Load carrier, in particular bicycle carrier, and vehicle

Abstract

A load carrier (2) for attachment to a vehicle, in particular a bicycle carrier, comprising a base frame (3) whose front end can be attached to the vehicle, and a load receiving structure (8) receiving a load wherein the load carrier (2) further comprises a lifting mechanism (12) by means of which the load receiving structure (8) is fixed to the base frame (3), the lifting mechanism (12) is arranged and designed such that the load receiving structure (8) can be moved relative to the base frame (3) between a lower loading position and an upper use position, and wherein the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one spring which is arranged and designed such that when the load receiving structure (8) is lifted from its lower loading position to its upper use position, the spring can be moved relative to the base frame (3). The force exerted by the operator on the load receiving structure (8) is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a load carrier for attachment to a vehicle, in particular a bicycle carrier. The load carrier comprises a base frame, the front end of which can be attached to the vehicle, in particular the front end of which can be attached to the rear wall of a caravan or motorhome, and a load receiving structure for receiving a load, in particular at least one bicycle or at least one luggage case, wherein the load carrier further comprises a lifting mechanism, by means of which the load receiving structure is fixed to the base frame, so that the load receiving structure can be moved relative to the base frame between a lower load position and an upper use position, wherein in the lower load position the load can be arranged on the load receiving structure, and in the upper use position the load receiving structure is directly fixed to the base frame.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a vehicle, in particular to a recreational vehicle. Background Art

[0003] Load carriers for connection to the rear end of a vehicle, in particular a motorhome, are usually used for transporting bicycles and / or carrying luggage. Usually, a load carrier of this type comprises an attachment device by means of which the load carrier can be fixed to the rear end of the motorhome, in particular to the rear wall of the motorhome. In order to facilitate the connection of a load, such as a bicycle, to such a load carrier, such a load carrier comprises a base frame and a load receiving structure, wherein the base frame is directly connected to the rear end of the vehicle or the base frame can be directly connected to the rear end of the vehicle, and the load receiving structure is fixed to the vehicle by a lifting mechanism so that the load receiving structure can be moved between a lower loading position, in which the load to be transported can be positioned on the load receiving structure, and an upper use position, in which the load receiving structure is spaced apart from the ground, so that the load can be easily transported without the risk of contact with the ground.

[0004] Such lifting mechanisms are usually designed in such a way that an operator has to manually move the load-receiving structure together with the load (e.g. a bicycle) arranged on the load-receiving structure from its loading position to its use position. For this purpose, the operator requires considerable force, especially when transporting heavier loads (e.g. electric bicycles). In other words, the operator has to exert a force corresponding to the total weight of the load-receiving structure and the load to be transported on the load-receiving structure in order to bring the load-receiving structure to its use position.

[0005] In order to facilitate this process for the operator, a specific lifting mechanism is provided which includes an electric motor for moving the load receiving structure from its lower loading position to its upper use position. However, such mechanisms with electrical means are sometimes considered to have disadvantages since they require a specific energy supply and are relatively expensive. Summary of the invention

[0006] Based on the above-mentioned prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide an alternative load carrier, in particular a bicycle carrier, which can avoid the above-mentioned disadvantages and is easy to operate for the operator.

[0007] The objects of the invention are achieved by a load carrier of the type mentioned above, in which the lifting mechanism comprises at least one spring, in particular at least one gas pressure spring, preferably at least one pneumatic spring, wherein the at least one spring is arranged and designed such that the force applied by an operator to the load receiving structure when lifting the load receiving structure from its lower load position to its upper use position is reduced.

[0008] The invention is based on the idea of ​​providing a spring, in particular a gas pressure spring, preferably a pneumatic spring, to reduce the force that the operator has to apply. In other words, the spring can be arranged and designed so that the operator does not need to bear the entire weight of the load receiving structure plus the load carried on the load receiving structure, so that the spring can support the operator in this respect.

[0009] Preferably, the spring is a gas spring. A gas spring is a relatively simple mechanical component and does not require a power supply and / or other electronic components to be provided. In this way, a simple and easy design of the load carrier can be achieved, making the load carrier easy to operate by an operator. However, other types of springs are also feasible.

