Rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position

A rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position, the rack comprising a frame comprising a curb bar; and the curb bar comprising a mounting surface for exerting a counterbalancing force on a crank assembly of the bicycle to frictionally hold the bicycle in the generally upright position. When the bicycle is supported by the curb bar, the bicycle is positioned relative to the rack for securing the bicycle to the rack. The curb bar exerts a counterbalancing force on the pedal axle or the pedal of the bicycle. The counterbalancing force may be a frictional force or a torque. Bicycles can be supported on either side of the rack, the bicycles facing in either a forward or reverse direction. The bicycle may be secured to the rack at multiple points.

FIELD

This relates to the field bicycle security, and in particular, to a rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position.

BACKGROUND

A bicycle is a popular form of transportation, as it provides various benefits. For example, cycling is a way to exercise and provides physical and mental health benefits for the cyclist. Cycling also provides environmental benefits as a bicycle does not generate pollutants during operation. Additionally, cycling may provide economic benefits as a bicycle does not require fuel or refuelling, as compared to other forms of transportation, like a car.

When not in use, a bicycle should be secured. If left unsecured in public spaces, the bicycle may be stolen, especially if the bicycle is left unattended. Moreover, an unattended bicycle may become a physical impediment and inconvenience for pedestrians or drivers.

One way to secure a bicycle is to secure it to a bicycle rack. Various bicycle racks have been developed for securing a bicycle. Such bicycle racks provide a structure to lean the bicycle, for example the frame of the bicycle, against the structure and for securing the bicycle. Unfortunately, existing bicycle racks tend not to support the bicycle in a generally upright position, so the secured bicycles have a sloppy appearance with an askew front wheel. Furthermore, existing bicycle racks may not provide multiple locations for locking the bicycle frame and wheels to the rack, and may not accommodate bicycles that lack a diamond-shaped frame or top bar. In addition, current bicycle parking areas comprising a plurality of existing bicycle racks contribute to a disorganized and unattractive appearance and tend to inefficiently use the space allotted for the bicycle parking areas.

SUMMARY

An example rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position, the rack comprising: a frame comprising a curb bar; and the curb bar comprising a mounting surface for exerting a counterbalancing force on a crank assembly of the bicycle to frictionally hold the bicycle in the generally upright position.

An example rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position, the rack comprising: a frame comprising a horizontal curb bar; the horizontal curb bar comprising: a mounting surface for exerting a counterbalancing force on a pedal axle or a pedal of the bicycle to counterbalance a torque in a chain ring of the bicycle, the torque generated by reverse rotation of a rear wheel of the bicycle, to frictionally hold the bicycle in the generally upright position; and slots for receiving the pedal axle to prevent forward, reverse, and lateral movement of the bicycle to hold the bicycle in the generally upright position, wherein when the pedal axle is received in the slots, a crank arm and the pedal straddle the horizontal curb bar.

Other aspects will be apparent from the description and drawings provided herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A rack for supporting a bicycle in a generally upright position is disclosed. The rack may comprise a frame, which may comprise a curb bar. The curb bar may comprise a mounting surface, which may be a fixed mounting surface, to exert a counterbalancing force to counter the force and/or torque generated by the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of the bicycle to frictionally and/or torsionally hold the bicycle in a generally upright position. The mounting surface of the curb bar may be in physical contact with a pedal or pedal axle of the bicycle for supporting the bicycle in the generally upright position. One or more bicycles may be supported and secured to the rack on the same and/or opposite sides of the rack and facing either a forward or reverse direction. When a bicycle is supported by the rack, the bicycle may be secured and locked to the rack at multiple points.

FIG. 1a perspective view of a rack100, andFIG. 2is a front view of rack100. Rack100may support a bicycle in a generally upright position. When the bicycle is supported in a generally upright position by rack100, the bicycle may be secured to rack100at multiple points. In some embodiments, the bicycle may be generally parallel to rack100when the bicycle is supported by rack100.

Rack100may comprise a frame110comprising a curb bar130. Rack100may comprise no curb bars130, or one or more curb bars130. For example, as depicted inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, rack100may comprise an upper curb bar130aand a lower curb bar130b. Curb bar130may comprise a mounting surface for exerting a counterbalancing force to counter the torque generated by the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle to frictionally and/or torsionally hold the bicycle in a generally upright position for securing the bicycle to rack100.

Rack100may have a height and a length to support one or more bicycles on the same and/or opposite sides of rack100, the bicycles having various configurations and sizes. In some embodiments, rack100may support bicycles with a diamond-shaped frame and/or bicycles without a diamond-shaped frame. In some examples, rack100may generally have a height of 800 mm and may generally have a length of 800 mm.

Rack100may comprise a first frame leg112and a second frame leg114opposing first frame leg112. First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be positioned such that they lie on the same three-dimensional plane. In some embodiments, first frame leg112and second frame leg114may be generally straight such that frame110has a generally rectangular shape with rounded or pointed corners. As depicted inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, first frame leg112and second frame leg114may be curved. In some examples, first frame leg112and second frame leg114or portions thereof may generally define a radius of curvature between 600 mm and 700 mm.

In some embodiments, rack100may comprise a first frame arc116and a second frame arc118. As depicted inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, an end portion of first frame leg112may be deflected inwardly to form first frame arc116. Similarly, an end portion of second frame leg114may be deflected inwardly to form second frame arc118. First frame arc116and second frame arc118may be curved, as shown inFIG. 1orFIG. 2. In some embodiments, first frame arc116and second frame arc118may be generally straight.

First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be deflected using appropriate deflecting devices, such as bending tools, bending machines, computer numerical control bending machines, and the like. In some embodiments, first frame arc116and second frame arc118may be manufactured separately from first frame leg112and second frame leg114. In some examples, first frame arc116and second frame arc118or portions thereof may generally define a radius of curvature of 700 mm. In some examples, the portions of first frame arc116and second frame arc118proximate to the corners of rack100as shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2may define a radius of curvature of 150 mm. In some examples, a centre of the radius of curvature of the portions of first frame arc116and second frame arc118proximate to the corners of rack100may generally be 200 mm to 250 mm offset from a longitudinal axis generally perpendicular to a surface on which rack100is installed and intersecting the centre of rack100.

In some embodiments, first frame leg112and second frame leg114may be manufactured with metal. First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be cast, forged, 3D-printed, computer numerical control, or machined entirely from the appropriate metal, such as hard carbon steel, stainless steel (native or recycled), aluminum (native or recycled), nickel, titanium, zinc, and the like. First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be cut from metal plates, such as standard gauge metal plates. In some examples, first frame leg112and second frame leg114may have a general width of 56 mm and a general thickness of 10 mm.

