CA2151681A1 - Vehicle carrier rack - Google Patents
Vehicle carrier rackInfo
- Publication number
- CA2151681A1 CA2151681A1 CA002151681A CA2151681A CA2151681A1 CA 2151681 A1 CA2151681 A1 CA 2151681A1 CA 002151681 A CA002151681 A CA 002151681A CA 2151681 A CA2151681 A CA 2151681A CA 2151681 A1 CA2151681 A1 CA 2151681A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- carrier rack
- pair
- vehicle
- track
- crossbar
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R9/00—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like
- B60R9/04—Carriers associated with vehicle roof
- B60R9/045—Carriers being adjustable or transformable, e.g. expansible, collapsible
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R9/00—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like
- B60R9/04—Carriers associated with vehicle roof
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R9/00—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like
- B60R9/04—Carriers associated with vehicle roof
- B60R9/05—Carriers characterised by wind deflecting means
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)
Abstract
A vehicle carrier rack is provided. The track of the carrier has two pairs of retaining surfaces, one pair for holding a cover over a channel in which fasteners are positioned, and the other pair for separately holding support components such as crossbar supporting feet and tie down loops.
Preferably, the retaining surfaces are provided by flanges extending inwardly and outwardly from the tops of the walls that define the channel.
The crossbar is removably mountable to the supporting feet with end caps that define a smooth integral surface and an elastomeric cover that hides the mounting hardware.
Preferably, the retaining surfaces are provided by flanges extending inwardly and outwardly from the tops of the walls that define the channel.
The crossbar is removably mountable to the supporting feet with end caps that define a smooth integral surface and an elastomeric cover that hides the mounting hardware.
Description
Title: VEHICLE CARRIER RACK
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to carrier racks for vehicles, more particulary to carrier racks that are installed more or less permanently on passenger vehicles such as automobiles, vans, pick-up trucks and utility-sport vehicles.
Carrier racks for vehicles are well known. They are sometimes called roof racks as they are commonly installed on the roofs of automobiles and vans. However, in some cases, they may also be installed on vehicles in other locations, such as on automobile trunk lids, or on top of the side panels of pick-up trucks.
Vehicle carrier racks are commonly used for carrying cargo that cannot be placed conveniently within the vehicle. Often, such carrier racks are used for luggage, or for specific sporting equipment such as bicycles, skis, sailboards, and the like. In some cases, the carrier racks are mounted to the vehicle temporarily, such as with tightenable straps.
However, stronger and more secure types of carriers often have a more permanent installation, generally by means of threaded fasteners or the like that extend through the roof or other vehicle mounting surface.
In one common form of permanent installation, the vehicle carrier rack includes pairs of feet, often nylon mouldings, that can hold between them a crossbar, and such feet are mounted directly to the vehicle by means of screws or other fasteners.
In another common form of installation, the carrier rack includes a pair of tracks, often aluminum extrusions, that are mounted to -the vehicle with screws or other fasteners. Such tracks in turn have mountable to them supporting components such as tie down loops, and crossbar support feet. Conveniently, in such installations, the support components are attached to the track in a secure but easily removable manner, which may include threaded fastener means.
Such tracks not only provide a relatively low profile alternative to permanently mounted support feet, the tracks also function as a structural element to strengthen and stiffen the roof and to distribute the load carried by the rack evenly.
Known vehicle carrier racks suffer from a number of disadvantages. For example, in track mounted carriers, it is known to have tracks that include a central channel in which the mounting fasteners can be located, hidden by an elastomeric cover strip frictionally retained by retaining surfaces that are also used to hold support components, such as tie down loops and anchors for crossbar support feet.
While the cover strip usefully hides the fastener heads from view, and reduces exposure to dust and precipitation, the tolerances of the elastomeric material tend to reduce the precision of the fit between the track and the support components.
Moreover, known tracks for vehicle carriers tend to be somewhat bulky, with an overall linear profile, typically rectangular.
Extruded aluminum track members tend to have fairly thick walls to provide sufficient strength and stiffness, but thick walls increase material costs and the weight of the track. Linear profiles, moreover, tend to look non-integral and non-aerodynamic with many vehicles that have curved roof lines.
In addition, while it is known to include grooves in such tracks for drainage, as well as for accommodating retention elements of the support components, such as tie down loops and crossbar feet anchors, known tracks having such grooves are provided with end caps that block the grooves and can thus hinder satisfactory drainage.
With known roof racks, moreover, it is sometimes found difficult to position the crossbars and supporting feet centrally, as the anchors of the supporting feet accommodate shifting before they have been tightened.
Furthermore, while it is known to make vehicle carriers with support feet that are removably mountable to permanently installed tracks, and crossbars that are removably mountable to such support feet, on known such carriers the mounting hardware (such as the tops of threaded fasteners) are exposed when the feet and crossbar are installed.
This not only makes the carrier appear less integral with the vehicle, it can 5 also increase the risk of theft of the crossbar and support feet.
In addition, while it is known to have crossbars that include elongate cavities for receiving component attachment means, such as the heads of threaded fasteners, other attachment means, in particular T-nuts, that may also be usefully mounted within such cavities tend to be blocked 10 by such fastener heads.
Moreover, the support feet of known carriers present a linear or symmetrically curved outer side. Such support feet may be satisfactory for installation on some vehicles, but are less so on vehicles that have roofs that are wider at the front than at the rear. Optimum placing of the 15 tracks on such roofs is non-parallel, converging from front to rear to follow the sides of the roof. When known support feet are mounted on non-parallel tracks, they present a crooked appearance that suggests maladjustment.
Yet another disadvantage of known vehicle carrier racks 20 concerns their use on roofs made from composite material such as fibreglass. Such roofs are commonly found in certain sport-utility vehicles. Generally speaking, such vehicle roofs are not strong enough to hold known carriers with the usual fastening means.
It is an object of the current invention to obviate or mitigate 25 these and other disadvantages of known vehicle carrier racks and their components.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is 30 provided a vehicle carrier rack that comprises at least two tracks that are adapted to be secured to a vehicle in spaced relationship. Each of the two tracks has an elongate base, and two outer walls extending upwardly above the base defining a broad channel, and two inner walls extending upwardly above the base defining (with the outer walls) two troughs within the broad channel, and a narrow channel between the troughs.
The walls have a first pair of retaining services opposing the base by means 5 of which the track can hold a cover over the narrow channel. The walls also have a second pair of retaining surfaces opposing the base, remote from the first pair of retaining surfaces, by which the track can hold one or more support components (such as tie down loops or crossbar support feet) in the broad channel passing over the narrow channel.
Preferably, the retaining surfaces are defined by two pairs of flanges extending from the walls. Most preferably, a first pair of flanges extend inwardly from the tops of the inner walls, and second pair of flanges extend outwardly from the tops of the inner walls.
Advantageously, the track of the carrier rack also has a cover held sealingly over the narrow channel with a removable push fit. More advantageously, the track also has curved sides extending outwardly of the outer walls, and the sides, base, walls, and cover cooperatively define a curved cross-sectional profile, that is generally continuous except at the troughs. Most advantageously, the profile is asymmetric, with an inclined upper portion.