[0010] In particular, the gas spring may comprise a spring housing and a spring rod, wherein the spring rod protrudes from the spring housing, in particular, the spring rod protrudes from one end of the spring housing. The gas spring may be a pneumatic spring. In practice, the gas spring can be formed as a cylinder. When the spring rod is pulled in, the gas (in particular air) contained in the spring housing is compressed, and when the spring rod is pulled out, the gas expands. In other words, a specific amount of gas is arranged in the spring housing, wherein the gas is a compressible fluid.

[0011] When the load carrier is connected to the vehicle, the base frame can be positioned close to the ground in its lower load position so that a load can be placed on the load receiving structure in a simple manner. In its upper use position, when the load carrier is connected to the vehicle, the load receiving structure can be spaced apart from the ground.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the lifting mechanism can include at least one linkage mechanism, in particular, the lifting mechanism can include two linkage mechanisms that are spaced apart from each other and preferably arranged parallel to each other. By means of such linkage mechanisms, the movement of the load-receiving structure relative to the base frame is guided in a very effective manner. Preferably, a spring is assigned to each linkage mechanism, in particular a gas pressure spring is assigned to each linkage mechanism.

[0013] Each linkage can form a parallelogram linkage. This means that the various cranks, the base frame and the load-receiving structure are pivotably connected to one another in such a way as to form a parallelogram. By means of such a parallelogram linkage it can be ensured that the load-receiving structure does not tilt relative to the base frame when it is moved between its load position and its use position.

[0014] In a further detailed description, each connecting rod mechanism can comprise two cranks, one upper crank and one lower crank, one end of each crank being pivotally fixed to the base frame and the other end of each crank being pivotally fixed to the load receiving structure. In other words, the base frame and the load receiving structure are connected to each other via the two cranks. Preferably, the cranks extend parallel to each other. Furthermore, when the load receiving structure is in its use position, the cranks can extend at least substantially vertically. The vertical direction may be relevant in this case when the load carrier is connected to the rear end of the vehicle, in particular when the load carrier is connected to the rear wall of a motorhome.

[0015] One end of each spring, in particular one end of each gas spring, preferably the spring housing of the gas spring, can be pivotably fixed to the base frame, while the other end of each spring, in particular the free end of the spring rod of the gas spring, can be pivotably fixed to the load receiving structure, so that the longitudinal axis defined by the spring is inclined relative to the crank. In this way, it can be ensured that the effective length of the spring changes when the load receiving structure is moved between its load position and its use position.

[0016] In particular, each spring can be pivotably fixed at the pivot axis of one crank of the connecting rod mechanism at the base frame and at the pivot axis of the other crank of the connecting rod mechanism at the load receiving structure, so that when the load receiving structure is in its use position, the spring, in particular the spring rod, is pulled out, and when the load receiving structure is in its load position, the spring, in particular the spring rod, is pulled in. In this way, the pivot joint for pivotably fixing the crank to the base frame or the load receiving structure can also be used for pivotably fixing the spring, in particular the gas pressure spring.

[0017] Preferably, the crank of each connecting rod mechanism is fixed at one end to the lower end of the base frame and at the other end to the upper end of the load receiving structure. In this way, the load receiving structure can be moved towards the bottom so that in its loaded position, the load receiving structure can be at least substantially located below the base frame, in particular, the load receiving structure can be completely located below the base frame. In its use position, the load receiving structure can at least partially overlap the base frame when viewed from behind.

[0018] The base frame can have at least one vertical profile, in particular, the base frame can have a vertical profile assigned to each linkage, when the base frame is attached to the vehicle, the vertical profile can extend at least substantially vertically, wherein the crank is fixed to the lower end portion of the vertical profile, and the load receiving structure has a support profile assigned to each vertical profile, wherein when the load receiving structure is in its use position, the support profile extends parallel to the vertical profile and is located on the corresponding vertical profile. The vertical profile can be formed by a bent pipe, and the vertical profile can also be equipped with a covering element that protects the vertical profile. In particular, the covering element can have a U-shaped cross section, and the covering element is arranged on the vertical profile in a rearwardly open manner. The supporting profile can be a curved and / or stamped profile, and the supporting profile can also be at least partially surrounded by the covering element. In combination with the parallelogram linkage, this ensures that the vertical profile and the supporting profile always extend parallel to each other, since a tilting of the load receiving structure relative to the base frame is avoided.

