper side of the bag does not extend beyond the support platform, and the support platform remains available for other baggage pieces.

Advantageously, the adjustable rod is dainpingly engaged to the front leg and/or the rear leg of the baggage carrier. Thereto, a damping element can be provided. By dampingly engaging the adjustable rod to the baggage carrier, shocks, movements and other motion of a bag connected to the adjustable rod can be damped, and as such, any load inside of the bag is less susceptible to these movements, shocks etc. and may be less prone to damage. So, also more vulnerable load can be transported onto the bicycle more safely. The damping element may also be provided at the hinge of the adjustable rod, typically at a rear end of the adjustable rod. Alternatively, or additionally, a damping element may be provided at a front end of the adjustable rod, at or near the engagement with the front leg of the baggage carrier. By providing a damping element to the engagement of the adjustable rod and the front leg part and/or the rear leg part for damping of the movement of the adjustable rod with respect to the front leg and/or rear leg, the adjustable rod is dampingly engaged to the baggage carrier and thus movements of the adjustable rod with respect to the baggage carrier can be damped. By dampingly engage the adjustable rod to the baggage carrier, also the bag or accessory connected to the adjustable rod may experience less or reduced forces during a bicycle ride. This may improve the lifetime of the bag or accessory. Also, the bag or the accessory may have thus itself less impact on the baggage carrier and on the bicycle frame, as it receives less forces and thus can pass on less forces to the bicycle frame. The baggage carrier and/or the bicycle frame thus may receive less forces or a reduced load from the bag as well during the bicycle ride. This may be beneficial for the life time of the baggage carrier and/or the bicycle frame. Additionally, the driving behavior of the bicycle improves thanks to reduced impact forces on the bag hanging onto the adjustable rod. The driver may feel less hindrance from the bag connected to the adjustable rod, in particular may feel less hindrance from impact loads onto the bag during the bicycle ride. This may improve the driving behavior and the driving experience. By enclosing the damping element, e.g. the resilient block in a housing, preferably the housing of a connection element that is configured for connecting the adjustable rod to the front leg of the baggage carrier, the damping element can be held in place. The housing is preferably configured to engage with the front leg and with the adjustable rod.

The damping element may be a resilient block, e.g. of a rubber or polymer material. Preferably the hardness of the material allows for a sufficiently smooth performance between a temperature of -20 degrees and +30 degrees. The polymer is preferably a closed cell polymer to prevent any water, dirt, sand or other ingress deteriorating the performance of the material. The material may be foam material that may be injection moulded or may be cut out of a foam block. The resilient block of the damping element may be mounted around the adjustable rod.

In a further embodiment, the support platform of the baggage carrier may be dampingly engaged to the legs of the baggage carrier, such that any load carried onto the support platform can be dampingly ί

transported. Shocks, movements and other motions may thus be damped to allowing the load to be more safely transported. For baggage carriers that are used in combination with a battery for an electrically assisted bicycle, the baggage carrier often accommodates the battery. This often involves that below the support platform of the baggage carrier a space is provided in which the battery can be inserted. Alternatively, the battery can be provided elsewhere on the bicycle, e.g. to the front bar of the frame, or to the saddle bar of the frame. Nevertheless, electrically assisted bicycles are increasingly made “smart”, meaning that often sensors and/or position trackers are provided that are in contact with a remote server, via internet, e.g. via a satellite connection, typically of the bike manufacturer. Alternatively, also regular not electrically assisted bikes, can be made “smart”. In particular while this often is advantageous for the traceability of the bicycle, which may be beneficial for insurance and/or leasing. A smart module on a regular bike may e.g. be powered by power provided from another power source than a battery, e.g. a hub-generator. In particular a position tracker keeps, usually via GPS, track of the position of the bicycle, which is valuable in case of theft or loss. The 'smart' module may track and provide information on usage, distance, fleet management, number of trips, maintenance plans, point of interest, etc. Sensors may be provided for example for tracking altitude, speed, acceleration, mileage, time, etc. that wirelessly send their data to the remote server where they may be accessible by the bike owner or bike user. The “smart” module comprises hardware with a connectivity to a remote server and/or the internet. The user may access its data via e.g. a software application, or a board computer. For bicycle manufacturers who whish to make their bicycle “smart”, this often means a struggle for space to find a position where to locate the “smart” module comprising at least the sensors. Such a “smart” module may be about 4 cm to about 5 cm to about 2 cm, which despite the limited dimensions is a real challenge to the design team to find a space for it. Mostly, the frame then is redesigned for providing a space in which the sensors can be housed. This is rather costly, in terms of time, as redesigning a frame takes some time, and in terms of manufacturing costs. Also, every redesigned frame is dealt with as a new frame and needs to be tested again. Such tests are costly, time consuming and require at lot of effort, also in resources. Now the bicycle manufacturer has two frames for a single bicycle module, one 'smart' frame and one basic frame. This significantly reduces flexibility for the bicycle manufacturer, it is not possible to upgrade a bicycle during its lifetime, as well as for the customer, as he has to decide on 'smart' or not when ordering the bicycle. There is a need for a more flexible and convenient solution for accommodating such a 'smart' module.

