Patent Description:
Bike trailers are known in the prior art. Such bike trailers are usually used to transport kids, pets or other loads to be transported. These bike trailers are often tailored to a single specific purpose, for example transporting kids. Thus, if a user wants to use such bike trailers for a different purpose, for example for transporting a good, this is in some bike carriers not possible at all or at least not without carrying out multiple steps. This may lead to an annoying and cumbersome experience for the user. Furthermore, known bike trailers that are usable for transporting passengers and other loads do not provide satisfying supporting capabilities for both loads and passengers. A further drawback of prior art bike trailers is that portions of a passenger seat are exposed to goods to be transported. Related background art can be found in <CIT>, which shows the features of the preamble of claim <NUM>, and <CIT>.

Thus, there is a need for an improved bike trailer that at least reduces some the above-mentioned drawbacks.

According to the present disclosure, a bike trailer according to independent claim <NUM> is provided. Advantageous further formations are subject of the dependent claims.

In addition, other desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the summary and detailed description, and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Disclosed is a bike trailer which is couplable to a bike. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "bike trailer" may be understood as a trailer which is at least configurable for being towed by a bike. Accordingly the term "bike trailer" may include trailers that are configured to be coupled to a bike but may also include trailers which can be rendered usable in connection with bikes by specific accessory equipment. Furthermore, the term "bike trailer" does not necessarily mean that such trailer is only usable as a trailer which is towable by a bike. Rather, the term shall also include carriers which comprise the primary function of being towed by a bike but may comprise a second function, for example the function of being used as a stroller. For that, the bike trailer may comprise a configuration which allows the detachable fixation of different members including for example a coupling unit or a supporting unit. The coupling unit may comprise a drawbar. The supporting unit may comprise a wheel. Furthermore, different adapter kits may be available for converting the bike trailer, for example a ski adapter kit which allows a person to tow the bike trailer in snow, a hiking adapter kit which allows a person to tow the bike trailer over rough terrain or a running adapter kit allowing the bike carrier to be pushed or pulled by a person.

According to embodiments, the bike trailer may comprise one of a main frame, a seat structure, a locking mechanism, a support arrangement and a fixation arrangement. In other words, a bike trailer may be provided which comprises one or more of the latter assemblies. These assemblies may be seen as functional building blocks that may be suitably combined for forming different embodiments. Furthermore, each of these assemblies may comprise one or more of the features that will be described in the summary, the detailed description and the claims in connection with the respective entity.

According to an embodiment, a bike trailer comprises a main frame and a seat structure. The main frame comprises a lower frame portion, a rear frame portion and two side frame portions provided on opposite lateral sides of the lower frame portion. Furthermore, the main frame may comprise an upper frame portion. The main frame defines an accommodating space for a passenger or a load to be transported. The main frame can comprise multiple frame members that are coupled to form the different frame portions. Such frame members may include elongate members, such as profiles, for example made of aluminum, and coupling members connecting such elongate members. It is noted that some of the frame members may be part of different ones of the above-mentioned frame portions. In other words, configurations are possible in which the different frame portions share one or more common elements.

The lower frame portion can comprise a rectangular configuration. Fixation devices such as fixation loops for fixing loads to be carried other than passengers may be arranged in corner regions of the lower frame portion. The lower frame portion may comprise two elongate members that may extend in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer. Such elongate members may also be referred to as longitudinal members. The longitudinal members may be coupled to each other at end portions thereof, for example by means of elongate members which extend in cross direction, for example perpendicular to the longitudinal members. The elongate members extending in cross direction may also be referred to as cross members. At least one of the cross members may be integrally formed with the longitudinal members. For example, a portion of the lower frame portion may be configured by bending an elongate member into U-shape in which legs form the longitudinal members and the bridging portion connecting the legs forms a cross member. A cross member which couples the forward end portions of the longitudinal members may be arranged such that it mainly extends at a lower height compared to other elongate members of the lower frame portion. The cross member which couples the forward end portions will also be referred to as front cross member of the lower frame portion. The front cross member may be arranged below the longitudinal members and may be coupled to the end portions of the longitudinal members from below. The front cross member may comprise a U-shape with its free ends being coupled to longitudinal member, respectively.

