Description:Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention relates to a cycle rack system, wherein said rack is equipped with specialized charging spots for electric bicycles. Said system facilitates secure bicycle parking and retrieval through registration via a scanned QR code and a one-time password sent to a previously registered phone number.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In the urban mobility, a surge in the use of electric bicycles has been observed, spurred by escalating environmental concerns and the collective pursuit of healthier lifestyles. As cities evolve to incorporate more sustainable transportation options, the integration of electric bicycles into the urban infrastructure has become pivotal. However, the widespread adoption of electric bicycles presents a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning storage and security. Traditional bicycle racks are often inadequate for these modern conveyances, primarily because they fail to address the need for charging electric bicycles, a critical feature for maintaining their operational readiness.
Existing cycle rack systems have numerous shortcomings. Primarily, these systems do not provide mechanisms for securely docking and charging electric bicycles simultaneously. Electric bicycles, being considerably more valuable than their non-electric counterparts, are more susceptible to theft and vandalism if not adequately secured. Moreover, conventional docking solutions do not cater to the technological integration that modern users expect. For example, they lack the ability to interactively register a user or to provide security features that are engaged electronically via mobile communication technologies. Such deficiencies underscore the limited functionality of current bicycle storage facilities, rendering them obsolete in the face of evolving user needs and technological advancements.
Additionally, the absence of a robust registration and locking mechanism in current systems exposes electric bicycles to potential security risks. The prevalent models typically employ primitive lock-and-key systems, which do not offer the level of security needed to prevent theft. These systems are often easy to tamper with, and they do not provide users with the peace of mind that comes from more sophisticated, digitally-enhanced security measures. The need for a system that incorporates an efficient charging capability, coupled with enhanced security protocols that utilize modern technology, is therefore distinctly evident.
In light of these challenges, there emerges a pressing need for a cycle rack system that not only accommodates electric bicycles but also addresses the integral aspects of charging and security. Such a system should ideally offer secure docking stations that are capable of charging the electric bicycles while docked.
All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
Summary

The disclosure relates to a cycle rack system comprising: a plurality of docking stations, each docking station configured to receive and secure an electric bicycle; a charging unit associated with each of said docking stations, said charging unit operable to charge an electric bicycle when docked at any of said docking stations; a registration unit operatively coupled to said docking stations, said registration unit configured to display a Quick Response (QR) code and to receive a mobile phone number from a user; a locking unit integrated with each of said docking stations, said locking unit activated upon registration of said mobile phone number and engagement of an electric bicycle with said docking station; a communication unit configured to send a One-Time Password (OTP) to said registered mobile phone number, said OTP enabling the release of said locking unit to permit removal of the electric bicycle from said docking station; and wherein said registration unit, said locking unit, and said communication unit are cooperatively structured to provide a secure parking spot for the electric bicycle by restricting access to the electric bicycle docked at said docking station to a user having access to said OTP sent to said registered mobile phone number.
In an embodiment, wherein each of said docking stations further comprises a solar panel operatively connected to said charging unit, said solar panel positioned at a fixed angle of 25 degrees relative to the horizontal to optimize exposure to sunlight for charging the electric bicycle.
In an embodiment, wherein said solar tracking system is programmed to return said solar panel to the fixed angle of 25 degrees upon cessation of charging activities.
In an embodiment, further comprising a user interface operatively coupled to said registration unit, said user interface configured to allow a user to select a specific docking station from said plurality of docking stations.
In an embodiment, wherein said user interface is further configured to display the battery level of the electric bicycle currently being charged.
In an embodiment, wherein said locking unit includes a biometric scanner to provide additional security measures in conjunction with said OTP.
In an embodiment, wherein said locking unit is configured to send a notification to said registered mobile phone number upon successful locking and charging initiation of the electric bicycle.
In an embodiment, wherein said communication unit is configured to send an expiration alert of said OTP to said registered mobile phone number if the electric bicycle is not removed within a predetermined time frame.
In an embodiment, wherein said registration unit, said locking unit, and said communication unit utilize an encrypted communication protocol to enhance the security of data transmission between said units and said registered mobile phone number.
Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

Field of the Invention

Fig. 1 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for securing and releasing a bicycle utilizing a digital authentication process, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Fig. 2 illustrates an apparatus for cycle rack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description

The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to 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, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
The disclosed invention details a cycle rack system that addresses the dual needs of security and energy efficiency in the context of electric bicycle usage. The cycle rack comprises multiple docking stations, each specifically configured to accommodate and safeguard an electric bicycle. Such docking stations include an integrated charging unit, which is operable to supply power to an electric bicycle while it is docked.
The described cycle rack system includes a registration unit. This registration unit is operatively linked to the docking stations and is responsible for controlling access. The registration unit is capable of displaying a Quick Response (QR) code, which is intended to be scanned by users seeking to utilize the docking station. Upon scanning the QR code, users are prompted to register a computing device such as mobile phone number. The significance of this step is twofold: it activates the locking unit at the docking station and secures the engagement of the electric bicycle.
Once the mobile phone number is registered and the electric bicycle is secured in the docking station, the locking unit is engaged. This is a critical security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the electric bicycle. The system's communication unit plays a pivotal role at this juncture by sending a One-Time Password (OTP) to the registered mobile phone number. The receipt of this OTP is essential for the user, as it is the means by which the locking unit can be released, thereby permitting the retrieval of the electric bicycle from the docking station.
Furthermore, each docking station within the cycle rack system is augmented with a solar panel. Said solar panel is a vital component of the charging unit and is strategically positioned at a fixed angle of 25 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. This precise inclination is chosen to maximize the exposure to sunlight, thereby optimizing the charging process for the electric bicycle.
An embodiment of the cycle rack system includes an automated solar tracking system. This system is adeptly programmed to adjust the solar panel's orientation to track the movement of the sun across the sky, enhancing the efficiency of the charging process. However, upon the cessation of charging activities, said solar tracking system is designed to revert the solar panel to the predetermined angle of 25 degrees. This ensures that the solar panels are always returned to an optimal resting position, ready for the next charging cycle.
The charging process is complemented by a registration unit which enables a user-friendly interface, displaying a QR code to be scanned by users, thereby initiating a secure transaction. Upon scanning, the registration unit is structured to receive a mobile phone number from the user, activating a locking unit that secures the electric bicycle at the docking station. This process deters theft and ensures that the electric bicycle remains safely docked during the charging period.
Additionally, the cycle rack system features a solar tracking system that is programmed to return the solar panel to the fixed angle of 25 degrees once the charging activities have ceased. This ensures that the solar panels are consistently returned to the optimal position for energy collection, thereby maintaining the system's readiness for subsequent charging cycles. This aspect of the system serves to maximize the utility of the solar panels throughout the day and across varying weather conditions.
The cycle rack system includes a plurality of docking stations, each equipped with an individual charging unit and a locking mechanism. The user interface is operatively coupled to a registration unit, which facilitates the selection of a specific docking station by a user from the available array.
In one embodiment, said user interface is advanced to the extent that it can display real-time information regarding the battery level of an electric bicycle that is currently engaged in charging. This feature ensures that users are kept informed about the charging status of their bicycles, enabling them to manage their time effectively while waiting for the charging process to complete.
The cycle rack system is the integration of a biometric scanner within the locking unit. This scanner operates in tandem with a One-Time Password (OTP) mechanism, thereby providing a dual authentication process that significantly enhances the security of the parked electric bicycles.
Furthering the system’s security measures, the locking unit is configured to dispatch a notification to the registered mobile phone number of the user upon the successful locking of an electric bicycle and the initiation of its charging. This serves as a confirmation to the user that the electric bicycle is secured and charging has commenced.
The communication unit of the cycle rack system is configured to transmit an expiration alert to the registered mobile phone number in the event that the electric bicycle is not retrieved within a predetermined time frame after the OTP has been issued.
Additionally, the registration unit, the locking unit, and the communication unit are all endowed with an encrypted communication protocol. The implementation of such encryption is designed to protect the integrity of data transmission between the user's mobile device and the cycle rack system, thereby safeguarding the user's personal information and ensuring a secure transactional environment. This encrypted protocol is fundamental in maintaining user trust, especially in a context where personal mobile phone numbers are integral to the system's operation.
The “communication unit” is configured to manage data transmission and reception related to security operations. Included within said unit are a microprocessor, a transceiver for wireless communication, and non-volatile memory modules that store operational software and data encryption keys. Said software, when executed by the microprocessor, facilitates the encoding and decoding of communications using advanced encryption standards. Additionally, this unit is equipped with an interface for wired connectivity, allowing integration with peripheral security components.
The “registration unit” initializes and validate user access credentials. This unit contains a biometric scanner, an alphanumeric keypad, and a digital display, all interfaced with a local database system housed on a secure server. The biometric scanner is capable of processing fingerprints, retinal patterns, or facial recognition data, while the alphanumeric keypad permits manual entry of user credentials. User data is authenticated against said database using cryptographic verification methods, ensuring secure and reliable identity confirmation.
The “locking unit” is equipped to engage and disengage a physical barrier under electronic command. Components of said unit include an electric motor, a solenoid, a series of gears, and a sliding bolt mechanism. The electric motor drives the gears to extend or retract the bolt via the solenoid's activation, which is controlled by an electrical signal from the electronics communication unit. The mechanical construction is designed to withstand external forces, providing enhanced security against unauthorized access.
The bicycle stand provides a secure spot for parking and offers a seamless solution for charging electric bicycles. What sets this stand apart is the seating area provided between two parked bicycles, ensuring that users can relax after a long ride.
Fig. 1 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for securing and releasing a bicycle utilizing a digital authentication process, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Initially, a QR code is scanned, which leads to the selection of a specific slot. The system then checks whether the selected slot is registered to any phone number. If the slot is not registered, the user is prompted to register using a phone number, which consequently unlocks the registered slot, permitting the racking of the bicycle. Conversely, if the slot is found to be registered, a One-Time Password (OTP) is sent to the registered phone number. Subsequently, the OTP must be verified. Upon successful verification of the OTP, the slot is unlocked, allowing the unracking of the bicycle. This flowchart delineates the dual-path authentication mechanism, with one path for new registration and the other for users with an already registered slot, ensuring the security of the bicycle racking system.
Fig. 2 illustrates an apparatus for cycle rack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus comprises a seating bench, supported by a framework of cylindrical vertical supports, and a canopy structure providing shade to the seated users. The seating bench is elongated with a series of seat divisions, offering multiple seating accommodations. The canopy is horizontally disposed and extends over the length of the seating bench, affixed to vertical supports, which also serve as the structural foundation for the seating bench. The seating bench and canopy are constructed from durable materials suitable for exposure to various weather conditions. This apparatus may be installed proximate to bicycle racking locations, utilizing the user registration and locking-unlocking mechanism outlined in Fig. 1, whereby users, upon securing or releasing a bicycle, may utilize the seating bench for rest.
The present invention relates to a cycle rack system designed to provide a secure and efficient charging solution for electric bicycles. The cycle rack system incorporates a plurality of docking stations, each configured to facilitate the charging of electric bicycles via solar power. Each docking station within the cycle rack system comprises a specialized charging spot, which includes a solar panel array and an energy conversion mechanism to supply electrical power to docked electric bicycles.
In operation, the cycle rack system utilizes a registration unit to manage access to the docking stations. The registration unit is equipped with a display mechanism configured to present a Quick Response (QR) code to a user. Upon scanning the QR code, the user is prompted to register a mobile phone number, which initiates the activation of a locking unit integrated within the docking station. Engagement of an electric bicycle with the docking station and the locking unit is secured upon registration of the mobile phone number.
To enhance the security and user convenience, the cycle rack system includes a communication unit. Said communication unit is structured to generate and dispatch a One-Time Password (OTP) to the registered mobile phone number. The provision of the OTP allows the registered user to gain access to the electric bicycle by releasing the locking unit, thereby ensuring a secure parking spot is maintained during the charging process.
An exemplary embodiment of the cycle rack system incorporates nine docking stations, each with a width of 6 centimeters for the bicycle slot and arranged in a zigzag manner across a bench. The bench, with dimensions of 4.5 meters in width, 0.75 meters in length, and a height of 50 centimeters from the ground level, provides a compact and orderly arrangement for parking and charging electric bicycles. The seating area between the bicycle slots is 0.6 meters wide, with the width of each seat also being 0.6 meters, offering users a place to rest while their bicycles are charging.
For the purposes of charging the electric bicycles, each docking station is equipped with three solar panels connected in series, with each panel rated at 60 watts, yielding a total power output of 180 watts. The solar panels are inclined at an angle of 25 degrees to optimize the capture of solar energy. Under standard operating conditions, the solar panels produce an output voltage of 60 volts, which, under load, is regulated to a 50-volt output by a Solar Charge Controller (SCC) utilizing Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology. The SCC functions to dampen the voltage from 50 volts to the required 36 volts for the electric bicycle's battery.
The material selected for the construction of the cycle rack system is aluminum with thermal insulation properties, enhancing the system's durability and performance in various environmental conditions. The overall structure of the parking stand is 4 meters in height, designed to accommodate the size and shape of standard electric bicycles, while providing sufficient area for the integrated solar charging system.
Based on the efficiency rates of the solar panels and the Solar Charge Controller, which are 80% and 90% respectively, the energy generated is calculated to be 129.6 watts. Given a typical electric bicycle battery with a capacity of 7.8 ampere-hours at 36 volts, requiring 280.8 watt-hours for a full charge, the estimated charging time for such a battery using the cycle rack system's solar charging mechanism is approximately 2.17 hours. This efficient use of renewable energy sources for charging provides an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for electric bicycle users, aligning with the growing market demand for sustainable transportation options.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term “computing device” relates to an electronic device, including but are not limited to, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a handheld device, a wireless modem, a laptop, a computer, a server, a personal computer, a work station, a mobile terminal, a subscriber station, a remote station, a user terminal, a terminal, a subscriber unit, an access terminal, a wearable computer, a wearable computing device, a smart watch, a server etc. The computing device may include a casing, a memory, a processor, a network interface card, a microphone, a speaker, a keypad, and a display.
It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C …. and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

CLAIMS

We Claim:
1. A cycle rack system comprising:
- a plurality of docking stations, each docking station configured to receive and secure an electric bicycle;
- a charging unit associated with each of said docking stations, said charging unit operable to charge an electric bicycle when docked at any of said docking stations;
- a registration unit operatively coupled to said docking stations, said registration unit configured to display a Quick Response (QR) code and to receive a mobile phone number from a user;
- a locking unit integrated with each of said docking stations, said locking unit activated upon registration of said mobile phone number and engagement of an electric bicycle with said docking station;
- a communication unit configured to send a One-Time Password (OTP) to said registered mobile phone number, said OTP enabling the release of said locking unit to permit removal of the electric bicycle from said docking station; and
- wherein said registration unit, said locking unit, and said communication unit are cooperatively structured to provide a secure parking spot for the electric bicycle by restricting access to the electric bicycle docked at said docking station to a user having access to said OTP sent to said registered mobile phone number.
2. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein each of said docking stations further comprises a solar panel operatively connected to said charging unit, said solar panel positioned at a fixed angle of 25 degrees relative to the horizontal to optimize exposure to sunlight for charging the electric bicycle.
3. The cycle rack system of claim 2, wherein said solar tracking system is programmed to return said solar panel to the fixed angle of 25 degrees upon cessation of charging activities.
4. The cycle rack system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface operatively coupled to said registration unit, said user interface configured to allow a user to select a specific docking station from said plurality of docking stations.
5. The cycle rack system of claim 7, wherein said user interface is further configured to display the battery level of the electric bicycle currently being charged.
6. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said locking unit includes a biometric scanner to provide additional security measures in conjunction with said OTP.
7. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said locking unit is configured to send a notification to said registered mobile phone number upon successful locking and charging initiation of the electric bicycle.
8. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said communication unit is configured to send an expiration alert of said OTP to said registered mobile phone number if the electric bicycle is not removed within a predetermined time frame.
9. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said registration unit, said locking unit, and said communication unit utilize an encrypted communication protocol to enhance the security of data transmission between said units and said registered mobile phone number.

SECURE BICYCLE RACK SYSTEM WITH INTEGRATED CHARGING FACILITIES AND QR CODE-BASED USER AUTHENTICATION
ABSTRACT

The present disclosure pertains to a cycle rack system that provides secure docking and charging for electric bicycles. The system comprises multiple docking stations, each configured to receive and secure an electric bicycle. A charging unit associated with each docking station is operable to charge docked electric bicycles. A registration unit, linked to the docking stations, displays a Quick Response (QR) code and collects a mobile phone number from users. An integrated locking unit activates upon registration and engagement of an electric bicycle. Furthermore, a communication unit sends a One-Time Password (OTP) to the registered mobile phone number, enabling the locking unit's release and allowing bicycle retrieval. These components cooperatively ensure secure bicycle parking, accessible only to users possessing the OTP, thereby enhancing the system's security and functionality.

Fig. 1

Figures

/
FIG. 1

FIG. 2

I/We Claims

, Claims:I/We Claims
CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. A cycle rack system comprising:
- a plurality of docking stations, each docking station configured to
receive and secure an electric bicycle;
- a charging unit associated with each of said docking stations, said
charging unit operable to charge an electric bicycle when docked at any of
said docking stations;
- a registration unit operatively coupled to said docking stations, said
registration unit configured to display a Quick Response (QR) code and to
receive a mobile phone number from a user;
- a locking unit integrated with each of said docking stations, said locking
unit activated upon registration of said mobile phone number and
engagement of an electric bicycle with said docking station;
- a communication unit configured to send a One-Time Password (OTP)
to said registered mobile phone number, said OTP enabling the release of
said locking unit to permit removal of the electric bicycle from said
docking station; and
16
- wherein said registration unit, said locking unit, and said
communication unit are cooperatively structured to provide a secure
parking spot for the electric bicycle by restricting access to the electric
bicycle docked at said docking station to a user having access to said OTP
sent to said registered mobile phone number.
2. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein each of said docking stations
further comprises a solar panel operatively connected to said charging unit,
said solar panel positioned at a fixed angle of 25 degrees relative to the
horizontal to optimize exposure to sunlight for charging the electric
bicycle.
3. The cycle rack system of claim 2, wherein said solar tracking system is
programmed to return said solar panel to the fixed angle of 25 degrees upon
cessation of charging activities.
4. The cycle rack system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface
operatively coupled to said registration unit, said user interface configured
to allow a user to select a specific docking station from said plurality of
docking stations.
5. The cycle rack system of claim 7, wherein said user interface is further
configured to display the battery level of the electric bicycle currently
being charged.
17
6. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said locking unit includes a
biometric scanner to provide additional security measures in conjunction
with said OTP.
7. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said locking unit is
configured to send a notification to said registered mobile phone number
upon successful locking and charging initiation of the electric bicycle.
8. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said communication unit is
configured to send an expiration alert of said OTP to said registered mobile
phone number if the electric bicycle is not removed within a predetermined
time frame.
9. The cycle rack system of claim 1, wherein said registration unit, said
locking unit, and said communication unit utilize an encrypted
communication protocol to enhance the security of data transmission
between said units and said registered mobile phone number.