WO2014117126A1

WO2014117126A1 - Bracing mechanisms for foldable bicylces

Info

Publication number: WO2014117126A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/013308
Authority: WO
Inventors: William Ho
Original assignee: William Ho
Priority date: 2013-01-28
Filing date: 2014-01-28
Publication date: 2014-07-31

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame that is moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position by pivoting frame members around a hingedly connected joint. The joint bracing mechanism comprises: a first joint engagement partner disposed on a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate, a second joint engagement partner disposed on a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, and a frame support member. The frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in a tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first joint engagement partner into a loosened position.

Description

BRACING MECHANISMS FOR FOLDABLE BICYCLES

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to copending U.S. Provisional Patent Application,

Serial No. 61/849,472, filed on January 28, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

Background

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to bracing mechanisms for a foldable bicycle. In particular, bracing mechanisms for bracing a frame and actuating a joint locking mechanism of a foldable bicycle are described.

[0003] Known bracing mechanisms for foldable bicycles are not entirely satisfactory for the range of applications in which they are employed. For example, foldable bicycles may require that the user manually connect and release one or more joints in the frame by repeatedly turning a threaded clamp. Further, foldable bicycles may require that the user actuate a primary locking mechanism and a secondary locking mechanism. This can be the most time intensive portion of operation for moving the foldable bicycle between its folded storage position and its operable position.

[0004] In another example, conventional foldable bicycles include a long steering column riser with a column hinge for folding the handle bar downward. In order to withstand the normal operational forces (e.g., pushing, pulling, etc.), the steering column and the column hinge are overbuilt, often from a heavy weight material, such as steel. Manufacturing these components from a heavy material increases the total weight of the foldable bicycle, and may cause the foldable bicycle to be difficult and/or costly to transport in a folded storage position.

[0005] Thus, there exists a need for bracing mechanisms for foldable bicycles that improve upon and advance the known design for foldable bicycles. Examples of new and useful bracing mechanisms relevant to the needs existing in the field are discussed below.

[0006] Disclosure addressing one or more of the identified existing needs is provided in the detailed description below. Examples of references relevant to foldable bicycles include U.S. Patent References: patent 3979136, patent 41 1 1447, patent 4566713, patent 6827518, patent 8430414, and patent 8602436. The complete disclosures of the above patents and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference for all purposes.

Summary

[0007] The present disclosure is directed to a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame that is moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position by pivoting frame members around a hingedly connected joint. The joint bracing mechanism comprises: a first joint engagement partner disposed on a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate, a second joint engagement partner disposed on a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, and a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member being pivotably attached to the first frame member, a second end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a third frame member via a support member coupling mechanism. The first frame member is hingedly attached to the second frame member for selective movement of the frame between the folded storage position and the operable position, the first hinge plate making surface-to-surface contact with the second hinge plate in the operable position. The first joint engagement partner is selectively moveable between a tightened position and a loosened position when the frame is in the operable position, the first joint engagement partner being increasingly engaged with the second joint engagement partner in the tightened position, and the first joint engagement partner being increasingly disengaged from the second latch partner in the loosened position. The frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in the tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first joint engagement partner into the loosened position.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] Fig. 1 is a perspective view view of a first example of a foldable bicycle having a bracing mechanism for selective actuation of a joint locking mechanism.

[0009] Figs. 2A and 2B are side views of the foldable bicycle shown in Fig. 1 depicting the foldable bicycle in a folded storage position and an operable position, respectively.

[0010] Figs. 3A and 3B are perspective views of a first example of a joint locking mechanism for the foldable bicycle of Fig. 1 in an unlocked position and a locked position, respectively.

[0011] Figs. 4A and 4B are perspective views of a second example of a joint locking mechanism for the foldable bicycle of Fig. 1 in an unlocked position and a locked position, respectively.

[0012] Figs. 5A and 5B are perspective views of a first example of a support member coupling mechanism for the foldable bicycle of Fig. 1 in an uncoupled position and a coupled position, respectively.

[0013] Figs. 6A and 6B are perspective views of a second example of a support member coupling mechanism for the foldable bicycle of Fig. 1 in an uncoupled position and a coupled position, respectively. [0014] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the first example locking mechanism and the first example coupling mechanism in an unlocked/uncoupled position.

[0015] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the first example locking mechanism and the first example coupling mechanism in a locked/coupled position.

Detailed Description

[0016] The disclosed bracing mechanisms for foldable bicycles will become better understood through review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide merely examples of the various inventions described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations; however, for the sake of brevity, each and every contemplated variation is not individually described in the following detailed description.

[0017] Throughout the following detailed description, examples of various foldable bicycle bracing mechanisms are provided. Related features in the examples may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity, related features will not be redundantly explained in each example. Instead, the use of related feature names will cue the reader that the feature with a related feature name may be similar to the related feature in an example explained previously. Features specific to a given example will be described in that particular example. The reader should understand that a given feature need not be the same or similar to the specific portrayal of a related feature in any given figure or example.

[0018] With reference to Figs. 1-8, a first example of a foldable bicycle having a bracing mechanism that is selectively actuatable to automatically tighten and/or loosen a frame joint, bicycle 10, will now be described. Bicycle 10 includes a foldable frame 12, wheels 14, gears 16, pedals 18, a seat 20, and handlebars 22. Foldable frame 12 may be any suitable foldable bicycle frame. In one specific example, the foldable frame is a Brompton bicycle frame manufactured by Brompton Bicycle Ltd.