The rear frame portion may be configured by two support assemblies that are oriented in height direction when the bike trailer is in use. Each support assembly may comprise an elongate member. Each support assembly may be configured foldable. Each support assembly may comprise a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portions of the support assemblies may be coupled to each other by means of a support structure. The upper portion may be coupled to the lower portion by means of a pivot configuration. The pivot configuration may be configured to be releasably lockable. Accordingly, the pivot configuration may comprise a coupling unit for pivotably coupling a first end portion of the upper portion with a first end portion of the lower portion. Furthermore, the coupling unit comprises a blocking arrangement which allows to block a movement of the upper portion with respect to the lower portion when the rear frame portion is in an unfolded state. Such a blocking arrangement may comprise an engaging member which is engageable with a receiving portion formed in the upper portion and/or the lower portion.

The upper frame portion may comprise two elongate members which mainly extend in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer. The elongate members may be formed convex. Furthermore, the elongate members may extend in parallel. Front end portions of the two elongate members may be pivotably coupled to front end portions of the lower frame portion by means of hinge mechanisms. Rear end portions of the elongate members can be pivotably coupled to second end portions of upper portions of the rear frame portion. A handle portion may be coupled the rear end portions of the elongate members. The upper frame portion may further comprise a cross member fixedly coupling the rear end portions of the elongate members.

Each side frame portion may be formed by components already mentioned before in connection with the lower frame portion, the rear frame portion and the upper frame portion. For example, a first side frame portion may be formed by one elongate member of the lower frame portion, one support assembly of the rear frame portion and one elongate member of the upper frame portion.

The seat structure is configured transferable between an operational state and stowed state. The operational state is a state in which the seat structure forms a seating area for a passenger. The stowed state is a state in which the seat structure is folded away thereby allowing the transport of loads other than passengers. Instead of folding the seat structure away, it is also conceivable to completely remove the entire seat structure or at least portions thereof and to stow the removed parts remotely. The seat structure comprises a backrest portion. Furthermore, the seat structure may comprise a bottom support portion. Optionally, the seat structure may further comprise a footrest portion. The seat structure may be configured from multiple parts that are attached to each other or may at least partially be integrally formed. For example, the basic structure of the seat structure including a bottom support portion and backrest portion may be integrally formed whereas further elements of the seat structure, for example harness straps, maybe detachably coupled to such basic structure. The seat structure or at least the above-mentioned basic structure can comprise a fabric. Furthermore, the seat structure may comprise padded portions for comfortably supporting a passenger to be transported therein. The seat structure may be configured to be attached in the main frame in a suspended manner. The backrest portion comprises a seating side for at least partially contacting the passenger, in particular the back of the passenger. The backrest portion is accommodatable in the bike trailer such that at least the seating side of the backrest portion is protected against contact with loads to be carried when the seat structure is in the stowed state.

The main frame may comprise at least a first fixation portion for coupling an end portion of the backrest portion to the main frame. The seat structure may be in the operational state when the end portion is coupled to the first fixation portion.

The main frame may further comprise a second fixation portion for coupling the end portion of the backrest portion to the main frame, for example such that when the end portion is coupled to the second fixation portion the seat structure is in the stowed state. It is noted that the first fixation portion and the second fixation portion may each comprise or consist of multiple members which jointly form the first fixation portion and the second fixation portion, respectively. Such members do not have to be positioned close to each other. Rather, the first fixation portion and the second fixation portion may comprise members at different positions on the main frame, for example one member on one lateral side of the main frame and one member on the opposite lateral side of the main frame. One member of the first fixation portion may be provided on a first side frame portion and another member of the first fixation portion may be provided on a second side frame portion. Accordingly, the first fixation portion and the second fixation portion may each be configured as mechanisms allowing to couple the end portion of the backrest to the main frame.

The bike trailer may further comprise a cross member for coupling the end portion of the backrest to the main frame. Each fixation portion may be configured to detachably receive the cross member. The cross member may be a flexible or a rigid member. For example, the cross member may be a fabric suspendably fixable to the fixation portions and to end portions thereof. The cross member may comprise a cross bar. The cross bar may comprise a profile element, for example an extruded profile element. The cross bar may comprise a hollow profile. In an embodiment, the cross bar may be formed hollow cylindrical. For example, the cross bar may be a tubular member. The profile element can be manufactured from aluminum extrusion. The cross bar can be straight or may comprise a curved shape at least in sections thereof.