Thereto, there is provided in a baggage carrier according to claim 5.

By providing such a receiving space adjacent the rear transverse rod, a module, albeit smart or not, can be inserted into the receiving space. Advantageously, the module fits into the receiving space in that the footprint of the receiving space and the footprint of the module are preferably the same. As such, a tight fit of the module into the receiving space can be provided.

By providing a receiving space at the rear end of the baggage carrier, a versatile solution is obtained for inserting a module, albeit smart of not, in the receiving space. Instead of a smart module, alternatively, a lamp or a storage box for small items, etc. may be inserted into the receiving space. When not in use, the receiving space can be left empty. By providing the receiving space at the rear end of the baggage carrier, this position is less shielded by the rider, and thus, communication signals to/from the smart module are less shielded by the rider and are more likely to reach the module. There is thus less interference with the rider, which is advantageous in terms of, at least, connectivity and uptime of the smart module. Also, a versatile solution is obtained for the manufacturer, as he does not need to re-design the frame, but now has a dedicated position where he can place his smart module. Also, this solution is more user friendly for the bicycle user increases, as now, the bicycle user can still, during the lifetime of the bicycle, after the initial purchase, choose to upgrade his bicycle with the smart module. This reduces costs, and increases flexibility for the manufacturer and the bicycle user. The “smart” module itself can then become a flexible, versatile after-market product that the user can buy himself when it suits him and can insert himself into the dedicated receiving space of the baggage carrier of his bicycle. Contrary to current after-market smart modules for which the user needs to find a space onto its bicycle where it can be mounted and is protected from damage and/or theft and/or tampering.

Advantageously, the module is specifically designed to fit into the receiving space. The housing of the module corresponds to the shape of the receiving space, and preferably tightly fits in it. The housing of the module may be openable, e.g. by a user or a bicycle technician to fit a “smart” unit into it, and then the module may be closed again. The module can be closed in a watertight and theft-proof way. Alternatively, the housing of the module itself is provided with the smart unit, such that the housing can be sealingly closed, and is - preferably - not openable anymore by a user or technician. Then, albeit after-market or by the manufacturer, a closed box system can be provided and inserted into the receiving space.

Advantageously, the receiving space is provided with an element for allowing electrical connection of the module to the electrical system of the bicycle. In particular with an electrically assisted bicycle, a so-called “ebike”, the rear light is already often electrically connected to the battery. So, by diverging the electrical wire to the module, it can be easily connected to the module. In a simple embodiment, an opening can be provided for guiding the electrical wire theretrough and to allow connection with the module in a water-tight and/or tamper-proof manner, e.g, with a dedicated connection plug. More advantageously, an electrical connection can be provided of the plug-and-socket type of which for example a socket-type connector can be provided in the receiving space that is connected to the electrical system of the bicycle, and a plug-type connection can be provided onto the module such that, upon insertion of the module into the receiving space the electrical connection is directly established. This is advantageous in terms of installation. Then, only the smart module needs to be inserted into the receiving space, the electrical connection is preferably made upon insertion, and the user is almost immediately “live”. So, a plug-and-play solution is obtained for inserting and connecting the smart module to the bicycle.