First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be fastened to a surface, for example a concrete floor, at anchors120. Anchors120may be fastened to first frame leg112and second frame leg114using appropriate fasteners, such as by welding. In some embodiments, anchors120may be manufactured with metal, for example hard carbon steel, similar to frame leg112and second frame leg114.

First frame leg112and second frame leg114may be fastened to an existing surface at anchors120using appropriate fasteners, such as nuts and bolts, screws, and the like, by cutting slots, for example by diamond cutting, into the existing surface. In some embodiments, anchors120of first frame leg112and second frame leg114may be set into a surface, for example a concrete floor, as the surface is being fabricated. When first frame leg112and second frame leg114are anchored to the surface, they may resist removal. Anchors120may comprise bolt holes for receiving bolts and lock washers to set first frame leg112and second frame leg114into the surface. In some examples, anchors120may receive half-inch bolts and the corresponding lock washers to set first frame leg112and second frame leg114into the surface, and may resist up to 3500 pounds per square inch of pressure for each bolt used.

Rack100may comprise a frame bar122in connection with first frame leg112and second frame leg114. Frame bar may be fastened with first frame leg112and second frame leg114using appropriate fastening devices, such as welding. As illustrated inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, frame bar122is connected to first frame leg112and second frame leg114at generally the top most point of first frame leg112and second frame leg114. In some embodiments, frame bar122may be connected at a lower point on first frame leg112and second frame leg114.

In some embodiments, frame bar122may be manufactured with metal, for example hard carbon steel, similar to frame leg112and second frame leg114. Frame bar122may be cut from metal plates, such as standard gauge metal plates. In some examples, frame bar122may have a general width of 56 mm and a general thickness of 10 mm.

In some embodiments, first frame leg112, second frame leg114, first frame arc116, second frame arc118, anchors120, frame bar122, or a combination thereof, may be manufactured integrally to define a continuous frame110or continuous portions of frame110. In some embodiments, first frame leg112, second frame leg114, first frame arc116, second frame arc118, anchors120, frame bar122, or a combination thereof may be manufactured separately and fastened together after manufacturing using appropriate fastening devices, such as welding, to form frame110.

Rack100may comprise curb bar130, curb bar130comprising a mounting surface that may be fixed to curb bar130for exerting a counterbalancing force on a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle and preventing reverse rotation of the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly along the path of its arc. Curb bar130may be generally flat and straight. In some embodiments, curb bar130may be curved or a portion of curb bar130may be offset from another portion of curb bar130.

As depicted inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, rack100may comprise upper curb bar130aand lower curb bar130b(collectively and individually, curb bar130). In some embodiments, rack100may comprise no curb bars130, one curb bar130, or more than one curb bar130.

Curb bar130may comprise a mounting surface that may be fixed to curb bar130for exerting a counterbalancing force on a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle to frictionally and/or torsionally hold the bicycle in a generally upright position. The mounting surface may define an upper edge132or a lower edge134of curb bar130, and may define slots136, or notches138on curb bar130.

Upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130may be defined by mounting surfaces that may exert a counterbalancing force to counterbalance the force and/or torque generated by the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle for frictional and/or torsional holding of the bicycle in a generally upright position. In some embodiments, upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130may contact a pedal axle or a pedal of a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of the bicycle. Upper edge132and/or lower edge134of curb bar130may be knurled to increase friction between curb bar130and the bicycle for frictionally and/or torsionally holding the bicycle in a generally upright position. Upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130may have a plurality of configurations. Upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130may be generally straight edges and generally parallel to the surface on which rack100is mounted. In some embodiments, upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130may be generally straight edges and not parallel to the surface on which rack100is mounted, may be curved edges, wave-like edges, crenate edges or crenellated edges, discontinuous edges, or irregular edges.

Slots136may be defined by a mounting surface of curb bar130that may exert a counterbalancing force on a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle for frictionally and/or torsionally holding the bicycle in a generally upright position. In some embodiments, the counterbalancing force may be a frictional force or a torque. In some embodiments, slots136may not exert a counterbalancing force on the bicycle. Slots136may be a space defined by the mounting surface of curb bar130that may receive an exposed portion of a pedal axle between a crank arm and a pedal.

In some embodiments, slots136may receive a pedal axle of a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of the bicycle. The width of slots136may be sized for receiving a pedal axle with a standard pedal axle diameter. The depth of slots136may be sized such that when slots136receive a pedal axle, the bicycle may be supported on its wheels without also being supported at the end of slots136. In some examples, slots136may generally have a width of 10 mm and may generally have a depth of 100 mm.

The mounting surface defining the opening of slots136may be bevelled, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise smoothed for receiving a pedal axle of a bicycle.

Slots136may be generally straight and oriented generally perpendicular to upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130. In some embodiments, slots136may be diagonal relative to upper edge132or lower edge134such that a longitudinal axis parallel to slots136may define an acute or obtuse angle with upper edge132or lower edge134. In some embodiments, slots136may be curved with a radius of curvature generally similar to a radius of an arc traced by the rotation of a pedal or pedal axle of a bicycle. In some embodiments, one or more slots136may have a different orientation as compared to other slots136on rack100. In some embodiments, slots136may be located on curb bar130such that when a bicycle is frictionally and/or torsionally held in a generally upright position using slots136, the bicycle may be generally aligned with rack100to secure and lock the bicycle on rack100at multiple points.

Notches138may be defined by a mounting surface of curb bar130that may exert a counterbalancing force to counter a torque that may be generated by a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle for frictional and/or torsional holding of the bicycle in a generally upright position. In some embodiments, the counterbalancing force may be a frictional force or a torque.

In some embodiments, notches138may receive a pedal of a crank assembly of the bicycle. The width of notches138may be sized for receiving a bicycle pedal with a standard pedal width. The depth of notches138may be sized for receiving a bicycle pedal with a standard pedal depth. In some embodiments, the stopping face defining notches138may further define slots or teeth on notches138to promote receiving a pedal or a pedal axle of a bicycle. In some examples, notches138may have a general width between 80 mm and 100 mm and may have a general depth of 10 mm.

Curb bar130may be fastened to first frame leg112and second frame leg114using appropriate fastening devices, such as welding and the like. In some embodiments, curb bar130may be integral to frame110, for example integral to first frame leg112and/or second frame leg114.

Similarly, curb bar130may be fastened to first frame arc116and second frame arc118using appropriate fastening devices, such as welding and the like. In some embodiments, curb bar130may be integral to frame110, for example integral to first frame arc116and/or second frame arc118.

As shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, when curb bar130is connected to first frame leg112and first frame arc116, either integrally or using appropriate fastening devices, they may define a first frame ring140. Similarly, curb bar130in connection with second frame leg114and second frame arc118may define a second frame ring142. First frame ring140and second frame ring142may be continuously defined such that a lock may be locked through first frame ring140and second frame ring142for securing and locking bicycle200to rack100. In some embodiments, rack100may comprise additional frame rings. For example, rack100may comprise additional frame arcs generally similar to first frame arc116and second frame arc118, or said additional frame arcs may be fastened using appropriate fastening devices to rack100, such as at frame bar122and curb bar130, to define additional frame rings.

