WO2018071060A1

WO2018071060A1 - Bicycle storage device with integrated fender

Info

Publication number: WO2018071060A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/028107
Authority: WO
Inventors: Douglas DEMUSZ
Original assignee: Demusz Douglas
Priority date: 2016-10-11
Filing date: 2017-04-18
Publication date: 2018-04-19

Abstract

A bicycle storage bag typically comprised of a soft sided material, such as fabric, that attaches to the rear of a bicycle typically below and behind the saddle, and includes an rigid or semi-rigid plastic fender integrated into it on its concave bottom side is described. The bag allows the storage of riding/commuting essentials, such as a wallet, a phone, keys and tools while the fender minimizes the soiling of the bag, the back of the bike and the rider from rear wheel flung dirt and debris.

Description

Bicycle Storage Device with Integrated Fender

Cross-Reference to Related Application

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/496,230, filed October 11, 2016.

Background

Standard bicycles typically lack receptacles to store items such as wallets, identification, phones, tools, jackets and other items a rider may reasonably desire during or after a ride. As a consequence, after market bicycle bags are well known in the art. Bags are available of a myriad of designs that can be attached and secured to various locations on a bicycle. One convenient location is behind and below the bicycle saddle above the rear wheel.

Standard bicycles are also typically configured and sold without fenders. When used in wet conditions or when riding through puddles or mud, water and debris is flung from the rear wheel towards the bicycle, the saddle and the rider. Riders who have recently ridden in wet conditions can be often identified by the streak up the back of their jerseys. Fenders solve the problem but are not needed all the time, add needless weight when not needed and are often aesthetically shunned by riders.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a side view of the storage device with integrated fender mounted to a bicycle according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a side view of the storage device with integrated fender mounted to a bicycle according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a top view of the storage device with integrated fender mounted to a bicycle representative of both the first and second embodiments of the present invention. Figure 4 is a front view of the storage device with integrated fender according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 5 is a front view of the storage device with integrated fender according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 6 is cross sectional view of the storage device with integrated fender taken along line 6-6 of Figure 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 is an exploded view of the storage device with integrated fender according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a front view of the storage device with integrated fender having rubber ring fastening system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a front view of the storage device with integrated fender having clip-type fastening system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description

Embodiments comprise a bicycle storage bag typically comprised of a soft sided material, such as fabric, that attach to the rear of a bicycle typically below and behind the saddle, and include a rigid or semi-rigid plastic fender integrated into it on a concave bottom side. The bag allows the storage of riding/commuting essentials, such as a wallet, phone, keys and tools while the fender minimizes the soiling of the bag, the back of the bike and the rider from rear wheel flung dirt and debris.

Embodiments can attach to the bike in any number of suitable ways, such as hook and loop straps, but typically attach to the seatpost and/or seat tube of the bicycle. Depending on the bicycle frame and the specific embodiment can be further secured to the bicycle's chainstay tubes. Access to the interior of the bag is typically provided on or proximate the top side of the bag by way of a zipper, although other closure means can be utilized in variations.

Terminology

The terms and phrases as indicated in quotes (" ") in this section are intended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this Terminology section applied to them throughout this document including the claims unless clearly indicated otherwise in context. Further, as applicable, the stated definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase's case, to the singular and plural variations of the defined word or phrase.

The term "or" as used in this specification and the appended claims is not meant to be exclusive rather the term is inclusive meaning "either or both".

References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "a preferred embodiment", "an alternative embodiment" and similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all meant to refer to the same embodiment.

The term "couple" or "coupled" as used in this specification and the appended claims refers to either an indirect or direct connection between the identified elements, components or objects. Often the manner of the coupling will be related specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elements interact.

Directional and/or relationary terms such as, but not limited to, left, right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, upper, lower, vertical, horizontal, back, front and lateral are relative to each other and are dependent on the specific orientation of an applicable element or article, and are used accordingly to aid in the description of the various embodiments and are not necessarily intended to be construed as limiting.