Preferably, the track of the carrier rack also comprises end pieces having a similar cross-sectional profile but merging to a tapered, curved terminus, and having a generally U-shaped groove whose ends align with the troughs.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising supporting feet, elongate crossbars mounted to said feet, and end caps attached to the ends of the crossbars. The crossbars have an elongate cavity with an elastomeric covering frictionally held over the cavity and sealed to it. The end caps each have a tongue adapted to fit closely in the cavity beneath the covering. The crossbars and end caps mount to the supporting feet within recesses so that the feet, crossbars and end caps together define a generally smooth integral surface. Preferably the cavity has opposing overhangs extending partially into it by which the elastomeric covering is frictionally held with a removable push fit. Most preferably, the cavity also has opposing ledges extending at least partially therein, above the base of the 5 cavity.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising feet adapted to be secured to the vehicle for supporting an elongate crossbar and having an asymmetrically curved outer side surface.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising four elongate tracks mounted to a vehicle in aligned pairs above and below the roof of the vehicle.
It has surprisingly been found that a vehicle roof rack made according to the present invention provides numerous advantages over known vehicle roof racks, including close tolerance precision fits of support components to track, high track strength and stiffness with low weight, aerodynamic styling and versatility, an ability to integrate well with a variety of vehicle shapes, good drainage, aesthetic appearance, and theft deterrence.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a carrier rack according to the present invention, shown in use mounted to a vehicle roof;
Figs. 2a and 2b are cross-sectional views of a track of the carrier rack of Fig. 1, Fig. 2a illustrating the track alone and Fig. 2b illustrating the track in use;
Fig. 3a is a sectional side view of the track of Figs. 2a and 2b;
Fig. 3b is a plan view of an end piece of the track of Figs. 2a and 2b;
.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a supporting foot, crossbar and track of the carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view of a crossbar of the vehicle carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5b is a cross-sectional view of an alterative crossbar for a vehicle carrier rack of the present invention;
Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the vehicle carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate mounting configuration for a vehicle carrier rack of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the drawings, a vehicle carrier rack is designated generally by reference numeral 10. The carrier rack 10 is mounted on a vehicle roof 12. The carrier rack 10 is comprised of tracks 14, crossbars 16, supporting feet 18, and tie down loops 20.
There are two tracks 14, spaced from one another and aligned substantially longitudinally on the vehicle roof 12. Two crossbars 16, placed transversely across the pair of tracks 14, are supported by the feet 18 on the tracks 14. The crossbars 16 are load bearing members and are adapted to have accessory elements attached to them for specific applications. For example, special carrier brackets may be attached to the crossbars 16 for carrying bicycles or skis. Ropes or cables may be inserted through the tie down loops 20 to secure loads carried by the carrier rack 10.
The tie down loops 20 may be moved slidingly along the tracks 14 to a convenient position.
Fig. 2a shows the cross-section of a track 14 in isolation. The track 14 has an elongate base 22, inner walls 24, and outer walls 26. The outer walls 26, extending upwardly from the elongate base 22, define a broad channel 28. The inner walls 24, located within the broad channel 28, also extend upwards from the elongate base 22 to define (with the outer walls) two troughs 30, and a narrow channel 32 between the troughs 30.
The tops of the inner walls 24 are provided with two pairs of flanges. A first pair of flanges 34 extend inwardly into the narrow channel 32. A second pair of flanges 36 extend outwardly from the inner walls 24 into the troughs 30. The flanges 34 and 36 define retaining surfaces 5 opposing the base 22 which engage other components of the carrier rack 10.
The resulting double I-beam profile of the track 14 formed by the inner walls 24 and the two pairs of flanges 34, 36 also provides effective support and load distribution for the carrier rack 10.
Extending outwardly from the outer walls 26 are curved sides 38. At the lower ends, the sides 38 terminate in rims 39, with the rims 39 generally aligned with the elongate base 22.
Most vehicle roofs are shaped in a compound curve, curving in both longitudinal and transverse direction of the vehicle. The tracks 14 must be bent longitudinally for installation on such roofs. When tracks with straight sides are bent longitudinally, there is a tendency for the track to spread in the transverse direction. The curved outer sides 38 inhibit this effect, resulting in a stronger track.
It is evident from Fig. 2a that the sides 38, the outer walls 26 and the inner walls 24, are of unequal height so that the track 14 shown in Fig. 2a has an asymmetrical cross-sectional profile, with an inclined upper portion 48. The two tracks 14 of the carrier rack 10 are oriented in reverse directions to provide a mirror image configuration. The lower halves of the upper portions 48 of the two tracks 14 face one another, the inclines descending toward the space between the two tracks 14.
The tracks 14 are extruded aluminum, but they could also be made from roll-formed steel, or other suitable material.
Referring now to Fig. 2b, the track 14 is shown in cross-section in conjunction with other components of the carrier rack 10. A cover 40, made of a flexible elastomeric material, for the track 14 is included. The cover 40 extends the length of the narrow channel 32. Elastomeric webs 41 are located on the underside of the cover 40. The elastomeric webs 41 engage the first pair of flanges 34 of the inner walls 24 of the track 14 in a removable push fit so that the cover 40 seals the narrow channel 32. The first pair of flanges 34 therefore provide retaining surfaces for the cover 40.
The cover 40 conceals and provides protection for fasteners and other components contained within the narrow channel 32, and creates a water 5 tight seal over the narrow channel 32. Water drains through the troughs 30.
A gasket 44 is located between the track 14 and the roof 12.
The gasket 44 is comprised of an elastomeric material providing a friction connection between the track 14 and the vehicle roof 12. The gasket 44 also 10 protects the surface of the vehicle roof 12 from being marred by contact with the track 14.
Fig. 2b also illustrates the location of a tie down loop 20. The tie down loops 20 have legs 46 at their bottom edges. The legs 46 engage the second pair of flanges 36 of the inner walls 24 in a sliding fit so that the15 tie down loops 20 may be moved to a desired position along the track 14.
In this manner the second pair of flanges 36 provide retaining surfaces for the tie down loops 20 separate from the retaining surfaces provided for the cover 40 by the first pair of flanges 34.
The tie down loops 20 also have asymmetrical profiles.
20 When a load is tied down with a rope or cable fastened through the tie down loops 20, a force is generated towards the centre of the vehicle which also presses the tie down loop 20 against the surface of the cover 40. The cover 40 creates a friction surface between the tie down loop 20 and the track 14 which inhibits movement of the tie down loop 20 while the load 25 is in place. The component of force towards the centre of the rack is increased due to the inclines on the upper portions 48 on the tracks 14 as discussed in connection with Fig. 2a.
Referring now to Fig. 3a the attachment of the track 14 to the roof 12 may be described. A well-nut 94 is placed within aligned 30 corresponding apertures 96 located in the track 14, the gasket 44 and the roof 12. A screw 92 fastens the track 14 to the roof 12, tightly threaded into the well-nut 94, securing the gasket 44 between the track 14 and the roof 12.
The apertures 96 are located at convenient intervals along the length of the track 14 and an appropriate number of screws 92 and well-nuts 94 are provided to mount the tracks 14 through the apertures 96. The apertures 96 in the track 14 and the screws 92 are located within the narrow channel 5 32. Therefore, the screws 92 and the well-nuts 94 are hidden from view and protected by the cover 40.