In some embodiments, frame110may not comprise first frame arc116and/or second frame arc118. First frame leg112, second frame leg114, frame bar122, and curb bar130fastened to first frame leg112and second frame leg114may define a continuous enclosure such that a lock may be locked through said enclosure for securing and locking bicycle200to rack100.

Similar to first frame leg112and second frame leg114, curb bar130may be manufactured with metal. Curb bar130may be cast, forged, 3D-printed, computer numerical control, or machined entirely from the appropriate metal, such as hard carbon steel, stainless steel (native or recycled), aluminum (native or recycled), nickel, titanium, zinc, and the like. Curb bar130may be cut from metal plates, such as standard gauge metal plates. In some examples, curb bar130may have a general width of 100 mm to 150 mm and a general thickness of 7 mm. In some examples, curb bar130may have a length generally similar to the length of rack100.

As shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, upper curb bar130amay comprise upper edge132aand lower edge134a. In some examples, upper edge132aof upper curb bar130amay be generally positioned at a height of 500 mm from a surface on which rack100is mounted. Upper edge132aof upper curb bar130amay comprise slots136a,138b, and136c(individually and collectively, slot136). In some embodiments, curb bar130may comprise no slots, one slot, or more than one slot.

Slots136a,136b, and136cmay be positioned relative to upper curb bar130asuch that when a bicycle is supported by rack100using slots136a,138b, and136c, the bicycle may be secured to rack100at multiple points. In some embodiments, curb bar130amay comprise one or more slots136for supporting bicycles on both sides of rack100. In some embodiments, slot136bmay be located generally at the centre of upper support member130a. In some examples, slot138aand slot136cmay be generally 200 mm to 250 mm from slot136b.

In some embodiments, upper curb bar130amay comprise one or more slots136and/or one or more notches138on upper edge132aand/or lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. In some embodiments, upper curb bar130amay not comprise slots136or notches138.

As shown inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, similar to upper curb bar130a, lower curb bar130bmay comprise upper edge132band lower edge134b. In some examples, upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay be generally positioned at a height of 150 mm from a surface on which rack100is mounted. As depicted inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay comprise notches138aand138b(individually and collectively, notch138). In some embodiments, lower curb bar130bmay comprise one or more notches138for supporting bicycles on both sides of rack100. Notches138aand138bmay be positioned relative to rack100such that when a bicycle is supported by rack100, the bicycle may be secured to rack100at several points. As illustrated inFIG. 1andFIG. 2, notches138aand138bmay be located between the centre and the ends of lower curb bar130b. In some examples, notches138aand138bmay be positioned generally 100 mm away from the centre of lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, lower curb bar130bmay comprise one or more slots136and/or one or more notches138on upper edge132band/or lower edge134bof lower curb bar130b. In some embodiments, lower curb bar130bmay not comprise slots136or notches138.

In some embodiments, rack100or a portion of rack100may comprise a mounting surface that may be fixed to rack100for exerting a counterbalancing force on a crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly of a bicycle and preventing reverse rotation of the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly along the path of its arc in a manner generally similar to and comprising features generally similar to curb bar130as described herein.

In some embodiments, curb bar130may be a generally flat plate and may have a generally straight and continuous cross-section with a generally straight and continuous upper edge132and/or lower edge134.

In some embodiments, curb bar130may be a plate with different cross-sections. For example, curb bar130may be a plate with a curved cross-section, wave-like cross-section or a sinusoidal cross-section. In some embodiments, curb bar130may be a plate with a cross-section comprising two or more straight discontinuous portions, where one or more portions of curb bar130is not aligned with the remaining portions of curb bar130.

In some embodiments, curb bar130may have a crenellated cross-section with a discontinuous upper edge132and/or lower edge134, for example, as depicted inFIG. 3.FIG. 3is a top view of upper curb bar130aalong line111411shown inFIG. 2. As depicted inFIG. 3, the portion of upper curb bar130acomprising slot136bmay be offset from the portions of upper curb bar130acomprising slot136aand slot136c. A portion of curb bar130may be offset for reducing interference between components of bicycles supported on both sides of rack100. For example, the offset design of upper curb bar130aas shown inFIG. 3may permit access in a forward and/or reverse direction for one or more bicycles200on the same and/or opposite sides of rack100at the same time. The offset design of upper curb bar130amay reduce or remove conflict of handle bars and seats of bicycles200on opposite sides of rack100, may reduce or remove conflict of a pedal of bicycle200on one side of rack100and a frame of bicycle200on the other side of rack100, and may promote the securing of bicycles200on both sides of rack100.

In some embodiments, the portions of upper curb bar130acomprising slots136a,136b, and136cmay be manufactured integrally. In some embodiments, the portions of upper curb bar130acomprising slots136a,136b, and136cmay be manufactured separately and fastened with first frame leg112, second frame leg114, first frame arc116, and second frame arc118using appropriate fastening devices. In some embodiments, one or more curb bars130, for example upper curb bar130aand lower curb bar130b, may have an offset design as illustrated inFIG. 3.

FIG. 4is a schematic view of a bicycle200supported at a crank assembly202of bicycle200by a lower edge134aof upper curb bar130aof rack100. Rack100may support bicycles of different configurations and types. Bicycle200as depicted inFIG. 4may be a common bicycle with a diamond-shaped frame, such as a road bicycle or a mountain bicycle. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be a bicycle with or without a diamond-shaped frame, a bicycle made for an adult, a bicycle made for a child, a recumbent bicycle, a touring bicycle, a hand cycle, and the like.

In some embodiments, crank assembly202of bicycle200may comprise a chain ring204, a crank arm206, a pedal axle208, and a pedal210. Crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210may comprise the crank arm, pedal axle, and pedal assembly as referred to herein. Rotation of chain ring204in a forward or reverse direction may cause crank arm206to rotate in the same forward or reverse direction. Similarly, rotation of crank arm206in a forward or reverse direction may cause chain ring204to rotate in the same forward or reverse direction.

As will be described in greater detail herein, rotation of a rear wheel of bicycle200in a reverse direction may cause chain ring204and crank arm206to rotate in the same reverse direction, yet rotation of a rear wheel of bicycle200in a forward direction may not cause chain ring204and crank arm206to rotate in the same forward direction. Similarly, rotation of chain ring204and crank arm206in a forward direction may cause the rear wheel of bicycle200to rotate in the same forward direction, yet rotation of chain ring204and crank arm206in a reverse direction may not cause the rear wheel of bicycle200to rotate in the same reverse direction.