Advantageously, the receiving space can be provided as an opening in the rear end of the baggage carrier in which the module preferably tightly fits. The receiving space can be provided with ribs or flanges on which the module can sit and may be connected to. Alternatively, the module can snap-fitted or otherwise connected to the receiving space. Advantageously, the volume and shape of the receiving space corresponds to the volume and shape of the module, such that, when the module is fitted into the receiving space, a smooth upper surface is obtained as to maintain an approximately flat support platform.

It is to be noted that the baggage carrier with the adjustable rod and the baggage carrier with the receiving space, although represented as independent aspects, can be mutually exchanged, in that a baggage carrier with an adjustable rod can also be equipped with a receiving space and vice versa a baggage carrier with a receiving space, can also be equipped with an adjustable rod.

A baggage carrier for a bicycle is disclosed comprising a support platform and at least a rear leg, and a front leg part, wherein the rear leg may be provided with an additional longitudinally extending rod that is hingedly connected to the rear leg. The support platform may comprise a receiving space for receiving a module therein.

Further advantageous embodiments are represented in the subclaims.

The invention will further be elucidated based on a drawing. In the drawing shows

Figure 1 a schematic perspective view of a baggage carrier with an adjustable rod and a receiving space;

Figure 2 a schematic side view of a baggage carrier with an adjustable rod;

Fig. 3 a detail of an engagement mechanism of the adjustable rod to the front leg of the baggage carrier;

Fig. 4 a schematic cross-section of the engagement mechanism of fig- 3;

Fig. 5 a detail of a hinge mechanism of the adjustable rod with respect to the rear leg;

Fig. 6 an exploded view of the adjustable rod with a hinge mechanism at a rear end and a damping element at a front end thereof;

Fig. 7 a schematic view of a mouned damping element at the engagement of the adjustable rod to the front leg;

Fig. 8 a schematic top view of a baggage carrier comprising a receiving space for a module, and two examples of a module:

Fig. 9 a schematic perspective view of a baggage carrier with a module inserted in the receiving space.

It is noted that the drawings are only a schematic representation of the invention and are not to scale. Corresponding elements are indicated with the same or corresponding reference numbers.

Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a baggage carrier 1. The baggage carrier 1 comprises at least two, here two, longitudinally extending rods 2, 3. The longitudinally extending rods 2, 3 are typically positioned, when mounted to a bicycle, in a front-rear direction. Between the longitudinally extending rods 2, 3 here at least two transverse rods 4, 5 are provided, a forward transverse rod 4 and a rear transverse rod 5. A single transverse rod, or more than two transverse rods can be provided, here three additional transverse rods 6a, 6b, 6c are provided, but numbers may vary. The longitudinally extending rods 2, 3 and the transverse rods or bars 4, 5 form a support platform 7 onto which a baggage piece can be mounted and transported.

Further, the baggage carrier 1 comprises two front legs 8, 9, each front leg 8, 9 extending downwardly from its associated longitudinally extending rod 2, 3 respectively. The baggage carrier 1 also comprises two rear legs 10, 11, each rear leg extending downwardly from its associated longitudinally extending rod 2, 3 respectively. The front leg 8 and rear leg 10 are connected to the longitudinally extending rod 2 and are, in use, at the same side of the rear wheel. The front leg 8 and the rear leg 10 extend downwardly towards a mounting element 12 that is arranged for mounting to an axle of the rear wheel. The front leg 9 and the rear leg 11 are connected to the longitudinally extending rod 3 and extend downwardly therefrom to a mounting element 13 for mounting to the axle of the rear wheel. Here, the front leg 8, 9 fully extends to the mounting element 12, 13, although in alternative embodiments the front leg 8, 9 may only be a front leg part that only extends downwardly until halfway for example.

It is noted that many variants are possible of baggage carriers as well as of the connection between legs and longitudinally extending rods of the baggage carrier and that this description is not limited to a specific mounting of the legs with respect to the longitudinally extending rods, but merely gives a general impression of what is known as a baggage carrier. All these variants are understood to be comprised in the meaning of a baggage carrier, and that all such baggage carriers can be equipped with an adjustable longitudinally extending rod according to the invention.