An end piece 50 for the tracks 14 is shown in Fig. 3b. The end piece 50 has one end 51 which is adapted to be attached to the track 14 and another end 52 which merges to a curved and tapered terminus. The 10 attachment end 51 is similar in cross-sectional profile to the track 14, so that a substantially smooth surface is formed at the juncture between the track 14 and the end piece 50. A continuous U-shaped groove 54 is included in the end piece 50. The ends 55 of the curve groove 54 are aligned with the troughs 30 of the track 14 and are shaped similarly to the 15 troughs 30 so that when the end piece 50 abuts against the track 14, the curved groove 54 and the troughs 30 form a substantially continuous depression. The shape of the end piece 50 provides a smooth transition from the end of the track 14 to the terminal ends 52. This aids aerodynamic efficiency and adds to the aesthetic appeal. The end piece 50 20 also closes off the end of the track 14, enclosing and protecting components contained within the narrow channel 32.
The end piece 50 has a tongue 56 and a post 60 projecting from its attachment end 51, with an aperture 58 included in the tongue 56.
The tongue 56 is inserted into the end of the narrow channel 32 of the 25 track 14. The post 60 is inserted into the space below the higher side 38, between it and the contiguous outer wall 26. The post 60 provides extra lateral stability for the end piece 50 in its connection to the track 14, as well as providing a guide for the insertion of the end piece 50 into the track 14.
When the end piece 50 abuts firmly against the end of the 30 track 14, the aperture 58 in the tongue 56 is aligned with corresponding apertures 43 in the track 14, the gasket 44, and the roof 12. A self-tapping screw 42 is provided which extends through the aperture 58 and the corresponding apertures 43 and thus the screw 42 fastens the end piece 50 to the track 14, as well as fastening the track 14 and the gasket 44 to the roof. Since the end pieces 50 seal off the troughs 30, the tie down loops 20 and any other supporting components are installed before the end pieces 50 are attached.
Referring now to Fig. 4, a supporting foot 18 and a crossbar 16 are shown mounted to the track 14 on the vehicle roof 12. An anchor 62 is located within the foot 18 and has legs 63 which engage the second pair of flanges 36. It will be seen that since the anchor 62 engages the first pair of flanges 36, and the cover 40 engages the flanges 34, there will be no interference between the attachment of the cover 40 and the attachment of the anchor 62.
The anchor 62 is attached to the foot 18 by means of a screw 64 and a nut 67. When the screw 64 is tightened, the legs 63 press upwardly against the second pair of flanges 36 and the foot 18 is pressed downwardly so that it abuts against the track 14, thereby securing the foot 18 on the track14. The location of the foot 18 may be varied by loosening the screw 64 and sliding the anchor 62 along the second pair of flanges 36.
The supporting feet 18 are hollow and conceal all attachment components of the foot 18 to the track 14. They also have recesses 74 to receive the crossbars 16. End caps 66 for the crossbars 16 are positioned as well within the recesses 74 provided within the feet 18. The endcaps 66 are adapted to provide a smooth integral surface between the feet 18 and crossbar 16.
As shown in Fig. 4, a screw 70 and a nut 71 attach the crossbar 16 to the foot 18 through an elongate cavity within the crossbar 16. The end cap 66 has a tongue 68 adapted to be received by the elongate cavity.
(The elongate cavity is shown in Figs. 5a and 5b and will be discussed in detail below.) The screw 70 has a head which has a hollow adapted to receive a set screw 72. The set screw 72 attaches the end cap 66 to the crossbar 16 by setting within the hollow in the head of the screw 70.
The set screw 72 has a unique head configuration for which a unique tool 73 is included for the vehicle owner's use. This allows the owner to remove and replace, or adjust the location of, the crossbars 16 as desired, while deterring theft of the crossbars 16 and of loads that may be 5 locked to the crossbars 16.
The end caps 66, end pieces 50, set screw 72 and supporting feet 18 are preferably made of a paintable moulded plastic.
Referring now to Fig. 5a, a crossbar 16 in cross-section is shown. The crossbar 16 has an aerodynamic shape and is preferably made 10 of extruded aluminum, though roll formed steel or other suitable material may be substituted. The crossbar 16 has two I-beams 75, which absorb and distribute load placed on it, and an elongate cavity 76 with an elastomeric covering 78. The elongate cavity 76 receives the fasteners for attachment to the feet 18, and also receives attachment devices for accessory 15 components to be used with the crossbar. The accessory components may be special brackets to carry bicycles, luggage, skies, and the like. The elastomeric covering 78 seals the elongate cavity 76 and provides a smooth profile for aerodynamic efficiency for the crossbar member 16.
The elongate cavity 76 has opposing overhangs 80 extending 20 partially therein. The opposing overhangs 80 hold the elastomeric covering 78 frictionally over the elongate cavity 76.
Opposing ledges 82 extend partially into the elongate cavity 76. The opposing ledges 82 divide the elongate cavity 76 into two sections 83 and 84. Portions of components attached to a lower portion of the 25 crossbar 16 may be located within the lower section 83 of the elongate cavity 76. For example, when the crossbar 16 is attached to the supporting foot 18, the head of the screw 70 will protrude somewhat into the elongate cavity 76 in the lower section 83. Portions of components attached to the upper portion of the crossbars 16 may be located in the upper section 84.
30 For example, a nut may be placed within the elongate cavity 76 to receive a screw to fasten a bracket to the upper surface of the crossbar 16.
Alternatively, plastic extrusions may also be placed within the upper section 84.
The opposing ledges 82 facilitate sliding of components in the upper section 84 without interference from components in the lower section 83, as such respective components are separated by the opposing ledges 82.
Fig. 5b illustrates an alternative cross-sectional structure of the crossbar 16. In this embodiment, slots 86 and 88 are provided on the underside of the crossbar 16. An airfoil 90 may be included which is inserted in slot 86, the slot 86 being located on the forward portion of the underside of the crossbar 16. The addition of the airfoil 90 redirects airflow over the crossbar 16 creating a vacuum behind the crossbar 16, thereby reducing aerodynamically induced noise. The slot 88 on the opposite side of the crossbar 16 from the slot 86, can be used for additional accessory devices such as additional tie down loops 91.
The alternative shown in Fig. 5b is easier to manufacture than the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 5a. The inclusion of the slots 86 and 88 result in there being no complete enclosures in the cross-section of the crossbar 16, in contrast to that shown in Fig. 5a.
Referring now to Fig. 6, the installation and the interrelation of the components of the carrier rack 10 may be explained. The track 14 is attached to the roof 12 by a screw 92 and well-nut 94 with the gasket 44 between the track 14 and the roof 12 (not shown). The cover 40 slides into place to be fictionally held by the first pair of flanges 34 in a removable push fit.
The tie down loop 20, slides into the troughs 30 with the legs 46 engaging the second pair of flanges 36. As the tie down loop 20 is not affixed but is free to slide along the second pair of flanges 36, it may be moved to any convenient position.
The legs 63 of the anchor 62 also slide over the second pair of flanges 36 of the inner walls 24. The screw 64 is placed through an aperture 65 located within the supporting foot 18. The screw 64 is screwed into a threaded bore in the anchor 62. The anchor 62 is moved to a desired position without interfering the cover 40 and then the screw 64 and anchor 62 are tightened to secure the supporting foot 18 to the track 14.
The crossbar 16 is then placed in the recess 74 in the foot 18 5 and attached to the supporting foot 18. The screw 70 is inserted through a hole in the crossbar 69 and is attached by nut 71 to securely attach the crossbar 16 to the foot 18. The head of the screw 70 will then rest within the lower section 83 of the elongate cavity 76 contained within the crossbar member 16. The recess 74 in the foot 18 also receives the end cap 66. The 10 end cap 66 is attached by placing the tongue 68 into the elongate cavity 76 of the crossbar 16. The set screw 72 may then be tightened with the tool 73 so that the end of the set screw 72 rests snugly within the head of the screw 70.