A First Embodiment of the Bicycle Storage Device

A first embodiment of a bicycle storage device 100 is illustrated in Figures 1, 3, 5 & 6. The device comprises a storage bag portion 102, a fender 104 and fasteners 114 to join the other two pieces together.

The storage bag 102 is typically comprised of a flexible material, such as a thin plastic sheet and/or fabric, but hard shell variations are known. Most typically, the bag is comprised of a fabric, made from polyester, nylon or a suitable fiber blend. The bag includes a front side 112 having two aligned connectors 110, a top side that includes a closable opening for accessing an interior of the bag, and a concave bottom side on and over which the fender 104 is secured.

In at least some variations a rigid or semi-rigid plastic stiffening sheet 122 is provided on the inside of the bag as illustrated in Figure 6 to provide shape and form thereto, yet in other variations the properties of the bag's fabric provide sufficient rigidity to generally maintain the bag's form when installed on a bicycle.

The connectors can be of any suitable type but most typically comprise straps of hook and loop material that can be quickly and easily secured to tubes and cylindrical members of varying sizes. The straps can be attached to the bag's front side by any suitable means, such as adhesive bonding, rivets or threaded fasteners and fusion (thermoplastic welding), however most typically, the straps are sewn to the bag in the desired locations.

Another connecting system is shown in Figure 8, wherein a front side 412 of a bag 402 of a bicycle storage device 400 otherwise similar to the first embodiment device 100 shown in Figure 1 is illustrated having an alternative connector system. The connecting system comprises a plate 416 that is attached to the front side of the bag 412 by way of rivets 418 or any other suitable fastener. The plate can be comprised of metal, plastic and/or reinforced plastic and includes left and rights sides having peaks and valleys resembling dovetail joints. The connecting system of Figure 8 further comprises at least a pair of elastomeric rings 420. In use, one end of each ring is (i) hooked around one of the dovetail peaks on one side of the plate, (ii) stretched and wrapped around the seatpost tube or bicycle seat tube, and (iii) hooked at the opposite end to an opposing dovetail peak on the other side of the plate.

Yet another connecting system is shown in Figure 9, wherein a front side 512 of a bag 502 of a bicycle storage device 500 otherwise similar to the first embodiment device 100 shown in Figure 1 is illustrated having a second alternative connector system. This connecting system also comprises a plate 516 that is attached to the front side 512 of the bag by way of rivets 518 or other fasteners. Protruding outwardly from the plate are two or more resilient clamps 520. In some variations, the plate and the clamps injection molded as a single plastic piece. In other variations the clamps are separately fabricated and subsequently attached to the plate. In use, the bag is positioned behind the associated bike and the clamps are pushed over the appropriate tubes until snapping in place and securing the bag.

As can be appreciated other mechanisms for securing the bag to a bicycle are also contemplated including mechanisms well know in the art. For instance, a strap can be provided that loops through the rungs of a seat to at least partially suspend the bag there from. The suspending strap can be utilized separately from or in addition to other mechanisms, such as those described herein. Clamps and brackets that are tightened around the tubes of the bicycle, such as through the use of threaded fasteners, can also be used in place of hook and loop straps.

A closable opening is provided on the bag 102 typically proximate its top side as best shown in Figure 3. The opening, as shown here in its closed configuration, includes a flap 106 on the top side having three sides bounded by a zipper assembly 108. The specific design of the opening, its location and it closure mechanism can vary greatly in other embodiments and variations as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill given the benefit of this disclosure. For instance, a hook and loop closure could be used in place of the zipper. A magnetic snap or button closure can also be utilized. In other variations, the zipper can extend around the bag along the top edges of the side wherein the top side is partially removable to reveal the interior of the bag. The bag can open from the side instead of the top.