The baggage carrier 1 according to the invention, further comprises an additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15, preferably one at each side of the baggage carrier. The additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 is connectable to the front leg 8, 9 respectively and to the rear leg 10, 11 respectively. The additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 is adjustable with respect to the front leg 8, 9 and to the rear leg 10, 11. In particular, the additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 is hingedly connected to the rear leg 10, 11 and is adjustable engaged to the front leg 8, 9. The additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 can be mounted to the baggage carrier by the manufacturer or can be connected to the baggage carrier as an after-market product, by the user or the bicycle technician.

The adjustable rod 14, 15 may be provided with stops, not shown, e.g. one stop more forward positioned and one stop more rearward positioned, such that a bag can be connected between the stops to the adjustable rod. As such, the bag can be prevented for sliding to one end of the adjustable rod, when in inclined position.

The rear transverse rod 5 is here provided with a built-in rear light

16. Alternatively, the rear light 16 may be a separate light that can be mounted to the baggage carrier, in a similar fashion as a rear reflector 17 is here mounted to the baggage carrier 1.

In the embodiments shown in fig. 1 and fig. 2, the adjustable rod

14, 15 is hingedly connected to the rear leg 10, 11 of the baggage carrier 1, and movable connected to the front leg 8, 9. Typically, the adjustable rod 14, 15 will be downwardly hinged with respect to a horizontal position to avoid a bag or other accessory to interfer with a driver s feet. Alternatively, it is possible that the adjustable rod 14, 15 is hingedly connected to the front leg 8, 9 and is movable connected to the rear leg 10, 11. Typically, the adjustable rod 14, 15 may then be hinged upwardly with respect to a horizontal position of the adjustable rod to obtain a preferred inclination. Preferably, the position of the rear end 14b, 15b of the adjustable rod 14, 15 is higher than the position of the front end 14a, 15a of the adjustable rod 14,

15.

The additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 is at a front end 14a, 15a engaged to the front leg 8, 9 with a connection element 18. The additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 is at a rear end 14b, 15b hingedly connected to the rear leg 10, 11 with a hinge connection 19, as shown in fig. 2. By moving the connection 18 up and down in the direction of the arrow A, the inchnation angle a of the additional longitudinally extending rod 14, 15 changes. Advantageously, the connection 18 is moved downwardly , to increase the angle a to an inclined position of the additional rod 14, 15 such that a bag, connected to the rod 14, 15, has an inclined position as well and is free of a heel of a rided. The connection element 18 can be slidable over the front leg 8, 9 to adjust the position inchnation of the adjustable rod 14, 15. The connection element 18 can also be adjustable between predefined positions on the front leg 8, 9 e.g. when in the front leg 8, 9 a number of holes is provided through which a pin can be inserted, by inserting the pin into a specific hole, the connection element 18 can be adjusted in position, and, thus, the inclination of the adjustable rod 14, 15 can be adapted. Alternative adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the position of the connection element 18 are also possible, e.g. a rack-andpinion mechanism, or a number of protrusions or rings provided onto the front leg 8, 9 around which the connection element can be clamped etc.

The connection 18 is shown in perspective in fig. 3 and in crosssection in fig. 4. The connection 18 comprises a first receiving slit 20 for receiving a front leg part 8, 9 therethrough. The receiving slit 20 is accessible for the front leg part 8, 9 via the slit 21 that can be opened due to the resilience of the material surrounding it, in particular of parts 18a, 18b forming the slit 21. Further, the connection 18 comprises a second receiving slit 22 that is arranged approximately transverse with respect to the first receiving slit 21. The second receiving slit 22 is arranged to receive the additional rod 14, 15. The second receiving slit 22 is also arranged to accommodate the inchnation of the additional rod 14, 15. To that end, the second slit 22 is larger than the diameter of the rod, here the cross-section is even approximately rectangular, but may be oval as well. Also the second receiving slit 22 may be provided with resilient material to accommodate the movement of the rod 14, 15 in the second receiving slit 22. To fix the position of the sliding connection element 18 with respect to the front leg 8, 9, the slit 21 can be tightened to a more closed position as to fix the position by clamping the leg 8, 9 into the first receiving slit 20. To that end, here two screws 23, 24 are provided that extend through the slit 21 and through parts 18a, 18b, and as such, can pull parts 18a and 18b towards each other to close the slit 21 more and to tighten fix the position of the sliding connection to the front leg 8,9.