The fasteners and the elongate cavity 76 of the crossbar 16 are 15 covered by the elastomeric covering 78.
To complete the carrier rack 10, the end pieces 50 are inserted into the ends of the tracks 14 with the tongues 56 extending into the narrow channel 32 of the tracks 14. The tracks 14 and end piece 50 are then secured to the roof by threading the self-tapping screws 42 through the 20 aperture 58 and the apertures 43.
It is evident from Fig. 6 that the supporting feet 18 have an asymmetrically curved outer surface and the footprint of the feet 18 have an asymmetric profile. The curved outer surface is aerodynamically efficient. The combination of the asymmetric profile of the supporting 25 foot 18 and the asymmetric profile of the track 14 aids in the mounting of the rack on a vehicle roof. As discussed previously, pairs of tracks are mounted so that the profiles of opposing tracks incline towards each other.
When the crossbars 16 and the supporting feet 18 are mounted on the tracks 14, gravity will aid in centring the crossbars 16 due to the inward 30 incline of the tracks 14. The asymmetric footprint of the feet 18 cooperates with the asymmetric profile of the track 14 to help align the crossbars 16.
Furthermore, it is common for the transverse dimensions of a vehicle to differ between front and back by as many as four centimetres for aerodynamic purposes. Therefore, in many cases pairs of tracks will not be aligned strictly parallel to one another. The asymmetrical footprint of the supporting foot 18 cooperates with the asymmetrical profile of the tracks 14, so that the supporting foot 18 may be placed upon such non-parallel tracks 14 without having unattractive and aerodynamically inefficient overhangs of the supporting foot 18 from the sides of the track 14. Variation in lengths of the crossbars 16 also aids in accounting for the non-parallel alignment of the tracks 14.
Referring back to Fig. 1, it is evident that once the carrier rack is installed, all attachment components are concealed by the cover 40 on the tracks 14 and the covering 78 on the crossbars 16. The screws 92 and 42 will be concealed and protected by the cover 40. The set screw 72 will be concealed and protected by the elastomeric covering 78. Furthermore, because the support components engage the second pair of flanges 36 within the troughs 30, the junction of such components with the flanges is concealed and thus movement of the support components along the tracks 14 does not mar visible track surfaces.
Fig. 7 illustrates a unique mounting configuration used in accordance with the present invention. The tracks 14 are mounted in aligned pairs with one track above the vehicle roof, and the other track below the vehicle roof. The track 14a above the roof is installed as discussed above. The track 14b below the roof is installed with a gasket 44b between the track 14b and the roof so that the troughs 30 and flanges 36 face the interior of the vehicle. The back-to-back mounting of the tracks in this manner provides extra stability for the rack's mounting and is particularly useful for fibreglass roofs. The troughs and flanges 36 of the interior track 14b can be used to attach support components such as clothes hooks for the interior of the vehicle.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiment, it would be appreciated that the present invention is susceptible to modification and change without departing from the fair meaning or proper scope of the accompanying claims.
For example, one of the pairs of flanges may be placed on the outer walls, with the other pair extending either inwardly into the narrow 5 channel 32 or outwardly into the troughs 30. Any of these combinations would still provide two sets of retaining surfaces so that the cover may be placed on one set, and the support components may be placed on the other set. The means of attaching the support components to the flanges would of course have to be modified accordingly.
While the above description is directed to the carrier racks being placed on vehicle roofs, the carrier rack 10 may also be used for other applications. As well, while the preferred embodiment has two tracks supporting two crossbars, it is possible to have other combinations of crossbars and tracks.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to carrier racks for vehicles, more particulary to carrier racks that are installed more or less permanently on passenger vehicles such as automobiles, vans, pick-up trucks and utility-sport vehicles.
Carrier racks for vehicles are well known. They are sometimes called roof racks as they are commonly installed on the roofs of automobiles and vans. However, in some cases, they may also be installed on vehicles in other locations, such as on automobile trunk lids, or on top of the side panels of pick-up trucks.
Vehicle carrier racks are commonly used for carrying cargo that cannot be placed conveniently within the vehicle. Often, such carrier racks are used for luggage, or for specific sporting equipment such as bicycles, skis, sailboards, and the like. In some cases, the carrier racks are mounted to the vehicle temporarily, such as with tightenable straps.
However, stronger and more secure types of carriers often have a more permanent installation, generally by means of threaded fasteners or the like that extend through the roof or other vehicle mounting surface.
In one common form of permanent installation, the vehicle carrier rack includes pairs of feet, often nylon mouldings, that can hold between them a crossbar, and such feet are mounted directly to the vehicle by means of screws or other fasteners.
In another common form of installation, the carrier rack includes a pair of tracks, often aluminum extrusions, that are mounted to -the vehicle with screws or other fasteners. Such tracks in turn have mountable to them supporting components such as tie down loops, and crossbar support feet. Conveniently, in such installations, the support components are attached to the track in a secure but easily removable manner, which may include threaded fastener means.
Such tracks not only provide a relatively low profile alternative to permanently mounted support feet, the tracks also function as a structural element to strengthen and stiffen the roof and to distribute the load carried by the rack evenly.
Known vehicle carrier racks suffer from a number of disadvantages. For example, in track mounted carriers, it is known to have tracks that include a central channel in which the mounting fasteners can be located, hidden by an elastomeric cover strip frictionally retained by retaining surfaces that are also used to hold support components, such as tie down loops and anchors for crossbar support feet.
While the cover strip usefully hides the fastener heads from view, and reduces exposure to dust and precipitation, the tolerances of the elastomeric material tend to reduce the precision of the fit between the track and the support components.
Moreover, known tracks for vehicle carriers tend to be somewhat bulky, with an overall linear profile, typically rectangular.
Extruded aluminum track members tend to have fairly thick walls to provide sufficient strength and stiffness, but thick walls increase material costs and the weight of the track. Linear profiles, moreover, tend to look non-integral and non-aerodynamic with many vehicles that have curved roof lines.
In addition, while it is known to include grooves in such tracks for drainage, as well as for accommodating retention elements of the support components, such as tie down loops and crossbar feet anchors, known tracks having such grooves are provided with end caps that block the grooves and can thus hinder satisfactory drainage.
With known roof racks, moreover, it is sometimes found difficult to position the crossbars and supporting feet centrally, as the anchors of the supporting feet accommodate shifting before they have been tightened.
Furthermore, while it is known to make vehicle carriers with support feet that are removably mountable to permanently installed tracks, and crossbars that are removably mountable to such support feet, on known such carriers the mounting hardware (such as the tops of threaded fasteners) are exposed when the feet and crossbar are installed.
This not only makes the carrier appear less integral with the vehicle, it can 5 also increase the risk of theft of the crossbar and support feet.
In addition, while it is known to have crossbars that include elongate cavities for receiving component attachment means, such as the heads of threaded fasteners, other attachment means, in particular T-nuts, that may also be usefully mounted within such cavities tend to be blocked 10 by such fastener heads.
Moreover, the support feet of known carriers present a linear or symmetrically curved outer side. Such support feet may be satisfactory for installation on some vehicles, but are less so on vehicles that have roofs that are wider at the front than at the rear. Optimum placing of the 15 tracks on such roofs is non-parallel, converging from front to rear to follow the sides of the roof. When known support feet are mounted on non-parallel tracks, they present a crooked appearance that suggests maladjustment.
