Vehicle article carrier
US4899917A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 23, 1988 |
| Grant date | Feb 13, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 23, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R9/045
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An article carrying system for operative association with an automotive vehicle having an exterior generally horizontal surface, such as a trunk lid or roof, the system comprising a pair of elongated support members or slats which have a configuration which flows conformably and aerodynamically into the surface of the vehicle and which are permanently secured to the vehicle. The support members have longitudinally extending channels for supporting adjustable and/or removable components of the system, including tie downs and cross members which components are also provided with aerodynamic designs compatible with the remainder of the system. Provision is also made for association of components of the system, such as cross members, to be fixedly located on the support members. An aerodynamic locking mechanism is also disclosed for use in selected adjustable and/or removable components of the system which includes a hidden actuation mechanism and a hooking action to lock the component to the support member or slat.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.