At least the first fixation portion may comprise a locking mechanism for releasably locking the cross member to the main frame. The locking mechanism may comprise receiving portion and a locking portion. The locking portion is transferable between a locking state and a release state. The locking portion can be configured to act as a stop when the locking mechanism is in the locking state. The locking portion can be configured to positively lock the cross member in the receiving portion in the locking state. Different configurations are available. For example, the locking portion may be configured engageable with the cross member. For that, the locking portion may be formed as a protrusion engageable with a recess formed in the cross member. The locking portion may be configured as blocking member which is movable to a position in which the locking portion serves as a stop blocking a movement of the cross member in a dismounting direction. In the release state, the locking portion may be retracted so as to allow a detachment of the cross member from the receiving portion.

The locking mechanism may further comprise an operating portion. The operating portion may be configured to be manually operable by a user. The locking portion may be operatively coupled to the operating portion. For that, the locking portion and the operating portion may be integrally formed in a single member or the locking portion and the operating portion may be force transmittingly coupled to each other by means of a force transfer mechanism. Such a force transfer mechanism may comprise bendable force transfer members such as a wire, for example a Bowden cable, or may comprise rigid force transfer members for example torsion bars and/or tie rods. The operating portion may be a pushbutton or a lever portion, for instance.

The locking portion may be prebiased towards the locking state by means of an urging member. The urging member can comprise a spring, for example a coil spring.

The locking portion and the operating portion may be integrally formed as a lever. The lever may be pivotably arranged on the main frame. For example, the lever may be pivotably arranged on the main frame such that the locking portion is transferable from the locking state into the release state by a pivoting movement of the locking portion towards the receiving portion. The lever may be coupled to the main frame such that the pivot axis thereof extends in cross direction of the bike trailer. For example, the pivot pin defining the pivot axis may extend in parallel with a rear cross member of the lower frame portion. If the configuration is provided as mentioned before, it is prevented that a force applied on the locking portion by an inserted cross member may lead to a disengagement of the cross member from the locking portion. The locking portion may be movable between a locking position in which it protrudes into an insertion path of the cross member and a release position in which it is retracted and does not protrude into the insertion path. The movement may be a pivoting movement. The locking position can be defined by an abutment. Since the release state can be achieved only by a pivoting movement of the locking portion towards the receiving portion and since a movement of the locking portion in opposite direction is blocked when the locking portion is in the locking position the locking mechanism comprises a self-locking capability.

The first fixation portion can be provided on the rear frame portion. The rear frame portion can be collapsible. The first fixation portion can be provided on an upper end portion of the rear frame portion. However, the first fixation portion can also be provided on a rear end portion of the upper frame portion. The first fixation portion can be arranged adjacent to or near a coupling portion for coupling the handle portion to the main frame.

The second fixation portion can be provided at a forward portion of the lower frame portion, for example at a forward end portion of the lower frame portion.

At least the first fixation portion can comprise a first coupling section provided on the main frame on one lateral side of the accommodating space and a second coupling section provided on the main frame on an opposite lateral side of the accommodating space. The locking mechanism may be provided in one of the first coupling section and the second coupling section.

The bike trailer further comprises an adjustable support arrangement transferable between loading state and a stowed state. In the loading state, the support arrangement extends over the majority of the lower frame portion of the main frame thereby providing a load carrying surface. In the stowed state, the support arrangement extends over a smaller portion of the lower frame portion and may only provide a smaller carrying surface. For example, a configuration may be provided in which in a loading state the support arrangement extends over more than <NUM>% of the lower frame portion and provides a load carrying surface of a specific length. In the stowed state, the support arrangement may provide a carrying surface of a smaller length.

The bike carrier may further be configured such that in the stowed state the seat structure is accommodated in the lower frame portion such that it is at least partially covered by the support arrangement when the same is in the loading state.