Yet another disadvantage of known vehicle carrier racks 20 concerns their use on roofs made from composite material such as fibreglass. Such roofs are commonly found in certain sport-utility vehicles. Generally speaking, such vehicle roofs are not strong enough to hold known carriers with the usual fastening means.
It is an object of the current invention to obviate or mitigate 25 these and other disadvantages of known vehicle carrier racks and their components.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is 30 provided a vehicle carrier rack that comprises at least two tracks that are adapted to be secured to a vehicle in spaced relationship. Each of the two tracks has an elongate base, and two outer walls extending upwardly above the base defining a broad channel, and two inner walls extending upwardly above the base defining (with the outer walls) two troughs within the broad channel, and a narrow channel between the troughs.
The walls have a first pair of retaining services opposing the base by means 5 of which the track can hold a cover over the narrow channel. The walls also have a second pair of retaining surfaces opposing the base, remote from the first pair of retaining surfaces, by which the track can hold one or more support components (such as tie down loops or crossbar support feet) in the broad channel passing over the narrow channel.
Preferably, the retaining surfaces are defined by two pairs of flanges extending from the walls. Most preferably, a first pair of flanges extend inwardly from the tops of the inner walls, and second pair of flanges extend outwardly from the tops of the inner walls.
Advantageously, the track of the carrier rack also has a cover held sealingly over the narrow channel with a removable push fit. More advantageously, the track also has curved sides extending outwardly of the outer walls, and the sides, base, walls, and cover cooperatively define a curved cross-sectional profile, that is generally continuous except at the troughs. Most advantageously, the profile is asymmetric, with an inclined upper portion.
Preferably, the track of the carrier rack also comprises end pieces having a similar cross-sectional profile but merging to a tapered, curved terminus, and having a generally U-shaped groove whose ends align with the troughs.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising supporting feet, elongate crossbars mounted to said feet, and end caps attached to the ends of the crossbars. The crossbars have an elongate cavity with an elastomeric covering frictionally held over the cavity and sealed to it. The end caps each have a tongue adapted to fit closely in the cavity beneath the covering. The crossbars and end caps mount to the supporting feet within recesses so that the feet, crossbars and end caps together define a generally smooth integral surface. Preferably the cavity has opposing overhangs extending partially into it by which the elastomeric covering is frictionally held with a removable push fit. Most preferably, the cavity also has opposing ledges extending at least partially therein, above the base of the 5 cavity.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising feet adapted to be secured to the vehicle for supporting an elongate crossbar and having an asymmetrically curved outer side surface.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle carrier rack comprising four elongate tracks mounted to a vehicle in aligned pairs above and below the roof of the vehicle.
It has surprisingly been found that a vehicle roof rack made according to the present invention provides numerous advantages over known vehicle roof racks, including close tolerance precision fits of support components to track, high track strength and stiffness with low weight, aerodynamic styling and versatility, an ability to integrate well with a variety of vehicle shapes, good drainage, aesthetic appearance, and theft deterrence.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a carrier rack according to the present invention, shown in use mounted to a vehicle roof;
Figs. 2a and 2b are cross-sectional views of a track of the carrier rack of Fig. 1, Fig. 2a illustrating the track alone and Fig. 2b illustrating the track in use;
Fig. 3a is a sectional side view of the track of Figs. 2a and 2b;
Fig. 3b is a plan view of an end piece of the track of Figs. 2a and 2b;
.
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a supporting foot, crossbar and track of the carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view of a crossbar of the vehicle carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5b is a cross-sectional view of an alterative crossbar for a vehicle carrier rack of the present invention;
Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the vehicle carrier rack of Fig. 1;
Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate mounting configuration for a vehicle carrier rack of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to the drawings, a vehicle carrier rack is designated generally by reference numeral 10. The carrier rack 10 is mounted on a vehicle roof 12. The carrier rack 10 is comprised of tracks 14, crossbars 16, supporting feet 18, and tie down loops 20.
There are two tracks 14, spaced from one another and aligned substantially longitudinally on the vehicle roof 12. Two crossbars 16, placed transversely across the pair of tracks 14, are supported by the feet 18 on the tracks 14. The crossbars 16 are load bearing members and are adapted to have accessory elements attached to them for specific applications. For example, special carrier brackets may be attached to the crossbars 16 for carrying bicycles or skis. Ropes or cables may be inserted through the tie down loops 20 to secure loads carried by the carrier rack 10.
The tie down loops 20 may be moved slidingly along the tracks 14 to a convenient position.
Fig. 2a shows the cross-section of a track 14 in isolation. The track 14 has an elongate base 22, inner walls 24, and outer walls 26. The outer walls 26, extending upwardly from the elongate base 22, define a broad channel 28. The inner walls 24, located within the broad channel 28, also extend upwards from the elongate base 22 to define (with the outer walls) two troughs 30, and a narrow channel 32 between the troughs 30.
The tops of the inner walls 24 are provided with two pairs of flanges. A first pair of flanges 34 extend inwardly into the narrow channel 32. A second pair of flanges 36 extend outwardly from the inner walls 24 into the troughs 30. The flanges 34 and 36 define retaining surfaces 5 opposing the base 22 which engage other components of the carrier rack 10.
The resulting double I-beam profile of the track 14 formed by the inner walls 24 and the two pairs of flanges 34, 36 also provides effective support and load distribution for the carrier rack 10.
Extending outwardly from the outer walls 26 are curved sides 38. At the lower ends, the sides 38 terminate in rims 39, with the rims 39 generally aligned with the elongate base 22.
Most vehicle roofs are shaped in a compound curve, curving in both longitudinal and transverse direction of the vehicle. The tracks 14 must be bent longitudinally for installation on such roofs. When tracks with straight sides are bent longitudinally, there is a tendency for the track to spread in the transverse direction. The curved outer sides 38 inhibit this effect, resulting in a stronger track.
It is evident from Fig. 2a that the sides 38, the outer walls 26 and the inner walls 24, are of unequal height so that the track 14 shown in Fig. 2a has an asymmetrical cross-sectional profile, with an inclined upper portion 48. The two tracks 14 of the carrier rack 10 are oriented in reverse directions to provide a mirror image configuration. The lower halves of the upper portions 48 of the two tracks 14 face one another, the inclines descending toward the space between the two tracks 14.
The tracks 14 are extruded aluminum, but they could also be made from roll-formed steel, or other suitable material.
Referring now to Fig. 2b, the track 14 is shown in cross-section in conjunction with other components of the carrier rack 10. A cover 40, made of a flexible elastomeric material, for the track 14 is included. The cover 40 extends the length of the narrow channel 32. Elastomeric webs 41 are located on the underside of the cover 40. The elastomeric webs 41 engage the first pair of flanges 34 of the inner walls 24 of the track 14 in a removable push fit so that the cover 40 seals the narrow channel 32. The first pair of flanges 34 therefore provide retaining surfaces for the cover 40.
The cover 40 conceals and provides protection for fasteners and other components contained within the narrow channel 32, and creates a water 5 tight seal over the narrow channel 32. Water drains through the troughs 30.
A gasket 44 is located between the track 14 and the roof 12.
The gasket 44 is comprised of an elastomeric material providing a friction connection between the track 14 and the vehicle roof 12. The gasket 44 also 10 protects the surface of the vehicle roof 12 from being marred by contact with the track 14.
Fig. 2b also illustrates the location of a tie down loop 20. The tie down loops 20 have legs 46 at their bottom edges. The legs 46 engage the second pair of flanges 36 of the inner walls 24 in a sliding fit so that the15 tie down loops 20 may be moved to a desired position along the track 14.
