WO2016026588A1 - Plateau de roues - Google Patents

Plateau de roues Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016026588A1
WO2016026588A1 PCT/EP2015/059459 EP2015059459W WO2016026588A1 WO 2016026588 A1 WO2016026588 A1 WO 2016026588A1 EP 2015059459 W EP2015059459 W EP 2015059459W WO 2016026588 A1 WO2016026588 A1 WO 2016026588A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
rail
bike
curved
bike carrier
holder
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2015/059459
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andreas Arvidsson
Morgan Lindell
Olof Lindholm
Original Assignee
Thule Sweden Ab
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Thule Sweden Ab filed Critical Thule Sweden Ab
Publication of WO2016026588A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016026588A1/fr

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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
    • B60R9/048—Carriers characterised by article-gripping, -covering,-retaining, or -locking means
    • 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
    • B60R9/08—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear
    • B60R9/10—Supplementary fittings on vehicle exterior for carrying loads, e.g. luggage, sports gear or the like specially adapted for sports gear for cycles

Definitions

  • the present subject matter relates to a bike carrier mountable to a roof of a vehicle.
  • Roof mountable bike carriers are widely used.
  • Such bike carriers typically comprise a rail on which the bike is supported as well as a fixation mechanism for fixing the bike in an upright condition.
  • Such bike carriers are typically constructed to support one bike.
  • the bike carriers are constructed so as to be mountable on a load carrier system mounted on the roof of a vehicle.
  • load carrier systems typically comprise two cross bars which are mountable to the roof of the vehicle cross to the vehicle's longitudinal direction. It is possible, to mount multiple bike carriers next to each other on load carrier systems.
  • the bike carriers typically consist of a rail having a length so as to extend beyond both cross bars of a load carrier system and long enough to support both wheels of a bike, such bike carriers comprise a substantial length making it difficult to store these bike carriers when not in use. Due to their length it is also sometimes not possible to transport those bike carriers in a compartment of the vehicle. Thus, a disadvantage of such bike carriers is that they do not allow convenient storage.
  • the present invention addresses the above problem and it is the object of the invention to provide a reliable bike carrier which has an enhanced structure.
  • the present subject matter relates to a bike carrier mountable to a roof of a vehicle.
  • the bike carrier comprises a rail for supporting wheels of a bike wherein the rail comprises a first portion and a second portion. Furthermore, the bike carrier comprises first and second attachment means for mounting the bike carrier to cross bars of a vehicle roof carrier system, wherein at least one of the first and second attachment means is adjustable in position on the first portion and the second portion, respectively.
  • the first portion comprises a curved portion for providing a height change in the rail. Furthermore, the curved portion extends along a curved path.
  • the curved path comprises an inflection point at which the curvature of the curved path changes and the curved path is formed such that an inflection point tangent is arranged at an angle of at least 25 degrees with respect to an extension direction of the second portion.
  • the rail can be straight.
  • the rail can be specifically designed to allow a reliable support of the wheels of a bike.
  • a fixation means such as a combination of a strip with a locking profile and a latching member, a tensioning and release buckle for instance, can be used.
  • the rail can have different shapes and can be made of different materials.
  • the rail can be made of aluminum and the second portion can be formed straight.
  • the first portion can comprise a straight portion or an additional curved portion.
  • the first and second attachment means for mounting the bike carrier to cross bars of vehicle roof carrier system
  • the first and second attachment means can comprise brackets adapted to surround the cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier system.
  • a tensioning means such as screws, can be used to tension these brackets against the cross bars. Accordingly, a reliable connection between the rail and the cross bars is possible by such brackets.
  • protrusions which are engageable with a recess formed in the cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier system.
  • T-shaped protrusions engageable in T-shaped recesses of the cross bars. Such a configuration allows an easy and reliable mounting of the rails on the cross bars.
  • At least one of the first attachment means and the second attachment means can be adjustable in position on the first portion and the second portion.
  • the first attachment means is provided on the first portion of the rail and the second attachment means is provided on the second portion of the rail.
  • the adjustability in position on the first portion and the second portion can be achieved by providing a movability of at least one of the first and second attachment means.
  • Such a movability is preferably provided in the longitudinal or extension direction of the rail. This provides the possibility to adapt the distance between the first and second attachment means to the distance between cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier.
  • the bike carrier comprises at least one wheel holder movably arranged on at least one of the first portion and the second portion.
  • the wheel holder can be a separate element for supporting the wheel on the rail or can be a separate element comprising a fixation means for fixing a wheel on the rail.
  • the wheel holder can be an element interposed between the wheel and the rails such that the wheel does not get in contact with the rail itself.
  • the wheel holder can also be formed such that the wheel gets in contact with the rail and the wheel holder only provides a fixation function for holding the wheel on the rail.
  • the wheel holder can comprise a strip with a locking profile and a tensioning mechanism including a tensioning buckle.
  • the wheel holder can be movably arranged on the first portion or the second portion. Accordingly, the rail can be used as a guiding rail for the wheel holder allowing a movement of the wheel holder in the extension direction of the first portion and the second portion, respectively. Accordingly, the position of the wheel holder can be adjusted to different bike sizes. It is possible to use only one wheel holder for supporting one wheel of the bike. It is also possible to use one wheel holder in combination with a fork holder. Similarly to the wheel holder, the fork holder can be movably arranged on the first portion or the second portion.
  • the first portion can comprise a curved portion for providing a height change in the rail.
  • a height change it is meant that the starting point of the curved portion and the end point of the curved portion are arranged on different heights when considering the same with respect to an extension direction of the rail.
  • the center line of the rail extends in a plane and the starting point of the curved portion and the end point of the curved portion are arranged in that plane at distance from each other.
  • the height change is preferably provided such that the wheel of the bike which is supported by the first portion is supported at a greater height than the wheel supported on the second portion.
  • the curved portion extends along a curved path.
  • the curved path can be aligned with a center line of the rail in the curved portion or can be seen in an outer contour line extending along the rail.
  • the curvature of the curved path changes.
  • the curved portion when starting at the end of the first portion which is arranged next to the end of the second portion, the curved portion is preferably formed such that the curvature changes from being concave upward to being concave downward.
  • the construction is such that when following the rail in its extension direction starting at the end of the first portion located next to the second portion and following the curved path towards the other end of the first portion, the gradient of the curved path increases towards the inflection point, reaches its maximum value and then decreases until it reaches zero.
  • the curved path is formed such that an inflection point tangent is arranged at an angle of at least 25 degrees with respect to an extension direction of the second portion.