[0019] Foldable frame 12 includes a hingedly attached joint 24 that connects and allows folding between a first frame member 26 and a second frame member 28. The bracing mechanism 30 includes a locking mechanism 32 and a frame support member 34 (e.g., a triangulated brace assembly) that is selectively actuatable to lock and/or tighten an engagement of first frame member 26 and second frame member 28. Further, the frame support member 34 is selectively actuatable to unlock and/or loosen locking mechanism 32 (i.e., an engagement region between first frame member 26 and second frame member 28). Furthermore, frame support member 30 is configured to be selectively and releasably coupled to a third frame member 36 (e.g., a rotatable steering column member) via coupling mechanism 38.

[0020] Bicycle 10 functions to provide an efficient means of bicycle transportation that can be folded up for storage and/or transport. The foldable bicycle is moveable and/or transformable between a folded storage position 40 and an operable position 42 (shown in Figs. 2A and 2B, respectively). In the folded storage position, the bicycle can be stored and/or transported by carrying so that the bicycle can easily be stored inside, preventing exposure to weather and possible theft from outdoor storage. Additionally, in the folded storage position the bicycle can be shipped to a desired location at a reduced cost over a standard non-folding bicycle. In the operable position, a user can ride the bicycle for transportation of the user between desired locations and/or for recreational exercise. The bracing mechanism provides a simple and time efficient method reinforcing the joints of the foldable bicycle in the operable position.

[0021] As the locking mechanism of bicycle 10 can be actuated with a single hand movement operation, time required for moving and/or transforming the bicycle can be substantially reduced over a conventional folding bicycle. Further, the frame support member provides greater stability and/or rigidity to the steering column and steering column joint, such that the steering column and steering column joint can be constructed of a lighter material, such as aluminum. The lighter overall weight of the bicycle allows for easier carrying, shipping, and/or transport of the bicycle in the folded storage position.

[0022] As described above, specifically in reference to Figs. 1 , 2A, and 2B, foldable bicycle 10 includes foldable frame 12, wheels 14, gears 16, pedals 18, seat 20, and handlebars 36. Foldable frame 12 includes hingedly attached frame joint 24 that connects and allows folding between first frame member 26 and second frame member 28. Bracing mechanism 30, including frame support member 34 (e.g., a triangulated brace assembly), is selectively actuatable to lock and/or tighten a connection between first frame member 26 and second frame member 28 in an aligned position via locking mechanism 32. Frame support member 34 is configured to be selectively and releasably coupled to third frame member 36, which is a pivotable steering column member having a column joint 40. Frame support member 34 can be coupled to frame member 36 via support member coupling mechanism 38.

[0023] Bicycle 10 is moveable and/or transformable between folded storage position 40, shown in Fig. 2A, and operable position 42, shown in Fig. 2B. In folded storage position 40, the overall profile of bicycle 10 is reduced. For example, first frame member 26 and second frame member 28 are in a substantially paralleled horizontal position via release, unlocking, and/or loosening of frame joint 24. In another example, third frame member 36 is moved to a downward position via release of column joint 40. Additionally, in folded storage position 40, wheels 14 can be folded in towards a center of the bicycle. Further, frame support member 34 can be moved into a horizontal position. In the horizontal position, frame support member 24 is substantially in parallel alignment with first frame member 26.

[0024] In operable position 42, first frame member 26 is in a substantially horizontally aligned position with second frame member 28, while third frame member 36 is in a substantially upright vertical position. Frame support member 34, is disposed at an angle between frame members 26 and 28 (i.e., horizontal frame members) and third frame member 36 (i.e., vertical frame member). In one example, frame support member 34 is disposed at an approximately 45° relative to the horizontal frame members. In other examples, the frame support member can be disposed at an angle between 10-80° relative to the horizontal frame members.

[0025] Turning now to Figs. 3A and 3B, a first example joint locking mechanism, joint locking mechanism 32, is shown in detail. Fig. 3A shows joint locking mechanism 32 in an unlocked position 44 (i.e., a loosened position) and Fig. 3B shows joint locking mechanism 32 in a locked position 46 (i.e., a tightened position). Joint 24 includes a hingedly attached region 48 on a first lateral side and an openable region 50 on a second opposing lateral side. Movement around a vertically aligned hinge (not specifically shown) in the hingedly attached region 48 allows for frame members 26 and 28 to be moved between folded storage position 40 and operable position 42.

[0026] Joint locking mechanism 32 includes a first latch partner 52 (i.e., a first joint engagement partner) and a second latch partner 54 (i.e., a second joint engagement partner). In the present example, first latch partner 52 is a cam body 56 (i.e., a latch body) and a mounting body 58. Each of cam body 56 and mounting body 58 are disposed on opposing lateral sides of an axel 60, cam body 56 being disposed on first lateral side (i.e., on the same side as openabe region 50) and mounting body 58 being disposed on a second lateral side (i.e., on the same side at hingedly attached region 48).

[0027] Cam body 56 and mounting body 58 are cooperatively moveable and/or rotatable around a longitudinal axis A (i.e., a rotational axis) of axel 60. A first end of the cam body is fixedly attached to axel 60 via one of attachment members 62. Mounting body 58 is also attached to axel via one of attachment members 62. It will be appreciated that although only one attachment member 62 is shown, the other attachment member has a substantially identical configuration. Attachment members 62 can be any suitable attachment member, such as a threaded attachment member, a bolt, etc. In other examples, the latch body and/or the mounting body can be welded or otherwise fixed to the axel. In yet other examples, the mounting body and the latch body can be fixed to the axel via differing attachment mechanisms (e.g., the mounting body can be welded to the axel, while the latch body is fixed via an attachment member).