In this manner the second pair of flanges 36 provide retaining surfaces for the tie down loops 20 separate from the retaining surfaces provided for the cover 40 by the first pair of flanges 34.
The tie down loops 20 also have asymmetrical profiles.
20 When a load is tied down with a rope or cable fastened through the tie down loops 20, a force is generated towards the centre of the vehicle which also presses the tie down loop 20 against the surface of the cover 40. The cover 40 creates a friction surface between the tie down loop 20 and the track 14 which inhibits movement of the tie down loop 20 while the load 25 is in place. The component of force towards the centre of the rack is increased due to the inclines on the upper portions 48 on the tracks 14 as discussed in connection with Fig. 2a.
Referring now to Fig. 3a the attachment of the track 14 to the roof 12 may be described. A well-nut 94 is placed within aligned 30 corresponding apertures 96 located in the track 14, the gasket 44 and the roof 12. A screw 92 fastens the track 14 to the roof 12, tightly threaded into the well-nut 94, securing the gasket 44 between the track 14 and the roof 12.
The apertures 96 are located at convenient intervals along the length of the track 14 and an appropriate number of screws 92 and well-nuts 94 are provided to mount the tracks 14 through the apertures 96. The apertures 96 in the track 14 and the screws 92 are located within the narrow channel 5 32. Therefore, the screws 92 and the well-nuts 94 are hidden from view and protected by the cover 40.
An end piece 50 for the tracks 14 is shown in Fig. 3b. The end piece 50 has one end 51 which is adapted to be attached to the track 14 and another end 52 which merges to a curved and tapered terminus. The 10 attachment end 51 is similar in cross-sectional profile to the track 14, so that a substantially smooth surface is formed at the juncture between the track 14 and the end piece 50. A continuous U-shaped groove 54 is included in the end piece 50. The ends 55 of the curve groove 54 are aligned with the troughs 30 of the track 14 and are shaped similarly to the 15 troughs 30 so that when the end piece 50 abuts against the track 14, the curved groove 54 and the troughs 30 form a substantially continuous depression. The shape of the end piece 50 provides a smooth transition from the end of the track 14 to the terminal ends 52. This aids aerodynamic efficiency and adds to the aesthetic appeal. The end piece 50 20 also closes off the end of the track 14, enclosing and protecting components contained within the narrow channel 32.
The end piece 50 has a tongue 56 and a post 60 projecting from its attachment end 51, with an aperture 58 included in the tongue 56.
The tongue 56 is inserted into the end of the narrow channel 32 of the 25 track 14. The post 60 is inserted into the space below the higher side 38, between it and the contiguous outer wall 26. The post 60 provides extra lateral stability for the end piece 50 in its connection to the track 14, as well as providing a guide for the insertion of the end piece 50 into the track 14.
When the end piece 50 abuts firmly against the end of the 30 track 14, the aperture 58 in the tongue 56 is aligned with corresponding apertures 43 in the track 14, the gasket 44, and the roof 12. A self-tapping screw 42 is provided which extends through the aperture 58 and the corresponding apertures 43 and thus the screw 42 fastens the end piece 50 to the track 14, as well as fastening the track 14 and the gasket 44 to the roof. Since the end pieces 50 seal off the troughs 30, the tie down loops 20 and any other supporting components are installed before the end pieces 50 are attached.
Referring now to Fig. 4, a supporting foot 18 and a crossbar 16 are shown mounted to the track 14 on the vehicle roof 12. An anchor 62 is located within the foot 18 and has legs 63 which engage the second pair of flanges 36. It will be seen that since the anchor 62 engages the first pair of flanges 36, and the cover 40 engages the flanges 34, there will be no interference between the attachment of the cover 40 and the attachment of the anchor 62.
The anchor 62 is attached to the foot 18 by means of a screw 64 and a nut 67. When the screw 64 is tightened, the legs 63 press upwardly against the second pair of flanges 36 and the foot 18 is pressed downwardly so that it abuts against the track 14, thereby securing the foot 18 on the track14. The location of the foot 18 may be varied by loosening the screw 64 and sliding the anchor 62 along the second pair of flanges 36.
The supporting feet 18 are hollow and conceal all attachment components of the foot 18 to the track 14. They also have recesses 74 to receive the crossbars 16. End caps 66 for the crossbars 16 are positioned as well within the recesses 74 provided within the feet 18. The endcaps 66 are adapted to provide a smooth integral surface between the feet 18 and crossbar 16.
As shown in Fig. 4, a screw 70 and a nut 71 attach the crossbar 16 to the foot 18 through an elongate cavity within the crossbar 16. The end cap 66 has a tongue 68 adapted to be received by the elongate cavity.
(The elongate cavity is shown in Figs. 5a and 5b and will be discussed in detail below.) The screw 70 has a head which has a hollow adapted to receive a set screw 72. The set screw 72 attaches the end cap 66 to the crossbar 16 by setting within the hollow in the head of the screw 70.
The set screw 72 has a unique head configuration for which a unique tool 73 is included for the vehicle owner's use. This allows the owner to remove and replace, or adjust the location of, the crossbars 16 as desired, while deterring theft of the crossbars 16 and of loads that may be 5 locked to the crossbars 16.
The end caps 66, end pieces 50, set screw 72 and supporting feet 18 are preferably made of a paintable moulded plastic.
Referring now to Fig. 5a, a crossbar 16 in cross-section is shown. The crossbar 16 has an aerodynamic shape and is preferably made 10 of extruded aluminum, though roll formed steel or other suitable material may be substituted. The crossbar 16 has two I-beams 75, which absorb and distribute load placed on it, and an elongate cavity 76 with an elastomeric covering 78. The elongate cavity 76 receives the fasteners for attachment to the feet 18, and also receives attachment devices for accessory 15 components to be used with the crossbar. The accessory components may be special brackets to carry bicycles, luggage, skies, and the like. The elastomeric covering 78 seals the elongate cavity 76 and provides a smooth profile for aerodynamic efficiency for the crossbar member 16.
The elongate cavity 76 has opposing overhangs 80 extending 20 partially therein. The opposing overhangs 80 hold the elastomeric covering 78 frictionally over the elongate cavity 76.
Opposing ledges 82 extend partially into the elongate cavity 76. The opposing ledges 82 divide the elongate cavity 76 into two sections 83 and 84. Portions of components attached to a lower portion of the 25 crossbar 16 may be located within the lower section 83 of the elongate cavity 76. For example, when the crossbar 16 is attached to the supporting foot 18, the head of the screw 70 will protrude somewhat into the elongate cavity 76 in the lower section 83. Portions of components attached to the upper portion of the crossbars 16 may be located in the upper section 84.
30 For example, a nut may be placed within the elongate cavity 76 to receive a screw to fasten a bracket to the upper surface of the crossbar 16.
Alternatively, plastic extrusions may also be placed within the upper section 84.
The opposing ledges 82 facilitate sliding of components in the upper section 84 without interference from components in the lower section 83, as such respective components are separated by the opposing ledges 82.
Fig. 5b illustrates an alternative cross-sectional structure of the crossbar 16. In this embodiment, slots 86 and 88 are provided on the underside of the crossbar 16. An airfoil 90 may be included which is inserted in slot 86, the slot 86 being located on the forward portion of the underside of the crossbar 16. The addition of the airfoil 90 redirects airflow over the crossbar 16 creating a vacuum behind the crossbar 16, thereby reducing aerodynamically induced noise. The slot 88 on the opposite side of the crossbar 16 from the slot 86, can be used for additional accessory devices such as additional tie down loops 91.