[0019] According to another aspect of the invention, in particular in the case of the aforementioned load carrier, a locking device can be provided, by means of which the load-receiving structure can be locked relative to the base frame when the load-receiving structure is in its use position. During travel, such a locking device ensures that the load-receiving structure is fixed in its use position, thereby avoiding the risk of the load-receiving structure accidentally moving into its load position.

[0020] In particular, the locking device may comprise at least one locking element, in particular a plurality of locking elements, preferably in the form of a hook, which is movably fixed to the load receiving structure between an engagement position and a release position, in particular, the locking element is pivotably fixed to the load receiving structure between an engagement position and a release position, wherein in the engagement position the locking element can engage with the base frame, in particular the locking element can engage into or behind a corresponding engagement element of the base frame, so that when the load receiving structure is in its use position, the load receiving structure is locked at the base frame, and in the release position the locking element is disengaged from engagement with the base frame, so that when the load receiving structure should be moved out of its use position, the load receiving structure is released from the base frame. In other words, a locking element may be provided, which can preferably engage with a corresponding engagement element of the base frame. In particular, the engagement element can be formed as a small plate, in particular a small plate made of metal, and the engagement element can be fixed at the vertical profile portion. The engagement element formed as a small plate can be arranged obliquely with respect to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In order for the locking elements to engage automatically on the base frame, when the load-receiving structure is moved into its use position, the locking elements may have a corresponding chamfer at their free front ends.The locking elements may be biased towards their engaged position.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, each linkage is equipped with two locking elements, of which an upper locking element is fixed to the upper end portion of the load-receiving structure and a lower locking element is fixed to the lower end portion of the load-receiving structure. Thus, the locking elements assigned to each linkage are vertically spaced apart from one another, so that a stable fixing of the load-receiving structure on the base frame can be achieved.

[0022] The two locking elements assigned to the linkage can be coupled to each other in such a way that the two locking elements move synchronously between their engagement position and their release position. Preferably, all locking elements of the load carrier are coupled to each other in such a way that the locking elements move synchronously. In particular, the two locking elements assigned to the linkage can be coupled via a connecting rod, which is pivotally connected in particular at one end to the locking element of the lower part and at its other end to the locking element of the upper part. The connection to the connecting rod is preferably effected on the opposite side of the free end of the locking element relative to the pivotable connection (pivot axis) to the load-receiving structure, wherein the locking element can engage with the base frame. Such a connecting rod allows the transmission of forces in two directions, i.e. the transmission of compressive and tensile forces.

[0023] At least one crank, in particular the upper crank of the connecting rod mechanism, can have an engagement opening in the vicinity of the load-receiving structure, wherein at least one locking element, in particular the upper locking element, can engage into the engagement opening when the load-receiving structure is in its lower load position. Preferably, the locking elements engage in the engagement opening when the locking elements are in their engagement position. In this way, the load-receiving structure can also be locked in its lower load position. Thus, by compressing the gas spring, an unintentional movement of the load-receiving structure out of its lower load position is excluded. In other words, in order to move the load-receiving structure out of its load position, the locking elements must be disengaged from their engagement position.

[0024] Preferably, the load receiving structure comprises an actuating device, which is designed and arranged to move the locking elements from their engaged position to their released position. In particular, the actuating device may comprise a button, which is arranged at the load receiving structure, in particular, the button is arranged at a central bottom portion of the load receiving structure, wherein the button is connected to the locking elements in such a way that it can be moved between an engaged state and a released state, wherein in the engaged state the locking elements are in their engaged position, and in the released state the locking elements can be moved from their engaged position towards their released position. In other words, the operator can use the actuating device to bring the locking elements to their released position. Preferably, the button is arranged at a central bottom portion of the load receiving structure, which central bottom portion can in particular be formed by a bend, in particular a U-shaped bend. The central bottom portion, in particular the free end of the bend, can be connected to the lower end of the supporting profile.

[0025] In order to convert the movement of the button into the movement of the locking element, the button can be operatively connected to at least one bowden cable, wherein the button is connected to at least one locking element via the bowden cable. Preferably, the button is operatively connected to a bowden cable assigned to each linkage, and each bowden cable is connected to the locking element at its other end, in particular, each bowden cable is connected at its other end to the locking element assigned to the lower part of the corresponding linkage, or each bowden cable is connected to the connecting rod at its other end. Such a bowden cable is advantageous because it allows the translational movement to be transmitted to different directions, so that the bowden cable can be used to actuate the corresponding locking element.

[0026] The load carrier may further comprise additional fixing means by means of which the load receiving structure can be fixed in the use position on the base frame. In particular, the fixing means may comprise a fixing hook, which is preferably pivotably mounted on the base frame, in particular on each vertical profile of the base frame and which can engage into a corresponding fixing protrusion formed on the load receiving structure. The fixing hook can be arranged transversely on the vertical profile.

[0027] The load receiving structure, in particular the rearwardly extending central bottom portion of the load receiving structure, can carry at least one profile rail, in particular one, two or three profile rails, in order to receive a corresponding number of wheels of bicycles. Furthermore, the load receiving structure, in particular in the upper end portion, can have a rearwardly extending yoke in order to support the frame of the bicycle to the load receiving structure.

[0028] The object of the invention is also achieved by a vehicle, in particular a caravan or motorhome, having a load carrier as described above, wherein the load carrier is preferably connected to a rear wall of the vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] With regard to embodiments of the invention, reference is also made to the dependent claims and to the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings show:

[0030] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a motorhome having a load carrier according to the invention;

[0031] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier carrying a bicycle with the load receiving structure in its loaded position;

[0032] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier carrying a bicycle with the load receiving structure in its use position;

[0033] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 with the load receiving structure in its loaded position;

[0034] Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 with the load receiving structure in its use position;

[0035] Figure 6 Shows the removal of certain covering elements Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 with the load receiving structure in its loaded position;

[0036] Figure 7 Shows the removal of certain covering elements Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 with the load receiving structure in its use position;

[0037] Figure 8 Shown in loaded position Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism of a load carrier;

[0038] Fig. 9 Shown in use position Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the linkage mechanism shown;

[0039] Fig.10 Shows Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 with the locking elements in their engaged positions;

[0040] Fig.11 shows a cross-sectional view of the upper locking element;

[0041] Fig.12 showing a cross-sectional view of the lower locking element in an engaged position;

[0042] Fig.13 shows a cross-sectional view of the load carrier with the locking element in its released position;

[0043] Fig.14 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of a load carrier including an upper locking element, wherein the upper locking element is in its released position;

[0044] Fig.15 shows a detailed cross-sectional view including a lower locking element in its released position;

[0045] Fig.16 Shows the removal of certain components Figure 1 A perspective view of a load carrier of FIG. 1 showing an actuating device;

[0046] Fig.17 a detailed cross-sectional view showing a button of the actuating device;

[0047] Fig.18 Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a securing device for a load carrier of FIG. 1 , wherein the securing hook is not engaged with the load receiving structure; and

[0048] Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 A perspective view of a securing device is shown with the securing hook engaged with the load receiving structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Figure 1 The rear part of the motorhome 1 and a load carrier 2 in the form of a bicycle carrier according to the invention are shown, which is connected to the rear wall of the motorhome 1. The load carrier 2 comprises a base frame 3. For example, Figure 2 As can be seen in the figure, the basic frame 3 comprises two vertical profiles 4 in the form of C-shaped curved tubes. The vertical profiles 4 are arranged parallel to each other and are laterally spaced apart from each other. The free ends of the vertical profiles 4 are connected to the wall of the caravan 1.

[0050] The base frame 3 also comprises a crossbeam 5 which connects the vertical profiles 4 in the upper region. Furthermore, at the bottom free end of the vertical profiles 4, end beams 6 are provided which connect the vertical profiles 4 and are attached to the rear wall of the motorhome 1 .

[0051] In the middle section of the vertical profile 4 , the base frame 3 comprises a covering element 7 which partially surrounds the vertical profile 4 in the middle section and allows access to the vertical profile 4 from the rear side.

[0052] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the load carrier 2 further comprises a load receiving structure 8, which in this case is intended to receive exactly one bicycle. The load receiving structure comprises two supporting profiles 10, which extend parallel to each other and are spaced apart from each other by the same distance as the vertical profiles 4 of the base frame 3. The load receiving structure 8 further comprises a central bottom portion 11, which is made of a U-bend and connects the supporting profiles 10 at their bottom ends.

[0053] The load carrier 2 further comprises a lifting mechanism 12, wherein the load receiving structure 8 is fixed to the base frame 3 by means of the lifting mechanism 12. The load receiving structure 8 can be moved relative to the base frame 3, for example Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The lower load position shown and e.g. Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The load carrier 2 is shown in the upper use position. In the lower load position, when the load carrier 2 is attached to the vehicle, the load receiving structure 8 is located near the ground so that a load can be arranged on the load receiving structure 8. In the upper use position, when the load carrier 2 is attached to the vehicle, the load receiving structure 8 is spaced apart from the ground and is fixed directly at the base frame 3.

[0054] The lifting mechanism 12 comprises two linkage mechanisms 13 which are spaced apart from each other and arranged parallel to each other. Each linkage mechanism 13 is formed as a parallelogram linkage and each linkage mechanism 13 is assigned to one vertical profile 4 and one supporting profile 10 .

[0055] Each connecting rod mechanism 13 comprises two cranks 14, 15, respectively an upper crank 14 and a lower crank 15. One end of each crank 14, 15 is pivotally fixed to the lower end portion of the base frame 3, and the other end of each crank 14, 15 is pivotally fixed to the upper end portion of the load receiving structure 8. When the load receiving structure 8 is in its use position, the cranks 14, 15 extend at least substantially vertically. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when the load receiving structure 8 is in its loaded position, the cranks 14, 15 extend rearwardly and downwardly.

[0056] In particular, the base frame 3 comprises, in the bottom end portion, a fixing element 16 in the form of a bent plate, which is screwed to the vertical profile and which carries or holds a pivot pin, by means of which the cranks 14, 15 are pivotably fixed. In much the same way, in the top end portion of the support profile 10 of the load-receiving structure 8, the pivot pins for fixing the cranks 14, 15 are held in corresponding openings formed in the support profile 10.

[0057] In order to reduce the forces exerted by the operator on the load-receiving structure 8 when the load-receiving structure 8 is lifted from its lower load position to its upper position, the lifting mechanism 12 comprises a total of two springs in the form of gas springs 17, wherein one gas spring 17 (here a pneumatic spring) is provided for each linkage 13. Each gas spring 17 comprises a spring housing 18 and a spring rod 19, so that by pulling in the spring rod 19, the air in the spring housing 18 is compressed, and by pulling out the spring rod 19, the air in the spring housing 18 is expanded.

[0058] One end of each gas spring (here, the end of the spring housing 18) is pivotally fixed to the pivot axis of the lower crank 15 at the base frame 3, and the spring rod 19 is pivotally fixed to the pivot axis of the upper crank 14 at the load receiving structure 8. In this way, when the load receiving structure 8 is in its use position, the spring rod 19 is pulled out, and when the load receiving structure 8 is in its load position, the spring rod 19 is pulled in. The lifting mechanism 12 is schematically shown in Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In. Figure 8 In the embodiment, the load receiving structure 8 is in its lower load position, while in Fig. 9 In the embodiment shown, the load receiving structure 8 is in its upper use position.

[0059] The load carrier 2 further comprises a locking device, by means of which the load-receiving structure 8 can be locked relative to the base frame 3 when the load-receiving structure 8 is in its use position. For this purpose, the locking device comprises a total of four locking elements 20 in the form of hooks, which are pivotably fastened to the load-receiving structure 8, in particular to the supporting profile 10. Each linkage 13 is equipped with two locking elements 20. The locking elements 20 can be Figures 10 to 12 The engagement position shown and Figures 13 to 15In the engagement position, the locking element 20 is engaged with the base frame 3 or can be engaged with the base frame 3, in particular, the locking element 20 engages into a corresponding engagement element 21 fixed at the fixing element 16. In the release position, the locking element 20 is disengaged from the engagement element 21, so that the load receiving structure 8 can be released from the base frame 3. In this way, the load receiving structure 8 can be moved out of its use position.

[0060] In order to make the locking elements 20 automatically engage on the base frame 3, the locking elements 20 have a chamfer 22 at their free front ends. In addition, the locking elements 20 can be biased into their engagement position. Specifically, each linkage 13 is equipped with two locking elements 20. For example, Fig.11 and Fig.14 An upper locking element 20 shown in FIG. 1 is fixed to the upper end portion of the load receiving structure 8 and is for example Fig.12 and Fig.15 A lower locking element 20 is shown in FIG. 1 and is fixed to the bottom end portion of the load receiving structure 8 .

[0061] The two locking elements 20 assigned to the linkage 13 are coupled to each other so that the two locking elements 20 move synchronously between their engagement position and their release position. To this end, the two locking elements 20 assigned to the linkage 13 are coupled by a connecting rod 23, wherein the connecting rod 23 is pivotally connected to the lower locking element 20 at one end thereof, and the connecting rod 23 is connected to the upper locking element 20 at the other end thereof.

[0062] The load receiving structure 8 further comprises an actuating device designed and arranged to move the locking elements 20 from their engaged position to their released position. In particular, the actuating device comprises a button 24, which is arranged in the middle of the central bottom part 11 of the load receiving structure 8. The button 24 is coupled to the locking elements 20 in such a way that the button 24 can be moved between an engaged state, in which the locking elements 20 are in their engaged position, and a released state, in which the locking elements 20 can be moved from their engaged position to their released position. The button 24 is connected to two Bowden cables 25, each of which is connected at its other end to the bottom end of the connecting rod 23 and thus to the lower locking element 20 and the upper locking element 20. The Bowden cables 25 can be guided in corresponding guide hoses 25a.

[0063] The detailed implementation of the button is as follows Fig.16 and Fig.17 The button 24 is movably fixed to a button housing 26, which is arranged in the central bottom part 11. Fig.15As shown, the button 24 is biased toward its engaged state by a corresponding compression spring 27. Fig.17 When the button 24 moves downwards to its release state, the Bowden cable 25 is pulled so that the connecting rod 23 moves downwards, thereby bringing the locking elements 20 into their release position. Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when the locking elements reach their release position, the load receiving structure 8 can be moved to its lower load position.

[0064] When the load-receiving structure 8 is in its use position, additional fixing means are provided to further fix the load-receiving structure 8 to the base frame 3. These fixing means comprise two fixing hooks 28 which are pivotably fixed at the base frame 3, in particular at the fixing element 16, and which can engage in corresponding fixing projections 29 arranged at the load-receiving structure 8.

[0065] The central bottom part 11 of the load-receiving structure 8 carries a profile rail 30 for receiving the wheels of the bicycle 9. Suitable fixing means can be provided on the profile rail in a manner known per se. In the present case, two wheel carriers 31 are provided, which are pushed onto the free ends of the profile rail 30. These wheel carriers 31 include tensioning belts 32 for fixing the wheels of the bicycle 9.

[0066] Furthermore, the load carrier 2 comprises a rearwardly extending yoke 33 for supporting a bicycle frame connected to the load receiving structure 8. For this purpose, a so-called belt-like frame fastener 34 is provided, which connects the frame of the bicycle 9 to the yoke 33.

[0067] When the load receiving structure should be Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 When the illustrated use position is moved to its load position, the fixing hook 28 must first be manually disengaged from the engagement with the fixing projection 29. Then, the button 24 must be actuated and moved to its release state. In this way, the Bowden cable 25 is pulled and the connecting rod 23 moves downwards. As a result, the free end of the locking element 20 is separated from the engagement of the engagement element 21.

[0068] The load receiving structure 8 with the bicycle 9 attached thereto can then be moved towards its lower load position. During this movement, which is guided by the linkage 13, the spring rod 19 is pulled in, so that the air in the spring housing 18 is compressed. This process is supported by the weight force generated by the load receiving structure 8 and the bicycle 9 attached thereto. When the lower load position is reached, the locking element 20 engages into a corresponding engagement opening 35 formed in the upper crank 14. In this way, the load receiving structure 8 can be fixed in its lower load position.

[0069] When the bicycle has been connected to the load receiving structure 8, the load receiving structure 8 can be moved upwards into its use position. During this movement, the spring rod 19 is pulled out so that the air in the spring housing 18 can expand, thereby supporting the operator and reducing the force that the operator needs to apply. When the load receiving structure 8 reaches its upper use position, the locking element 20 engages into the engagement element 21, thereby locking the load receiving structure 8 in its upper use position. Finally, the fixing hook 28 can be pivoted so that the fixing hook 28 engages into a corresponding fixing protrusion 29 formed in the load receiving structure 8.

[0070] In this way, the force that the operator has to apply can be significantly reduced in a very space-saving and cost-effective manner by means of the support of the operator by means of a spring of this type in the form of the gas spring 17 .

[0071] Reference numerals list

[0072] 1 RV

[0073] 2 Load carrier

[0074] 3 Basic Framework

[0075] 4Vertical profile

[0076] 5 beam

[0077] 6 end beams

[0078] 7 Covering elements

[0079] 8 Load receiving structure

[0080] 9. Bicycle

[0081] 10 Supporting profile

[0082] 11Central bottom section

[0083] 12 Lifting mechanism

[0084] 13 Linkage

[0085] 14 Upper crank

[0086] 15 Lower crank

[0087] 16Fixing elements

[0088] 17 Gas spring

[0089] 18 Spring housing

[0090] 19 Spring bar

[0091] 20 locking elements

[0092] 21Joining elements

[0093] 22 Chamfer

[0094] 23 Connecting rod

[0095] 24 buttons

[0096] 25 Bowden Line

[0097] 25a guide hose

[0098] 26 button housing

[0099] 27 Compression spring

[0100] 28 fixed hook

[0101] 29Fixed protrusion

[0102] 30 profile rail

[0103] 31 wheel frame

[0104] 32 tension belts

[0105] 33 Yoke

[0106] 34 Strap frame holder

[0107] 35 Engagement opening.

Claims

1. A load carrier (2) for attachment to a vehicle, the load carrier (2) being in particular a bicycle carrier, the load carrier (2) comprising: a base frame (3) whose front end can be attached to a vehicle, in particular, whose front end can be attached to the rear wall of a motorhome (1) or a caravan, and A load receiving structure (8) for receiving a load, in particular, the load receiving structure (8) for receiving at least one bicycle (9) or at least one luggage case, The load carrier (2) further comprises a lifting mechanism (12), by means of which the load receiving structure (8) is fixed to the base frame (3), so that the load receiving structure (8) can be moved relative to the base frame (3) between a lower load position and an upper use position, wherein in the lower load position a load can be arranged on the load receiving structure (8), and in the upper use position the load receiving structure (8) is directly fixed to the base frame (3), Characterized in that the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one spring, in particular, the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one gas pressure spring (17), preferably, the lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one pneumatic spring, the at least one spring being arranged and designed so that the force applied to the load receiving structure (8) by an operator is reduced when the load receiving structure (8) is lifted from its lower load position to its upper use position.

2. The load carrier (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that The lifting mechanism (12) comprises at least one connecting rod mechanism (13), in particular, the lifting mechanism (12) comprises two connecting rod mechanisms (13) which are spaced apart from each other and arranged parallel to each other, wherein each connecting rod mechanism (13) is equipped with a spring, in particular, each connecting rod mechanism (13) is equipped with a gas spring (17), wherein, in particular, each connecting rod mechanism (13) is formed as a parallelogram connecting rod mechanism.

3. The load carrier (2) according to claim 2, characterized in that Each connecting rod mechanism (13) comprises two cranks, namely an upper crank (14) and a lower crank (15), one end of each crank being pivotally fixed to the base frame (3), and the other end of each crank being pivotally fixed to the load receiving structure (8).

4. The load carrier (2) according to claim 3, characterized in that When the load receiving structure (8) is in its use position, the crank extends at least substantially vertically.

5. The load carrier (2) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that One end of each spring is pivotally fixed to the base frame (3), and the other end of the spring is pivotally fixed to the load receiving structure (8). In particular, the spring housing (18) of the gas pressure spring (17) is pivotally fixed to the base frame (3), and the spring rod (19) of the gas pressure spring (17) is pivotally fixed to the load receiving structure (8), so that the longitudinal axis defined by the gas pressure spring (17) is inclined relative to the crank.

6. The load carrier (2) according to claim 5, characterized in that Each spring is pivotally fixed at the pivot axis of one crank of the connecting rod mechanism (13) at the base frame (3), and each spring is pivotally fixed at the pivot axis of the other crank of the connecting rod mechanism (13) at the load receiving structure (8), so that when the load receiving structure (8) is in its use position, the spring is pulled out, especially the spring rod (19) is pulled out, and when the load receiving structure (8) is in its load position, the spring is pulled in, especially the spring rod (19) is pulled in.

7. The load carrier (2) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that One end of the crank of each link mechanism (13) is fixed to the lower end portion of the base frame (3), and the other end is fixed to the upper end portion of the load receiving structure (8).

8. The load carrier (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that The base frame (3) has at least one vertical profile (4), in particular, the base frame (3) has one vertical profile (4) assigned to each connecting rod mechanism (13), wherein the crank is fixed to the lower end part of the vertical profile (4), and the load receiving structure (8) has a supporting profile (10) assigned to each vertical profile (4), wherein when the load receiving structure (8) is in its use position, the supporting profile (10) extends parallel to the vertical profile (4) and is located on the corresponding vertical profile (4).

9. A load carrier (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that A locking device is provided, wherein the load-receiving structure (8) can be locked relative to the base frame (3) by means of the locking device when the load-receiving structure (8) is in its use position.

10. The load carrier (2) according to claim 9, characterized in that The locking device comprises at least one locking element (20), in particular the locking device comprises a plurality of locking elements (20), the locking element preferably being in the form of a hook, the locking element being movably fixed to the load receiving structure (8) between an engaged position and a released position, in particular the locking element being pivotably fixed to the load receiving structure (8) between an engaged position and a released position, wherein in the engaged position the locking element (20) can engage with the base frame (3), in particular the locking element (20) can engage into a corresponding engagement element (21) of the base frame (3) or engage The invention relates to a method for producing a load-receiving structure (8) having a plurality of locking elements (21) arranged behind the load-receiving structure (8) so that the load-receiving structure (8) is locked to the base frame (3) when the load-receiving structure (8) is in its use position, and in the release position, the locking element (20) is disengaged from the base frame (3) so that the load-receiving structure (8) is released from the base frame (3) when the load-receiving structure (8) should be moved out of its use position, wherein, in particular, the locking elements (20) have a chamfer (22) at their free front ends so that they automatically engage with the base frame (3), and / or the locking elements (20) are biased towards their engaged position.

11. The load carrier (2) according to claim 10 and any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that Each linkage (13) is equipped with two locking elements (20), wherein an upper locking element (20) is fixed to the upper end portion of the load receiving structure (8) and a lower locking element (20) is fixed to the bottom end portion of the load receiving structure (8), wherein, in particular, the two locking elements (20) assigned to the linkage (13) are connected to each other so that the two locking elements move synchronously between their engaged position and their released position, wherein, preferably, the two locking elements (20) assigned to the linkage (13) are connected via a connecting rod (23), which is in particular pivotally connected at one end to the lower locking element (20) and at the other end to the upper locking element (20).

12. The load carrier (2) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that The load receiving structure (8) comprises an actuating device designed and arranged to move the locking element (20) from its engaged position to its released position.

13. The load carrier (2) according to claim 12, characterized in that The actuating device comprises a button (24), which is arranged at the load receiving structure (8), in particular, the button (24) is arranged at the central bottom part (11) of the load receiving structure (8), wherein the button (24) is connected to the locking element (20) so that the button can be moved between an engaged state and a released state, wherein in the engaged state, the locking elements (20) are in their engaged position, and in the released state, the locking elements (20) can be moved out of their engaged position.

14. The load carrier (2) according to claim 13, characterized in that The button (24) is operatively connected to at least one Bowden cable (25), wherein the button (24) is connected to at least one locking element (20) via the Bowden cable (25).

15. The load carrier (2) according to claim 14 and claims 10 to 12, characterized in that The button (24) is operably connected to a Bowden cable (25) assigned to each linkage (13), and each Bowden cable (25) is connected to the connecting rod (23) or to the locking element (20) at its other end, in particular, each Bowden cable (25) is connected to the locking element (20) assigned to the lower part of the corresponding linkage (13).

16. A vehicle, in particular a motorhome (1) or a caravan, characterized in that The vehicle has a load carrier (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images