[0028] As shown in Figs. 3A and 3B, frame support member 34 includes a pair of struts, struts 64 and 66, which are each attached to one of cam body 56 and mounting body 58 at a first end of the frame support member. In the present example, strut 64 is attached to a top surface of first latch partner 52 and strut 66 is attached to a top surface of mounting body 58. More specifically, strut 64 is attached to a top plate 68 of first latch partner 52. A second opposing end of frame support member 34 is extended away from frame joint 24.

[0029] In one example, the pair of struts can be welded or otherwise fixed to the cam body and/or the mounting body. In other examples, the pair of struts can be attached to the cam body and/or the mounting via one or more attachment members such as a threaded attachment member, a bolt, etc. As the struts are fixedly attached to the cam body and the mounting, the struts are also rotatable around longitudinal axis A of the axel. Thus, a user can actuate or grip one or more the struts to rotate the latch bodies around the longitudinal axis of the axel.

[0030] First latch partner 52 is located on first frame member 26 in a location that is proximal to a first hinge plate 70. Second latch partner 54 is located on second frame member 28 in a location that is proximal to a second hinge plate 72. A first mating face 74 first hinge plate 70 is configured to make surface-to-surface contact with (or be otherwise abutted to) a second mating face 76 of second hinge plate 72 in locked position 46 (shown in Fig. 3B).

[0031] In the present example, a second opposing end of cam body 56 includes a hook

78. Cam body 56 has a length such that hook 78 is extended beyond first joint plate 70 and first mating face 74 when rotated forward (i.e., towards of a front of the bicycle). Additionally, second latch partner 54 is a hook receiving rod 80 disposed on frame member 28 on the first lateral side (i.e., same side as openable region 50). Hook receiving rod 80 is configured to have a length that is extended laterally beyond a perimeter of second joint plate 72.

[0032] As shown in Fig. 3B, hook receiving rod 80 is configured to receive hook 78 when first and second frame members 26 and 28 are aligned, mating faces 74 and 76 are brought into surface-to-surface contact, and first latch partner 44 and frame support member 34 are rotated in a forward direction (i.e., toward a front of bicycle 10). Thus, locking mechanism 32 is moved into a locked position 46 (i.e., tightened position). In locked position 46, a wrap-under portion 82 of hook 70 is substantially extended at least partially beneath hook receiving rod 80. [0033] In the present example, first latch partner 52 includes a cam surface that is a cam bushing (not specifically shown) and a hook-biasing spring (not specifically shown). The cam bushing (i.e., cam surface) is located below top plate 68 and is internally coupled to cam body 56 in order to move the cam body forward and backward (i.e., toward a front and a rear of bicycle 10, respectively). As such, first latch partner 52 is moveable between a forward raised position (i.e., fully open) and a rearward lowered position (i.e., fully locked), and first latch partner 52 is biased in the rearward lowered position by the hook-biasing spring.

[0034] As support member 30 is selectively rotated forward, the cam bushing moves cam body 56 rearward. As member 30 rotates further forward, hook 78 moves further rearward and engages around hook receiving rod 80. A wrap-under portion 82 of hook 78 makes contact with hook receiving rod 80. Finally, in locked position 46, the cam bushing is on or just over its dead center where hook 78 is at its rearmost position. Hook 78 is fully pressed against rod 80 and wrap-under portion 82 is at least partially extended beneath hook receiving rod 80.

[0035] Further, frame support member 34 can be rotated in a rearward direction (i.e., toward a rear of bicycle 10) in order to release and/or loosen locking mechanism 32 into unlocked position 40 (i.e., loosened position). Preferably, towards the end of the rearward rotation of frame support member 34, hook 78 is fully disengaged from rod 80 and is moved above rod 80. This last action is done by the top plate 68 pushing against a protruding tap (not shown) on cam body 56 as frame support member 34 rotates toward its rearward stop. Hinge 24 can then be opened for movement/transformation of bicycle 10 into the folded storage position. It will be understood that the locking mechanism can be selectively moved and/or rotated between the locked position and the unlocked position by a user for desired operation of the folding bicycle.

[0036] Figs. 4A and 4B show a second example joint locking mechanism, joint locking mechanism 132. Fig. 4A shows joint locking mechanism 132 in an unlocked position 144 (i.e., a loosened position) and Fig. 4B shows joint locking mechanism 132 in a locked position 46 (i.e., a tightened position). Joint 124 includes a hingedly attached region 148 on a first lateral side and an openable region 150 on a second opposing lateral side. Movement around a vertically aligned hinge (not specifically shown) in the hingedly attached region 148 allows for frame members 126 and 128 to be moved between folded storage position 40 and operable position 42.

[0037] Joint locking mechanism 132 includes a first latch partner 152 (i.e., a first joint engagement partner) and a second latch partner 154 (i.e., a second joint engagement partner). In the present example, first latch partner 152 is a cam body 156 (i.e., a latch body) and a mounting body 158. Each of cam body 156 and mounting body 158 are disposed on opposing lateral sides of an axel 160, which extends through a center of frame member 126. Cam body 156 is disposed on first lateral side (i.e., on the same side as openabe region 150) and mounting body 158 is disposed on a second lateral side (i.e., on the same side at hingedly attached region 148).