Chain ring204may be fastened to one end of crank arm206using appropriate fastening devices, such as bearings, brackets, pins, screws, nuts and bolts, and the like. In some embodiments, crank arm206may be fastened generally at the centre of chain ring204.

The other end of crank arm206may be fastened to one end of pedal axle208. Crank arm206may be fastened to pedal axle208using appropriate fastening devices.

The other end of pedal axle208may be received in a pedal axle channel209of pedal210and fastened to pedal210using appropriate fastening devices. Pedal axle channel209may be integral to pedal210. In some embodiments, pedal axle channel209may be a longitudinal channel extending through generally the centre of pedal210, as shown, for example, inFIG. 6andFIG. 8. When pedal axle208is received in pedal axle channel209of pedal210, pedal210may rotate relative to pedal axle208about pedal axle channel209. A portion of pedal axle208may be exposed between crank arm206and pedal210. In some examples, approximately 10 mm to 15 mm of pedal axle208may be exposed between crank arm206and pedal210.

Chain ring204may comprise teeth along a circumference or edge of chain ring204for receiving a chain212. Chain212may, for example, be a roller chain comprising a plurality of chain links.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may further comprise a rear wheel214and a front wheel216. Rear wheel214may be fastened to a rear wheel hub of bicycle200using appropriate fastening devices, such as bearings, brackets, pins, screws, nuts and bolts, and the like. The rear wheel hub may comprise a rear wheel gear sprocket that may comprise teeth similar to the teeth of chain ring204for receiving chain212. The rear wheel hub of bicycle200may further comprise a freewheel comprising a ratchet and pawl mechanism. The ratchet and pawl mechanism may allow rear wheel214to rotate in a forward manner, for example manually, without causing chain212and chain ring204to rotate in a forward manner, as described further below. Similarly, manually rotating rear wheel214in a reverse manner may engage the ratchet and pawl mechanism in the freewheel, such that the rotation of rear wheel214may cause chain212, chain ring204, crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210to rotate in the same reverse direction.

Bicycle200may further comprise a seat bar218, a top bar220, and a down bar222. Seat bar218, top bar220, and down bar222may be fastened together using appropriate fastening devices, such as welding. Seat bar218, top bar220, and down bar222may comprise a portion of a structural frame of bicycle200.

Crank assembly202, rear wheel214, and front wheel216may be fastened to the structural frame of bicycle200using appropriate fastening devices, such as bearings, brackets, pins, screws, nuts and bolts, and the like.

In some embodiments, forward rotation of chain ring204may cause rear wheel214to rotate in the same forward rotation.

When operating bicycle200to move in a forward direction, a force, such as from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied to pedal210. The force applied to pedal210may be translated to a torque applied to chain ring204through crank arm206. The torque may cause chain ring204to rotate in a forward direction. The rotation of chain ring204may apply a tension to chain212received in the teeth of chain ring204and may cause chain212to rotate about chain ring204. Since chain212may be connected to chain ring204and the rear wheel gear sprocket, chain212may cause the rear wheel gear sprocket to rotate in a forward direction. As the rear wheel gear sprocket rotates in a forward direction, it may cause the pawl of the ratchet and pawl mechanism to rotate in the same forward direction and the pawl may engage and lock with the ratchet. Upon engagement and locking of the pawl to the ratchet, the forward rotation of the pawl may be translated to the ratchet, which may cause rear wheel214to rotate in the same forward rotation. When bicycle200is resting on a surface224such that rear wheel214is in physical contact with surface224, there may be friction between rear wheel214and surface224. Applying a force on pedal210to rotate chain ring204in a forward direction may drive bicycle200in a forward direction based on the friction between rear wheel214and surface224.

Reverse rotation of pedal210may cause the pawl mechanism to disengage and unlock with the ratchet, such that pedal210may rotate in a reverse direction without also causing rear wheel214to rotate in a reverse direction.

Similarly, forward rotation of rear wheel214may not cause the pawl and ratchet to engage and lock, such that forward rotation of rear wheel214may not cause chain ring204to rotate in a forward direction.

However, reverse rotation of rear wheel214may cause the paw and ratchet to engage and lock, such that reverse rotation of rear wheel214may cause chain ring204to rotate in a reverse direction.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208or pedal210by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130aof rack100with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. As depicted inFIG. 4, bicycle200, facing in the positive-X direction, may be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. Crank arm206proximate to rack100may be pointed in the positive-X and positive-Y direction for pedal axle208to be positioned against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

Bicycle200may be placed generally parallel against rack100as illustrated inFIG. 4to promote placement of pedal axle208against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. A force, for example from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied on a pedal opposing pedal210so that pedal axle208may be in physical contact with and may apply a force to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

The physical contact between pedal axle208and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, and the force applied by pedal axle208to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, may be increased by raising rear wheel214and rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction. This may remove the slack in chain212. As described herein, the reverse rotation of rear wheel214may apply torque to chain ring204through chain212and may cause chain ring204to rotate in the same reverse rotation. The reverse rotation of chain ring204may cause crank arm208to rotate in the same reverse rotation. This reverse rotation of crank arm206may cause pedal axle208to rotate and apply a force against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, and increase the physical contact between pedal axle208and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. As reverse rotation of rear wheel214continues, the force applied by pedal axle208to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130aand the torque applied to chain ring204through chain212may increase.

Rear wheel214may be lowered to rest on surface224. The friction force between rear wheel214and surface224may maintain the torque in chain ring204, the physical contact between pedal axle208and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, and the force applied by pedal axle208to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

The force applied by pedal axle208to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay create frictional force between pedal axle208and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, which may hold pedal axle208against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. When pedal axle208is in contact with lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay prevent reverse rotation of the crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210. Lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay apply a generally equal and opposite force to pedal axle208. This force applied from lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay translate to a torque that may be applied to chain ring204to counterbalance the torque applied to chain ring204by rear wheel214. These balanced forces and torques may restrict movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

With pedal axle208in physical contact against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position.

When bicycle200is supported by against lower edge134aof upper curb bar130ain a generally upright position, as depicted inFIG. 4, bicycle200may be locked to rack100at multiple points. For example, seat bar218and/or rear wheel214may be locked through first frame ring140, top bar220may be locked with frame bar122, down bar222and/or front wheel216may be locked through second frame ring142, or a combination thereof. Rear wheel214, front wheel216, seat bar218, top bar220, and/or down bar222may be locked to rack100using appropriate locking devices, such as a U-lock, cable lock, chain and padlock, combination lock, and the like.