Fig. 5 shows the hinge connection 19 that is mounted to the rear leg 10, 11. The hinge connection 19 comprises a housing 25 in which the adjustable rod 14, 15 is mounted. The adjustable rod 14, 15 can be pivoted around a pivot point or pivot axle (not shown) in the housing. For example a plastic, such as nylon, bearing can be provided to accommodate the pivoting movement of the rod 14, 15. The pivoting movement of the rod 14, 15 may be a continuous movement, or may be an intermittent movement, e.g. using a ratchet-type of hinge connection. By providing an intermittement movement, the user will experience a step-wise adjustment of the rod. This often allows a more intuitive adjustment, and may prevent a sudden downward movement of the rod. Also, it allows the user to tighten the connection 18 once the desired position is obtained in a user-friendly manner, while the rod 14, 15 can be maintained in its stepped position by the hinge connection 19. Many variants are possible.

In the example of fig. 2 it is shown that the rear leg 10, 11 has a kink 26 at the position where the hinge connection 19 is mounted. The kink 26 results in an angle 6 between an upper rear leg part 10a, Ila, and a lower rear leg part 10b, lib. The angle 6 is open towards the front of the baggage carrier. As such, the kink 26 is positioned in a somewhat more aft position with respect to the baggage carrier 1, in particular with respect to the upper rear leg part 10a, Ila. By providing such a kink 26 in the rear leg 10, 11, more distance is created between the hinge connection 19 and the connection 18, and thus there is more length of the rod 14, 15 onto which a bag can be connected. Also, by providing such a kink 26, the lower rear leg part 10b, lib has a more forward oriented direction so it can support a bag, connected to the adjustable rod, in its inclined position.

Further, the baggage carrier 1 in the example of fig. 1 and fig. 2 comprises a further leg 27, 28 connectable to the hinge 19, or kink 26, and further extending downwardly at a distance behind the rear leg 10, 11, and at a lower end of the rear leg 10, 11 bending forward towards the rear leg 10, 11 and extending beyond towards a front leg 8, 9. By providing such an additional leg 27, 28 a bag connected to the adjustable rod 14, 15 can be supported even more, and can be prevented of touching the wheel.

Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of the connection of the adjustable rod 14, 15 to the front leg 8, 9. The connection element 18 and the hinge 19 are shown in exploded view. The embodiment of the connection element 18 shown here differs somewhat from the embodiment shown in figure 3. Although, also in the embodiment of the connection element 18 shown in fig. 3, there is the possibility to insert a damping element that can be enclosed by the parts 18a, 18b. The connection element 18 here comprises a housing 40 having two housing parts 41, 42. The housing 40 of the connection encloses the damping element 43. Fig. 7 shows the engagement of the adjustable rod 14, 15 to the front leg 8, 9 with the connection element 18 in mounted condition. The housing 40 of the connection element 18 is shown transparent. The damping element 43 is here shown as a block-shaped element, but can have any other shape. The block shaped damping element 43 is in this embodiment provided with a corrugated upper surface 43a and lower surface 43b. By providing such a corrugated upper surface and lower surface, the resiliency of the block of material can be improved, allowing the block to be resilient over a wider temperature range than a block without such corrugations. It may be already sufficient to provide a single corrugated surface, or, depending on the material, the corrugated surface may be obviated. The damping element 43 is provided with a through hole 44 through which the adjustable rod 14, 15 can be inserted. The housing parts 41, 42 are shaped as to receive the block 43. The housing parts 41, 42 are connected to each other by screws 51, 52. Then, by fixedly connecting the housing 40 to the front leg 8, 9, the damping element 43 can be kept in place. Here, the front leg 8, 9 is provided with three through holes 45, 46, 47. Pins 48, 49 can be inserted through two holes and engaged to the housing 40. The position of the holes 45, 46, 47 and thus of the pins 48, 49 is such that the resilient block 43 fits between the pins 48, 49 when mounted. By providing three holes 45, 46, 47 and two pins 48, 49 it follows that the position of the connection element 18 is adjustable between two positions. The housing part 42 is also provided with an opening 50 through which the adjustable rod 14, 15 is insertable.

When connecting the adjustable rod 14, 15 to the front leg 8, 9, first the inclination of the adjustable rod 14, 15 is to be determined. The housing part 42 and the resilient block 43 are slid over the adjustable rod 14, 15. When the inclination of the adjustable rod 14, 15 is determined, the pins 48, 49 can be inserted through the corresponding holes 45, 46 or 46, 47. Since the pins 48, 49 fit over the resilient block 43, a temporary engagement can be made. The housing part 41 can then be engaged to the pins 48, 49 and be connected to the other housing part 42 by means of the screws 51, 52. The housing part 41 is also provided with openings 53, 54 through which the pins 48, 49 can be inserted, and, in case of adjustment required, can be removed. This allows an alternative mounting in that the housing 40 with the resilient block 43 remains engaged to the adjustable rod 14, 15 and the front leg 8, 9. By then removing the pins 48, 49 from the respective holes 45, 46, 47 through the openings 53, 54, the connection element 18 can be slid over the front leg 8, 9 in the direction A. At the required position, the pins 48, 49 can be inserted through the openings 53, 54 and into the respective holes 45, 46, 47. This allows for a simple and easy adjustment of the connection element 18 and thus, of the adjustable rod 14, 15. Here the housing parts 41, 42 are connected to each other via screws 51, 52, but other connections may be possible, e.g. a click-connection or a snap-fit etc.

In fig. 7 the stop element 55 is shown that is provided onto the adjustable rod 14, 15 to prevent a bag or accessory mounted to the adjustable rod to slide to the lowest position of the adjustable rod 14, 15, namely the front end 14a, 15a.

The hinge 19 comprises a bearing housing 60, a bearing 61 enclosed by two washers 62. A rotation axis 63 is provided that has a bp 64 that fits in a receiving slot 65 of the adjustable rod 14, 15. The bp 64 is typically welded to the adjustable rod as to form an integrated connection. Further, the hinge 19 is closed by a bearing housing cap 66 and fixated by a screw 67. The bearing housing 60 is provided with a notch 68 that fits around the rear leg 10, 11. The bearing housing 60 can be welded to the rear leg 10, 11, but a screw or pin connection is also possible. As such, the hinge 19 accomodates a rotational movement of the adjustable rod 14, 15 when the connection element 18 at the front end 14a, 15a of the adjustable rod 14, 15 is adjusted in position.

Alternatively to the hinge 19, the hinge 19 may be replaced by a connection element 18 as well. Thus, the front end 14a, 15a and the rear end 14b, 15b of the adjustable rod may be provided with the same connection element 18. This may be advantageous in terms of costs, as providing the connection element is more cost effective than the more complicated hinge. It is advantageous for the functionality of the adjustable rod as well, since the position of the adjustable rod may not only be adjusted to be inclined, but can also be adjusted to move upward or downward in a relatively horizontal position giving more possibilities for the user of the bicycle to set the optimal position for transporting its bag onto the adjustable rod.

Fig. 8 shows a top view of a baggage carrier 1, in particular of the support platform of the baggage carrier 1 formed by two longituidinally extending rods 2, 3 and, here, a front transverse rod 4 and a rear transverse rod 5. Adjacent the rear transverse rod 5, a receiving space 30 is provided for receiving a module 31. In Fig. 8 two examples of a module 31 are shown, but the receiving space 30 is configured for receiving a single module 31. Although modules 31 may be exchangeable. Each module 31 has the same outer contour and housing 32. The housing 32 of the module 31 is advantageously configured as to correspond with the contour and shape of the receiving space 30. As such, the module 31 can be tight-fitted into the receiving space 30.