The adjustable support arrangement may be configured to extend over a smaller portion of the lower frame portion when the seat structure is in the operational state and may be configured to at least partially support the backrest portion when the seat structure is in the operational state. Accordingly, a portion of the adjustable support arrangement which is not used for the purpose of carrying and supporting loads in the stowed state may assist in supporting portion of the backrest.

The support arrangement may comprise segments. The segments can be pivotably coupled to each other or may be separate segments that are arranged adjacent to each other to provide the loading state. One or more of the segments may be formed flat and rigid. If the segments are pivotably coupled to each other, such a configuration may be provided by a fabric into which multiple flat and rigid supporting elements are integrated, for example sewn. In addition or alternatively, the bike trailer may comprise a fixation arrangement for releasably arresting the support arrangement on the lower frame portion at least in the loading state. The fixation arrangement may comprise fasteners, such as Velcro fasteners, and/or may comprise at least one engaging member configured to releasably engage with a portion of the support arrangement. Such an engaging member may comprise a latching portion configured to engage with, or partially surround a portion of the support arrangement.

Additional features and advantages of the above embodiments may be gleaned by the person skilled in the art from the following description of exemplary embodiments which are not to be construed as limiting.

The present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements.

All Figures are only schematic depictions of exemplary embodiments in which, in particular, distances and dimensional correlations are not presented to scale.

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background or summary or the following detailed description.

<FIG> show different views of a bike trailer <NUM> according to an embodiment. The bike trailer <NUM> may comprise a main frame <NUM> defining an accommodating space <NUM> for a passenger or a load to be transported. The main frame <NUM> may comprise one of a lower frame portion <NUM>, a rear frame portion <NUM>, two side frame portions <NUM>, <NUM> and an upper frame portion <NUM>.

According to the embodiment, a handle portion <NUM> may be coupled to the main frame <NUM> at a rear upper end portion <NUM> of the main frame <NUM>. The handle portion <NUM> may comprise a handlebar <NUM> which is coupled to the main frame <NUM> by means of a pivot configuration. More precisely, the handle portion <NUM> may comprise a hinge mechanism <NUM> which couples the handlebar <NUM> to the main frame <NUM> such that the handlebar <NUM> is pivotable about a horizontal axis, more precisely a horizontal axis which is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the bike trailer <NUM>. The hinge mechanism <NUM> may define a corresponding pivot axis and may further comprise a locking mechanism which allows to releasably lock the handlebar <NUM> at a desired rotational position.

According to the embodiment, the lower frame portion <NUM> may comprise a rectangular configuration. More precisely, the lower frame portion <NUM> may comprise two elongate sections exemplary embodied as elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> that may comprise a profile. The elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may extend in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer <NUM> and may form side sections of the lower frame portion <NUM>. The elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may also referred to as longitudinal members. The elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled to each other at end portions thereof. In the present configuration, the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled to each other by means of elongate cross members, more precisely a first, front cross member <NUM> and a second, rear cross member <NUM>. Both cross members <NUM>, <NUM> may extend cross to the extension direction of the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. The rear cross member <NUM> may be integrally formed with the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. The front cross member <NUM> may couple the forward end portions of the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> and may extend below the longitudinal members. In other words, the front cross member <NUM> may be coupled to the forward end portions of the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> at a lower portion of the same. In this way, a receiving space <NUM> may be created between the forward end portions allowing to accommodate a cross member <NUM> that will be described later in greater detail.

The rear frame portion <NUM> may comprise two support assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> oriented in height direction when the bike carrier is in a use state, which means in a state in which the rear frame portion <NUM> is unfolded or deployed. Each support assembly <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured foldable or collapsible. Each support assembly may comprise a lower portion <NUM>, <NUM> and an upper portion <NUM>, <NUM>. The lower portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the support assemblies may be coupled to each other by means of a support structure <NUM>. First end portions of the upper portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled to first end portions of the lower portions <NUM>, <NUM> by means of hinge mechanisms <NUM>, <NUM>. Second end portions of the lower portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to a rear end portion of the lower frame portion <NUM>. Second end portions of the upper portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to a rear end portion of the upper frame portion <NUM>.