As depicted inFIG. 4, bicycle200may be facing in the positive-X direction with crank arm206proximate to rack100pointed in the positive-X and positive-Y direction when supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be facing in the negative-X direction with crank arm206proximate to rack100pointed in the negative-X and positive-Y direction when supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by any available portion of lower edge134aof upper curb bar130anot occupied by pedal axle208of another bicycle200. This may allow one or more other bicycles200to be supported at pedal axle208by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, either on the same side of rack100as bicycle200or on the opposite side of rack100, in a generally upright position facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at pedal210by lower edge134aof upper curb bar130ain a generally similar manner as described above.

Bicycle200may similarly be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bof rack100with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. Bicycle200may be facing the positive-X direction as depicted inFIG. 4. Bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bto support bicycle200in a generally upright position. Crank arm206proximate to rack100may be pointed in the negative-X and negative-Y direction for pedal axle208to be positioned against upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

Pedal axle208may be in physical contact with and may apply a force to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. Said physical contact and force may be developed through the crank assembly202and increased by rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction as described herein.

Similar to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, the force applied by pedal axle208to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay create friction between pedal axle208and upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b, which may hold pedal axle208against upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. When pedal axle208is in contact with upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b, upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay prevent reverse rotation of the crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210. The upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay apply a generally equal and opposite force to pedal axle208. This force applied from upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay translate to a torque that may be applied to chain ring204to balance the torque applied to chain ring204by rear wheel214. These balanced forces and torques may restrict movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

With pedal axle208in physical contact against upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b, upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position.

When bicycle200is supported by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bin a generally upright position, bicycle200may be locked to rack100at multiple points. For example, seat bar218and/or rear wheel214may be locked through first frame ring140, top bar220may be locked with frame bar122, down bar222and/or front wheel216may be locked through second frame ring142, or a combination thereof. Rear wheel214, front wheel216, seat bar218, top bar220, and/or down bar222may be locked to rack100using appropriate locking devices, such as a U-lock, cable lock, chain and padlock, combination lock, and the like.

Bicycle200may be facing in the positive-X direction with crank arm206proximate to rack100pointed in the negative-X and negative-Y direction when supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be facing in the negative-X direction with crank arm206proximate to rack100pointed in the positive-X and negative-Y direction when supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by any available portion of upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bnot occupied by pedal axle208of another bicycle200. This may allow one or more other bicycles200to be supported at pedal axle208by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b, either on the same side of rack100as bicycle200or on the opposite side of rack100, in a generally upright position facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at pedal210by upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bin a generally similar manner as described above.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208by slots136with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. As depicted inFIG. 8andFIG. 6, slots136a,136b, and136cmay be installed on upper edge132aof upper curb bar130a. When bicycle200is supported by slots136, crank arm206may be pointed generally vertically in the positive-Y direction for pedal axle208to be received in slot136, for example slot136bas illustrated inFIG. 5. In some embodiments, slots136may be installed on lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a, or slots136may be installed on upper edge132bor lower edge134bof lower curb bar130b

Bicycle200may be positioned adjacent and generally parallel to rack100. As depicted inFIG. 5, bicycle200may facing the positive-X direction. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be facing the negative-X direction. Bicycle200may be lifted and positioned such that pedal axle208may be above slot136b. Bicycle200may be lowered, so slot136bmay receive pedal axle208, and bicycle200may be rested on surface224with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. In some embodiments, pedal axle208may not be in physical contact or be applying a force to the edges of slot136b.

As shown inFIG. 5andFIG. 6, with pedal axle208received in slot136b, crank arm206may be on one side of upper curb bar130aand pedal210may be on the other side of upper curb bar130a, such that crank arm206and pedal210may be straddling upper curb bar130a. The width of slot138bmay be narrower than the diameter of crank arm206and narrower than the length or width of pedal210. When pedal axle208is received in slot1366, upper curb bar130amay prevent lateral movement of bicycle200. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be prevented from falling away from rack100when pedal axle208is received in slot136b. In some embodiments, bicycle200, for example the frame of bicycle200, may be prevented from leaning against rack100.

The edges of slot136bmay restrict bicycle200from forward or reverse movement. The edges of slot1368may apply a force against pedal axle208when bicycle200moves forward or in reverse.

In some embodiments, rear wheel214may be rotated in a reverse direction such that pedal axle208may be in physical contact with and applying a force to edges of slot136bin a manner generally similar to pedal axle208contacting and applying a force to upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar130as described herein for restricting movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

With pedal axle208received in slot136band/or be in physical contact against the edges of slot1386, slot136bmay frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position.

When bicycle200is supported by slot136bin a generally upright position, as illustrated inFIG. 5andFIG. 6, bicycle200may be locked to rack100at multiple points. For example, seat bar218and/or rear wheel214may be locked through first frame ring140, top bar220may be locked with frame bar122, down bar222and/or front wheel216may be locked through second frame ring142, or a combination thereof. Rear wheel214, front wheel216, seat bar218, top bar220, and/or down bar222may be locked to rack100using appropriate locking devices, such as a U-lock, cable lock, chain and padlock, combination lock, and the like.

In some embodiments, slots136may be curved with a radius of curvature generally similar to a radius of an arc traced by rotation of pedal axle208or pedal210about a centre of chain ring204of bicycle200. Bicycle200may be lifted and lowered for pedal axle208to be received in the opening of curved slot136. A force, for example from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied on a pedal opposing pedal210so that pedal axle208may be received in curved slot136. Pedal axle208may be in physical contact with and may apply a force to an edge of curved slot136, for example, the end of curved slot136. As described herein, said force may be increased by rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction.

As described herein, the force applied by pedal axle208to an edge of curved slot136may create friction between pedal axle208and the edge of curved slot136, which may hold pedal axle208against the edge of curved slot136. This force applied from the edge of curved slot136may translate to a torque that may be applied to chain ring204to balance the torque applied to chain ring204by rear wheel214. These balanced forces and torques may restrict movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be received by any available slot136, for example slot136a,136b, and136c, installed on curb bar130. For example, as depicted inFIG. 7andFIG. 8, pedal axle208of bicycle200may be received in slot136a. As another example, pedal axle208of bicycle200may be received in slot136c. Bicycle200may be received in slot136, such as slot136a,136b, and136c, while facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction. This may allow pedal axle208of one or more other bicycles200to be received in an unoccupied slot136, either on the same side of rack100as bicycle200or on the opposite side of rack100, for the one or more other bicycles200to be supported in a generally upright position at pedal axle208by slots136of rack100facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

In some embodiments, upper edge132band/or lower edge134bof lower curb bar130bmay comprise slots136. Bicycle200facing the positive-X direction may be supported in a generally upright position using slots136of lower curb bar130bin a manner generally similar as described above, except crank arm206may be pointed generally in the negative-X and/or negative-Y direction for pedal axle208to be received in slots136located on upper edge132band/or lower edge134bof lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at pedal210by notches138of rack100with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. As depicted inFIG. 9andFIG. 10, notches138aand138bmay be installed on upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. In some embodiments, notches138may be installed on lower edge134bof lower curb bar130b, or notches138may be installed on upper edge132aor lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. As depicted inFIG. 9, bicycle200facing the negative-X direction may be supported at notch138a, and crank arm206proximate to rack100may be pointed in the positive-X and negative-Y direction for pedal210to be positioned at notch138aon the upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

Bicycle200may be placed generally parallel against rack100as illustrated inFIG. 9to promote placement of pedal210against notch138aand be received by notch138a. A force, for example from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied on a pedal opposing pedal210so that pedal210may be in physical contact with and may apply a force to notch138a.

