Patent of the Month May
Multifunctional bag usable as a backpack or as a pannier
May has arrived and with it the bike season. In view of rising energy costs and tense traffic and parking situation riding a bicycle has become increasingly popular and is turning into a daily means of transportation for many people.
In line with this, an invention for a special bike bag by two 18-year-olds from Aachen has currently been hitting the media. Here's the clou: the bicycle bag can be transformed into a backpack in just a few steps. With this, Leander Mellies and Karl Fischer managed to convince all investors in the "Höhle der Löwen" (Lion's Den) instantly. The corresponding patent was granted on the 5th of August 2021 – only a sensational 26 months after filing. The patent document DE102019208318B4 entitled "Multifunctional bag usable as a backpack or as a pannier" is thus our Patent of the Month May!
The young inventors came up with the idea during a year studying abroad in New Zealand. Both were 15 years old at the time and travelled a lot by bike. A normal bicycle bag only seemed comfortable to until you got off the bike. It was the beginning of an idea that took shape in initial drawings while still in New Zealand. Back in Germany, first prototypes were made with a sewing machine.
Thus designed, the bicycle bag is attached to the luggage carrier like a normal pannier bag. The annoying holder disappears via the patented folding mechanism on the back of the bag and a peripheral rip fastener. Two carrying straps are exposed, allowing the bag to be worn as a backpack. The changeover takes only a few seconds.
While still at high school, Leander Mellies and Karl Fischer founded the company 2bag. With their invention, the two creative minds participated twice successfully in Startup-Teens and also in a nationwide start-up competition. The funds from the prizes went directly into the further development of their product. The multifunctional bag was ready for series production in 2020 thanks to the support of the backpack manufacturer Deuter. In 2021, crowdfunding enabled the first order to be placed. After their success in the "Höhle der Löwen", the duo is now professionally supported by the team of investor Nils Glagau.
Besides their patented invention, the two young entrepreneurs are distinguished by their commitment to a fair and responsible approach to nature and resources. The versatile bike bag is manufactured in the Deuter production facilities in Vietnam in compliance with the standards of the Fair Wear Foundation. The material used is also certified and consists partly of recycled products.
Currently, the bicycle bag can only be pre-ordered through the online shop. The interest and the number of pre-orders have far exceeded the expectations of the young inventors. The next delivery is expected in June 2022. Those who want to follow the story of the two can subscribe to a newsletter on their homepage.
The Patent and Standards Centre wishes all the best to both of them and to all young inventors!
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Sources:
Patent document (image source)