[0038] Cam body 156 and mounting body 158 are cooperatively moveable and/or rotatable around a longitudinal axis B (i.e., a rotational axis) of axel 160. A first end of the latch body is fixedly attached to axel 160 via one of attachment members 162. Mounting body 158 is also attached to axel via one of attachment members 162. It will be appreciated that although only one attachment member 162 is shown, the other attachment member has a substantially identical configuration. Attachment members 162 can be any suitable attachment member, such as a threaded attachment member, a bolt, etc. In other examples, the latch body and/or the mounting body can be welded or otherwise fixed to the axel. In yet other examples, the mounting body and the latch body can be fixed to the axel via differing attachment mechanisms (e.g., the mounting body can be welded to the axel, while the latch body is fixed via an attachment member).

[0039] As shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, frame support member 134 includes a pair of struts, struts 64 and 66, which are each attached to one of cam body 156 and mounting body 158 at a first end of the frame support member. In the present example, strut 164 is attached to an outer surface of cam body 156 and strut 166 is attached to an outer surface of mounting body 158. A second opposing end of frame support member 134 is extended away from frame joint 124.

[0040] In one example, the pair of struts can be welded or otherwise fixed to the cam body and/or the mounting body. In other examples, the pair of struts can be attached to the cam body and/or the mounting via one or more attachment members such as a threaded attachment member, a bolt, etc. As the struts are fixedly attached to the cam body and the mounting, the struts are also rotatable around longitudinal axis A of the axel. Thus, a user can actuate or grip one or more the struts to rotate the latch bodies around the longitudinal axis of the axel.

[0041] First latch partner 152 is located on first frame member 126 in a location that is proximal to a first hinge plate 170. Second latch partner 154 is located on second frame member 128 in a location that is proximal to a second hinge plate 172. A first mating face 174 first hinge plate 170 is configured to make surface-to-surface contact with (or be otherwise abutted to) a second mating face 176 of second hinge plate 172 in locked position 146 (shown in Fig. 4B). [0042] In the present example, a second opposing end of cam body 156 includes a hook

178. A cam surface is at an opening 184 of hook 178. Cam body 156 has a length such that hook 178 is extended beyond first joint plate 170 and first mating face 174 when rotated forward (i.e., towards of a front of bicycle 10). Additionally, second latch partner 154 is a hook receiving rod 180 disposed on frame member 128 on the first lateral side (i.e., same side as openable region 150). Hook receiving rod 180 is configured to have a length that is extended laterally beyond a perimeter of second joint plate 172.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 4B, hook receiving rod 180 is configured to receive hookl 78 when first and second frame members 126 and 128 are aligned, mating faces 174 and 176 are brought into surface-to-surface contact, and first latch partner 144 and frame support member 134 are rotated in a forward direction (i.e., toward a front of bicycle 10). Thus, locking mechanism 132 is moved into a locked position 146 (i.e., tightened position). In locked position 46, an open region 184 hook 70 is substantially open beneath hook receiving rod 80.

[0044] Differently than locking mechanism 34, in locking mechanism 134 first latch partner 152 is a standard cam. As first latch partner 152 is rotated forward to a lowered position from a raised position, open region 184 moves over hook receiving rod 180 and hook 178 extends over a top, front and rear of hook receiving rod 180. A cam surface at open region 184 progressively pulls rod 80 toward axis of rotation B of first latch partner 152.

[0045] Further, first latch partner 152 and frame support member 134 can be rotated in a backward direction (i.e., toward a back of bicycle 10) in order to release and/or loosen locking mechanism 132 into unlocked positionl 40 (i.e., loosened position). It will be understood that the locking mechanism can be selectively moved and/or rotated between the locked position and the unlocked position by a user for desired operation of the folding bicycle.

[0046] Turning now to Figs. 5A and 5B, a first example support member coupling mechanism, coupling mechanism 38, is shown in detail. Fig. 5A shows coupling mechanism 38 in an uncoupled position 86, while Fig. 5B shows coupling mechanism 38 in a coupled position 88. Coupling mechanism 38 can be selectively moved between uncoupled position 86 and coupled position 88.

[0047] As stated above, coupling mechanism 38 is configured to be coupled on third frame member 36, which, in this example, is a steering column of bicycle 10. Coupling mechanism 38 is located above a column hinge 40 on third frame member 36 (as shown in Fig. 1 ). Coupling mechanism 38 functions to couple the second opposing end of frame support member 34 (i.e., a location where struts 66 and 64 are substantially joined) to third frame member 36 so that the locking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanisms 32 or 132) is reinforced in the locked position (i.e., tightened position).

[0048] In the present example, coupling mechanism 38 is a rotatable coupling mechanism to allow free rotational movement of the steering column during operation of the foldable bicycle. Coupling mechanism 38 includes a first coupling partner, a column coupler 90, and a second coupling partner, a brace coupler 92. Column coupler 90 has a stationary coupling member, a pair of vertically spaced tabs 94 and 96, which are attached to a surface of third frame member 36. In the present example, the tabs are welded to the frame, however, it will be appreciated that the tabs can be attached to the frame by any suitable means (e.g., projecting from a ring, fixed by fastening members, etc.).

[0049] Column coupler 90 further includes a rotatable member 98 that is configured to receive brace coupler 92 and allow rotation of the coupling mechanism. Column coupler 90 (pair of tabs 94/96 and rotatable member 98) is extended rearward (i.e., towards the rear of bicycle 10). A through hole 200 is extended through tabs 94 and 96. Rotatable member 98 is disposed within through hole 200 for rotatably retaining the rotatable member. Further, rotatable member 98 includes a pair of horizontally projected pins 202 and 204 on opposing sides of the rotatable member.