The physical contact between pedal210and notch138a, and the force applied by pedal210to notch138a, may be increased by raising rear wheel214and rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction. This may remove the slack in chain212. As described herein, the reverse rotation of rear wheel214may apply torque to chain ring204and may cause chain ring204to rotate in the same reverse rotation. The reverse rotation of chain ring204may cause crank arm206to rotate in the same reverse rotation. The reverse rotation of crank arm206may increase the physical contact between pedal210and notch138aand the force applied by pedal210to notch138a.

Rear wheel214may be lowered to be in physical contact with surface224. The friction force between rear wheel214and surface224may maintain the physical contact between pedal210and notch138a, and the force applied by pedal210to notch138a.

The force applied by pedal210to notch138amay create friction between pedal210and notch138a, which may hold pedal210stationary against notch138a. When pedal210is in contact with notch138a, notch138amay prevent reverse rotation of the crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210. Notch138amay apply a generally equal and opposite force to pedal210. This force applied from notch138amay translate to a torque that may be applied to chain ring204to balance the torque applied to chain ring204by rear wheel214. These balanced forces and torques may restrict movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

As depicted inFIG. 10, pedal210may have a pedal channel211extending through pedal210. In some embodiments, notches138, such as notch138aand138b, may comprise teeth for receiving in pedal channel211to promote placement of pedal210against notches138and to promote reception of pedal210by notches138. Teeth on notches138may further promote friction between pedal210and notches138.

With pedal210in physical contact against and received by notch138a, notch138amay frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position.

When bicycle200is supported by against notch138ain a generally upright position, as depicted inFIG. 9andFIG. 10, bicycle200may be locked to rack100at multiple points. As described herein, seat bar218and/or rear wheel214may be locked through second frame ring142, top bar220may be locked with frame bar122, down bar222and/or front wheel216may be locked through first frame ring140, or a combination thereof. Rear wheel214, front wheel216, seat bar218, top bar220, and/or down bar222may be locked to rack100using appropriate locking devices, such as a U-lock, cable lock, chain and padlock, combination lock, and the like.

As depicted inFIG. 9, bicycle200may be facing in the negative-X direction with crank arm206proximate to rack100pointed in the positive-X and negative-Y direction when supported in a generally upright position at pedal210by notch138a. If bicycle200is facing the positive-X direction, similar to bicycle200as depicted inFIG. 7andFIG. 8, crank arm206proximate to rack100may be pointed in the negative-X and negative-Y direction for pedal210to be positioned and supported at notch138aon upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be received by any notch138installed on curb bar130. This may allow a pedal of another bicycle to be received in an unoccupied notch, such as notch138b, either on the same side of rack100as bicycle200or on the opposite side of rack100to be supported in a generally upright position by rack100facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

As depicted inFIG. 4throughFIG. 8, bicycle200may be supported by and secured to rack100while bicycle200is facing generally in the positive-X direction. In some embodiments, as depicted inFIG. 9andFIG. 10, bicycle200may be supported by and secured to rack100while facing generally in the negative-X direction. Rack100may support bicycle200while bicycle200is facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

Similarly, as depicted inFIG. 4throughFIG. 10, bicycle200may be supported by and secured to rack100at one side of rack100. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported by and secured to rack100on either side of rack100.

In some embodiments, rack100may support more than one bicycle at a time, such as two or more bicycles. Rack100may be manufactured to have a length, and the mounting surface may define a length of upper edge132or a lower edge134, and/or the mounting surface may define a number of slots136or notches138, such that rack100may support one or more bicycles200at a time on either or both sides of rack100. For example, rack100may support two bicycles200. Rack100may support a first bicycle200and a second bicycle200at the same time. The first bicycle200and the second bicycle200may be supported by rack100while positioned on the same side of rack100, or the first bicycle200may be positioned on a first side of rack100, and the second bicycle200may be positioned on a second side of rack100. As another example, rack100may support more than two bicycles200. One or more bicycles200may be supported on a first side of rack100, and/or one or more bicycles200may be supported on a second side of rack100.

In some embodiments, a plurality of racks100may be configured to form a bicycle parking area. Racks100may be arranged in a row, arranged next to each other, or a combination thereof. A bicycle parking area comprising racks100may allow a cyclist to use either side of a row of racks100to support and secure bicycle200from a single access corridor between two rows of racks100.

In some examples, a bicycle parking area comprising two rows of racks100, each row comprising four racks100, may support and secure 16 bicycles200. Said bicycle parking area may require 216 square feet, or 13.5 square feet per bicycle.

In some examples, a bicycle parking area comprising one row of racks100, the row comprising four racks100, may support and secure eight bicycles200. Said bicycle parking area may require 84 square feet when said bicycle parking area is positioned against a wall, or 10.5 square feet per bicycle.

In some embodiments, rack100may support bicycle200in a generally upright position using a structural element of bicycle200that may be common to most bicycles. Rack100may be in physical contact with crank assembly202, for example, pedal axle208or pedal210of bicycle200. This may allow rack100to support and secure bicycles of different configurations and types as crank assembly202, pedal axle208or pedal210may be features commonly shared by bicycles of different configurations and types. For example, rack100may support a bicycle with or without a diamond-shaped frame, a bicycle made for an adult, a bicycle made for a child, a recumbent bicycle, a touring bicycle, a handcycle, and the like, as these types of bicycles have pedal axles and pedals.

In some embodiments, rack100may support bicycle200in a generally upright position. This may allow bicycle200to be seen dearly to identify bicycle200from a plurality of bicycles. This may also allow the aesthetics of bicycle200to be seen. With bicycle200supported in a generally upright position by rack100, it may promote a neat and organized appearance, as opposed to a sloppy and disorganized appearance with front wheel askew if bicycle200is leaned against a traditional bicycle rack. A clean and tidy appearance may promote respect for rack100and bicycle200. In addition, when bicycle200is supported in a generally upright position by rack100, bicycle200may be protected from scrapes, scratches, or other forms of damage that may be caused when leaning bicycle200against a bicycle rack. In some embodiments, a plurality of racks100may be used to form a bicycle parking area. Bicycles200supported and secured in a bicycle parking area comprising racks100may similarly have a neat, organized, clean, and tidy appearance.