The alternative shown in Fig. 5b is easier to manufacture than the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 5a. The inclusion of the slots 86 and 88 result in there being no complete enclosures in the cross-section of the crossbar 16, in contrast to that shown in Fig. 5a.
Referring now to Fig. 6, the installation and the interrelation of the components of the carrier rack 10 may be explained. The track 14 is attached to the roof 12 by a screw 92 and well-nut 94 with the gasket 44 between the track 14 and the roof 12 (not shown). The cover 40 slides into place to be fictionally held by the first pair of flanges 34 in a removable push fit.
The tie down loop 20, slides into the troughs 30 with the legs 46 engaging the second pair of flanges 36. As the tie down loop 20 is not affixed but is free to slide along the second pair of flanges 36, it may be moved to any convenient position.
The legs 63 of the anchor 62 also slide over the second pair of flanges 36 of the inner walls 24. The screw 64 is placed through an aperture 65 located within the supporting foot 18. The screw 64 is screwed into a threaded bore in the anchor 62. The anchor 62 is moved to a desired position without interfering the cover 40 and then the screw 64 and anchor 62 are tightened to secure the supporting foot 18 to the track 14.
The crossbar 16 is then placed in the recess 74 in the foot 18 5 and attached to the supporting foot 18. The screw 70 is inserted through a hole in the crossbar 69 and is attached by nut 71 to securely attach the crossbar 16 to the foot 18. The head of the screw 70 will then rest within the lower section 83 of the elongate cavity 76 contained within the crossbar member 16. The recess 74 in the foot 18 also receives the end cap 66. The 10 end cap 66 is attached by placing the tongue 68 into the elongate cavity 76 of the crossbar 16. The set screw 72 may then be tightened with the tool 73 so that the end of the set screw 72 rests snugly within the head of the screw 70.
The fasteners and the elongate cavity 76 of the crossbar 16 are 15 covered by the elastomeric covering 78.
To complete the carrier rack 10, the end pieces 50 are inserted into the ends of the tracks 14 with the tongues 56 extending into the narrow channel 32 of the tracks 14. The tracks 14 and end piece 50 are then secured to the roof by threading the self-tapping screws 42 through the 20 aperture 58 and the apertures 43.
It is evident from Fig. 6 that the supporting feet 18 have an asymmetrically curved outer surface and the footprint of the feet 18 have an asymmetric profile. The curved outer surface is aerodynamically efficient. The combination of the asymmetric profile of the supporting 25 foot 18 and the asymmetric profile of the track 14 aids in the mounting of the rack on a vehicle roof. As discussed previously, pairs of tracks are mounted so that the profiles of opposing tracks incline towards each other.
When the crossbars 16 and the supporting feet 18 are mounted on the tracks 14, gravity will aid in centring the crossbars 16 due to the inward 30 incline of the tracks 14. The asymmetric footprint of the feet 18 cooperates with the asymmetric profile of the track 14 to help align the crossbars 16.
Furthermore, it is common for the transverse dimensions of a vehicle to differ between front and back by as many as four centimetres for aerodynamic purposes. Therefore, in many cases pairs of tracks will not be aligned strictly parallel to one another. The asymmetrical footprint of the supporting foot 18 cooperates with the asymmetrical profile of the tracks 14, so that the supporting foot 18 may be placed upon such non-parallel tracks 14 without having unattractive and aerodynamically inefficient overhangs of the supporting foot 18 from the sides of the track 14. Variation in lengths of the crossbars 16 also aids in accounting for the non-parallel alignment of the tracks 14.
Referring back to Fig. 1, it is evident that once the carrier rack is installed, all attachment components are concealed by the cover 40 on the tracks 14 and the covering 78 on the crossbars 16. The screws 92 and 42 will be concealed and protected by the cover 40. The set screw 72 will be concealed and protected by the elastomeric covering 78. Furthermore, because the support components engage the second pair of flanges 36 within the troughs 30, the junction of such components with the flanges is concealed and thus movement of the support components along the tracks 14 does not mar visible track surfaces.
Fig. 7 illustrates a unique mounting configuration used in accordance with the present invention. The tracks 14 are mounted in aligned pairs with one track above the vehicle roof, and the other track below the vehicle roof. The track 14a above the roof is installed as discussed above. The track 14b below the roof is installed with a gasket 44b between the track 14b and the roof so that the troughs 30 and flanges 36 face the interior of the vehicle. The back-to-back mounting of the tracks in this manner provides extra stability for the rack's mounting and is particularly useful for fibreglass roofs. The troughs and flanges 36 of the interior track 14b can be used to attach support components such as clothes hooks for the interior of the vehicle.
While the above description constitutes the preferred embodiment, it would be appreciated that the present invention is susceptible to modification and change without departing from the fair meaning or proper scope of the accompanying claims.
For example, one of the pairs of flanges may be placed on the outer walls, with the other pair extending either inwardly into the narrow 5 channel 32 or outwardly into the troughs 30. Any of these combinations would still provide two sets of retaining surfaces so that the cover may be placed on one set, and the support components may be placed on the other set. The means of attaching the support components to the flanges would of course have to be modified accordingly.
While the above description is directed to the carrier racks being placed on vehicle roofs, the carrier rack 10 may also be used for other applications. As well, while the preferred embodiment has two tracks supporting two crossbars, it is possible to have other combinations of crossbars and tracks.
Claims (25)
1. A vehicle carrier rack, comprising at least two tracks adapted to be secured to a vehicle in spaced relationship, each track having an elongate base, two outer walls extending upwardly above said base defining a broad channel, and two inner walls extending upwardly above said base defining, with said outer walls, two troughs within said broad channel, and a narrow channel between said troughs, said walls having a first pair of retaining surfaces opposing said base to hold a cover over said narrow channel, and a second pair of retaining surfaces opposing said base, remote from said first pair of retaining surfaces, to hold one or more support components in said broad channel passing over said narrow channel.
2. The carrier rack of claim 1 wherein said retaining surfaces are defined by two pairs of flanges extending from said walls.
3. The carrier rack of claim 2 wherein a first pair of said flanges extend inwardly from the tops of said inner walls, and a second pair of said flanges extend outwardly from the tops of said inner walls.
4. The carrier rack of claim 3, further comprising a cover held sealingly over said narrow channel of each said track by said first pair of flanges with a removable push fit.
5. The carrier rack of claim 4 wherein the heights of said walls differ so as to give said tracks an overall asymmetric cross-sectional profile.
6. The carrier rack of claim 4, further comprising a support component held slidably in said broad channel of each said track by said second pair of flanges, passing over said narrow channel and over said cover.
7. The carrier rack of claim 6 wherein each said track has curved sides extending outwardly of said outer walls.
8. The carrier rack of claim 7 wherein said sides extend outwardly from the tops of said outer walls, and terminate along their lower edges at rims generally aligned with said base.
9. The carrier rack of claim 8 wherein said cover has a pair of elastomeric webs retained frictionally by said first pair of flanges.
10. The carrier rack of claim 9 wherein said support component has a pair of legs retained frictionally by said second pair of flanges with a slidable fit.
11. The carrier rack of claim 10 wherein said sides, said base, said walls and said cover of each said track define cooperatively a curved cross-sectional profile, that is generally continuous except at said troughs.
