Attachment devices for vehicle rooftop rack accessories
US9868402B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jan 16, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 14, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T24/2175
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Rack systems are disclosed for coupling accessories to crossbars on top of a vehicle. A coupling device may include a flexible strap member adjustably anchored at one end of a body. The strap member may be connected to the other end of the body and tightened. A mounting assembly may be provided on the top side of the body for connection to a cargo-specific carrier or accessory. A coupling device may also include a flexible fitting member configured to grip a round or rectangular crossbar. A cap member may be configured to be mounted on the fitting member and have one or more ramp surfaces which form a sliding interface with a corresponding surface on the fitting member, thereby providing a closing or tightening effect on the fitting member with respect to the crossbar.Other coupling devices are configured to grip or clamp a t-slot in the crossbar.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.