In some embodiments, rack100may support bicycle200when bicycle200is facing in the positive-X or negative-X direction as illustrated inFIG. 4throughFIG. 10, and on either side of rack100. Rack100may not require bicycle200to be oriented in a particular direction, or be positioned on a particular side of rack100, for bicycle200to be supported by and secured to rack100. This may promote convenience when using rack100to support and secure bicycle200. For example, where there is an impediment on one side of rack100, bicycle200may be secured on the unimpeded side of rack100.

In some embodiments, rack100may support one or more bicycles200on either side of rack100at the same time. Bicycles200may be facing in the positive-X or negative-X direction as illustrated inFIG. 4throughFIG. 10. This may promote efficiency of use of land allocated to rack100. For example, a certain area of land may be designated as a bicycle parking area. A bicycle parking area using a certain number of racks100may support and secure more bicycles200than bicycle racks that support bicycles200from only one side.

In some embodiments, when bicycle200is supported by rack100, it may allow bicycle200to be secured to rack100at multiple points of rack100. As described herein, seat bar218and/or rear wheel214may be locked through first frame ring140, top bar220may be locked with frame bar122, down bar222and/or front wheel216may be locked through second frame ring142, or a combination thereof. This may promote security of bicycle200when secured to rack100, and may promote increased confidence and use of a bicycle as a method for transportation when rack100to support and secure bicycle200is available.

In some embodiments, rack100may meet the performance requirements outlined by the Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals including being generally visible to nearby pedestrians or drivers when not in use. This may reduce a risk of tripping over rack100by pedestrians.

In some embodiments, rack100may provide multiple supporting and locking points to support and secure bicycles of various sizes and various configurations.

As described above, curb bar130may comprise a mounting surface for exerting a torque on crank assembly202of bicycle200to frictionally and/or torsionally hold the bicycle in a generally upright position for securing the bicycle to rack100. In some embodiments, the mounting surface of curb bar130may define notches138for receiving and physically contacting pedal210of bicycle200.

Notch slots302may be generally similar to slots136. Notch slots302may receive pedal axle208of crank assembly202of bicycle200. The width of notch slots302may be sized for receiving pedal axle208with a standard pedal axle diameter. In some embodiments, the depth of notch slots302may be sized such that when notch slots302receive pedal axle208, bicycle200may be supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216without also being supported at the end of notch slots302. In some embodiments, notch slot302may have a depth generally similar to the diameter of a standard pedal axle208. Where notch slot302has said depth generally similar to the diameter of a standard pedal axle208, when pedal axle208is received by notch slot302, pedal axle208may apply a force to the bottom edge of notch slot302. Resting rear wheel214on surface224may cause chain ring204, crank arm206, pedal axle208, and pedal210to resist movement. This may cause pedal axle208to maintain the force applied against the bottom edge of the notch slot302. The bottom edge of notch slot302may apply a generally equal and opposite force to pedal axle208. This force applied to pedal axle208and crank arm206may be translated into a torque applied to chain ring204, chain212, and rear wheel214. The pedal axle208and the bottom of the notch slot302may apply generally equal and opposite forces, such that bicycle200may experience balanced forces and torques. The balanced forces and torques may restrict movement of the bicycle200, and in particular, chain ring204, crank arm206, pedal axle208, pedal210, chain212, and rear wheel214. The mounting surface defining the opening of notch slots302may be bevelled, rounded, chamfered, or otherwise smoothed for receiving pedal axle208of bicycle200.

Bicycle200may be supported in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208by notch slot302of rack300with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216. When bicycle200is supported by notch slot302and facing the negative-X direction, crank arm206may be pointed in the positive-X and negative-Y direction as shown inFIG. 12for pedal axle208to be received in notch slot302. When bicycle200is facing the positive-X direction and supported by notch slot302, crank arm206may be pointed in the negative-X and negative-Y direction.

Bicycle200may be positioned adjacent and generally parallel to rack300. Bicycle200may be lifted and positioned such that pedal axle208may be above notch slot302. Bicycle200may be lowered, so notch slot302may receive pedal axle208, and bicycle200may be rested on surface224with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216and may be held in a generally upright position by balanced frictional forces and torques at pedal axle208and bottom of notch slot302.

As shown inFIG. 12andFIG. 13, with pedal axle208received in notch slot302a, crank arm206may be on one side of lower curb bar130band pedal210may be on the other side of lower curb bar130b, such that crank arm206and pedal210may be straddling lower curb bar130b. The width of notch slot302amay be narrower than the diameter of crank arm206or the length and width of pedal210. When pedal axle208is received in notch slot302a, lower curb bar130bmay prevent lateral movement of bicycle200. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be prevented from falling away from rack100. In some embodiments, bicycle200, for example the frame of bicycle200, may be prevented from leaning against rack100.

The edges of notch slot302amay restrict bicycle200from forward or reverse movement. The edges of notch slot302amay apply a force against pedal axle208when bicycle200moves forward or reverse.

In some embodiments, rear wheel214may be rotated in a reverse direction such that pedal axle208may be in physical contact with and applying an increased force to edges of notch slot302ain a manner as described herein for restricting movement of bicycle200, crank assembly202, chain212, and rear wheel214.

With pedal axle208received in notch slot302aand/or be in physical contact against the edges of notch slot302a, notch slot302amay frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position.

When bicycle200is supported by notch slot302ain a generally upright position, bicycle200may be locked to rack100at multiple points as described herein.

In some embodiments, bicycle200may be received by any available notch slot302installed on notch138of curb bar130, such as notch slot302aas depicted inFIG. 11AthroughFIG. 13, or notch slot302b. This may allow pedal axle208of one or more other bicycles200to be received in an unoccupied notch slot302for the one or more other bicycles200to be supported at pedal axle208by notch slot302, either on the same side of rack100as bicycle200or the opposite side of rack100, in a generally upright position facing in either the positive-X or negative-X direction.

As described above and depicted inFIG. 4throughFIG. 13, rack100may comprise two curb bars130, for example, upper curb bar130aand lower curb bar130b.

Other configurations of curb bar130are possible.FIG. 14is a front view of a rack400that may be generally similar to rack100, except rack400has one curb bar402. As depicted, curb bar402may be generally similar to upper curb bar130aof rack100. In some embodiments, curb bar402may be generally similar to lower curb bar130bof rack100. Curb bar402may comprise upper edge132and lower edge134. Curb bar402may further comprise slots136, such as slots138a,136b, and136cas shown inFIG. 14. In some embodiments, curb bar402may comprise notches138and/or notch slots302.