12. The carrier rack of claim 11 wherein said profile is asymmetric, with an inclined upper portion.
13. The carrier rack of claim 11, further comprising end pieces, each having at one end that is adapted to attach to an end of said track a cross-sectional profile similar to that defined by said sides, said base, said walls and said cover, and at the other end merging to a curved and tapered terminus, with a U-shaped groove whose ends align with said troughs.
14. The carrier rack of claim 13, further comprising fasteners for securing said tracks to such a vehicle, passing through said base within said narrow channel beneath said cover.
15. The carrier rack of claim 1, further comprising:
supporting feet adapted to be secured to said tracks, each having a recess thereupon;
an elongate crossbar mounted to said feet within said recess, said crossbar having an elongate cavity therein, and an elastomeric covering frictionally held over said cavity and sealed thereto; and two end caps attached to the ends of said crossbar within said recess, each having a tongue adapted to fit closely in said cavity beneath said covering;
said feet, said crossbar and said end caps defining together a generally smooth integral surface.
supporting feet adapted to be secured to said tracks, each having a recess thereupon;
an elongate crossbar mounted to said feet within said recess, said crossbar having an elongate cavity therein, and an elastomeric covering frictionally held over said cavity and sealed thereto; and two end caps attached to the ends of said crossbar within said recess, each having a tongue adapted to fit closely in said cavity beneath said covering;
said feet, said crossbar and said end caps defining together a generally smooth integral surface.
16. The carrier rack of claim 15 wherein said cavity has opposing overhangs extending partially therein by which said elastomeric covering is frictionally held over said cavity.
17. The carrier rack of claim 16 wherein said cavity has opposing ledges extending at least partially therein, above the base thereof.
18. The carrier rack of claim 15, further comprising an airfoil held in a slot in said crossbar, defining a smooth integral surface with said feet and said crossbar.
19. The carrier rack of claim 15 wherein each said foot has an asymmetrically curved outer side.
20. The carrier rack of claim 1, comprising four such tracks, mounted to a vehicle in aligned pairs above and below the roof of said vehicle.
21. A vehicle carrier rack track, comprising:
an elongate base having an elastomeric gasket extending therealong, two outer walls upstanding above said base defining a broad channel, and two inner walls upstanding from said base defining with said outer walls two troughs within said broad channel and a narrow channel between said troughs, said inner walls having two pairs of flanges extending inwardly and outwardly from the tops thereof;
a cover frictionally held over said narrow channel and sealed thereto by said inwardly extending pair of flanges;
a support component held slidably in said broad channel passing over said narrow channel and over said cover by said outwardly extending pair of flanges;
curved sides extending outwardly of said outer walls;
said sides, said base, said walls, and said cover defining cooperatively a curved cross-sectional profile, that is generally continuous except at said troughs; and front and rear end pieces, each having at one end that is adapted to attach to said base a cross-sectional profile similar to that defined by said sides, said base, said walls and said cover, and at the other end merging to a curved and tapered terminus, with a U-shaped groove whose ends align at said one end with said troughs.
an elongate base having an elastomeric gasket extending therealong, two outer walls upstanding above said base defining a broad channel, and two inner walls upstanding from said base defining with said outer walls two troughs within said broad channel and a narrow channel between said troughs, said inner walls having two pairs of flanges extending inwardly and outwardly from the tops thereof;
a cover frictionally held over said narrow channel and sealed thereto by said inwardly extending pair of flanges;
a support component held slidably in said broad channel passing over said narrow channel and over said cover by said outwardly extending pair of flanges;
curved sides extending outwardly of said outer walls;
said sides, said base, said walls, and said cover defining cooperatively a curved cross-sectional profile, that is generally continuous except at said troughs; and front and rear end pieces, each having at one end that is adapted to attach to said base a cross-sectional profile similar to that defined by said sides, said base, said walls and said cover, and at the other end merging to a curved and tapered terminus, with a U-shaped groove whose ends align at said one end with said troughs.
22. The track of claim 21 wherein said profile is asymmetric, with an inclined upper portion.
23. A vehicle carrier rack, comprising:
two supporting feet adapted to be secured to a vehicle, each having an overall aerodynamic shape and having first and second adjacent recesses thereupon;
an elongate crossbar removably mounted to a pair of said feet within said first recesses by a first pair of threaded fasteners, said crossbar having an elongate cavity therein, and an elastomeric covering frictionally held over said cavity and sealed thereto with a removable push fit; and two end caps removably attached to the ends of said crossbar within said second recesses by a second pair of threaded fasteners, said caps having tongues adapted to fit slidingly into said cavity over said first pair of threaded fasteners and subsequently covered beneath said covering;
said feet, said crossbar and said end caps defining together agenerally smooth integral surface, with the tops of said second pair of fasteners hidden within said cavity beneath said covering.
two supporting feet adapted to be secured to a vehicle, each having an overall aerodynamic shape and having first and second adjacent recesses thereupon;
an elongate crossbar removably mounted to a pair of said feet within said first recesses by a first pair of threaded fasteners, said crossbar having an elongate cavity therein, and an elastomeric covering frictionally held over said cavity and sealed thereto with a removable push fit; and two end caps removably attached to the ends of said crossbar within said second recesses by a second pair of threaded fasteners, said caps having tongues adapted to fit slidingly into said cavity over said first pair of threaded fasteners and subsequently covered beneath said covering;
said feet, said crossbar and said end caps defining together agenerally smooth integral surface, with the tops of said second pair of fasteners hidden within said cavity beneath said covering.
24. A vehicle carrier rack, comprising:
pairs of feet adapted to be secured to a vehicle for supporting crossbars, each foot having an overall aerodynamic shape with an asymmetrically curved outer side.
pairs of feet adapted to be secured to a vehicle for supporting crossbars, each foot having an overall aerodynamic shape with an asymmetrically curved outer side.
25. A vehicle carrier rack, comprising four elongate tracks mounted to a vehicle in aligned pairs above and below the roof of said vehicle.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002151681A CA2151681A1 (en) | 1995-06-13 | 1995-06-13 | Vehicle carrier rack |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002151681A CA2151681A1 (en) | 1995-06-13 | 1995-06-13 | Vehicle carrier rack |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2151681A1 true CA2151681A1 (en) | 1996-12-14 |
Family
ID=4156041
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002151681A Abandoned CA2151681A1 (en) | 1995-06-13 | 1995-06-13 | Vehicle carrier rack |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2151681A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2016201001A1 (en) * | 2015-06-09 | 2016-12-15 | Yakima Products, Inc. | Slotted crossbar |
| US20180056884A1 (en) * | 2016-08-24 | 2018-03-01 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Roof rack crossbar |
| US20220281388A1 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2022-09-08 | Adrian Steel Company | Roof rail assembly for a vehicle |
-
1995
- 1995-06-13 CA CA002151681A patent/CA2151681A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2016201001A1 (en) * | 2015-06-09 | 2016-12-15 | Yakima Products, Inc. | Slotted crossbar |
| US20180056884A1 (en) * | 2016-08-24 | 2018-03-01 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Roof rack crossbar |
| US10220792B2 (en) * | 2016-08-24 | 2019-03-05 | Honda Patents & Technologies North America, Llc | Roof rack crossbar |
| US20220281388A1 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2022-09-08 | Adrian Steel Company | Roof rail assembly for a vehicle |
| US11453343B1 (en) * | 2021-03-04 | 2022-09-27 | Adrian Steel Company | Roof rail assembly for a vehicle |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |