Illinois Patent of the Month – September 2021

Whether people are trying to be more green conscious or trying to save cash, many urban areas are seeing an increase in cyclists and bikes as the main transportation form. ZappaWheels LLC is ahead of the game on providing bikes to those who want one. They offer advice, resources, and products to support cyclists and their efforts. One common drawback to biking is the inconvenience of transporting personal belongings – from patch kits to groceries, or even just your phone. Many cyclists use durable U-shape locks which take up space and reduce convenience of the ride but offer one of the best securities. ZappaWheels has developed a product which solves both of these issues in one. 

They have designed a device which securely attaches to the top of a bicycle rack. This offers storage space without taking away space for a water bottle attachment or requiring cumbersome attachments. The device is strapped to the rack using snap fasteners for quick removal or placement. The device has a small bar on each side which allows you to slide a U-shaped lock in, and is held in place by two triangular straps. This prevents it from rattling as you ride, which most other carriers are known to do. In addition to supporting the U-lock, the bars provide a space for bags or additional cargo to be strapped on. The device has a simple, flat shelf to support anything else you may need to carry. It goes beyond this, acting as a fender so that you don’t get splashed when the pavement is wet. All in all, this design is sure to save time and reduce that annoying jangling sound of items banging against each other or the bike itself while you ride.

Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.

Who We Are:

Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.

Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.

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