In some embodiments, curb bar402may be located at a height generally similar to upper curb bar130a. In some embodiments, curb bar402may be located at a height generally similar to lower curb bar130b. Curb bar402may be located at any appropriate height for supporting bicycle200in a generally upright manner as described herein.

Curb bar402may comprise a shape and/or size that may be appropriate for supporting bicycle200in a generally upright manner as described herein, such as a generally rectangular shape as illustrated inFIG. 14. In some embodiments, curb bar402may have an “S” shape, such that a portion of curb bar402may be located at a height generally similar to upper curb bar130aand another portion of curb bar402may be located at a height generally similar to lower curb bar130b, said upper and lower portions of curb bar402connected by a middle portion of curb bar402. In some embodiments, curb bar402may have a sinusoidal shape, wave-like shape, crenellated shape, irregular shape, and the like.

Bicycle200may be supported by rack400as depicted inFIG. 14in a generally upright position at the exposed portion of pedal axle208or at pedal210. In some embodiments, bicycle200may be supported by upper edge132or lower edge134of curb bar402or slots136with the weight of bicycle200supported by rear wheel214and front wheel216as described herein.

FIG. 15depicts a process S500for supporting bicycle200in a generally upright position with lower edge134aof upper curb bar130aof rack100.

At block S502, bicycle200is positioned generally parallel to either side of rack100, bicycle200facing in either the forward or reverse direction.

At block S506, pedal axle208or pedal210may be physically contacted with lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. For example a downward force, such as from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied to a pedal opposing pedal210to promote physical contact between pedal axle208or pedal210and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. Pedal axle208or pedal210may apply a force to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

In some embodiments, pedal axle208or pedal210may be in physical contact with a marked spot on lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. When bicycle200is supported by rack100at the marked spot, bicycle200may be aligned relative to rack100to secure bicycle200on multiple points of rack100.

At block S508, rear wheel214may be raised off surface224and may be rotated in a reverse direction to create tension in chain212. This may cause pedal axle208or pedal210to apply additional force to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a.

At block S510, rear wheel214may be lowered to rest on surface224. This may maintain the force applied by pedal axle208or pedal210to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130a. The force applied by pedal axle208or pedal210to lower edge134aof upper curb bar130amay create friction between pedal axle208or pedal210and lower edge134aof upper curb bar130afor lower edge134aof upper curb bar130ato frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position. An equal and opposite force applied from lower edge134aof upper curb bar130ato pedal axle208or pedal210may apply a torque to chain ring204for counterbalancing a torque applied to chain ring204from rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction.

At block S512, bicycle200is held in a generally upright position by rack100.

At block S514, bicycle200may be secured and locked onto rack100at multiple points.

FIG. 16depicts a process S600for supporting bicycle200in a generally upright position with upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bof rack100.

At block S602, bicycle200is positioned generally parallel to either side of rack100, bicycle200facing in either the forward or reverse direction.

At block S604, pedal axle208or pedal210that is proximate to rack100may be positioned at the lowest point of its rotation.

At block S606, bicycle200is moved towards rack100and bicycle200, including rear wheel214, is raised to position pedal axle208or pedal210over upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

At block S608, rear wheel214is lowered to rest on surface224and to engage pedal axle208or pedal210on upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, crank arm206may be positioned to point generally behind bicycle200and in a downward direction, and pedal axle208or pedal210may be placed above upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. Bicycle200may be lowered so that pedal axle208or pedal210may be physically contacted with upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. Bicycle200may be lowered until rear wheel214and front wheel216are resting on surface224. This may rotate crank arm206proximate to rack100to be pointed at a direction generally downward and behind bicycle200. An upward force, such as from a foot of a cyclist, may be applied to a pedal opposing pedal210to promote physical contact between pedal axle208or pedal210and upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. Pedal axle208or pedal210may apply a force to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b.

In some embodiments, pedal axle208or pedal210may be in physical contact with a marked spot on upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. When bicycle200is supported by rack100at the marked spot, bicycle200may be aligned relative to rack100to secure bicycle200on multiple points of rack100.

At block S610, rear wheel214may be raised off surface224and may be rotated in a reverse direction to remove slack from chain212. This may cause pedal axle208or pedal210to apply additional force to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. When rear wheel214is lowered to rest on surface224, this may maintain the force applied by pedal axle208or pedal210to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130b. The force applied by pedal axle208or pedal210to upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bmay create friction between pedal axle208or pedal210and upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bfor upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bto frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position. An equal and opposite force applied from upper edge132bof lower curb bar130bto pedal axle208or pedal210may apply a torque to chain ring204for counterbalancing a torque applied to chain ring204from rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction.

At block S612, bicycle200is held in a generally upright position by rack100.

At block S614, bicycle200may be secured and locked onto rack100at multiple points.

FIG. 17depicts a process8700for supporting bicycle200in a generally upright position with slots136on upper curb bar130aof rack100.

At block S702, bicycle200is positioned generally parallel to either side of rack100, bicycle200facing in either the forward or reverse direction.

At block S704, pedal axle208that is proximate to rack100may be positioned generally at the highest point of its rotation.

At block S706, bicycle200is lifted and pedal is raised to place pedal axle208over the desired slot136. In some embodiments, slot136may be located on upper edge132aof upper curb bar130a, for example, as depicted inFIG. 8.

At block S708, bicycle200is lowered to insert pedal axle208into slot136. Pedal axle208may be received in slot136but may not be resting on bottom of slot136. Crank arm206may be on one side of upper curb bar130a, and pedal210may be on the other side of upper curb bar130a. The width of slot136may be narrower than the diameter of crank arm206and the length or width of pedal210. Rear wheel214and front wheel216may be resting on surface224.

Lateral forces applied to bicycle200may be counteracted by upper curb bar130a. In some embodiments, the side surface of upper curb bar130amay apply a force on crank arm206or pedal210to counteract lateral forces applied to bicycle200.

When pedal axle208is received in slot136, edges of slot136may apply a force to pedal axle208to resist forward or reverse motion of bicycle200.

In some embodiments, rear wheel214may be raised off surface224and may be rotated in a reverse direction to remove slack from chain212. This may cause pedal axle208to apply force to the edge of slot136. When rear wheel214is lowered to rest on surface224, this may maintain the force applied by pedal axle208to slot136. The force applied by pedal axle208to slot136may create friction between pedal axle208and slot136for slot136to frictionally and/or torsionally hold bicycle200in a generally upright position. An equal and opposite force applied from slot136to pedal axle208may apply a torque to chain ring204for counterbalancing a torque applied to chain ring204from rotating rear wheel214in a reverse direction.

At block S710, bicycle200is held in a generally upright direction by rack100. This may allow bicycle200to be secured and locked onto rack100at multiple points.

The preceding discussion provides many example embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other examples may include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, may also be used.

Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein.

As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be exemplary only. The invention is defined by the appended claims.