[0050] Brace coupler 92 includes a rotatable member receiving member, a half cylinder sleeve 206 with a member receiving space 208. An inner surface of sleeve 206 is configured to receive and be abutted to an outer surface of rotatable member 98, as shown in Fig. 5B. Sleeve 206 includes a pair of semi-circular cutouts 210 and 212 that are configured to receive pins 202 and 204, respectively.

[0051] In order to retain rotatable member 98 and pins 202/204 within sleeve 206 and cutouts 210/212, brace coupler 92 further includes a spring-biased hook member 214. Hook member 1 14 is pivotably mounted to a base member 216 via an axel 218. Base member 216 is extended rearward (i.e., toward a rear of bicycle 10) from an outer surface of sleeve 206. Attachment members 220 are provided to attach hook member 214 to axel 216.

[0052] Hook member 214 further includes a pair of hooks 222 and 224 that are moveable between a raised position and a lowered position. Hook member 214 is biased toward the raised position so that in coupled position 88, pins 202/204 are retained between hooks 220/224 and edges of cutouts 210/212, respectively.

[0053] In coupled position 88, an axis of rotation C for coupling mechanism 38 is substantially aligned on a steering axis of rotation. Therefore, coupling of the support member to the steering column does not impede operation and/or steering of the foldable bicycle. [0054] Coupling mechanism 38 is a quick-connection/disconnection coupling mechanism. For example, coupling and uncoupling of coupling mechanism 38 may be operated by a user with only a single-handed operation. Coupling is carried out simply by pressing brace coupler 92 forward into column coupler 90. Uncoupling is carried out by simply pressing hook member 214 downward.

[0055] Figs. 6A and 6B show a second example support member coupling mechanism, coupling mechanism 338. Fig. 6A shows coupling mechanism 338 in an uncoupled position 386, while Fig. 5B shows coupling mechanism 338 in a coupled position 388. Coupling mechanism 338 can be selectively moved between uncoupled position 386 and coupled position 388.

[0056] Similar to coupling mechanism 38, coupling mechanism 338 is configured to be coupled on third frame member 336, which, in this example, is a steering column of bicycle 10. Coupling mechanism 338 is located above a column hinge 40 on the third frame member (as shown in Fig. 1 ). Coupling mechanism 338 functions to couple the second opposing end of frame support member 334 (i.e., a location where struts 366 and 364 are substantially joined) to third frame member 336 so that the locking mechanism (e.g. locking mechanism 32 or 132) is reinforced in the locked position (i.e., tightened position).

[0057] In the present example, coupling mechanism 338 is a rotatable coupling mechanism to allow free rotational movement of the steering column during operation of the foldable bicycle. Coupling mechanism 338 includes a first coupling partner, a column coupler 390, and a second coupling partner, a brace coupler 392. Column coupler 390 is a stationary coupling member that is generally ring shaped and encompasses and/or grips an outer surface of third frame member 332. Further, column coupler 390 is configured to receive and allow rotation of brace coupler 392.

[0058] Column coupler 390 includes a column encompassing ring 400 and a pair of tabs

394 and 396 that are extended in rearward direction (i.e., toward a rear of bicycle 10). A through hold 402 is extended through each of pair of tabs 394 and 396. A spring-biased pin 404 is disposed within through hole 402. Spring-biased pin 404 is moveable between a raised and lowered position. Spring-biased pin 404 includes a spring 406, which biases pin 404 towards the lowered position.

[0059] Brace coupler 392 includes an insertion end 412 having a through hole 414 that is configured to receive pin 404. Insertion end 412 is bent and/or disposed at an angle relative to struts 364 and 366. In one example, the insertion end is bent to approximately a degree that is less than a 180° angle and greater than 90° angle relative to struts 364 and 366. [0060] As shown in Fig. 6B, an insertion space 408 between tabs 394 and 396 is configured to receive insertion end 412 and allow rotation of brace coupler 392 around a shaft 410 of pin 404. Insertion end 412 can be inserted into space 408 when a sufficient upward/lifting force is applied on pin 404 so that the pin is substantially removed from space 80. After insertion end 412 is fully inserted within space 408 and through holes 414 and 402 are aligned, pin 404 can be released and inserted into through holes 414 and 402, thereby retaining brace coupler 392 within the column coupler 390.

[0061] In coupled position 388, an axis of rotation D for coupling mechanism 338 is substantially aligned on a steering axis of rotation. Therefore, coupling of the support member to the steering column does not impede or otherwise hinder operation and/or steering of the foldable bicycle.

[0062] Figs. 7 and 8 show the relationship and cooperative configurations of the components of bracing mechanism 30. Fig. 7 shows bracing mechanism 30 in an unlocked and uncoupled position 44/86. In this position, frame support member 34 is rotated in a rearward direction (i.e., towards a rear of bicycle 10), first and second frame members 26 and 28 are not in alignment, and openable hinge region 50 is substantially open. Further, first latch partner 52 is disengaged from second latch partner 54. Furthermore, brace coupler 92 is uncoupled from column coupler 90.

[0063] Fig. 8 shows bracing mechanism 30 in a locked and coupled position 44/88. In this position, frame support member 34 is rotated in a forward direction (i.e., towards a front of bicycle 10), first and second frame members 26 and 28 are in alignment so that openable hinge region 50 is substantially closed, and mating faces 74 and 76 are in surface-to-surface contact. Further, first latch partner 52 is engaged from second latch partner 54. Furthermore, brace coupler 92 is coupled to column coupler 90. Coupling of frame support member 34 to third frame member 36 reinforced the locked position of locking mechanism 32, and provides structural support to the first, second, and third frame members.

