Load carrier

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a roof rack load carrying bar (100), the roof rack load carrying bar comprising: a channel (101) for receiving at least one mounting member (10) for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar (100), the channel (101) extending at least partially in a length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100); a mounting member (101) extending in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100) and arranged to seal the channel (101) from the external environment A first cover (200) and a second cover (300), the first cover (200) being attached to the load-bearing rod (100) via a first attachment interface (AI1) provided at a first side of the channel (101), and the second cover (300) being attached to the load-bearing rod (100) via a second attachment interface (AI2) provided at a second side of the channel (101), wherein the first attachment interface (AI1) and the second attachment interface (AI2) are asymmetric relative to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a roof rack load carrying bar including a channel for receiving at least one mounting member to attach a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar, the channel extending at least partially in a lengthwise direction of the load carrying bar.

[0002] The present disclosure also relates to a roof rack load carrying bar including an airflow conditioning pattern extending in a length direction of the load carrying bar, the pattern including at least two raised ribs offset relative to each other in the length direction of the load carrying bar.

[0003] Still further, the present disclosure relates to a roof rack load carrying bar, which includes a cross-sectional profile having a front bar portion and a rear bar portion relative to a direction of travel of the load carrying bar during use, the front bar portion having a front edge, the rear bar portion having a profile that tapers rearwardly and toward a rear edge of the rear bar portion relative to the direction of travel, the front edge including a first curved profile extending from an upper portion to a lower portion of the front bar portion. Background Art

[0004] Roof racks comprising load carrying bars are known to provide improved load carrying capacity for a vehicle.

[0005] There are different types of load carrying bars, one type of which includes an integral channel for receiving mounting members (such as screws) intended to attach a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar. The load carrying bar accessory may be a roof box, a ski box, a snowboard rack, a bicycle rack, etc. An example of a roof rack load carrying bar including such a channel can be found in EP2803535A1, which discloses sealing the opening of the channel with a single cover or two covers.

[0006] These types of load carrying bars have been shown to provide an efficient and convenient way for attaching different accessories to the vehicle, compared to load carrying bars that do not have such integral channels.

[0007] Furthermore, a trend in relation to load carrying bars is to adjust the cross section of the load carrying bar to reduce wind drag and / or noise. Several solutions have been proposed aiming to reduce this problem, wherein sharp / distinct edges in the cross section have been avoided in order to reduce drag and / or noise. Summary of the invention

[0008] In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved roof rack load carrying bar which at least alleviates some of the disadvantages of the prior art or at least provides a good alternative.

[0009] This object is provided by the subject matter according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments can be seen in the invention including the accompanying description and drawings.

[0010] According to a first aspect thereof, this object is provided by a roof rack load carrying bar, which includes a channel for receiving at least one mounting member to attach a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar, the channel extending at least partially in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the load carrying bar also including a first cover and a second cover extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar and arranged to seal the channel from the external environment, the first cover being attached to the load carrying bar via a first attachment interface provided at a first side of the channel, the second cover being attached to the load carrying bar via a second attachment interface provided at a second side of the channel, wherein the first attachment interface and the second attachment interface are asymmetric relative to each other.

[0011] By providing the above-mentioned load bearing bar, an improved load bearing bar is provided, wherein the installation process of the first cover and the second cover will be significantly facilitated. That is, it has been found that it may be important to correctly install the two covers relative to the direction of travel of the load bearing bar during use. More specifically, the corresponding sections of the two covers facing outwards relative to the load bearing bar may be designed differently for different purposes, so each cover may need to be correctly installed relative to the direction of travel. By providing positioning marks in the form of different attachment interfaces for each cover, the risk of incorrect installation of the first cover and the second cover is reduced. Since the first attachment interface and the second attachment interface are asymmetric relative to each other, a difference between these interfaces is provided. Therefore, a visual mark intended to install the cover by simply viewing and comparing the attachment interfaces can be provided to the user. In addition, the asymmetry between the first attachment interface and the second attachment interface can also physically prevent the first cover and the second cover from being incorrectly placed on the load bearing bar.

[0012] Optionally, the first attachment interface and the second attachment interface may also be asymmetric with respect to a width direction of the load carrying bar, wherein the width direction is perpendicular to the length direction of the load carrying bar.

[0013] Optionally, the first cover and the second cover may be separate components relative to each other and configured to seal the channel during use of the load carrying bar.

[0014] Optionally, the first attachment interface and / or the second attachment interface may be configured as a concave / convex connection, preferably constructed by a groove extending in the length direction of the load carrying rod and a corresponding (i.e. matching) protrusion. It has been found that a concave / convex connection can provide a stable connection between the rod and the corresponding cover, wherein preferably the connection is in the form of corresponding grooves / protrusions.

[0015] Optionally, the recess may comprise a first side wall and a second side wall facing the first side wall, preferably wherein the second side wall is inclined away from the first side wall. By providing such an inclination of the second side wall, a convenient installation process may be achieved, also resulting in a secure connection with a reduced risk of the cover being detached from the rod. Also optionally, the second side wall may comprise a hook at the distal end of the second side wall, thereby further improving the connection to the load carrying rod.

[0016] Optionally, the first side wall may further comprise a hook-shaped clamping member having a hook portion, the hook-shaped clamping member being an extension of the first side wall, wherein the hook portion is bent from the first side wall at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall. It has been found that an even further improved connection can be provided by such a configuration using a hook portion engaged in an opposing portion of the load carrying bar.

[0017] Optionally, each of the first attachment interface and the second attachment interface can be configured as a concave / convex connection, preferably wherein the first attachment interface includes a first groove extending in the length direction of the load-bearing rod and a corresponding (i.e. matching) first protrusion, and the second attachment interface includes a second groove extending in the length direction of the load-bearing rod and a corresponding (i.e. matching) second protrusion. It has been found that providing a concave / convex connection for each cover can produce a stable connection of the two covers. In addition, similar types of connection configurations on the corresponding covers, no matter how asymmetrical, can further facilitate the installation process for users of the load-bearing rod. More specifically, the installation process of each cover can be performed in a similar manner, such as by a snap-on connection, so as to avoid any possible confusion for the user when connecting these covers.

[0018] Optionally, the second groove and the second protrusion may each include an additional groove and protrusion configuration extending in the length direction of the load bearing bar, thereby providing a stable and asymmetric female / male connection. The additional groove and protrusion configuration may thus reduce the risk of a user accidentally installing the cover to the load bearing bar in the wrong reverse manner.

[0019] Optionally, at least one of the first cover and the second cover may include a friction reducing layer for reducing friction between the at least one cover and the at least one mounting member. With such a friction reducing layer, the mounting member may be more easily moved in the channel, thereby providing a convenient and improved installation process for users of the load bearing bar.

[0020] Optionally, the first cover and / or the second cover may include an outer sealing surface that is substantially flush with an outer adjacent surface of the load carrying bar.By providing a smooth outer surface of the load carrying bar, airflow around the load carrying bar may be improved, thereby reducing drag and / or noise.

[0021] Optionally, at least one of the first and second cover pieces may include an inner sealing surface facing the channel and sealing the mounting member during use of the mounting member, wherein the inner sealing surface is inclined toward a side wall of the channel, which is located on the same side as the cover piece including the inner surface. By such a configuration of at least one cover piece, the seal around the mounting member located in the channel may be improved. In addition, due to the inclined surface configuration, this may further facilitate movement / sliding of the mounting member during the installation process.

[0022] Optionally, at least one of the first and second covers may include an attachment and a sealing portion for sealing the channel to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the attachment comprises or consists of a first material, and the sealing portion comprises or consists of a second material different from the first material. That is, it has been found that it may be advantageous to provide a cover comprising different materials. Optionally, the hardness of the first material may be higher than the hardness of the second material. More specifically, it has been found that providing an increased hardness of the attachment can improve the connection with the load-bearing rod, while the lower hardness of the sealing portion can provide improved sealing performance. By way of example only, the hardness of the first material of the attachment may be in the range of 30 Shore D to 50 Shore D, preferably 35 Shore D to 45 Shore D, and more preferably 38 Shore D to 42 Shore D, such as 40 Shore D. Furthermore, purely by way of example, the hardness of the second material of the sealing portion may be in the range of 60 Shore A to 80 Shore A, preferably 65 Shore A to 75 Shore A, and more preferably 68 Shore A to 72 Shore A, such as 70 Shore A. Shore hardness is well known to the skilled person and is used to measure the hardness of materials such as polymers, elastomers and rubbers. Shore hardness may advantageously be measured by a Shore durometer, and the measurement method is described, for example, in standards ASTM D2240, ISO 868 and ISO 7619. Furthermore, an increased hardness may result in an increased stiffness of the attachment portion, thereby, for example, improving the snap-fit ​​connection of the attachment portion to the load-bearing bar.

[0023] Optionally, the first cover may be located forward of the second cover relative to the direction of travel of the load carrying bar during use, the first cover comprising an airflow conditioning pattern extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the pattern comprising at least two raised ribs offset relative to each other in the length direction of the load carrying bar. That is, it has been found that providing the airflow pattern on one of the covers comprising an asymmetric attachment interface can further ensure that the airflow pattern is correctly mounted relative to the direction of travel.

[0024] According to a second aspect thereof, this object is provided by a roof rack load carrying bar, which comprises: a channel for receiving at least one mounting member for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar, the channel extending at least partially in the length direction of the load carrying bar; at least a first cover, which extends in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the first cover comprising a first attachment portion for attaching the first cover to the load carrying bar and a first sealing portion for sealing the channel to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the first attachment portion comprises a first material or consists of a first material, and the first sealing portion comprises a second material different from the first material or consists of a second material different from the first material.

[0025] By providing the above configuration, an improved load bearing bar is provided. That is, it has been found that it may be advantageous to provide a cover having different materials. Optionally, the hardness of the first material may be higher than the hardness of the second material. More specifically, it has been found that providing an increased hardness of the attachment portion may improve the connection with the load bearing bar, while a lower hardness of the sealing portion may provide improved sealing performance. By way of example only, the hardness of the first material of the attachment portion may be in the range of 30 Shore D to 50 Shore D, preferably 35 Shore D to 45 Shore D, and more preferably 38 Shore D to 42 Shore D, such as 40 Shore D. Further, by way of example only, the hardness of the second material of the sealing portion may be in the range of 60 Shore A to 80 Shore A, preferably 65 Shore A to 75 Shore A, and more preferably 68 Shore A to 72 Shore A, such as 70 Shore A. Shore hardness is well known to the skilled person and is used to measure the hardness of materials such as polymers, elastomers and rubbers. The Shore hardness can be advantageously measured by a Shore durometer, and the measurement method is described, for example, in standards ASTM D2240, ISO 868, and ISO 7619. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least first cover may include or consist of rubber, a polymer or an elastomer, or a combination thereof.

[0026] It should be noted that all embodiments of the second aspect of the present disclosure are applicable to all embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0027] Optionally, the load carrying bar may include a second cover extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the second cover including a second attachment portion for attaching the second cover to the load carrying bar and a second sealing portion for sealing the channel from the external environment, wherein the second attachment portion comprises or consists of a third material, and the second sealing portion comprises or consists of a fourth material different from the third material. Merely by way of example, the hardness of the third material of the second attachment portion may be in the range of 30 Shore D to 50 Shore D, preferably 35 Shore D to 45 Shore D, and more preferably 38 Shore D to 42 Shore D, such as 40 Shore D. Further, by way of example only, the hardness of the third material of the second sealing portion may be in the range of 60 Shore A to 80 Shore A, preferably 65 Shore A to 75 Shore A, and more preferably 68 Shore A to 72 Shore A, such as 70 Shore A. Optionally, the first cover and the second cover may be similarly constructed using similar materials, that is, the first material may be the same or similar to the third material, and the second material may be the same or similar to the fourth material. "Similar" herein means materials with similar hardness properties. Furthermore, the hardness of the first material may be similar to the hardness of the third material, and the hardness of the second material may be similar to the hardness of the fourth material. Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second cover may also include rubber, a polymer or an elastomer or a combination thereof, or be composed of rubber, a polymer or an elastomer or a combination thereof.

[0028] Optionally, the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion may be asymmetric with respect to each other, preferably with the asymmetry being provided in a width direction of the load carrying bar, which is perpendicular to the length direction.

[0029] Optionally, at least one of the first and second attachment portions may be configured as a snap attachment portion. Providing at least one of the cover elements with a snap attachment portion may further facilitate the installation process for a user of the load carrying bar. Further, by way of example only, the snap functionality combined with the relatively rigid attachment portion may further improve the robustness of the connection between the cover element and the load carrying bar, thereby preventing partial or complete separation of the cover element from the load carrying bar. This may also prevent lateral displacement of the cover element, which may otherwise cause the mounting member to slide along the first cover element or between the first and second cover elements during installation.

[0030] Optionally, at least one of the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion may be configured as a groove or a protrusion extending in the length direction of the load carrying rod.

[0031] Optionally, the first attachment portion and / or the second attachment portion may be configured as a groove comprising a first side wall and a second side wall facing the first side wall, preferably wherein the second side wall is inclined away from the first side wall. By providing such an inclination of the second side wall, a convenient installation process may be achieved, also resulting in a secure connection. Also optionally, the second side wall may comprise a hook at the distal end of the second side wall, thereby further improving the connection to the load carrying bar.

[0032] Optionally, the first side wall may further comprise a hook-shaped clamping member having a hook portion, the hook-shaped clamping member being an extension of the first side wall, wherein the hook portion is bent from the first side wall at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall. It has been found that an even further improved connection can be provided by such a configuration by means of the hook portion engaging in an opposing portion of the load carrying bar.

[0033] Optionally, at least one of the first cover and the second cover may include an outer sealing surface that is substantially flush with an outer adjacent surface of the load carrying bar.By providing a smooth outer surface of the load carrying bar, airflow around the load carrying bar may be improved, thereby reducing drag and / or noise.

[0034] Optionally, at least one of the first and second covers may include an inner sealing surface facing the channel and sealing the mounting member during use of the mounting member, wherein the inner sealing surface is inclined toward a side wall of the channel that is located on the same side as the cover including the inner surface. By such a configuration of at least one cover, the seal around the mounting member located in the channel may be improved. In addition, this may further facilitate movement / sliding of the mounting member during the installation process, since a smaller surface area of ​​the cover may be in contact with the mounting member due to this configuration of the cover.

[0035] Optionally, at least one of the first cover and the second cover may include a friction reducing layer for reducing friction between the at least one cover and the at least one mounting member. With such a friction reducing layer, the mounting member may be more easily moved in the channel, thereby providing a convenient and improved installation process for users of the load carrying bar. The friction reducing layer may be provided on the first cover and / or the second cover, for example as an additional material. Merely by way of example, the hardness of the friction reducing layer may be in the range of 40 Shore D to 60 Shore D, preferably 45 Shore D to 55 Shore D, such as 50 Shore D.

[0036] Optionally, the load carrying bar may include an airflow regulating pattern extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the pattern including at least two raised ribs offset relative to each other in the length direction of the load carrying bar. Optionally, the airflow regulating pattern may be provided on at least one of the first cover and the second cover.

[0037] According to a third aspect thereof, the object is provided by a roof rack load carrying bar, the roof rack load carrying bar comprising: a channel for receiving at least one mounting member for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar, the channel extending at least partially in the length direction of the load carrying bar; at least a first cover extending in the length direction so as to seal the channel from the external environment, the first cover comprising an attachment portion comprising a groove extending in the length direction for attaching the first cover to a corresponding protrusion extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the groove comprising a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the attachment portion further comprises a hook-shaped clamping member having a hook portion, the hook-shaped clamping member being an extension of the first side wall, wherein the hook portion is bent from the first side wall at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall.

[0038] By providing a load carrying bar as described above, the connection of at least the first cover may be improved. More specifically, a more secure connection may be provided, wherein the hook-shaped clamping member may reduce the likelihood of at least the first cover becoming detached during use of the load carrying bar. That is, it has been found that by providing a hook-shaped clamping member having a hook portion as defined herein, the reaction force against at least the first cover becoming detached from its connection during use may be increased. More specifically, if the load carrying bar is used on a vehicle running at high speeds, forces acting on at least the first cover as a result of airflow may cause the at least first cover to become loosened from the bar. By using the hook-shaped clamping member, undesired detachment / loosening of at least the first cover may be avoided.

[0039] It should be noted that all embodiments of the third aspect of the present disclosure are applicable to all embodiments of the first aspect and the second aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0040] Optionally, the hook portion may be bent from the first side wall at an angle greater than any one of 100 degrees, 110 degrees, 120 degrees, 130 degrees, 140 degrees, and 150 degrees relative to the first side wall.

[0041] Optionally, the hook portion may be bent outwardly from the groove. Also optionally, the hook portion may be bent inwardly into the groove.

[0042] Optionally, the hook portion may be arranged to snap into a corresponding receiving portion on the load carrying bar in order to lock at least the first cover to the load carrying bar.

[0043] Optionally, the first side wall may extend substantially vertically outwardly from an upper surface of the at least one first cover member.The upper surface is oriented upwardly relative to a height direction of the load carrying bar, the height direction being perpendicular to the length direction and the width direction.

[0044] Optionally, the second side wall may face the first side wall, and wherein the second side wall slopes away from the first side wall.

[0045] Optionally, the second side wall may include a hook portion at an outer end of the second side wall.

[0046] According to a fourth aspect thereof, the object is provided by a roof rack load carrying bar, which comprises an airflow adjustment pattern extending in the length direction of the load carrying bar, the pattern comprising at least two raised ribs offset relative to each other in the length direction of the load carrying bar, wherein each of the at least two raised ribs is arranged diagonally relative to the travel direction of the load carrying bar during use and also has a partial width measured in the length direction of the load carrying bar, wherein two adjacent raised ribs are separated by a certain separation distance in the length direction of the load carrying bar, wherein the separation distance is at least twice the partial width of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs.

[0047] By providing a load carrying bar as described above, an improved load carrying bar is provided, wherein improved airflow around the load carrying bar may be provided, thereby reducing / improving noise and / or drag.

[0048] It should be noted that all embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present disclosure are applicable to all embodiments of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0049] Optionally, the pattern may extend in the length direction along at least 80% of the length of the load carrying bar. Thus, improved airflow may be provided along a substantial length of the load carrying bar. Also optionally, the pattern may be interrupted relative to the length direction of the load carrying bar. For example, the pattern may extend from both sides of the bar, rather than in the section therebetween. For example, if a roof box is mounted to the load carrying bar, an airflow pattern with the roof box on the bar may not be required and the pattern may be arranged only at the respective ends of the load carrying bar (as can be seen in the longitudinal direction), wherein each end accounts for 15% to 30% of the total length of the load carrying bar. However, in a preferred embodiment, the pattern extends over a substantial portion of the length of the load carrying bar, such as extending along at least 80% of the length.

[0050] Optionally, the pattern may be a continuous recurring pattern along the length of the load carrying bar, preferably having at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs.

[0051] Optionally, at least one of the at least two raised ribs may be a V-shaped rib, wherein the tip of the V points towards the direction of travel.It has been found that providing such a shape of the ribs may be advantageous for airflow around the load carrying bar.

[0052] Optionally, the load carrying bar may further comprise a channel for receiving at least one mounting member for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar, the channel extending at least partially in the length direction of the load carrying bar, wherein the pattern is at least partially located in front of the channel relative to the direction of travel. It has been found that providing an airflow pattern as disclosed herein in front of such a channel can further improve the airflow around the load carrying bar, in particular the airflow close to the channel. Preferably, the pattern may be provided during the extrusion process of the load carrying bar. The load carrying bar as disclosed herein for all embodiments of the different aspects of the present disclosure may preferably be made of aluminum or any similar lightweight metal or metal alloy.

[0053] Optionally, the load carrying bar may further comprise at least a first cover extending in the length direction for sealing the channel from the external environment, wherein the pattern is located on the first cover. This may further improve the airflow, and it has also been found to be advantageous to provide a pattern on the at least first cover that facilitates the manufacture of the load carrying bar. For example, the at least first cover as disclosed herein may advantageously be manufactured in an extrusion process, wherein the airflow pattern may be provided directly to the at least first cover during or after the extrusion process.

[0054] Optionally, at least one of the adjacent raised ribs may have a partial width of 0.5 to 3 millimeters (mm), preferably 0.7 to 2.5 mm, more preferably 0.7 to 2 mm, such as 0.8 to 1.2 mm.

[0055] If the pattern is a continuous recurring pattern in the length direction of the load carrying rod, preferably having at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs, the partial width of each of a plurality of adjacent raised ribs may be from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.7 mm to 2.5 mm, more preferably from 0.7 mm to 2 mm, such as from 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm.

[0056] Optionally, at least one of the at least two ribs may have a rib height of 0.3 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, such as 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0057] If the pattern is a continuous recurring pattern in the length direction of the load carrying rod, preferably having at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs, a plurality of the ribs have a rib height of 0.3mm to 2mm, preferably 0.5mm to 2mm, such as 0.5mm to 1mm.

[0058] Optionally, the separation distance may be 4 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 10 mm to 25 mm, such as 10 mm to 20 mm.

[0059] Optionally, at least one of the at least two raised ribs may be configured as different raised ribs, wherein the angle between the surface on which at least one rib is positioned and the side wall of the rib is at least 90 degrees, such as 90 to 120 degrees. Preferably, the side wall of at least one raised rib facing the direction of travel of the load-bearing bar during use may have such an angle, which is preferably greater than 90 degrees. Thus, the airflow can be further improved. Also optionally, if the pattern is a continuous recurring pattern in the length direction of the load-bearing bar, preferably with at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs, then at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs may be configured as different raised ribs, wherein each rib has an angle of at least 90 degrees, such as 90 to 120 degrees or 90 to 140 degrees between the surface on which the rib is positioned and the side wall of the rib.

[0060] Optionally, the surface on which the at least one rib is located is substantially planar.Providing different raised ribs on a substantially planar surface has been shown to result in improved airflow of the load carrying bar.

[0061] Optionally, the separation distance may be at least 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 times the partial width of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs. Providing a relatively large separation distance relative to the partial width of at least one or each of the adjacent raised ribs may further improve airflow around the load carrying bar. That is, it has been found that drag and / or noise may be reduced by such a configuration.

[0062] According to a fifth aspect thereof, this object is provided by a roof rack load carrying bar, which comprises a cross-sectional profile having a front bar portion and a rear bar portion relative to a direction of travel of the load carrying bar during use, the front bar portion having a front edge, the rear bar portion having a profile tapering rearwardly and towards a rear edge of the rear bar portion relative to the direction of travel, the front edge comprising a first curved profile extending from an upper portion to a lower portion of the front bar portion, wherein at least one of the first curved profile and the rear edge has a first different angular offset.

[0063] By providing a load carrying bar as described above, an improved load carrying bar is provided, wherein an improved airflow around the load carrying bar can be provided. That is, it has been found that providing different angular offsets at certain positions of the load carrying bar can further improve the airflow.

[0064] It should be noted that all embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present disclosure are applicable to all embodiments of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect and the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0065] Optionally, the first curved profile has a first different angular offset at a forwardmost portion of the front edge.The forwardmost portion may be defined as the portion of the load carrying bar located furthest from the front of the load carrying bar relative to the width direction and the direction of travel of the load carrying bar during use.

[0066] Optionally, the first curved profile may also have a second different angular offset relative to the upper portion of the front stem portion at approximately half the height from the forward-most portion.

[0067] Optionally, the cross-sectional profile may be an airfoil profile.

[0068] Optionally, at least one angular offset may be 5 to 60 degrees, preferably 10 to 30 degrees, such as 10 to 20 degrees. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] With reference to the accompanying drawings, immediately below follows a more detailed description of embodiments of the invention cited as examples.

[0070] In the attached picture:

[0071] Figure 1 depicts a cross-sectional profile of a load carrying rod according to the prior art;

[0072] Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of a load carrying bar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of a load carrying bar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 4 depicts another cross-sectional view of a portion of a load carrying bar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 5a and Figure 5b depicts a cross-sectional view of a first cover and a second cover according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 6 depicts a perspective view of a first cover and a second cover according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 7 depicts a schematic diagram of an airflow pattern according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 8depicts a schematic diagram of a raised rib according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0079] Fig. 9 depicts a cross-sectional view of a portion of a load carrying bar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein a mounting member is placed in a channel; and

[0080] Fig.10 Depicted is a cross-sectional view of a load carrying bar according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] The accompanying drawings illustrate illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present invention and are therefore not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that the embodiments shown and described are exemplary and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It should also be noted that some details in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated in order to better describe and illustrate the present invention. Unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals throughout the specification refer to the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a load carrying bar 1 according to the prior art is depicted. The load carrying bar 1 comprises a channel, the opening of which is respectively covered by two covers 2 and 3. It can be seen that the two covers 2 and 3 are attached to the load carrying bar 1 via respective grooves provided on the side surfaces defining the opening and facing each other, thereby sealing the channel.

[0083] Now refer to Figures 2 to 10 , exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail. Figure 2 , a perspective view of a load bearing bar 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The load bearing bar 100 includes a channel 101 for receiving at least one mounting member, the mounting member being disposed at a position adjacent to the load bearing bar 100. Fig. 9 10 for attaching a load carrying bar accessory (not shown) to the load carrying bar 100. The channel 101 extends in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100. In addition, the load carrying bar 100 comprises a first cover 200 and a second cover 300, which extend in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100 and are arranged to seal the channel 101 from the external environment. The first cover 200 is provided via a first attachment interface AI1 (see for example Figure 4 ) is attached to the load bearing bar 100, and the second cover 300 is attached via a second attachment interface AI2 provided at a second side of the channel 101 (see Figure 4 ) to be attached to the load carrying bar 100. The first side and the second side of the channel 101 are oriented relative to the width direction w of the load carrying bar 100. In addition, as in e.g. Figure 3 and Figure 4As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the first attachment interface AI1 and the second attachment interface AI2 are asymmetric with respect to each other.

[0084] In addition, Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, an airflow adjustment pattern 400 according to an exemplary embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention is depicted. In this particular embodiment, the pattern 400 comprises a plurality of V-shaped raised ribs, whereby the tips of the V-shapes are oriented in and point in the direction of travel T of the load carrying bar during use. Furthermore, it can be seen that the airflow pattern 400 is oriented along the total length L of the load carrying bar 100. 10 , and is also located on the first cover 200. However, it should be noted that the pattern 400 may be located elsewhere, such as directly on the surface of the load carrying bar 100, but is preferably located in front of, close to or above the channel 101 relative to the travel direction T.

[0085] exist Figure 3 In it, it is described as Figure 2 . It can be seen that the airflow adjustment pattern 400 provided on the first cover 200 is provided here. In addition, Figure 4 2 shows an asymmetric attachment interface AI1 and AI2 in an enlarged view. The load carrying bar 100 has a height direction h and a width direction w, wherein the height direction h, the width direction w and the length direction L are perpendicular to each other, thereby creating a three-dimensional space. The first cover 200 and the second cover 300 include respective outer surfaces 209 and 309, respectively, wherein the outer surface 309 of the second cover 300 is substantially flush with the outer surface 105 of the load carrying bar 100. The outer surface 209 of the first cover 200 is also substantially flush with the outer surface 105. However, the airflow pattern 400 extends outwardly from the outer surface 209. With this configuration, a more integrated and smooth design is provided, which in turn can produce improved airflow around the load carrying bar 100.

[0086] Figure 4An enlarged view of the channel 101, the first cover 200 and the second cover 300 of the load carrying bar 100 and the asymmetric attachment interfaces AI1 and AI2 are depicted. The first attachment interface AI1 and the second attachment interface AI2 are asymmetric with respect to the width direction w of the load carrying bar 100. In addition, the first cover 200 and the second cover 300 are separate components relative to each other and are configured to seal the channel 101 during use of the load carrying bar 100. Specifically, the covers 200 and 300 seal the opening of the channel 101 that is oriented upward and extends in the length direction L. The first attachment interface AI1 and the second attachment interface AI2 are configured as corresponding concave / convex connections. In this particular embodiment, the first cover 200 includes a first groove 201 extending in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100 and a corresponding (i.e., matching) first protrusion 102. In addition, the second cover 300 includes a second groove 301 extending in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100 and a corresponding (i.e., matching) second protrusion 103. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to this type of female / male configuration, but a reverse female / male connection may also be used, ie by providing for example a groove on the load carrying bar 100 and a protrusion on the covers 200 and 300 .

[0087] The first groove 201 further includes a first side wall 202 and a second side wall 203 facing the first side wall 202, and the second side wall 203 is also inclined away from the first side wall 202. This configuration can facilitate the snap-fit ​​function for attaching the first cover 200 to the first protrusion 102. Similarly, the second groove 301 further includes a first side wall 302 and a second side wall 303 facing the first side wall 302, and the second side wall 303 is inclined away from the first side wall 302 of the second cover 300 in a similar manner.

[0088] The second side wall 203 of the first cover 200 also includes a hook portion 204 at a distal end of the second side wall 203. The hook portion 204 is bent inwardly toward the first groove 201, thereby providing a locking mechanism for locking the first cover 200 to the load carrying bar 100. Similarly, the second side wall 303 of the second cover 300 also includes a hook portion 304 at a distal end of the second side wall 303. The hook portion 304 is bent inwardly toward the second groove 301, thereby providing a similar locking mechanism for locking the second cover 300 to the load carrying bar 100.

[0089] Furthermore, in this particular embodiment, in order to further improve the stability of the connection of the respective covers 200 and 300 to the load carrying bar 100, additional locking mechanisms 205 and 305 are provided on the respective first and second covers 200 and 300. More specifically, the first side wall 202 of the first cover 200 further comprises a hook-shaped clamping member 205 having a hook portion 206, wherein the hook-shaped clamping member 205 is an extension of the first side wall 202 of the first cover 200, wherein the hook portion 206 is bent from the first side wall 202 at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall 202. It can be seen in this exemplary embodiment that the hook portion 206 is bent at an angle greater than 90 degrees. Further, the hook portion 206 is arranged to snap into a corresponding receiving portion 108 on the load carrying bar 100, which receiving portion is configured as a matching inclined surface of the hook portion 206 for locking the first cover 200 to the load carrying bar 100. By this configuration, an improved locking of the first cover 200 is provided. In a similar manner, the first side wall 302 of the second cover 300 further comprises a hook-shaped clamping member 305 having a hook portion 306, wherein the hook-shaped clamping member 305 is an extension of the first side wall 302 of the second cover 300, wherein the hook portion 306 is bent from the first side wall 302 at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall 302. It can be seen in this exemplary embodiment that the hook portion 306 is bent at an angle greater than 90 degrees. Further, the hook portion 306 is arranged to snap into a corresponding receiving portion 109 on the load carrying bar 100, which receiving portion is configured as a matching inclined surface of the hook portion 306 for locking the second cover 300 to the load carrying bar 100. By this configuration, an improved locking of the second cover 300 is also provided. The two hooks 206 and 306 are bent outwardly relative to the corresponding grooves 201 and 301 of the respective first cover 200 and the second cover 300. However, it should be noted that a similar improved locking function can also be provided by alternatively configuring the hooks inwardly towards the respective grooves 201 and 301. However, it has been found that configuring the hooks 206 and 306 outwardly is advantageous because this provides an improved connection and may also be beneficial for manufacturing purposes. Furthermore, the first side wall 202 of the first cover 200 extends outwardly substantially vertically from the upper surface 213 of the first cover 200. In a similar manner, the first side wall 302 of the second cover 300 extends outwardly substantially vertically from the upper surface 313 of the second cover 300.

[0090] Further, in this exemplary embodiment, the second groove 301 and the second protrusion 103 include additional groove and protrusion configurations 104 and 307 extending in the length direction L of the load bearing bar 100. More specifically, the second groove 301 includes a protrusion 307 located within the second groove 301, and the second protrusion 103 includes a matching groove 104 located on the protrusion 103. The first groove 201 and the first protrusion 102 of the first attachment interface AI1 do not present such additional groove / protrusion configurations, thereby making the first attachment interface AI1 and the second attachment interface AI2 asymmetric relative to each other. However, it should be understood that asymmetry can be provided in many different ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the additional groove / protrusion can also be located on the first cover 200. In addition, a reverse groove / protrusion configuration can also be used.

[0091] Furthermore, the first cover 200 includes an inner sealing surface 210 facing the channel 101, wherein the inner sealing surface 210 of the first cover 200 is inclined toward the side wall 106 of the channel 101, which is located on the same side as the first cover 200. In a similar manner, the second cover 300 includes an inner sealing surface 310 facing the channel 101, wherein the inner sealing surface 310 of the second cover 300 is inclined toward the side wall 107 of the channel 101, which is located on the same side as the second cover 300. Thus, the mounting member 10 (from Fig. 9 As can be seen in the figure, it can be moved / displaced more easily in the length direction L of the channel 101 while still providing good sealing performance for the channel 101.

[0092] Now go to Figure 5a and Figure 5b , when separated from the load bearing bar 100, the first cover 200 and the second cover 300 can be seen, wherein Figure 5b The first cover 200 is shown in FIG. Figure 5a The second cover 300 is shown in FIG. The first cover 200 includes a first cover 200 for reducing the first cover 200 and at least one mounting member 10 (from Fig. 9 In a similar manner, the second cover 300 includes a friction reducing layer 208 for reducing friction between the second cover 300 and at least one mounting member 10 (from Fig. 9As can be seen in the figure, the friction reducing layer 308 for reducing the friction between the first cover 200 and the second cover 300. The friction reducing layers 208 and 308 may be provided, for example, as a coating on the sealing portions 212 and 312 of the first cover 200 and the second cover 300. In addition, the friction reducing layer may be provided by performing a treatment (such as a heat treatment and / or a chemical treatment) on the sealing portions 212 and 312. Merely as an example, the friction reducing layer 208 and / or 308 may be 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm thick, such as 0.1 mm. More specifically, in this exemplary embodiment, the first cover 200 includes an attachment portion 211 and a sealing portion 212 for sealing the channel 101 to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the attachment portion 211 contains a first material or is composed of a first material, and the sealing portion 212 contains a second material different from the first material or is composed of a second material different from the first material. Here, the hardness of the first material is higher than the hardness of the second material. In a similar manner, the second cover 300 includes an attachment portion 311 and a sealing portion 312 for sealing the channel 101 to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the attachment portion 311 includes a third material or is composed of a third material, and the sealing portion 212 includes a fourth material different from the third material or is composed of a fourth material different from the third material. In addition, the hardness of the third material is higher than the hardness of the fourth material. That is, it has been found that it may be advantageous to provide different materials, especially different hardnesses, between the sealing portion and the attachment portion. For example, the attachment portions 211 and 311 can benefit from greater rigidity because the connection can be improved. In addition, the sealing portions 212 and 312 can benefit from relatively small rigidity, thereby improving their sealing performance, especially when there is a mounting member 10 in the channel 101.

[0093] exist Figure 6 , a first cover 200 and a second cover 300 are depicted, wherein a more detailed illustration of an airflow pattern 400 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention can also be seen. In this example, the airflow pattern 400 is placed on the first cover 200 and is constructed of V-shaped raised ribs 406-408 extending as a recurring pattern in the length direction L. The tips of the V-shaped raised ribs 406-408 are oriented in the travel direction T of the load carrying bar 100 during use and point in this travel direction. In this embodiment, the pattern 400 extends along the entire length L of the load carrying bar 100. 10 extend.

[0094] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 , a more detailed illustration of the airflow pattern 400 and its raised ribs can be seen. Different types of raised ribs are shown, namely V-shaped ribs 406-408 and 409-411 and straight I-shaped ribs 401, 402 and 404 oriented diagonally relative to the direction of travel T. Figure 7The illustration in shows a recurring pattern 400 having a combination of V-shaped ribs and straight ribs. In alternative embodiments, only one type of rib is used, such as only V-shaped portions or straight I-shaped portions. By way of example only, any or each of the raised ribs may be arranged diagonally at an angle of 10 to 50 degrees (preferably 20 to 50 degrees or 30 to 50 degrees, such as 45 degrees) relative to the direction of travel T.

[0095] The airflow conditioning pattern 400 extends in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100, and the pattern 400 includes a plurality of raised ribs 401, 402, 404, 406-408 and 409-410 that are offset relative to each other in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100, wherein each of at least two raised ribs is arranged diagonally relative to the travel direction T of the load carrying bar 100 during use. In addition, each rib has a partial width d1 measured in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100, wherein two adjacent raised ribs, such as 401 and 402 and 406 and 407, are separated by separation distances L1 and L2 in the length direction L of the load carrying bar 100. The separation distance L1 is at least twice the partial width d1 of the raised rib 401, and the separation distance L2 is at least twice the partial width d1 of the raised rib 406. The partial width d1 of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.7 mm to 2.5 mm, more preferably 0.7 mm to 2 mm, such as 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm.

[0096] exist Figure 8 , a raised rib 401 is depicted, which is shown from the side. The rib 401 may have a rib height of 0.3 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, such as 0.5 mm to 1 mm. In addition, it can be seen that the rib is constructed as different raised ribs, wherein the angle α1 between the surface 214 on which at least one rib 401 is positioned and the side wall 403 of the rib is greater than 90 degrees, such as 90 degrees to 120 degrees or 90 degrees to 140 degrees. In this example, the surface 403 is oriented in front of the rib relative to the direction of travel T. Any of the side surfaces of the rib can be constructed in a similar manner to provide different ribs, as can be seen with respect to the surface 214 on which at least one rib is positioned.

[0097] exist Fig. 9, a load carrying bar 100 is shown when a mounting member 10, in this embodiment a screw, is placed in a channel 101. The screw includes a screw head located in the channel 101. Thus, the channel 101 can be considered a T-shaped channel or alternatively a T-shaped rail. The screw 10 can be used to attach a load carrying bar accessory, such as a roof box, a bicycle rack, or anything else that can be mounted to the load carrying bar.

[0098] It should be noted that the load carrying bar 100 as depicted herein may also be advantageously mounted to, or integrated with, a rooftop basket or any other load carrying arrangement intended to be provided on a vehicle, preferably on the roof of a vehicle.

[0099] Fig.10Another cross-sectional view of a load carrying bar 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The load carrying bar 100 comprises a cross-sectional profile with a front bar portion 109 and a rear bar portion 110 relative to the travel direction T of the load carrying bar 100 during use. The front bar portion 109 has a front edge 111, and the rear bar portion 110 has a profile 112 that tapers rearwardly and toward a rear edge 113 of the rear bar portion 110 relative to the travel direction T. The front edge 111 comprises a first curved profile 114 extending from an upper portion 115 of the front bar portion 109 to a lower portion 116. The upper portion 115 is here the highest portion of the load carrying bar 100 relative to the height direction h when the covers 200 and 300 are excluded, and the lower portion 116 is here the lowest portion of the load carrying bar 100 relative to the height direction h. The first curved profile 114 has a first different angular offset 117 at the frontmost portion of the front edge 111. In addition, the first curved profile 114 also has a second different angular offset 118 about half the height of the upper portion 115 of the front rod portion 109 from the frontmost portion 117. In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the first angular offset 117 and the second angular offset 118 is 5mm to 25mm, such as 10mm to 20mm or 15mm to 20mm. It can be further seen that the cross-sectional profile is a wing-shaped profile here. Therefore, the width of the load-bearing bar 100 is at least 2 times, such as at least 2.5 times or 3 times, the height of the load-bearing bar 100. Different angular offsets 117, 118 and 119 are 5 degrees to 60 degrees here, more specifically 10 degrees to 30 degrees. These angles are indicated by reference numerals α2, α3 and α4 respectively here. Just as an example, α2 can be 10 degrees to 30 degrees, α3 can be 5 degrees to 30 degrees, such as 5 degrees to 20 degrees, and α4 can be 10 degrees to 60 degrees, such as 30 degrees to 60 degrees. It can be seen that different angular offsets in this context mean interruptions in the outer shape of the profile of the bar so that an edge appears on the outer profile. The edge may be sharp, but it may also be an edge of a more smoothly shaped shape. Different angular offsets are interruptions of an otherwise smooth continuous surface extending around the load carrying bar 100, as can be seen in its cross-sectional view. In addition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the different angular offsets are angled so that they follow the peripheral profile of the load carrying bar 100. In other words, the different angular offsets follow the direction of the peripheral profile and do not change the direction so that they significantly deviate from the peripheral profile. Thus, the different angular offsets are angled inwardly toward the center point of the profile of the load carrying bar. In contrast, for example, a protrusion would require at least two angular offsets to be angled outwardly relative to the center point of the peripheral profile.

[0100] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. It will be obvious to the skilled person that other embodiments and modifications to the embodiments specified herein are also possible within the scope of the claims.

[0101] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the load carrying bar 100 according to the second to fifth aspects are disclosed in item structure and form part of the disclosure content of the present application.

[0102] The load carrying bar according to the second aspect:

[0103] 1. A roof rack load bearing bar (100), the roof rack load bearing bar comprising:

[0104] - a channel (101) for receiving at least one mounting member (10) for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar (100), the channel (101)

[0105] extending at least partially in the length direction (L) of the load bearing bar (100),

[0106] - at least a first cover (200) extending in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), the first cover (200) comprising a first attachment portion (211) for attaching the first cover (200) to the load carrying bar (100) and a first sealing portion (212) for sealing the channel (101) from the external environment, characterized in that

[0107] The first attachment portion (211) comprises or consists of a first material, and the first sealing portion (212) comprises or consists of a second material different from the first material.

[0108] 2. The load bearing rod (100) according to item 1, wherein the hardness of the first material is higher than the hardness of the second material.

[0109] 3. The load-bearing rod (100) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a second covering member (300) extending in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing rod (100), the second covering member (300) comprising a second attachment portion (311) for attaching the second covering member (300) to the load-bearing rod (100) and a second sealing portion (312) for sealing the channel (101) to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the second attachment portion (311) contains a third material or consists of a third material, and the second sealing portion (312) contains a fourth material different from the third material or consists of a fourth material different from the third material.

[0110] 4. The load bearing rod (100) according to item 3, wherein the hardness of the third material is higher than the hardness of the fourth material.

[0111] 5. A load-bearing rod (100) according to any one of items 3-4, wherein the first attachment portion (211) and the second attachment portion (311) are asymmetric relative to each other, preferably having the asymmetry provided in the width direction (w) of the load-bearing rod (100), the width direction (w) being perpendicular to the length direction (L).

[0112] 6. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first attachment portion (211) and the second attachment portion (311) is configured as a snap attachment portion.

[0113] 7. A load-bearing rod (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first attachment portion (211) and the second attachment portion (311) is constructed as a groove (201; 301) or a protrusion extending in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing rod (100).

[0114] 8. The load bearing rod (100) according to item 7, when the first attachment portion (211) and / or the second attachment portion (311) is configured as a groove (201; 301)

[0115] When, the groove (201; 301) comprises a first side wall (202; 302) and a second side wall (203; 303) facing the first side wall (202; 302), preferably wherein the second side wall (203; 303) is inclined away from the first side wall (202; 302).

[0116] 9. The load bearing bar (100) according to item 8, wherein the second side wall (203;

[0117] 303) comprises a hook portion (204; 304) at a distal end of the second side wall (203; 303) 10. The load bearing bar (100) according to item 8 or 9, wherein the first side wall (202; 302) further comprises a hook-shaped clamping member (205; 306) having a hook portion (206; 306).

[0118] 305), the hook-shaped clamping member (205; 305) is the first side wall (202;

[0119] 302), wherein the hook portion (206; 306) is bent from the first side wall (202; 302) at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall (202; 302).

[0120] 11. A load-bearing bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first cover (200) and the second cover (300) comprises an outer sealing surface (209; 309) that is substantially flush with an outer adjacent surface (105) of the load-bearing bar (100).

[0121] 12. A load bearing bar (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first cover (200) and the second cover (300) comprises an inner surface (210; 310) facing the channel (101), wherein the inner surface (210; 310) is inclined towards a side wall (106; 107) of the channel (101) which is located adjacent to the cover (200; 300) comprising the inner surface (210; 310).

[0122] 300) on the same side.

[0123] 13. A load bearing rod (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first cover (200) and the second cover (300) comprises a friction reducing layer (208; 308) for reducing friction between the at least one cover (200; 300) and the at least one mounting member (10).

[0124] 14. A load-bearing rod (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the first cover (200) includes an airflow adjustment pattern (400) extending in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing rod (), and the pattern (400) includes at least two raised rib-like portions (401, 402) offset relative to each other in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing rod (100).

[0125] The load carrying bar according to the third aspect:

[0126] 1. A roof rack load bearing bar (100), the roof rack load bearing bar

[0127] include:

[0128] a channel (101) for receiving at least one mounting member (10) for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar (100), the channel (101) extending at least partially in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100),

[0129] - at least a first cover (200) extending in the length direction (L) for sealing the channel (101) from the external environment, the first cover (200) comprising an attachment portion (211), the attachment portion (211) comprising a groove (201) extending in the length direction (L) for attaching the first cover (200) to a corresponding protrusion (102) extending in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing bar (100), the groove (201) comprising a first side wall (202) and a second side wall (203), characterized in that

[0130] The attachment portion (211) also includes a hook-shaped clamping member (205) having a hook portion (206), the hook-shaped clamping member (205) being an extension of the first side wall, wherein the hook portion (206) is bent from the first side wall (202) at an angle greater than 90 degrees relative to the first side wall (202).

[0131] 2. The load bearing bar (100) according to item 1, wherein the hook portion (206) is bent from the first side wall (202) at an angle greater than any one of 100 degrees, 110 degrees, 120 degrees, 130 degrees, 140 degrees and 150 degrees relative to the first side wall (202).

[0132] 3. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the hook portion (206) is bent outwardly from the groove (201).

[0133] 4. The load bearing bar (100) according to any one of items 1-2, wherein the hook portion is bent inwardly into the groove.

[0134] 5. A load-bearing bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the hook portion (206) is arranged to snap into a corresponding receiving portion (108) on the load-bearing bar (100) for locking the at least first cover (200) to the load-bearing bar (100).

[0135] 6. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first side wall (202) extends substantially vertically outwardly from an upper surface (213) of the at least one first cover (200).

[0136] 7. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the second side wall (203) faces the first side wall (202), and wherein the second side wall (203) is inclined away from the first side wall (202).

[0137] 8. The load bearing bar (100) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the second

[0138] The side wall (203) comprises a hook portion (204) at an outer end of the second side wall (203). The load carrying bar according to the fourth aspect:

[0139] 1. A roof rack load bearing bar (100), the roof rack load bearing bar

[0140] include:

[0141] - an airflow regulating pattern (400) extending in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), the pattern (400) comprising at least two raised ribs (401, 402) offset relative to each other in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), wherein each of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is arranged diagonally with respect to the travel direction (T) of the load carrying bar (100) during use and also has a partial width (d1) measured in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), wherein two adjacent raised ribs (401, 402) are separated by a separation distance (L1) in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), characterized in that the separation distance (L1) is at least twice the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs (401, 402).

[0142] 2. The load carrying bar (100) according to item 1, wherein the pattern (400) extends along at least 80% of the length (L10) of the load carrying bar in the length direction (L).

[0143] 3. A load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the pattern (400) is a continuously recurring pattern in the length direction (L), preferably having at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs (401, 402).

[0144] 4. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411) is a V-shaped rib, wherein the tip of the V points to the travel direction (T).

[0145] 5. A load-bearing bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, further comprising a channel (101) for receiving at least one mounting member (10) for attaching a load-bearing bar accessory to the load-bearing bar (100), the channel (101) extending at least partially in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing bar (100), wherein the pattern (400) is at least partially located in front of the channel (101) relative to the travel direction (T).

[0146] 6. The load-bearing rod (100) according to item 5, wherein the load-bearing rod (100)

[0147] Also includes a sealing member (101) extending in the length direction (L) for sealing the channel (101)

[0148] At least a first cover (200) is provided to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the pattern (400) is located on the first cover (200).

[0149] 7. The load bearing bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.5 to 3 millimeters (mm), preferably 0.7 to 2.5 mm, more preferably

[0150] 0.7mm to 2mm, such as 0.8mm to 1.2mm.

[0151] 8. The load bearing bar (100) according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two ribs (401, 402) has a thickness of 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0152] A rib height of 2 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm, such as 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0153] 9. The load bearing bar (100) according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is configured as a different raised rib, wherein the angle (α1) between the surface (214) on which the at least one rib (401, 402) is located and the side wall (403) of the rib is at least

[0154] 90 degrees, such as 90 degrees to 120 degrees or 90 degrees to 140 degrees.

[0155] The load carrying bar according to the fifth aspect:

[0156] 1. A roof rack load bearing bar (100), the roof rack load bearing bar

[0157] include:

[0158] - a cross-sectional profile having, relative to a direction of travel (T) of the load-bearing bar (100) during use, a front bar portion (109) and a rear bar portion (110), the front bar portion (109) having a front edge (111), the rear bar portion (110) having a profile (112) tapering rearwardly and towards a rear edge (113) of the rear bar portion (110) relative to the direction of travel (T), the front edge (111) comprising a first curved profile (114) extending from an upper portion (115) to a lower portion (116) of the front bar portion (109), characterised in that

[0159] At least one of the first curved profile (114) and the rear edge (113) has a first different angular offset (117, 118, 119).

[0160] 2. The load carrying bar (100) according to item 1, wherein the first curved profile (114) has a first different angular offset (117) at the frontmost portion (120) of the front edge (111).

[0161] 3. A load bearing rod (100) according to item 2, wherein the first curved profile (114) also has a second different angular offset (118) at approximately half the height of the frontmost portion (120) relative to the upper portion (115) of the front rod portion (109).

[0162] 4. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the cross-sectional profile is a wing-shaped profile.

[0163] 5. The load carrying bar (100) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the at least one angular offset is 5 to 60 degrees, preferably 10 to 30 degrees, such as 10 to 20 degrees.

Claims

1. A roof rack load bearing bar (100), the roof rack load bearing bar comprising: - an airflow adjustment pattern (400) extending in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), the pattern (400) comprising at least two raised ribs (401, 402) offset relative to each other in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), wherein two adjacent raised ribs (401, 402) are separated by a separation distance (L1) in the length direction (L) of the load carrying bar (100), the load carrying bar further comprising a channel (101) for receiving at least one mounting member (10) for attaching a load carrying bar accessory to the load carrying bar (100), the channel (101) being at least partially disposed in the load carrying bar (100) The load-bearing bar (100) extends in the length direction (L), wherein the pattern (400) is at least partially located in front of the channel (101) relative to the travel direction (T) of the load-bearing bar during use, characterized in that each of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is arranged diagonally relative to the travel direction (T) and also has a partial width (d1) measured in the length direction (L) of the load-bearing bar (100), wherein the separation distance (L1) is at least twice the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs (401, 402).

2. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 1, wherein the pattern (400) extends along at least 80% of the length (L10) of the load carrying bar in the length direction (L).

3. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pattern (400) is a continuously recurring pattern in the length direction (L).

4. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 3, wherein the pattern (400) is a continuous recurring pattern in the length direction (L) having at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 raised ribs (401, 402).

5. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs is a V-shaped rib, wherein the tip of the V-shape points towards the travel direction (T).

6. The load-bearing rod (100) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least a first covering member (200) extending in the length direction (L) for sealing the channel (101) to isolate it from the external environment, wherein the pattern (400) is located on the first covering member (200).

7. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

8. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 7, wherein the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.7 mm to 2.5 mm.

9. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 7, wherein the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.7 mm to 2 mm.

10. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 7, wherein the partial width (d1) of at least one of the adjacent raised ribs is 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm.

11. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) has a rib height of 0.3 mm to 2 mm.

12. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 11, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) has a rib height of 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

13. The load carrying bar (100) according to claim 11, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) has a rib height of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

14. The load bearing rod (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is constructed as a raised rib different from the other raised ribs, wherein an angle (α1) between a surface (214) on which at least one raised rib (401, 402) is positioned and a side wall (403) of the raised rib is at least 90 degrees.

15. The load bearing rod (100) according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is constructed as a raised rib different from the other raised ribs, wherein an angle (α1) between a surface (214) on which the at least one raised rib (401, 402) is positioned and a side wall (403) of the raised rib is 90 to 140 degrees.

16. The load bearing rod (100) according to claim 14, wherein at least one of the at least two raised ribs (401, 402) is constructed as a raised rib different from the other raised ribs, wherein an angle (α1) between a surface (214) on which the at least one raised rib (401, 402) is positioned and a side wall (403) of the raised rib is 90 to 120 degrees.

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