The fender 104 of this embodiment is best shown in Figure 1 but also bears substantial similarity to the fender 204 of the second embodiment shown in Figure 7. The fender is typically comprised of unreinforced or reinforced plastic extending from a front or proximal edge of the bottom side of the bag 102 to a terminus beyond the rear or distal end of the bag. The fender is arcuate generally matching the curve of the concave bottom side of the bag. The fender may also include downwardly facing lips extending from its longitudinal extending edges as shown in Figure 6. In typical configurations the fender is at least as wide as the bag. Accordingly, the entire bottom side of the bag is protected from dirt and debris that may be thrown up from the tires of the bicycle.

The fender can be secured to the bag 102 by any suitable means including sewing and/or adhesives. As shown in Figure 6, the fender is attached through the use of threaded fasteners 114 and associated threaded bosses 114. The fasteners can further include washers as appropriate or as shown in the figure, can be tightened against the stiffening sheet 122.

A Second Embodiment of the Bicycle Storage Device

A second embodiment of a bicycle storage device is illustrated in Figures 2, 3, 4 & 7. The device comprises a storage bag portion 202, a fender 204 and fasteners 214 to join the two pieces together. Generally, except for the shape of the bag and the differences in the connecting system as facilitated by the different shape, the features, construction and configuration of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment storage device.

Of particular note, the bag 202, which is configured for use with bicycles having seat stay tubes, has two front sides 212A & 212B. In other respects it shares a similar construction as the first embodiment as is best shown in the exploded view of Figure 7. The bag includes a closable opening and associated flap 106 and zipper assembly 208. The bag also can include an internal stiffener (not shown) of the general type shown in Figure 6.

The connectors of the second embodiment bag 202 can also be of any suitable type but also typically comprise hook and loop straps 210. The second embodiment includes one set of straps 210 located in the upper front side for attachment to the seatpost tube or the seat tube of the bicycle. Unlike the first embodiment, the second embodiment further includes two additional sets of straps 210 located on a lower front side for attachment to seat stays of the bicycle.

The fender 204 is also similar to the fender of the first embodiment sharing a similar construction and configuration. As shown, the fender is arcuate to match the concave bottom side of the bag 202. It is to be appreciated, however, that variations wherein the bottom side of the bag is primarily flat and the fender is also flat are also contemplated as are bottom sides and fenders of any suitable shape.

A Method of Using Embodiments of the Bicycle Storage Device

In use, the bag is attached to the bicycle over the rear wheel and generally behind the seat prior to riding. The interior volume of the bag is typically loaded with one or more items either prior to or after attachment by opening the closable opening and placing the items therein.

Typical items stored in the bag include, but are not limited to, a wallet, a phone, keys, tools, a spare tube, a tire patch kit and a tire inflator. Prior to riding the opening is closed, such as by zipping the zipper assembly. The bicycle is ridden in the normal manner wherein the fender acts to prevent dirt and debris from being thrown from the rear tire onto the back of the bicycle and on to the rider.

As an item is needed from the bag, the rider can easily access it by opening the closable opening and removing the item. When the rider has completed a ride or stopped for an extended period when he/she will be away from the bike, he/she can release the connectors and take the storage device with him/her. Further, the user can easily wipe down the bottom of the fender as need necessary to keep the device clean.

Other Embodiments and Variations of the Bicycle Storage Device

The various embodiments and variations thereof, illustrated in the accompanying Figures and/or described above, are merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It is to be appreciated that numerous other variations of the invention have been contemplated, as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure. All variations of the invention that read upon appended claims are intended and contemplated to be within the scope of the invention.

Claims

I claim:

1. A bicycle storage device for attachment to a bicycle, the storage device comprising: a storage bag having one or more front sides, a bottom side, left and right sides, and a top side defining an interior volume, the storage bag further including a selectively closable opening providing access to the interior volume; one or more connectors, each connector of the one or more connectors being (i) attached to the storage bag and (ii) configured to couple storage bag proximate the one or more front sides to the bicycle; and a fender member comprising an at least semi-rigid material, the fender member being secured to the bottom side of the storage bag extending at least from an intersection of the bottom side with a front side of the one or more fronts sides at a proximal end at least to a distal end of the bottom side.

2. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the bottom side is concave and the fender member is arcuate.

3. The bicycle storage device of claim 2, wherein the storage bag comprises a woven fabric material.

4. The bicycle storage device of claim 3, wherein the fabric material comprises nylon.

5. The bicycle storage device of claim 3, wherein one or more of the left side, the right side, the top side and the one or more front sides include rigid or semi-rigid polymeric sheets coupled thereto in the interior volume.

6. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the storage bag comprises a flexible sheet material.

7. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more connectors comprise straps.

8. The bicycle storage device of claim 7, wherein the straps comprise hook and loop material.

9. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more connectors comprises a clamp.

10. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more connectors comprises a clip.

11. The bicycle storage device of claim 2, wherein the storage bag comprises a hard shell.

12. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein a first connector of the one of more connectors is adapted to be received around a seatpost of the bicycle.

13. The bicycle storage device of claim 12, wherein a second connector of the one of more connectors is adapted to be received around a seat tube of the bicycle.

14. The bicycle storage device of claim 12, wherein a second connector of the one of more connectors is adapted to be received around a first seat stay tube of the bicycle.

15. The bicycle storage device of claim 14, wherein a third connector of the one of more connectors is adapted to be received around a second seat stay tube of the bicycle.

16. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the closable opening includes a zipper assembly.

17. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the closable opening includes mating hook and loop members.

18. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the closable opening includes one or more clasps.

19. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the fender member is comprised of a polymeric material.

20. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the fender member extends rearwardly beyond the distal end.

21. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein the fender member is removably secured to the bottom side.

22. A bicycle storage device for attachment to a bicycle, the storage device comprising: a fabric storage bag having one or more front sides, a concave bottom side, left and right sides, and a top side defining an interior volume, the bag further including a zipper opening at or proximate the top side; first and second connectors, each of the first and second connectors comprising hook and loop straps attached to the storage bag proximate or on the one or more front sides, each of the first and second connectors being configured to couple the storage bag to the bicycle; and an arcuate polymeric fender, the fender substantially covering and being attached to the concave bottom side and extending rearwardly of a distal end of the storage bag.

23. The bicycle storage device of claim 22, wherein the first connector is configured to couple to a seat tube of the bicycle, and the second connector is configured to couple to a seatpost of the bicycle.

24. The bicycle storage device of claim 22, further having a third connector comprising hook and loop straps, wherein the first connector is configured to couple to a seatpost of the bicycle, and the second and third connectors are configured to couple to the seat stay tubes of the bicycle.

25. A combination comprising the bicycle storage device of one of claims 1-24 and the bicycle, the storage device being attached to the bicycle.

26. A method of using the bicycle storage device of one of claims 1-21, the method comprising: attaching bicycle storage device to a bicycle with the fender being located above a rear wheel of the bicycle; opening the selectively closable opening and placing one or more items in the interior volume; closing the opening the selectively closable opening; and riding the bicycle while the bicycle storage device is attached thereto.

26. A method of using the bicycle storage device of one of claims 22-24, the method comprising: attaching bicycle storage device to a bicycle with the fender being located above a rear wheel of the bicycle; opening the zipper opening and placing one or more items in the interior volume; closing the opening the zipper opening; and riding the bicycle while the bicycle storage device is attached thereto.

28. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein (i) the one or more front sides include a plate mounted thereto with left and right longitudinal sides of the plate comprising a series of tabs; and (ii) each of the two or more connectors comprise elastomeric rings whereby each elastomeric ring is looped around a left tab, a bicycle tube and/or a bicycle seatpost to secure the bicycle storage device to the bicycle.

29. The bicycle storage device of claim 28, wherein the plate is comprised of a rigid polymeric material.

30. The bicycle storage device of claim 1, wherein (i) the one or more front sides include a plate mounted thereto, and (ii) the two or more connectors comprise resilient rigid clips protruding from a front side of the plate.

31. The bicycle storage device of claim 30, wherein the plate and the clips are comprised of a rigid polymeric material.