The upper frame portion <NUM> may comprise two elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> which mainly extend in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer <NUM>. The elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed convex. Furthermore, the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may extend in parallel. Front end portions of the two elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to front end portions of the lower frame portion <NUM> by means of hinge mechanisms <NUM>, <NUM>. Rear end portions of the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the second end portions of the upper portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, the handle portion <NUM> may also be coupled to the rear end portions of the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. The upper frame portion <NUM> may further comprise an optional cross member <NUM> fixedly coupling the rear end portions of the elongate members <NUM>.

Each side frame portion <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed by components already mentioned before in connection with the lower frame portion <NUM>, the rear frame portion <NUM> and the upper frame portion <NUM>. For example, a first side frame portion <NUM> may be formed by the elongate member <NUM> of the lower frame portion <NUM>, the support assembly <NUM> of the rear frame portion <NUM> and the elongate member <NUM> of the upper frame portion <NUM>. Similarly, a second side frame portion <NUM> may be formed by the elongate member <NUM> of the lower frame portion <NUM>, the support assembly <NUM> of the rear frame portion <NUM> and the elongate member <NUM> of the upper frame portion <NUM>.

As is further shown in <FIG>, the main frame <NUM> may comprise a first fixation portion <NUM> and a second fixation portion <NUM>. The first fixation portion <NUM> and the second fixation portion <NUM> may be configured for detachably receiving a cross member <NUM>. In the embodiment, the cross member <NUM> may comprise a cross bar <NUM> which is configured to be held between the side frame portions <NUM>, <NUM>. The first fixation portion <NUM> and the second fixation portion <NUM> may be provided as distinct fixation portions each allowing the fixation of the cross member <NUM>. In other words, the cross member <NUM> may be mounted on the main frame <NUM> at two different positions.

The first fixation portion <NUM> may be provided at an upper end portion of the rear frame portion <NUM>. More precisely, according to an embodiment, the first fixation portion <NUM> may be provided at the upper portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the rear frame portion <NUM>. It is, however, noted that the first fixation portion <NUM> may be provided at a different position in the main frame <NUM>. The first fixation portion <NUM> may comprise a first coupling section <NUM> and a second coupling section <NUM>. The first coupling section <NUM> may be coupled to the upper portion <NUM> of the rear frame portion <NUM>. The second coupling section <NUM> may be coupled to the upper portion <NUM> of the rear frame portion <NUM>. The first coupling section <NUM> and the second coupling section <NUM> may be configured to detachably receive end portions of the cross member <NUM>. Thus, the cross member <NUM> may be held between the first coupling section <NUM> and the second coupling section <NUM> in a suspended manner and such that it may extend in cross direction of the bike trailer <NUM>.

The second fixation portion <NUM> may be provided at a forward end portion of the main frame <NUM>, for example at a forward end portion of the lower frame portion <NUM>. The second fixation portion <NUM> may comprise a first coupling section <NUM> and a second coupling section <NUM>. The first coupling section <NUM> may be coupled to a forward end portion of the elongate member <NUM> and the second coupling section <NUM> may be coupled to a forward end portion of the elongate member <NUM>. The first coupling section <NUM> and the second coupling section <NUM> may also be configured to detachably receive end portions of the cross member <NUM>. Accordingly, the cross member <NUM> may be held between the first coupling section <NUM> and the second coupling section <NUM> in a suspended manner and such that it extends in cross direction of the bike trailer <NUM>. According to an embodiment, the extension directions of the cross member <NUM> at the first fixation portion <NUM> and the second fixation portion <NUM> may be parallel with respect to each other.

The configuration allows to detachably fix the cross member <NUM> either at a rear upper end portion of the main frame <NUM> or at a front lower end portion of the main frame <NUM>. A detachably fixed cross member <NUM> positioned in the first fixation portion <NUM> is shown in <FIG>. A detachably fixed cross member <NUM> provided at the second fixation portion <NUM> is indicated with dashed lines.

The bike trailer <NUM> may further comprise a coupling unit <NUM> which may be configured to couple the main frame <NUM> to a bike. The coupling unit <NUM> may comprise a drawbar <NUM>. A bike fixation device <NUM> may be provided at a first end of the drawbar <NUM>. A second end of the drawbar <NUM> may be detachably received in a coupling device <NUM>. The coupling device <NUM> may be provided on a forward end portion of the elongate member <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the coupling device <NUM> may further be configured to detachably fix an auxiliary wheel <NUM> on the main frame <NUM> for converting the bike trailer into a stroller. Furthermore, the bike trailer <NUM> may comprise main wheels <NUM>, <NUM> that are provided on opposite lateral sides of the main frame <NUM>.