[0064] Movement of the frame support member can be actuated by a user using single- handed action. The locking mechanism and the coupling mechanism may be automatically locked/coupled and unlocked/uncoupled by selective actuation of the frame support member. Thus, the presently described bracing mechanisms for foldable bicycles provide a simpler and reduced time requirement for moving/transforming the foldable bicycle between the operable position and the folded storage position. Moreover, the brace provides increased structural support to the presently described foldable frames so that they may be constructed of a lighter material than conventional foldable bicycles. [0065] It will be appreciated that although bicycle 10 is shown to include locking mechanism 32 in combination with coupling mechanism 38 in Figs. 1 , 2A, 2B,7 and 8, the foldable bicycle can include any combination for a locking mechanism and a coupling mechanism to form a bracing mechanism. For example, locking mechanism 32 can be used in combination with coupling mechanism 338 and/or locking mechanism 132 can be used in combination with coupling mechanism 38.

[0066] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the folding bicycle may include some other arrangement for a hinge, such as a downward or upward folding hinge, that may be actuated using the currently described actuating and reinforcing mechanism using a brace. It will be further appreciated that in alternate examples, the locking mechanism may not include a hook and may instead be tightened and loosened by some other mechanism that is acuatable by the currently described brace actuating mechanism. For example, the joint locking mechanism may be a latching block that is tightened over one or more flanges to move the joint into the locked/tightened position, and can be released from the flanges to move the joint into the unlocked/loosened position.

[0067] Further still, it will be appreciated that the presently described bracing mechanism can be used in alternate configurations for a locking mechanism of a foldable bicycle. For example, the locking mechanism and bracing mechanism may be operated in an opposing direction. In this example, the support member may be moved in a rearward direction (i.e., towards a rear of bicycle 10) in order to move into the locked and coupled position. Thus, the frame support member would be coupled to an alternative frame member, such as a seat supporting frame member.

[0068] A method for operating foldable bicycle foldable bicycle 10 includes the following steps:

a. storing the folding bicycle in the folded storage position;

b. moving the folding bicycle from the folded storage position into the operable

position by rotating the first frame member into longitudinal alignment with the second frame member, the first frame member being rotatable around a vertical axis of the hinge;

c. moving the frame support member so that the first latch partner rotates in a

first direction around a longitudinal axis of the axel and engages with the second latch partner thereby moving the joint locking mechanism into the locked position; d. coupling the second end of the frame support member to the third frame member via the coupling mechanism;

e. operating the folding bicycle as desired;

f. releasing the coupling mechanism to uncouple the second end of the frame

support member from the third frame member;

g. moving the frame support member so that the first latch partner rotates in a

second opposing direction around the longitudinal axis of the axel and disengages from the second latch partner thereby moving the joint locking mechanism into the unlocked position; and

h. moving the folding bicycle from the operable position into the folded storage

position by rotating the first frame member into substantially parallel alignment with the second frame member.

[0069] The disclosure above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a particular form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above and inherent to those skilled in the art pertaining to such inventions. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite "a" element, "a first" element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims should be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

[0070] Applicant reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein. Industrial Applicability

[0071] The inventions described in this application may be made by a variety of industrial processes, including by various mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic assembly techniques. Further, the inventions described herein may be used in industrial contexts, including foldable bicycle frame manufacturing endeavors.

[0072] The inventions described above may be alternatively described according to the following non-limiting embodiments:

[0073] In a first embodiment for a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame with a frame joint pivotably connected by a first hinge, the frame being moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, the joint bracing mechanism may include: a first joint engagement partner disposed on a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate, a second joint engagement partner disposed on a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, and a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member pivotably attached to the first frame member, a second end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a third frame member via a support member coupling mechanism. The first frame member may be hingedly attached to the second frame member for selective movement of the frame between the folded storage position and the operable position, the first hinge plate making surface-to-surface contact with the second hinge plate in the operable position. The first joint engagement partner may be selectively moveable between a tightened position and a loosened position when the frame is in the operable position, the first joint engagement partner being increasingly engaged with the second joint engagement partner in the tightened position, and the first joint engagement partner being increasingly disengaged from the second latch partner in the loosened position. The frame support member may be configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in the tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first joint engagement partner into the loosened position.

[0074] In some examples of the first embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the first joint engagement partner may have a cam surface. In examples where the first joint engagement partner has a cam surface, the cam surface may be on a hook. In other example where the first joint engagement partner has a cam surface, the cam surface may include cam bushing. In yet other examples, the first joint engagement partner the cam surface may include a hook and a cam bushing. [0075] In some examples of the first embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the first joint engagement partner may be pivotably attached to the first frame member, and the frame support member may be pivotably attached to the first frame member via fixed attachment to the first joint engagement partner.

[0076] In some examples of the first embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the third frame member may be a steering column member, a column joint pivotably connected by a second hinge in the steering column member, the support member coupling mechanism being located on the steering column member above the column joint at a location that is distal relative to the column joint.

[0077] In some examples of the first embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the third frame member may be a steering column member, and the support member coupling mechanism may be a rotatable coupling mechanism, an axis of rotation for the support coupling mechanism being aligned on an axis of rotation for the steering column member. In yet other examples, the third frame member may be a steering column member, and the support member coupling mechanism may be a rotatable coupling mechanism, an axis of rotation for the support coupling mechanism being aligned on an axis of rotation for the steering column member, and a column joint may be pivotably connected by a second hinge in the steering column member, the support member coupling mechanism being located on the steering column member above the column joint at a location that is distal relative to the column joint.