The module 31 can be a smart module in that the housing 32 may contain a smart unit comprising elements such as a GPS-tracking element, sensors, a connectivity unit etc. The module 31 can be also a lighting module, such as the one shown in Fig. 8 having a white and red lamp at ends thereof. Such a lighting module can be removable from the receiving space 30 and may then be used for additional visibility to the user after parking the bicycle. Other variants of the module 31 may be possible, e.g. a torch, or a storage box etc.

The housing 32 is preferably sealingly closed as to be water-tight, and, advantageously, tamper-proof. The housing 32 can be connected into the receiving space 30 preferably in a theft-proof fashion, e.g. with dedicated screws. Alternative connections of the housing 32 into the receiving space 30 may be snap-fitting or clamp-fitting etc. By providing such an easy connection, the module 31 can be inserted and connected into the receiving space 30 by the user or technician himself, so a simple, easy to install aftermarket product becomes possible. When the module 31 is a smart module, it is advantageously permanently connected to the receiving space 30, to prevent theft or tamper. Alternatively, when the module 31 is a non-smart module such as a lamp or torch, the module can be removable connected to the receiving space.

The receiving space 30 can be provided with cooperating elements, such as seats, ribs or flanges 33 onto which the module 31 can be positioned and that may cooperate with corresponding cooperating elements on the module 31. For example, the housing 32 of the module 31 may be provided with grooves that may receiving a protruding part of a rib or flange of the cooperating element 33. Such a protruding element may be snap-fitted or clamplingly fitted to such a groove. Alternative connections are possible.

Advantageously, the receiving space 30 is open at a lower side, as shown here in Fig. 8, such that water and dirt can be drained away from the module 31. Alternatively, the lower side of the receiving space 30 can be more closed, while providing for sufficient drainage possibilities. As can be seen in Fig. 8Fig. 9 the outer contour of the housing 32 of the module 31 fits tightly into the receiving space 30. Also, the height of the housing 32 is preferably about the same height as the height of the receiving space 30, such that the housing 32 does not extend above the receiving space 30 and an approximately flat support platform can be maintained.

The receiving space 30 advantageously is provided of an element for electrical connection. Altough not visible on the figures, such an element may be an opening through which an electrical wire can be guided. Such an opening is preferably sealed water-tightly. The electrical wire may e.g. be shared with the rear light. Alternatively, a plug-and-socket-tyupe connector can be provided of which one part is on the receiving space and the corresponding part on the housing of the module 31. Plug-and-socket type connection is preferably sealed or covered from environmental influences such as water, dirt or grease.

The receiving space 30 advantageously comprises sides 34 that form the receiving space 30. At least one side 34 is integrated with a transverse bar, here the rear transverse bar 5. However, the receiving space 30 may be provided at different positions in the support platform, e.g. more in the middle or more forward, e.g. integrated with the front transverse bar. In the embodiment shown, a forward side 34 is integrated with a transverse bar as well. This forward transverse bar 35 can be provided with an engagement element for receiving a corresponding engagement element of a baggage connection system such as MIK™. When the receiving space 30 is provided at a more forward position and is integrated with the front transverse bar, a rear egde of the receiving space 30 may be configured for receiving engagement elements of baggage connection system such as MIK™.

The four sides 34 preferably have an inner wall of approximately the same height as the module 31 to be inserted into the receiving space 30. Further, the sides 34 advantageously are shaped as to receive the module 31 in a tight-fitting manner. For example, the receiving space 30, and thus the sides 34, may be shaped as to uniquely receive the module 31. As such, the module 31 can be inserted into the receiving space 30 in a single manner only, which is advantageous when an electrical connection is to be established. Further, the sides 34 may be provided with the flanges or seats or ribs 33 at a bottom side thereof such that the module 31 may sit onto the flanges 33.

Advantageoulsy, the receiving space 30, comprising the sides 34 is cast molded in a single piece, e.g. by means of dye casting. This gives a relatively strong and robust construction, also for integration with engagement elements as for the MIK™ system or other baggage carrier connection systems. The receiving space 30 with its sides 34 may then relatively easy be integrated with the longitudinally extending rods 2, 3, e.g. by welding, in various types of baggage carriers. This provides a large flexibility for the bicycle manufacturers as well, since they may integrate the receiving space selectively to dedicated baggage carriers, thus providing a truly modular system for the manufacturer. Advantageously, in the cast molded single piece an opening can be provided for receiving a rear light therein, as such providing a truly modular and integrated system that can be coupled to various baggage carriers.