  • the inflection point tangent is arranged in an angle range between 30 to 40 degrees with respect to the extension direction of the second portion.
  • the inflection point tangent can be arranged at an angle of 35 degrees with respect to the extension direction of the second portion.
  • the extension direction of the second portion corresponds to a substantially horizontal direction when the bike carrier is mounted on a roof of a vehicle.
  • the curved path extends between two points of tangency at which two parallel tangents contact the curved path, respectively, and the curved path is formed such that the inflection point tangent is arranged at an angle of at least 25 degrees with respect to the parallel tangents.
  • the curved path is formed such that an inflection point tangent is arranged in an angle range between 30 to 40 degrees, preferably at an angle of 35 degrees with respect to the parallel tangents.
  • the second portion can be straight and the parallel tangents can be arranged parallel with the extension direction of the second portion. Accordingly, an arrangement is possible in which the parallel tangents extend substantially horizontal when the bike carrier is mounted on the roof of a vehicle.
  • the curved portion of the first portion can be provided adjacent an end of the second portion such that when the shape of the rail is followed in a direction from the second portion to the first portion, the curved portion is directly coupled to the second portion. Accordingly, in case the second portion is straight, the first portion can start at a position where a curvature of the rail is present next to the straight portion.
  • the curved portion can extend from and end of the first portion or can extend from a small straight portion arranged between an end of the first portion and the curved portion.
  • the parallel tangents are arranged at maximum possible distance with respect to each other.
  • the parallel tangents are arranged parallel to the extension direction of the rail, e.g. parallel to the extension direction, the distance between the parallel tangents equals to the maximum height change in the rail at the curved portion.
  • a distance between the points of tangency of the parallel tangents on the curved path in an extension direction of the parallel tangents is smaller than 30cm. Accordingly, with respect to the overall length of the bike carrier the curved portion extends over an area of less than 30cm.
  • the curved portion comprises a first curved section and a second curved section at least one of which being preferably formed along a circular path, an elliptical path or a parabolic path. Accordingly, the shape of the curved section on one side of the inflection point can be different from the curved section as provided on the opposite side of the inflection point.
  • the first curved section and the second curved section are both formed along circular paths, wherein the circular paths preferably comprise an identical radius.
  • the bike carrier comprises a rail having a first portion and a second portion, a first and a second attachment means for mounting the bike carrier to cross bars of a vehicle roof carrier system, wherein at least one of the first and second attachment means are adjustable in position on the first portion and the second portion, respectively.
  • the first portion and the second portion are hingedly coupled to each other with a hinge mechanism so that the first portion and the second portion are foldable with respect to each other by pivoting movement.
  • the rail can be specifically designed to allow a reliable support of the wheels of a bike.
  • a fixation means such as a combination of a strip with a locking profile and a latching member, a tensioning and release buckle for instance, can be used.
  • the rail can have different shapes and can be made of different materials.
  • the rail can be made of aluminum and can have a straight shape. That is, each of the first portion and the second portion can be formed straight.
  • the rail in the first portion can comprise a bent shape and the rail in the second portion can comprise a straight shape and vice versa. It is also possible, to provide two portions each having a curved rail.
  • the first and second attachment means for mounting the bike carrier to cross bars of a vehicle roof carrier system
  • the first and second attachment means can comprise brackets adapted to surround the cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier system.
  • a tensioning means such as screws, can be used to tension these brackets against the cross bars. Accordingly, a reliable connection between the rail and the cross bars is possible by such brackets.
  • protrusions which are engageable with a recess formed in the cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier system.
  • T-shaped protrusions engageable in T-shaped recesses of the cross bars. Such a configuration allows an easy and reliable mounting of the rails on the cross bars.
  • At least one of the first attachment means and the second attachment means can be adjustable in position on the first portion and the second portion. Accordingly, a movability of at least one of the first and second attachment means can be provided. Such a movability is preferably provided in the longitudinal or extension direction of the rail. This provides the possibility to adapt the distance between the first and second attachment means to the distance between cross bars of the vehicle roof carrier system.
  • the foldability of the first portion and the second portion with respect to each other is provided by a hinge mechanism coupling the first portion to the second portion.
  • the hinge mechanism comprises two elements pivotable with respect to each other, wherein one element is fixedly mounted to the first portion and the other element is fixedly mounted to the second portion.
  • the hinge mechanism can be a flexible ligamentous joint.
  • the hinge mechanism can be an integrally formed flexible part of which one end is connected to the first portion and the other end is connected to the second portion.
  • the bike carrier comprises at least one wheel holder movably arranged on at least one of the first portion and the second portion.
  • the wheel holder can be a separate element for supporting the wheel on the rail or can be a separate element comprising a fixation means for fixing a wheel on the rail.
  • the wheel holder can be an element interposed between the wheel and the rail such that the wheel does not get in contact with the rail itself.
  • the wheel holder can also be formed such that the wheel gets in contact with the rail and the wheel holder only provides a fixation function for holding the wheel on the rail.
  • the wheel holder can comprise a strip with a locking profile and a tensioning mechanism including a tensioning buckle.
  • the wheel holder can be movably arranged on the first portion or the second portion.
  • the rail can be used as a guiding rail for the wheel holder allowing a movement of the wheel holder in the extension direction of the first portion and the second portion, respectively. Accordingly, the position of the wheel holder can be adjusted to different bike sizes. It is possible, to use only one wheel holder for supporting one wheel of the bike. It is also possible, to use one wheel holder in combination with a fork holder. Similarly to the wheel holder, the fork holder can be movably arranged on the first portion or the second portion.
  • the hinge mechanism comprises a pivot axis and the first portion and the second portion are foldable about the pivot axis such that their free ends are pivotably movable towards each other, wherein the pivot axis is preferably located substantially perpendicular and/or offset with respect to a direction of extension of the rail.
  • the hinge mechanism comprises a pivot axis
  • the first portion and the second portion are movable about the pivot axis in one plane. Accordingly, a defined movement of the first portion with respect to the second portion is possible and it is possible to position the first and second portions next to each other when folded.
  • the pivot axis of the hinge mechanism can be provided perpendicular to the direction of extension of the rail.
  • the direction of extension of the rail can be the extension direction of the center line of the rail. In case the rail comprises a curved shape, this center line also comprises a curved shape.
  • the pivot axis is located offset with respect to the direction of extension of the rail that is offset with respect to the center line. Accordingly, the pivot axis is preferably offset from the center of the rail.
  • the first portion and the second portion can be foldable into a folded state, in which the first portion and the second portion are substantially aligned.
  • substantially aligned can have the meaning that the first portion and the second portion extend substantially in parallel in the folded state.
  • substantially aligned shall have the meaning that the first portion and the second portion extend in the same direction from the hinge mechanism when in the folded state. When folded into the folded state, it is possible that no substantial angle between both portions is provided.
  • the second portion can be formed as straight element and the first portion can comprise a curved portion which is curved in a plane in which the rail extends, wherein the first portion and the second portion preferably comprise a substantially constant cross sectional profile, and wherein in an unfolded condition, the rail preferably comprises a substantially continuous shape.
  • the second portion can be formed as a straight element and the first portion can comprise a curved portion which is curved in a plane in which the rail extends. It is however also possible to provide two portions being formed as straight elements.
  • the first portion and the second portion comprise a substantially constant cross sectional profile.
  • such a cross sectional profile can have a U-shape allowing to accommodate the wheels of the bike.
  • the cross sectional profiles of the first portion and the second portion can be identical. However, it is also possible to use different cross sectional profiles while in each of the first portion and the second portion, the cross sectional profile is substantially constant over the extension of the respective portion.
  • the rail comprises a substantially continuous shape when both portions are in an unfolded condition.
  • Such a rail and the rail portions, respectively, can for example be produced by extruding the respective profile.
  • the portions are made by aluminum extrusion.
  • the bike carrier comprises a locking mechanism for releasably locking the hinge mechanism.
  • the locking mechanism can be constructed so as to at least lock the movement of one of the first portion and the second portion with respect to each other. Accordingly, by using such a locking mechanism, it is possible to fix the movement of the first portion with respect to the second portion in a predefined state, the unfolded state for instance.
  • the locking mechanism comprises two lock positions, wherein in a first lock position, the locking mechanism locks the first portion and the second portion in an unfolded condition and/or wherein in a second lock position, the locking mechanism locks the first portion and the second portion in a folded condition.
  • the locking mechanism comprises a receiving member non-rotatably coupled to the first portion and an engaging member non-rotatably coupled to the second portion, wherein the receiving member and the engaging member are arranged rotatably about a pivot axis of the pivot mechanism, and wherein the engaging member is engageable with the receiving member by movement in a direction parallel to the pivot axis.
  • the receiving member and the engaging member can be rotatably arranged about the pivot axis of the pivot mechanism.
  • the engaging member can be formed so as to be coaxially arranged with respect to the receiving member. Accordingly, it is possible to provide both elements movable about one and the same pivot axis.
  • the receiving member and the engaging member can each be provided in a housing connected to the first portion and the second portion, respectively.
  • the engaging member can be pretensioned so as to engage with the receiving member as soon as both members are aligned. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an automatic engagement.
  • the receiving member comprises a recess and the engaging member comprises a protrusion engageable with the recess wherein the recess and the protrusion are alignable by rotational movement of at least one of the receiving member and the engaging member about the pivot axis, the recess and the protrusion being preferably centered with respect to each other upon engagement.
  • the recess and/or protrusion can be formed conical in order to provide a centering function. Accordingly, when the protrusion is moved into the recess, the center line of the protrusion is aligned with the center line of the recess.
  • the bike carrier further comprises an operating mechanism for unlocking the locking mechanism, wherein the operating mechanism comprises a means for moving the engaging member with respect to the receiving member.
  • the operating mechanism can be any suitable mechanism for moving the engaging member with respect to the receiving member or vice versa.
  • the operating mechanism can be a screw mechanism in which a rotation of a screw results in an axial movement of the engaging member or the receiving member. It is also possible to provide a pushing mechanism in which pushing a button results in a movement of the engaging member with respect to the receiving member.
  • the locking mechanism can comprise a bridging element mounted on the first portion and engageable with the second portion.
  • bridging element is to be understood as an element which extends beyond a connecting portion of the first portion and the second portion and is able to get in contact with both the first and the second portion. Accordingly, such a bridging element can extend from one portion to the other portion.
  • the bridging element can be fixedly or movably mounted on one of the first portion and the second portion. For example, it is possible to fix the bridging element on one of the first portion and the second portion by screws or by rivets. On the other hand, it is possible to movably provide the bridging element on one of the first portion and the second portion.
  • bridging element serves as an engaging member engageable with a corresponding portion or means on the second portion.
  • first portion and the second portion are constructed as hollow profiles, it is possible to accommodate the bridging element movably within the first portion and to engage the bridging element with a recess formed in the second portion by moving the bridging element from the retracted position into the extended position when the first portion and the second portion are in an unfolded state.
  • the bridging element can protrude from the first portion and extend along the second portion in an unfolded condition of the rail, wherein the bike carrier comprises a fixation means connected to the second portion for coupling the bridging element to the second portion, wherein the bridging element comprises a recess for receiving the fixation means.
  • the bridging element can be fixedly provided on the first portion and protrude from the same such that it extends along the second portion in an unfolded condition of the rail.
  • the bridging element can serve as a stop for the movement of the second portion.
  • a fixation means can be provided on the second portion for coupling the bridging element to the second portion.
  • the fixation means can have a latching function so that the bridging element is engaged with the second portion as soon as the second portion abuts against the bridging element.
  • the tensioning screw can comprise a nut allowing to apply a tensioning force on the bridging element when operated.
  • the tensioning screw can comprise a nut allowing to apply a tensioning force on the bridging element when operated.
  • the bridging element comprises a clamp pivotably mounted on the first portion, the clamp comprising an engaging section engageable with an engaging portion formed on the second portion.
  • the engaging section can have the form of a hook and the engaging portion formed on the second portion can have the shape of a loop. Accordingly, it is possible to insert the hook in the loop. Since the clamp is pivotably mounted on the first portion, it is possible to provide a tensioning force by pivotably moving the clamp when the engaging section is in engagement with the engaging portion. Instead of a loop, it is also possible to provide a recess in the second portion for instance.
  • the bridging element is provided on an area of the rail, which faces in the same direction as the wheel holder and the pivot axis of the hinge mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the rail.
  • the rail comprises a side on which the wheels of the bike are supportable. It is preferable, if the bridging element is provided on that side of the rail. In other words, the bridging element is provided on the side of the rail facing in the direction of the bike. In this connection, it is preferable, if the pivot axis of the hinge mechanism is provided on the opposite side of the rail. Accordingly, when folding the first portion towards the second portion, the first attachment means and the second attachment means are moved towards each other. Stated differently, when the first portion and the second portion are in the folded state of the rail, the sides of the first portion and the second portion facing towards the vehicle in the unfolded condition face each other in the folded condition.
  • the pivot axis of the hinge mechanism can be located on the side of the rail on which the first and second attachment means are located.
  • the bike carrier further comprises a retaining arm pivotably arranged on the first portion with its first end and engageable with a bike element at its second end, wherein the retaining arm preferably comprises a claw grip for engaging with the bike element at its second end.
  • the folding concept as described in connection with the second aspect is combined with the shape of the curved portion of the rail as described in the first aspect meaning that the rail as described in the second aspect comprises a curved portion constructed in the same way as described with respect to the first aspect.
  • the hinge can be arranged as close as possible to the curved portion or curved path of the curved portion.
  • the hinge is arranged adjacent and in close proximity to the curved portion.
  • the first portion can be structured such that the curved portion is provided at an end of the first portion.
  • Another aspect of the present subject matter resides in the combination of the features of the first and second aspect with the difference that the hinge mechanism is arranged in the curved portion, preferably at the inflection point of the curved path.
  • arranged at the inflection point is to be understood to cover an arrangement at which the rotational axis passes through the inflection point of the curved path and also an arrangement in which the rotational axis is offset in parallel in a cross sectional plane of the rail in which the inflection point is located.
  • the entire first portion is foldable with respect to the second portion
  • the further aspect as described here is to be understood such that only a section of the first portion is foldable with respect to the second portion. Accordingly, there can be a section of the first portion which is not foldable with respect to the second portion and which is fixedly coupled to or integrally formed with an end portion of the second portion.
  • Such an arrangement should however also fall under the definition of the first portion being foldable with respect to the second portion as at least a part of the first portion performs a rotational movement with respect to the second portion.
  • the hinge mechanism is not provided at the border of the first and the second portions but is provided within the curved portion of the first portion. In case the curved portion is suitably structured, the bike carrier can be folded into a more compact state.
  • the present subject matter as described in the above aspects has several advantages compared to known prior art bike carriers. For example, providing the foldability as described above results in a bike carrier which is very compact in a non-use state.
  • Known prior art documents do not address the issue of making the bike carrier more compact and using a folding mechanism therefore.
  • known prior art documents do not provide a locking mechanism in order to prevent the rail from an unintended folding.
  • the curved portion in case that the curved portion is provided according to one of the above aspects, it can be shaped such that the curvature changes from concave upward to concave downward from the lowest point to the highest point of the curved portion and the first portion can be further formed such that its further section extending from the highest point extends downward at least partially on a curved path.
  • Figure 1 shows a bike carrier according to the present subject matter in a perspective view
  • Figure 2 shows a side view of a rail of the bike carrier in an unfolded state
  • Figure 3 shows a side view of the rail of the bike carrier in a folded state
  • Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a first hinge mechanism of a bike carrier according to a first embodiment of the present subject matter
  • Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of main components of the first hinge mechanism shown in Figure 4;
  • Figure 6 shows an operating member and an engaging member of the first hinge mechanism in a perspective view
  • Figure 7 shows a first holder of the first hinge mechanism
  • Figure 8 shows a sectional view of the first hinge mechanism
  • Figure 9 shows a second hinge mechanism of a bike carrier according to a second embodiment of the present subject matter
  • Figure 10 shows an exploded perspective view of main components of the second hinge mechanism as shown in Figure 9;
  • Figure 1 1 shows a perspective view of a second holder element of the second hinge mechanism
  • Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a first holder of the second hinge mechanism
  • Figure 13 shows a sectional view of the second hinge mechanism
  • Figure 14 shows a third hinge mechanism of a bike carrier according to third embodiment of the present subject matter
  • Figure 15 shows a more detailed perspective view of the third hinge mechanism as shown in Figure 14; shows a side view of the third hinge mechanism in an intermediate state;
  • FIG. 1 shows a fourth hinge mechanism of a bike carrier according to a fourth embodiment of the present subject matter
  • FIG. 1 shows an enlarged perspective view of a fifth hinge mechanism of a bike carrier according to a fifth embodiment of the present subject matter
  • FIG. 25 shows an enlarged portion of the curved portion of the rail; and shows the geometric dimensions of the curved portion as shown in Figures 25;
  • FIG. 25 shows a side view of a rail which has a curved portion as described in Figures 25 and 26 but does not have a hinge mechanism.
  • FIG. 1 shows a bike carrier 1 according to the present subject matter.
  • the bike carrier 1 is mountable to a roof of a vehicle and comprises a rail 2. More precisely, the rail 2 comprises a first portion 21 and a second portion 22 hingedly coupled to each other by means of a hinge mechanism 4.
  • the bike carrier 1 shown in Figure 1 is shown in a state in which the rail 2 is in an unfolded state. In this state, it is possible to mount the bike carrier 1 on a roof of a vehicle and to fix a bike thereon.
  • the first portion 21 of the rail 2 comprises a curved shape whereas the second portion 22 of the rail 2 is formed straight according to the present embodiment.
  • Both portions of the rail 2 comprise a substantially identical cross section and are formed such that they comprise a longitudinal groove extending over substantially the entire length of the rail 2.
  • the longitudinal groove is suitably formed with a dimension large enough for accommodating wheels of a bike therein.
  • the shape of the rail portions 21 , 22 of the rail 2 and the arrangement of the same in the unfolded state is also shown in Figure 2. More precisely, the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are arranged such that a substantially continuous shape of the rail 2 is achieved.
  • the first portion 21 comprises a curved portion 21 a being formed such that a supporting section on the first portion 21 at which the front wheel of a bike is supported is arranged on a higher level compared to the support area of the second portion 22 at which the rear wheel of a bike is supported. Furthermore, as is shown in Figure 2, a large section of the first portion 21 is inclined towards the front end of the rail 2.
  • Figure 3 shows the rail 2 in a folded state.
  • the second portion 22 is rotated about 180° about the pivot axis P into a state in which the free ends of the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are arranged close to each other.
  • the length of the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 is substantially the same.
  • the bike carrier 1 comprises a first attachment means 31 and a second attachment means 32 respectively mounted below the rail 2 wherein the first attachment means 31 is connected to the first portion 21 and the second attachment means 32 is connected to the second portion 22.
  • the first and second attachment means 31 , 32 comprise suitable means for connecting the bike carrier 1 to a load carrier of the vehicle.
  • the first attachment means 31 and the second attachment means 32 can comprise elements for fixing the bike carrier 1 onto load carrying bars of the load carrier of the vehicle.
  • the bike carrier 1 comprises a hinge mechanism 4 for allowing a pivoting movement of the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 with respect to each other about a pivot axis P.
  • the pivot axis P is arranged substantially perpendicular to the extension direction of the rail 2.
  • the hinge mechanism 4 can comprise different configurations as will be explained later.
  • the bike carrier 1 further comprises two wheel holders 5, one of which being arranged on the first portion 21 and the other one being arranged on the second portion 22. It is however to be mentioned that it is also possible to provide a bike carrier with one wheel holder only, provided at the first portion 21 for example.
  • the wheel holders 5 are slidably mounted on the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 such that the distance between the same can be suitably adjusted to the distance of the wheels of the bike to be transported on the bike carrier 1.
  • the wheel holders 5 comprise a ratchet type fixation means basically comprising a toothed band like plastic element insertable between the spokes of a wheel and into a latching buckle for tensioning and locking the toothed plastic element.
  • the bike carrier 1 comprises a retaining arm 6 for supporting the bike to be transported at a portion of its frame.
  • the retaining arm 6 comprises a first end 6a connected to the first portion 21 of the rail 2 and a second end 6b comprising a claw grip 6c for an engagement with an element of the bike to be transported.
  • the retaining arm also comprises an operating mechanism 6d for operating the claw grip 6c.
  • the operating mechanism 6d comprises an operating section 6e which in the present case is a rotatable operating knob rotatable by the user. Thus, by rotating the operating knob, the claw grip 6c can be closed.
  • FIG 4 shows a perspective view of the first hinge mechanism 41 of the bike carrier according to the first embodiment.
  • the first hinge mechanism 41 comprises a first holder 412 and a second holder 413 pivotably connected to each other about a pivot axis P.
  • the first holder 412 is coupled to the first portion 21 of the rail 2 and the second holder 413 is coupled the second portion 22 of the rail 2.
  • the first hinge mechanism 41 comprises an operating member 414 for locking and releasing a rotational movement of the first holder 412 and the second holder 413 with respect to each other.
  • Figure 5 shows an exploded perspective view of main components of the first hinge mechanism 41 shown in Figure 4.
  • the first hinge mechanism 41 according to the present embodiment comprises four main components namely the first holder 412, the second holder 413, the operating member 414 and an engaging member 415.
  • the first holder 412 comprises a holding portion 412a, and a supporting portion 412b.
  • the supporting portion 412b comprises a construction allowing a pivotable connection between the first holder 412 and the second holder 413. More precisely, the supporting portion 412b comprises a circular outer surface 412d which is formed corresponding to a mating surface of the second wheel holder 413 and allowing a rotational movement of the first holder 412 with respect to the second holder 413.
  • the supporting portion 412b comprises an opening 412c for threadedly accommodating a portion of the operating member 414 as will be described later.
  • the opening 412c can comprise a shape allowing to non-rotatably accommodate a nut therein.
  • the second holder 413 comprises a holding portion 413a and a supporting portion 413b.
  • the supporting portion 413b comprises a supporting section 413c which is designed so as to be accommodatable in the supporting portion 412b of the first holder 412.
  • the supporting section 413c comprises the shape of a hollow cylinder and provides a suitable supporting surface contactable to an inner surface of the supporting portion 412b.
  • the supporting portion 413b comprises an engaging member support portion 413d.
  • the engaging member support portion 413d is realized in the form of a surface having a curved shape and is provided inside the supporting section 413c.
  • the engaging member support portion 413d is suitably shaped so as to support the engaging member 415 as will be described later.
  • the supporting portion 413b comprises a guiding portion 413e for slidably accommodating protrusions 415b of the engaging member 415.
  • the operating member 414 comprises a rod 414a having a threaded section 414b at one end. At the other end, the rod 414a is coupled to a support portion 414c. Furthermore, the operating member 414 comprises an operating section coupled to the support portion 414c.
  • the support portion 414c comprises a circular outer surface which is supported by the second holder 413 such that a rotational movement of the operating member 414 is possible.
  • the engaging member 415 comprises a cylindrical main body 415a as well as two protrusions 415b protruding from the cylindrical main body 415a from opposite sides thereof. As is shown in Figure 5, the protrusions 415b not only protrude in the radially outward direction of the cylindrical main body 415a but also protrude beyond the front end of the cylindrical main body 415a in the longitudinal direction thereof. The protrusions 415b serve for different purposes.
  • the protrusions 415b serve as guides which allow a sliding movement of the engaging member 415 along its center axis direction while preventing a rotation of the engaging member 415.
  • the protrusions 415b protrude from the front end of the main body 415a as shown in Figure 5, the protrusions 415b can serve as engaging portions engaging with a recess formed in the first holder 412 thereby non-rotatably coupling the first holder 412 to the engaging member 415.
  • the engaging member 415 is operated by the operating member 414.
  • the operating member 414 and the engaging member 415 are coupled to each other as is shown in Figure 6.
  • Figure 6 shows the operating member and the engaging member coupled to each other in a perspective view.
  • the rod 414a of the operating member 414 is passed through the opening 415c such that the threaded section 414b protrudes from the engaging member 415 on the side at which the protrusions 415b protrude from the cylindrical main body 415a in the longitudinal direction.
  • a locking ring 414d is provided in a groove of the rod 414a in order to secure the engaging member 415 on the operating member 414.
  • the operating member 414 and the engaging member 415 are arranged rotatably movable with respect to each other.
  • the protrusions 415b are provided for an engagement with the first holder 412. Therefore, as is shown in Figure 7, the first holder comprises two recesses 412f into which the longitudinal ends of the protrusions 415b can be inserted.
  • the design of the recesses 412f is mated with the design of the protrusions 415b.
  • the protrusions 415b are tapered towards their longitudinal ends protruding beyond the main body 415a.
  • the first holder 412 furthermore comprises a guiding section 412g which is formed by the inner surface of the supporting portion 412b and serves for supporting the supporting section 413c of the second holder 413. Accordingly, it is possible to rotatably support the second holder 413 against the first holder 412.
  • a mounted state of the first hinge mechanism 41 as well as the functioning thereof will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 8 in the following.
  • Figure 8 shows a sectional view of the first hinge mechanism 41.
  • the operating member 414 is inserted into the second holder 413 such that its support portion 414c is supported against an inner wall of the engaging member 413d.
  • the engaging member is inserted on the rod 414a from the other side of the second holder 413 such that the outer surface of the main body 415a is supported against the inner surface of the engaging member support portion 413d.
  • the locking ring 414d is placed in the groove formed on the rod 414a so that an axial movement of the engaging member 415 with respect to the operating member 414 is limited.
  • the first holder 412 is mounted by inserting the threaded section 414b in the threaded opening 412c of the first holder 412 and is coupled to the second holder 413 at an engaging section. More precisely, the threaded portion 414b of the rod is inserted into a nut 412g provided in the opening 412c. Accordingly, an assembly, shown in Figure 8, is achieved. In this assembly, the main body 415a of the engaging member 415 and the protrusions 415b provided thereon are movable in the direction of the pivot axis P relative to the first holder 412 and the second holder 413 by rotating the operating member 414.
  • a rotation of the operating member 414 leads to a movement of the rod 414a in the direction of the pivot axis P due to the engagement of the threaded portion 414b with the nut 412g.
  • the rod 414a will move towards the left side in Figure 8.
  • the locking ring 414d gets in contact with an abutment surface 415d of the engaging member 415 so that the engaging member 415 is axially moved corresponding to the axial movement of the rod 414a.
  • the protrusions 415b can be disengaged from the recesses 412f by such a movement thus allowing a rotation of the first holder 412 with respect to the second holder 413.
  • the engaging member 415 will be moved towards the right side in Figure 8 thereby engaging the protrusions 415b with the recesses 412f. Accordingly, a locked condition of the hinge mechanism 41 is achieved in which a rotation of the first holder 412 with respect to the second holder 413 is prevented.
  • the second hinge mechanism 42 uses the same principle for locking a rotational movement between the first holder 421 and the second holder 422 as described with respect to the first hinge mechanism. More precisely, the second hinge mechanism 42 also comprises an engaging member 423 which is movable in the direction of the pivot axis P and engages with corresponding recesses formed in the first holder for locking the rotational movement between the first holder 421 and the second holder 422.
  • the basic principle is similar to that of the first hinge mechanism 41 , the operation of the engaging member is different.
  • the hinge mechanism 42 as shown in Figure 9 comprises a first holder 421 connected to the first portion 21 and a second holder 422 connected to the second portion 22.
  • the second holder 422 comprises a first holder element 422a and a second holder element 422b.
  • the first holder element 422a and the second holder element 422b comprise supporting portions contactable with a supporting portion of the first holder 421 so that the first holder 421 and the second holder 422 are movable about a common pivot axis P.
  • the first holder 421 comprises a support 421 a in its interior for slidably accommodating the engaging member 423 in the direction of the pivot axis P.
  • the first holder 421 comprises recesses 421 b provided in the support 421 a.
  • the recesses are suitably formed for accommodating protrusions 423a of the engaging member 423.
  • the protrusions 423a protrude radially outward on opposite sides of a support portion 423b of the engaging member 423. Furthermore, a portion of the protrusions 423a protrudes beyond the support portion 423b in the axial direction of the engaging member 423.
  • the protrusions are formed so as to be engageable with the recesses 421 b on the one hand and to be engaged with recesses 422c of the second holder element 422b on the other hand.
  • the operating member 424 is provided in the form of a push button.
  • the operating member 424 comprises a support portion 424b which comprise a substantially circular outer surface.
  • the operating member 424 comprises two protrusions 424a protruding radially outward from the support portion 424b on opposite sides thereof.
  • the protrusions 424a are also insertable in the recess 422c formed in the second holder element 422b such that the operating member 424 is non-rotatably accommodatable in the second holder element 422b.
  • Figure 1 1 shows a perspective view of the second holder element 422b of the second hinge mechanism 42.
  • the recesses 422c comprise a stepped shape with an outer portion having a width substantially corresponding to the protrusions 423a and an inner portion having a width substantially corresponding to the width of the protrusions 424a of the operating member 424.
  • Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the first holder 421 of the second hinge mechanism showing the recesses 421 b provided in the support 421 a in greater detail.
  • Figure 13 shows a sectional view of the second hinge mechanism 42.
  • the third hinge mechanism 43 comprises a first holder 431 connected to the first portion 21 and a second holder 432 connected to the second portion 22. Furthermore, the third hinge mechanism comprises a locking latch 433 for locking a movement of the first holder 431 with respect to the second holder 432 with respect to each other.
  • the locking latch 433 is formed as a clamp and can also be considered as a bridging element bridging the connecting portion between the first holder 431 and the second holder 432 in an unfolded state of the rail.
  • Figure 14 shows the third hinge mechanism 43 in a locked condition in which the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 of the rail 2 are in an unfolded state.
  • the clamp 433 is mounted on the second holder 432 and is engageable with the first holder 431.
  • the first holder 431 comprises an engaging portion 431 a as is shown in Figure 15 in which the third hinge mechanism 43 is illustrated without the clamp 433.
  • Figure 16 shows a side view of the third hinge mechanism in which the clamp member is engaged with the engaging portion 431 a but is in a state in which the clamp 433 is not tensioned.
  • the clamp 433 is connected to the second holder 432 by means of a pivot arm 433d.
  • FIG 17 showing a sectional view of the third hinge mechanism in the longitudinal direction of the rail 2.
  • the clamp 433 comprises an engaging section 433a and the first holder 431 comprises an engaging portion 431 a having a recess with which the engaging section 433a can be engaged.
  • the pivot arm 433d of the clamp 433 is mounted on the main body of the clamp 433 by means of a first hinge 433f and is connected to the second holder 432 by means of a pivot pin 433e which, in the present embodiment is integrally formed with the pivot arm 433d.
  • the pivot pin 433e comprises a dimension rendering the same elastic to a certain degree in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the pivot pin 433e.
  • the pivot pin 433e is rotatably supported in a supporting section 432a of the second holder 432. Accordingly, the clamp 433 is hingedly mounted by means of the pivot arm 433d on the second holder 432.
  • Figure 17 shows the clamp 433 in a tensioned state. In this state, the first hinge 433f is arranged at a distance from the engaging section 433a of the clamp 433 which is smaller than a maximum distance between the first hinge 433f and the engaging section 433a during operation of the clamp 433.
  • the hinge mechanism 43 comprises a self-locking function since according to the construction shown in Figure 17, a force is generated urging the right end of the clamp 433 in the clockwise direction.
  • the pivot pin 433e is flexed to a certain extent. Therefore, a force is exerted in the clamp 433 providing a secure engagement between the engagement section 433a and the engaging portion 431 a.
  • a fourth hinge mechanism 44 of a bike carrier according to a fourth embodiment of the present subject matter is described with respect to figures 18 to 20.
  • the basic function of the hinge mechanism 44 is similar to that of the third hinge mechanism 43 as described before.
  • the fourth hinge mechanism 44 comprises a clamp 443 functioning as a locking latch which can also be considered as bridging element.
  • Figure 18 shows the clamp 443 in a tensioned state in which the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 of the rail 2 are in an unfolded state.
  • Figure 19 shows an intermediate position of the clamp 443 in which the same is not tensioned, but already engaged with a first holder 441 connected to the first portion 21.
  • the construction of the fourth hinge mechanism 44 is best shown in Figure 20 which shows a sectional view of the hinge mechanism in the longitudinal direction of the rail 2.
  • the clamp 443 comprises a latching portion 443a which is made of a metal sheet bent into the shape as shown in Figure 20.
  • the latching potion 443a comprises an engaging section 443b engageable with an engaging portion 441 a of the first holder 441.
  • the clamp 443 comprises a cover portion 443b covering the latching portion 443a and being made of plastic material.
  • the clamp 443 comprises a supporting portion 443c at which the latching portion 443a is hingedly coupled to a pivot arm 443d by means of a first hinge 443f.
  • the pivot arm 443d is in turn connected to the second holder 442 by means of a second hinge 443e.
  • the fourth hinge mechanism also has a clamp 443 comprising a self-locking function as described before.
  • the pivot arm is not flexibly coupled to the second holder 442. Instead, the flexibility is provided by means of the latching portion 443a which comprises a certain degree of elasticity.
  • the first holder 441 and the second holder 442 are rotatably coupled to each other about an axle 444 which in the present case is made of a plastic material.
  • Each of the first holder 441 and the second holder 442 comprises a supporting portion similiarly designed wherein in Figure 20 only a supporting portion 441 b of the first holder 441 is shown. More precisely, the supporting portion 441 b is circularly formed and comprises supporting protrusions 441 d protruding radially inward from an inner surface of the supporting portion 441 b and contacting the outer surface of the axle 444. With such a construction, it is possible to reliably support the first holder 441 and the second holder 442 about a common pivot axis defined by the axle 444.
  • the first holder 441 comprises a recess 441 c and the second holder 442 comprises a recess 442c each for accommodating a magnet 441 d, 442d therein.
  • the recesses 441 c, 442c are provided near abutment surfaces of the first and second holder 441 , 442 facing and contacting each other in the unfolded state of the rail 2. Accordingly, in the unfolded state, the magnets are arranged close to each other generating an attraction force pulling the abutment surfaces towards each other.
  • the magnetic force is high enough for holding the rail portions in the unfolded state. By this, it is easier for the user to operate the clamp 443.
  • FIG. 21 shows the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 in an unfolded state in which the fifth hinge mechanism 45 is in a locked condition.
  • Figure 22 shows an intermediate state in which the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are in an unfolded state in which the fifth hinge mechanism 45 is still in an unlocked state.
  • Figure 23 shows the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 in a folded state.
  • Figure 24 shows a sectional view of the fifth hinge mechanism 45 in a longitudinal direction of the rail 2.
  • the fifth hinge mechanism 45 comprises a bridging element 451 fixedly mounted on the second portion 22 of the rail 2.
  • the bridging element 451 comprises a protruding section protruding beyond the end portion of the second portion 22.
  • the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 are rotatably mounted to each other about a pivot pin 451 b.
  • the protruding section 451 d of the bridging element 451 is in abutment with the first portion 21 and extends along the same.
  • the protruding section 451 d of the bridging element 451 comprises a recess 451 c extending in its longitudinal direction.
  • the fifth hinge mechanism 45 further comprises a fixation means 452 comprising a threaded rod 452b and an operating member 452a.
  • the threaded rod 452b is hingedly coupled to the first portion 21 of the rail 2. Therefore, it is possible to move the threaded rod 452b together with the operating member 452a into a position shown in Figure 22. In this position, the threaded rod 452b is inclined with respect to a portion of the rail 2 at which it is hingedly mounted. By this, it is possible to rotate the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 with respect to each other such that they take the unfolded condition. In this state, the protruding section 451 d of the bridging element 451 is in abutment with the first section 21 and the recess 451 a formed therein is aligned with the threaded rod 452b.
  • the curved portion 21a of the first portion 21 provides a height change in said rail 2 in that it extends along a specifically formed curved path c.
  • This curved path comprises an inflection point pO at which the curvature of the curved path and consequently the curvature of the curved portion of the rail changes.
  • the curved path c is formed such that an inflection point tangent tO is arranged at an angle a of about 35 degrees with respect to the center line of the straight second portion.
  • the center line of the second portion 22 is aligned with a tangent t2 as shown in Figures 25 and 26.
  • the extension direction of the center line or the tangent t2 corresponds to the extension direction of the rail.
  • the curved path extends between tangent t2 and another tangent t1 arranged parallel to tangent t2.
  • Tangent t2 marks the highest point of the curved path and tangent t1 marks the lowest point of the curved path c.
  • both parallel tangents t1 , t2 are arranged at maximum possible distance with respect to each other in this embodiment.
  • the rail has its maximum height at the point of tangency p1.
  • the rail is further constructed such that the height of the rail is gradually reduced on the right side of point p1 in the figures, as is also derivable from Figure 2.
  • the height of the first portion will quickly reach its maximum and remain high for a majority of the remaining elongation of the first portion.
  • the inclination of the rail in the downward direction increases so that the lowest part is reached.
  • a ratio of the distance d or length of the curved portion 21 a with respect to the overall length of the first portion 21 can be gathered from Figure 27 in which a rail is shown which is similar to the rail as shown in Figure 2 but lacks the hinge mechanism as described before. It turned out that the shape of the curved portion as described before is also beneficial and directly applicable to rails not having a hinge mechanism. As is shown in Figure 27, the distance d or length of the curved portion is considerably smaller than the length e of a further section of the rail leading to a construction in which the distance d or length of the curved portion can be less than one third, preferably less than one fifth of the length L of the entire first portion 21.
  • the further section as described here is the section of the first portion 21 on which a wheel of the bike carrier can be supported.
  • the section of the rail on which the wheel can be supported is increased.
  • the sections for supporting the wheels of a bike on the rail are greater, leading to an increased flexibility in use of the bike carrier. For instance, it is possible to mount small bikes for children, bikes with large 29 inch wheels or increasingly common so called fat bikes, all with the same beneficial effects.
  • the curved path c comprises a first curved section 21 a1 located on the left side of the inflection point pO and a second curved section 21a2 located on the right side of the inflection point pO in the Figures. Both curved sections 21 a1 , 21 a2 are formed along circular paths and the circular paths comprise an identical radius.
  • Bike carrier (1 ) mountable to a roof of a vehicle, the bike carrier (1 ) comprising a rail (2) having a first portion (21 ) and a second portion (22)
  • first and second attachment means (31 , 32) for mounting said bike carrier (1 ) to cross bars of a vehicle roof carrier system, at least one of said first and second attachment means (31 , 32) being adjustable in position on said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22), respectively, wherein
  • said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) are hingedly coupled to each other with a hinge mechanism (4; 41 ; 42; 43; 44; 45) so that said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) are foldable with respect to each other by pivoting movement.
  • Bike carrier (1 ) according to clause 1 , further comprising at least one wheel holder (5) movably arranged on at least one of said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22).
  • said hinge mechanism (4; 41 ; 42; 43; 44; 45) comprises a pivot axis (P), and wherein said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) are foldable about said pivot axis (P) such that their free ends are pivotably movable towards each other, wherein said pivot axis (P) is preferably located substantially perpendicular and/or offset with respect to a direction of extension of said rail (2).
  • said second portion (22) is formed as straight element and said first portion (21 ) comprises a curved portion (21 a) which is curved in a plane in which the rail (2) extends, wherein said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) preferably comprise a substantially constant cross sectional profile, and wherein in an unfolded condition, said rail (2) preferably comprises a substantially continuous shape.
  • Bike carrier according to one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a locking mechanism for releasably locking said hinge mechanism (4; 41 ; 42; 43; 44; 45).
  • said locking mechanism comprises two lock positions, wherein in a first lock position, the locking mechanism locks said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) in an unfolded condition and /or wherein in a second lock position, the locking mechanism locks said first portion (21 ) and said second portion (22) in a folded condition.
  • said locking mechanism comprises a receiving member (412) non-rotatably coupled to said first portion (21 ) and an engaging member (415) non-rotatably coupled to said second portion (22), wherein said receiving member (412) and said engaging member (415) are arranged rotatably about a pivot axis (P) of said pivot mechanism (41 ), and wherein said engaging member (415) is engageable with said receiving member (412) by movement in a direction parallel to said pivot axis (P).
  • Bike carrier according to clause 8, wherein said receiving member (412) comprises a recess (412f ) and said engaging member (415) comprises a protrusion (415b) engageable with said recess (412f) and wherein said recess (412f) and said protrusion (415b) are alignable by rotational movement of at least one of said receiving member (412) and said engaging member (415) about said pivot axis (P), said recess (412f) and said protrusion (415b) being preferably centered with respect to each other upon engagement.
  • said locking mechanism comprises a bridging element (433; 443; 451 ) mounted on said second portion (22) and engageable with said first portion (21 ).
  • said bridging element (451 ) protrudes from said second portion (22) and extends along said first portion (21 ) in an unfolded condition of the rail (2), and wherein said bike carrier (1 ) comprises a fixation means (452) connected to said first portion (21 ) and for coupling said bridging element (451 ) to said second portion (22), wherein said bridging element (451 ) comprises a recess (451 a) for receiving said fixation means (452).
  • said bridging element (433; 443; 451 ) comprises a clamp pivotably mounted on said second portion (22), said clamp comprising an engaging section (433a; 443b) engageable with an engaging portion (431 a; 441 a) formed on said first portion (21 ).
  • said bridging element (433; 443; 451 ) is provided on an area of said rail (2), which faces in the same direction as said wheel holder (5) and said pivot axis (P) of said hinge mechanism is provided on the opposite side of said rail (2).
  • Bike carrier according to one of the preceding clauses, further comprising a retaining arm (6) pivotably arranged on said first portion (21 ) with its first end (6a) and engageable with a bike element at its second end (6b), wherein said retaining arm (6) preferably comprises a claw grip (6c) for engaging with said bike element at its second end (6b).

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur un porte-vélo (1) pouvant être monté sur un toit d'un véhicule. Le porte-vélo comprend un rail (2) pour porter des roues d'un vélo, et le rail a une première partie (21) et une seconde partie (22). De plus, le porte-vélo comprend des premiers et seconds moyens d'attachement (31, 32) pour monter le porte-vélo sur des entretoises d'un système de porteur de toit de véhicule, au moins l'un des premiers et seconds moyens d'attachement étant réglables en position sur la première partie et la seconde partie, respectivement. La première partie comprend une partie incurvée (21a) pour produire un changement de hauteur dans ledit rail. La partie incurvée s'étend le long d'une trajectoire incurvée (c), et la trajectoire incurvée comprend un point d'inflexion (p0) au niveau duquel la courbure de la trajectoire incurvée change. La trajectoire incurvée est formée de telle sorte qu'une tangente au point d'inflexion (t0) est située selon un angle (a) d'au moins 25 degrés par rapport à une direction d'extension de la seconde partie.
PCT/EP2015/059459 2014-08-22 2015-04-30 Plateau de roues WO2016026588A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP2014067933 2014-08-22
EPPCT/EP2014/067933 2014-08-22

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WO2016026588A1 true WO2016026588A1 (fr) 2016-02-25

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6523731B1 (en) * 1999-09-24 2003-02-25 Fabio Pedrini Bicycle-carrier device for motor vehicles
WO2003106221A1 (fr) * 2002-06-14 2003-12-24 Thule Sweden Ab Dispositif de transport pour cycle
US20050205626A1 (en) * 2001-07-10 2005-09-22 Watermark Paddlesports, Inc. Bike mount
US20070056915A1 (en) * 2005-07-11 2007-03-15 Magnus Carlsson Load carrier
US20100038389A1 (en) * 2008-08-14 2010-02-18 Yung-Lin Liu Car top bicycle frame for retaining at least one bicycle transversally and obliquely
US20110297712A1 (en) * 2010-06-05 2011-12-08 Shen Jack C T Locking member and roof rack using the same

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6523731B1 (en) * 1999-09-24 2003-02-25 Fabio Pedrini Bicycle-carrier device for motor vehicles
US20050205626A1 (en) * 2001-07-10 2005-09-22 Watermark Paddlesports, Inc. Bike mount
WO2003106221A1 (fr) * 2002-06-14 2003-12-24 Thule Sweden Ab Dispositif de transport pour cycle
US20070056915A1 (en) * 2005-07-11 2007-03-15 Magnus Carlsson Load carrier
US20100038389A1 (en) * 2008-08-14 2010-02-18 Yung-Lin Liu Car top bicycle frame for retaining at least one bicycle transversally and obliquely
US20110297712A1 (en) * 2010-06-05 2011-12-08 Shen Jack C T Locking member and roof rack using the same

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