[0078] In some examples of the first embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the frame support member may be selectively actuatable for quick-connection/disconnection of the coupling mechanism. In yet other examples, the first joint engagement partner may be pivotably attached to the first frame member, and the frame support member may pivotably attached to the first frame member via fixed attachment to the first joint engagement partner, and the frame support member may be selectively actuatable to move the first joint engagement partner between the tightened position and the loosened position.

[0079] It will be appreciated that any of the features of the above described examples for a first embodiment of a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle may be joined in any desired combination and be within the scope of the claims.

[0080] In a second embodiment for a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame with a hinged joint pivotably connected by a first hinge, the frame being moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, the joint locking mechanism may include: a first latch partner movably attached to a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate, a second latch partner attached to a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, and a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member being attached to the first latch partner, a second opposing end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a third frame member via a support member coupling mechanism. The first frame member may be hingedly attached to the second frame member for selective movement of the frame between the folded storage position and the operable position, the first hinge plate making surface-to-surface contact with the second hinge plate in the operable position. The first latch partner may be selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position when the frame is in the operable position, the first latch partner being engaged with the second latch partner in the locked position, and the first latch partner being disengaged from the second latch partner in the unlocked position. The frame support member may be configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first latch partner in the locked position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first latch partner into the unlocked position.

[0081] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the first latch partner may be attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner may be rotatably attached to the first frame member. In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member, the first latch partner may further include a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel.

[0082] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member and the first latch partner further includes a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel, the frame support member may include a first strut and a second strut, and at the first end of the frame support member the first strut may be attached to the cam body and the second strut may be attached to the mounting body.

[0083] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member, the first latch partner further includes a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel, and the frame support member comprises a first strut and a second strut, and at the first end of the frame support member the first strut is attached to the cam body and the second strut is attached to the mounting body, the first strut and the second strut may be substantially joined at the opposing second end of frame support member, the frame support member substantially being a triangulated brace assembly.

[0084] In some other examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member and the first latch partner further includes a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel, the cam body may be a hook. In yet other examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member and the first latch partner further comprises a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel, the cam body may have a cam bushing. In even other examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism where the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member and the first latch partner further comprises a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel, the cam body may be a hook and a cam bushing.

[0085] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the frame support member may be selectively actuatable to move the first latch partner between the locked position and the unlocked position. In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the frame support member may be selectively actuatable for quick- connection/disconnection of the coupling mechanism.

[0086] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the third frame member may be a steering column member, and the support member coupling mechanism may be a rotatable coupling mechanism, the rotatable coupling mechanism being rotatable around a vertical axis of the support member coupling mechanism, and the vertical axis of the support coupling mechanism is parallel to an axis of rotation for the steering column member.

[0087] In some examples for the second embodiment for a bracing mechanism, the third frame member may be a steering column member, a column joint pivotably connected by a second hinge in the steering column member, the support member coupling mechanism being located on the steering column member above the column joint at a location that is distal relative to the column joint. [0088] It will be appreciated that any of the features of the above described examples for a second embodiment of a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle may be joined in any desired combination and be within the scope of the claims.

[0089] In a third embodiment for a bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle, the foldable bicycle having a first frame member hingedly attached at a joint to a second frame member via a hinge, the foldable bicycle being selectively moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, foldable bicycle having a bracing mechanism, the bracing mechanism may include: a first joint engagement partner rotatably attached to a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate via an axel, the first latch partner being a cam body attached to a first lateral side of the axel; a second joint engagement partner attached to a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, the second joint engagement partner being configured to receive the first joint engagement partner; and a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member being attached to the first joint engagement partner, a second opposing end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a steering column member via a support member coupling mechanism, the frame support member substantially being a triangulated brace assembly, the support member coupling mechanism being a rotatable coupling mechanism configured to rotate around a vertical axis of the support member coupling mechanism, the vertical axis being aligned on a rotational axis of the steering column. The first frame member is hingedly attached to the second frame member for selective movement of the frame between the folded storage position and the operable position, the first hinge plate making surface-to-surface contact with the second hinge plate in the operable position. The first joint engagement partner is selectively moveable between a tightened position and a loosened position when the frame is in the operable position, the first joint engagement partner being increasingly engaged with the second joint engagement partner in the tightened position, and the first joint engagement partner being increasingly disengaged from the second latch partner in the loosened position. The frame support member is selectively actuatable to move the first first joint engagement partner between the tightened position and the loosened position. The frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the steering column member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in the tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the steering column member to release the first joint engagement partner into the loosened position.

[0090] A first example method for using a folding bicycle having any of the bracing mechanism described above may include the following steps:

a. storing the folding bicycle in the folded storage position; b. moving the folding bicycle from the folded storage position into the operable position by rotating the first frame member into longitudinal alignment with the second frame member, the first frame member being rotatable around a vertical axis of the hinge;

c. moving the frame support member so that the first latch partner rotates in a first direction around a longitudinal axis of the axel and engages with the second latch partner thereby moving the joint locking mechanism into the locked position;

d. coupling the second end of the frame support member to the third frame member via the coupling mechanism;

e. operating the folding bicycle as desired;

f. releasing the coupling mechanism to uncouple the second end of the frame support member from the third frame member;

g. moving the frame support member so that the first latch partner rotates in a second opposing direction around the longitudinal axis of the axel and disengages from the second latch partner thereby moving the joint locking mechanism into the unlocked position; and

h. moving the folding bicycle from the operable position into the folded storage position by rotating the first frame member into substantially parallel alignment with the second frame member.

