Abstract: An improved bicycle travel case for protecting a partially disassembled bicycle during storage and travel. A skeletal tubular inner framework forms a rigid perimeter defining a shape of the case and is foldable for storage. The framework has an upper and lower section, joined with a hinged connection and a self-latching connection. Mesh panels are installed within planar surfaces defined by the framework, creating impact resistant surfaces encircling the case. A removable fabric cover encloses the inner framework and mesh panel assemblage. Upon removal of the fabric cover for inspection during airline travel, the bicycle is on prominent visual display beneath its protective framework and mesh case, nullifying the need to open the case and physically handle it. The bicycle is releasably locked in the case by two fork mounts that isolate the bicycle from damaging forces. A releasably lockable mount also secures bicycle wheels inside the case.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a crate subassembly including four support cords with connector plates securing respective adjacent cords. More particularly, the connector plates extend over the interfaces between adjacent cords, and the connector plates secure adjacent cords together so as to prevent relative lateral movement between adjacent cords yet allow relative rotational movement of the cords as described below. By simply separating opposing cords, the subassembly can be easily and quickly opened. Specifically, the connector plates flex, or bend, and the connector plates have sufficient rigidity so that once opened, the subassembly does not close on itself during handling. Also, notches are formed between adjacent cords, and these notches are utilized when forming a crate as described below. To form a crate, and in an exemplary configuration, three subassemblies are positioned in a spaced relationship, and girders are positioned to extend through respective notches in each subassembly.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cleated crate for packaging, storing, and shipping heavy articles. The cleated crate includes a base frame for supporting an article to be packed, a pair of wing-end frames that define ends and side portions of the cleated crate. The wing-end frames comprise a pair of hinge corners each having a pair of spaced apart cleats attached to a fibreboard plate with a score along an axis. The fibreboard plate folds on the score to define a corner post of the cleated crate. A portion of the side of the cleated crate is defined by a side member and a support member attached to one of the pairs of cleats on the fibreboard plate. Elongate members connect two hinge corners together to define a wing-end frame. A pair of wing-end frames are positioned and attached to opposite ends of a base frame or pallet. Intermediate connectors rigidly connect on opposite sides to aligned hinge corners at the opposite ends of the cleated container.

Abstract: A bicycle storage structure which includes an elongated housing with one closed end and an opening at the other end. The housing has a top and a bottom joined by spaced side panels with one or more laterally projecting members protruding from the side panels into the interior of the housing. Said members having a surface adapted to overlie the pedals of a bicycle within the housing and prevent turning of the pedals as the bicycle is withdrawn from the housing.

Abstract: A blank for a carton for packing bicycles and other articles is formed from a rectangular piece of sheet material such as corrugated paperboard so as to save waste material. It is cut and scored so that it may be preliminarily formed into a tube to be shipped flat to the packager and, as it is being erected, so that integral portions and parts may be folded into strut columns extending from wall to wall in two directions to prevent the contained article from tilting or migrating inside the container during shipment and to strengthen the carton against the pressures of stacking and handling by clamp trucks and the like.