The bike trailer <NUM> further comprises a seat structure <NUM> as is best seen in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>. All of the latter mentioned Figures are sectional side views from the left side of the bike trailer <NUM> with a sectional plane extending vertically and in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer <NUM> and parallel to a vertical longitudinal middle plane. The seat structure <NUM> may comprise a bottom support portion <NUM> and a backrest portion <NUM>. Optionally, the seat structure <NUM> may comprise a footrest portion <NUM>. The bottom support portion <NUM> may mainly extend in longitudinal direction of the bike trailer <NUM> and may be provided at the same height as the lower frame portion <NUM>. The bottom support portion <NUM> may be coupled to the lower frame portion <NUM>, for example in a suspended manner such that it may extend between the elongate members <NUM>, <NUM>. A first end portion <NUM> of the backrest portion <NUM> may be coupled to a rear portion <NUM> of the bottom support portion <NUM> or may be integrally formed with the bottom support portion <NUM>. A second end portion <NUM> of the backrest portion <NUM> may be coupled or integrally formed with the cross member <NUM>. The backrest portion <NUM> may be made from a fabric or may at least comprise one or more fabric portions. The second end portion <NUM> may be sewn to the cross member <NUM> or fixedly mounted thereto in a different manner. According to the embodiment, the cross member <NUM> may be coupled to the second end portion <NUM> such that end portions thereof protrude from opposite sides of the second end portion <NUM>. The seat structure <NUM> may further comprise a harness arrangement <NUM> which may comprise harness straps <NUM> four securing a passenger to be transported. The harness arrangement <NUM> is configured such that the harness straps <NUM> are provided on a seating side <NUM> of the backrest portion <NUM>. The seating side is configured to at least partially contact the back of a passenger.

As already mentioned before, the cross member <NUM> may be selectively detachably mountable at the first fixation portion <NUM> and at the second fixation portion <NUM>. Accordingly, the position of the second end portion <NUM> of the seat structure <NUM> may be changed. Due to the overall configuration as described before, the seat structure <NUM> may thus be folded by changing the position of the cross member <NUM>. If the cross member <NUM> is detachably fixed on the first fixation portion <NUM>, the seat structure is in an operational state in which the seat structure <NUM> forms a seating area for the passenger. If the cross member <NUM> is detachably fixed on the second fixation portion <NUM>, the seat structure <NUM> is in a stowed state in which the seat structure <NUM> is folded away thereby allowing the transport of loads other than passengers. <FIG> shows a configuration in which the seat structure <NUM> is in the operational state. <FIG> and <FIG> show configurations in which the seat structure <NUM> is in the stowed state. In the stowed state, a rear surface <NUM> of the backrest portion <NUM> faces upwards and, in some embodiments, may be used for supporting a load in the bike trailer <NUM>.

The first fixation portion <NUM> may comprise a locking mechanism <NUM> for releasably locking the cross member <NUM> to the main frame <NUM>. Optionally, the cross member <NUM> may comprise a locking mechanism which is able to engage end portions of the cross member <NUM> with the main frame <NUM>. Such a locking mechanism may comprise retractable engaging members in end portions of the cross member <NUM> which are configured, for example prebiased, to normally protrude from the end portions and which may be retracted through operation of an operating mechanism, for example a push or squeeze button provided on the cross member <NUM>.

The construction of the first fixation portion <NUM> and of the locking mechanism <NUM> according to an embodiment will be further described with reference to <FIG> shows an enlarged view of the first coupling section <NUM> provided on the main frame on one lateral side of the accommodating space <NUM>. <FIG> shows an enlarged view of the second coupling section <NUM> provided on the main frame <NUM> on an opposite lateral side of the accommodating space <NUM>. As is further shown in <FIG>, the locking mechanism <NUM> may be provided in the first coupling section <NUM>.

The locking mechanism <NUM> may comprise a receiving portion <NUM> and a locking portion <NUM>. The locking portion <NUM> may be transferable between a locking position and a release position. In the locking state, the locking portion <NUM> acts as a stop thereby positively locking the cross member <NUM> in the receiving portion <NUM>. In the release state, the locking portion <NUM> is retracted and allows a detachment of the cross member <NUM> from the receiving portion <NUM>. The locking portion <NUM> may be operatively coupled to an operating portion <NUM> which is operable by a user. The locking portion <NUM> may be prebiased towards the locking state by means of an urging member <NUM> embodied as a spring in the present embodiment. In the embodiment, the locking portion <NUM> and the operating portion <NUM> are integrally formed as a lever <NUM>. The lever <NUM> may be pivotably arranged on the main frame <NUM>. More precisely, the lever <NUM> may be pivotably arranged such that the locking portion <NUM> is transferable from the locking state into the release state by a pivoting movement of the locking portion <NUM> towards the receiving portion <NUM>. A pivoting axis about which the locking portion <NUM> is pivotable may be arranged in parallel with the extension direction of the cross bar <NUM> when the same is inserted in the receiving portion <NUM>. The receiving portion <NUM> may comprise a substantially C-shaped recess which is open towards the rear end side of the bike trailer <NUM>. A lower portion of the lever <NUM> may be formed as operating portion <NUM>. If a user wants to detach the cross member <NUM> from the first fixation portion <NUM>, the user needs to first pull the operating portion <NUM> in rear direction in order to rotate the locking portion <NUM> in a direction towards the receiving portion <NUM> and finally into a release position such that the locking mechanism <NUM> is in a release state. After that, the end portion of the cross member <NUM> may be pulled out of the receiving portion <NUM> in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the cross member <NUM>.

According to the embodiment, the second coupling section <NUM> may be configured differently and may not comprise a locking mechanism. Rather, the second coupling section <NUM> may comprise a cup-shaped receiving portion <NUM> which is fixed to the rear frame portion <NUM> by means of a coupling member <NUM>. An opening of the receiving portion <NUM> may be oriented towards the first coupling section <NUM> so that an end portion of the cross member <NUM> can be inserted into the cup shaped receiving portion <NUM> first by moving the same in longitudinal direction. As soon as the end portion is inserted in the cup-shaped receiving portion <NUM>, the end portion and the cup-shaped receiving portion <NUM> cooperate so as to form a joint similar to a ball joint. The opposite end portion of the cross member <NUM> can then be inserted into the receiving portion <NUM> by pivoting the cross member <NUM> about the cup-shaped receiving portion <NUM>.

As is shown in <FIG>, a possible configuration of a second coupling section <NUM> is shown. The second coupling section <NUM> may be formed similar to the receiving portion <NUM> and may comprise a C-shaped receiving portion <NUM>. Accordingly, the second coupling section <NUM> may comprise a receiving portion which allows to insert an end portion of the cross member <NUM> by moving the same in radial direction or in a direction cross to the main extension direction of the cross member <NUM>. In order to securely hold the end portions of the cross member <NUM> in the second coupling section <NUM>, the receiving portion <NUM> may comprise end portions <NUM>, <NUM> defining an insertion opening <NUM> between them. The end portions <NUM>, <NUM> can be formed flexible and can comprise protrusions <NUM>, <NUM> slightly reducing the size of the opening. With such a configuration, the end portion of the cross member <NUM> may snap into the receiving portion <NUM>. It is noted that the first coupling section <NUM> may be formed in a similar manner on an opposite side of the main frame <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a support arrangement <NUM> may be provided for covering the seat structure in the stowed state. Alternatively, such a support arrangement <NUM> may be provided for covering a lower portion of the accommodating space <NUM> or simply for providing a suitable supporting surface for supporting loads. The support arrangement <NUM> may also be used for bike trailers with a different seat structure as long as the seat structure may be brought into a state which allows covering the seat structure or may even be used in connection with bike trailers in which the seat structure is removable for transporting loads. Furthermore, it is noted that in case such a support arrangement <NUM> is used in connection with a seat structure, for example the seat structure as described above, it is not necessary to detachably fix the cross member <NUM> at the second fixation portion <NUM>. Rather, it is also possible to merely detach the cross member <NUM> from the first fixation portion <NUM> and to fold the backrest portion <NUM> down such that it is possible to cover the same using the support arrangement <NUM>. Thus, in a modification of the bike trailer <NUM>, the second fixation portion <NUM> may be omitted.

The support arrangement <NUM> may be adjustable and may be for example transferable between a loading state in which the support arrangement extends over a majority of the lower frame portion <NUM> of the main frame and a stowed state in which the support arrangement <NUM> extends over a smaller portion of the lower frame portion. In this way, the support arrangement <NUM> may provide differently sized supporting areas. In the stowed state, the seat structure <NUM> may be accommodated in the lower frame portion <NUM> such that it is at least partially covered by the support arrangement <NUM> when the same is in the loading state. The support arrangement <NUM> may be configured foldable. For that, the support arrangement <NUM> may comprise multiple segments <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that may be pivotably coupled to each other. Each segment may be formed flat and rigid. For securely holding the support arrangement <NUM> on the lower frame portion <NUM>, the main frame <NUM> may comprise a fixation arrangement <NUM> for releasably arresting the support arrangement <NUM>. The fixation arrangement may comprise a fastener, for example a Velcro fastener. In addition or alternatively, the fixation arrangement <NUM> may comprise an engaging member <NUM> which is configured to releasably engage with a portion of the support arrangement <NUM> as is shown in <FIG>. The engaging member <NUM> may comprise a latching portion <NUM> configured to partially surround a portion of the support arrangement <NUM>. As is further shown in <FIG> the support arrangement <NUM> may comprise a cutout or recess <NUM> in an edge portion thereof providing accessibility to a fixation portion <NUM> on the lower frame portion <NUM>.

In the stowed state, the support arrangement <NUM>, more precisely the segments thereof, may be stacked upon each other in order to allow stowing them in a space-saving manner. This is for example shown in <FIG>, <FIG>. For example, the segments may be accommodated in a space behind the backrest portion <NUM>. However, according to modifications of the bike trailer <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, at least one segment <NUM> or all segments <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> that are normally used for covering the backrest portion <NUM> when the same is in the stowed state, may be used for providing an additional support for the backrest portion <NUM>. <FIG> shows a configuration in which an end portion of the support arrangement <NUM> is coupled to a rear upper end portion of the main frame <NUM> in such a manner that the backrest portion <NUM> is supported by the segments from behind. <FIG> shows a configuration in which only the foremost segment <NUM> provides an additional support of a lower portion of the backrest portion <NUM>.

In conclusion, it is pointed out that the terms like "comprising" or the like are not intended to rule out the provision of additional elements or steps. Let it further be noted that "a" or "an" do not preclude a plurality. In addition, features described in conjunction with the different embodiments can be combined with each other however desired. It is also noted that the reference numbers in the claims are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Moreover, while at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing summary and detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist.

Claim 1:
A bike trailer (<NUM>) comprising
a main frame (<NUM>) comprising a lower frame portion (<NUM>), a rear frame portion (<NUM>) and two side frame portions (<NUM>, <NUM>) provided on opposite lateral sides of said lower frame portion (<NUM>), said main frame (<NUM>) defining an accommodating space (<NUM>) for a passenger or load to be transported, and
a seat structure (<NUM>) transferable between
an operational state in which said seat structure (<NUM>) forms a seating area for said passenger, and
a stowed state in which said seat structure (<NUM>) is folded away thereby allowing the transport of loads other than passengers,
wherein said seat structure (<NUM>) comprises a backrest portion (<NUM>) with a seating side (<NUM>) for at least partially contacting the back of a passenger, and
wherein said backrest portion (<NUM>) is accommodatable in said bike trailer (<NUM>) such that at least said seating side (<NUM>) of said backrest portion (<NUM>) is protected against contact with loads to be carried when said seat structure (<NUM>) is in said stowed state, characterised by
further comprising an adjustable support arrangement (<NUM>) transferable between a loading state in which said support arrangement (<NUM>) extends over a majority of said lower frame portion (<NUM>) of said main frame (<NUM>) thereby providing a load carrying surface (<NUM>) and a stowed state in which said support arrangement (<NUM>) extends over a smaller portion of said lower frame portion (<NUM>).