Integration of the receiving space, and of the module, may be advantageously be done in a front baggage carrier as well, since in a more forward position there is less shielding of the connectivity hardware in the module by the rider as well. Moreover, the module is then in sight of the rider, which may give the rider a confident feeling.

It is noted that the rear light integrated into the transverse bar of the baggage carrier as well as integrated to the sides of the receiving space as well as the integration of engagement elements for cooperation with a MIK™ system can be considered as inventions each on their own, as can be considered as an integrated modular system.

It is noted that the adjustable rod is explained as being hingedly connected to the rear leg and adjustable or movable connected to the front leg, and that these positions can be inversed. So, the adjustable rod can be hingedly connected to the front leg and can be adjustable or movable connected to the rear leg using the same or similar hinge and connection element. Moreover, both the front end and the rear end of the adjustable rod can be provided with the same connection element allowing also an upward or downward adjustment of the position of the adjustable rod.

The damping element has been described as providing dampingonly. It is noted that, in addition to a damping element, a spring element may be provided to elastically suspend the adjustable rod to the baggage carrier.

For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described.

In view of this passage it is evident to the skilled reader that the variants of claim 1 as filed may be combined with other features described in the application as filed, in particular with features disclosed in the dependent claims, such claims usually relating to the most preferred embodiments of 5 an invention.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only 10 one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage. Many variants will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. All variants are understood to be comprised within 15 the scope of the invention defined in the following claims.

Claims

A bicycle luggage rack comprising at least two longitudinally extending rods broadly connected to each other by at least two spaced apart transverse rods to form a support platform, further comprising at least one downwardly extending rear leg from each of the longitudinally extending rods in the direction of a wheel axle mounting member, and a downwardly extending front leg portion from each of the longitudinally extending rods, further comprising an additional longitudinally extending rod which adjustably engages the rear leg spaced below the longitudinally extending rod of the support platform and which adjustably engages the front leg part at an opposite end thereof.

The luggage rack according to claim 1, wherein one of the adjustable engagements on the rear leg or the front leg comprises a hinge.

The luggage rack according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustable rod is mounted at a front end thereof on the front leg part and / or at a rear end is mounted on the rear leg part with a connecting element which is adjustable between a sliding position whereby the mechanism can slide over the front leg section, and a clamping position where the mechanism is clamped to the front leg section to fix the position of the adjustable rod.

The luggage rack according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an additional leg connectable to the rear end connecting member and extending rearwardly from the rear leg downward, and bending forwardly at a lower end of the rear leg to connect to the rear leg and extend beyond the hind leg.

The luggage carrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a damping element is provided at the engagement of the adjustable rod and the front leg part and / or the rear leg part for damping the movement of the adjustable rod with respect to the front leg and / or rear leg.

The luggage carrier according to claim 5, wherein the damping element comprises a resilient block mounted around the adjustable rod.

The luggage rack according to claim 6, wherein the resilient block is surrounded by a housing, the housing being provided to engage the front leg and the adjustable rod.

A bicycle rack, for example depending on the preceding claims, comprising at least two longitudinally extending rods connected together by at least one rear transverse rod to form a support platform, further comprising at least one extending from each of the longitudinally rods extending downwardly in the direction of a mounting element for mounting on a wheel axle, wherein a receiving space is provided near a transverse rod for receiving a module, the receiving space being provided with an element for an electrical connection.

The luggage rack according to claim 8, wherein the mold receiving space is molded as one unit with at least one transverse rod.

The luggage carrier according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the receiving space is provided with co-operating elements, preferably for co-operation with corresponding co-operating elements on the module.

The luggage rack according to any one of claims 8-10, wherein a forward-facing edge of the receiving space is provided as a transverse rod for the luggage-carrier, said forward-facing edge comprising a receiving element for receiving a corresponding

5 excellent element of a luggage mounting system for mounting a piece of luggage on top of the luggage carrier.