Claims

Claims:

1. A bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame with a frame joint pivotably connected by a first hinge, the frame being moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, the joint bracing mechanism comprising:

a first joint engagement partner disposed on a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate;

a second joint engagement partner disposed on a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate; and

a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member pivotably attached to the first frame member, a second end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a third frame member via a support member coupling mechanism,

wherein the first frame member is hingedly attached to the second frame member for selective movement of the frame between the folded storage position and the operable position, the first hinge plate making surface-to-surface contact with the second hinge plate in the operable position,

wherein the first joint engagement partner is selectively moveable between a tightened position and a loosened position when the frame is in the operable position, the first joint engagement partner being increasingly engaged with the second joint engagement partner in the tightened position, and the first joint engagement partner being increasingly disengaged from the second joint engagement partner in the loosened position, and

wherein the frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in the tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first joint engagement partner into the loosened position.

2. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the first joint engagement partner has a cam surface.

3. The bracing mechanism of claim 2, wherein the cam surface is on a hook.

4. The bracing mechanism of claim 2, wherein the cam surface is on a cam bushing.

5. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the first joint engagement partner is pivotably attached to the first frame member, and the frame support member is pivotably attached to the first frame member via fixed attachment to the first joint engagement partner.

6. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the third frame member is a steering column member, a column joint pivotably connected by a second hinge in the steering column member, the support member coupling mechanism being located on the steering column member above the column joint at a location that is distal relative to the column joint.

7. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the third frame member is a steering column member, and the support member coupling mechanism is a rotatable coupling mechanism, an axis of rotation for the support coupling mechanism being aligned on an axis of rotation for the steering column member.

8. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the frame support member is selectively actuatable for quick-connection/disconnection of the coupling mechanism.

9. A bracing mechanism for a foldable bicycle having a frame with a hinged joint pivotably connected by a first hinge, the frame being moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, the joint locking mechanism comprising:

a first latch partner movably attached to a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate;

a second latch partner attached to a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate; and

a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member being attached to the first latch partner, a second opposing end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably coupled with a third frame member via a support member coupling mechanism,

wherein the first latch partner is selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position when the frame is in the operable position, the first latch partner being engaged with the second latch partner in the locked position, and the first latch partner being disengaged from the second latch partner in the unlocked position, and

wherein the frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the third frame member to reinforce the first latch partner in the locked position and to be selectively uncoupled from the third frame member to release the first latch partner into the unlocked position.

10. The bracing mechanism of claim 9, wherein the first latch partner is attached to the first frame member via an axel and the first latch partner is rotatably attached to the first frame member.

1 1 . The bracing mechanism of claim 10, wherein the first latch partner further comprises a cam body on a first lateral side of the axel and a mounting body on a second opposing lateral side of the axel.

12. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 1 , wherein the frame support member comprises a first strut and a second strut, and

at the first end of the frame support member the first strut is attached to the cam body and the second strut is attached to the mounting body.

13. The bracing mechanism of claim 12, wherein the first strut and the second strut are substantially joined at the opposing second end of frame support member, the frame support member substantially being a triangulated brace assembly.

14. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 1 , wherein the cam body comprises a hook with a cam surface.

15. The bracing mechanism of claim 1 1 , wherein the cam body comprises a hook moveable by rotation of a cam bushing.

16. The bracing mechanism of claim 9, wherein the frame support member is selectively actuatable to move the first latch partner between the locked position and the unlocked position.

17. The bracing mechanism of claim 9, wherein the third frame member is a steering column member, and the support member coupling mechanism is a rotatable coupling mechanism, the rotatable coupling mechanism being rotatable around a vertical axis of the support member coupling mechanism, and the vertical axis of the support coupling mechanism is aligned on an axis of rotation of the steering column member.

18. The bracing mechanism of claim 9, wherein the frame support member is selectively actuatable for quick-connection/disconnection of the coupling mechanism.

19. The bracing mechanism of claim 9, wherein the third frame member is a steering column member, a column joint pivotably connected by a second hinge in the steering column member, the support member coupling mechanism being located on the steering column member above the column joint at a location that is distal relative to the column joint.

20. A foldable bicycle, the foldable bicycle having a first frame member hingedly attached at a joint to a second frame member via a hinge, the foldable bicycle being selectively moveable between a folded storage position and an operable position, foldable bicycle having a bracing mechanism, the bracing mechanism comprising:

a first joint engagement partner rotatably attached to a first frame member proximal to a first hinge plate via an axel, the first latch partner being a cam body attached to a first lateral side of the axel;

a second joint engagement partner attached to a second frame member proximal to a second hinge plate, the second joint engagement partner being configured to receive the first joint engagement partner; and

a frame support member, a first end of the frame support member being attached to the first joint engagement partner, a second opposing end of the frame support member being selectively and releasably engaged with a steering column member via a support member coupling mechanism, the frame support member substantially being a triangulated brace assembly, the support member coupling mechanism being a rotatable coupling mechanism configured to rotate around a vertical axis of the support member coupling mechanism, the vertical axis being parallel to a rotational axis of the steering column,

wherein the first joint engagement partner is selectively moveable between a tightened position and a loosened position when the frame is in the operable position, the first joint engagement partner being increasingly engaged with the second joint engagement partner in the tightened position, and the first joint engagement partner being increasingly disengaged from the second latch partner in the loosened position,

wherein the frame support member is selectively actuatable to move the first first joint engagement partner between the tightened position and the loosened position, and

wherein the frame support member is configured to be selectively coupled with the steering column member to reinforce the first joint engagement partner in the tightened position and to be selectively uncoupled from the steering column member to release the first joint engagement partner into the loosened position.