Load bracket, such as bicycle bracket

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a load bracket (1) for a vehicle, such as a bicycle bracket (1), adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, the load bracket (1) comprising:-a base frame (500) having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the invention relates to a base frame (500) comprising first and second elongate members (510, 520) for carrying a load, where the first and second elongate members (510, 520) are spaced apart from each other and arranged substantially parallel to each other along a length extension (L), where the base frame (500) further comprises:-first and second bridging portions (530, 540), the first and second bridging portions are disposed between the first and second elongate members (510, 520) and couple the first and second elongate members (510, 520) together.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a load carrier, in particular a load carrier for a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier for a vehicle. The present disclosure also relates to certain components / elements preferably provided on a load carrier for a vehicle, such as straps and a license plate holder. Background Art

[0002] A load carrier for carrying a load and adapted to be mounted to a vehicle may be mounted to the vehicle on different sides of the vehicle. For example, it is known to provide a load carrier in the form of, for example, a load carrying bar on the roof of the vehicle. These load carrying bars may also be connected to additional load carriers, such as a connectable bicycle carrier adapted to carry one or more bicycles above the roof.

[0003] It is also known to mount a load carrier to the rear side of a vehicle, such as coupling the load carrier to a tow bar of the vehicle, for example to a tow ball or any other type of tow bar coupler.

[0004] The rear mounted load carrier can carry any type of load that is held and secured to the load carrier while the vehicle is moving. Typically, the rear mounted load carrier can be configured as a bicycle carrier for carrying one or more bicycles. These bicycles can, for example, be stacked at the rear of the vehicle so that the length extension of each bicycle extends along the lateral extension of the vehicle.

[0005] As mentioned above, the load support may also include one or more straps and ratchet buckles for securing the load to the load support. For example, the bicycle may be secured by tightening the straps passing through the wheel and / or around the bicycle frame.

[0006] While there are many different types of load stands, such as bicycle stands, there are ongoing efforts to develop improved load stands, such as load stands that are more user-friendly, more stable, more cost-effective, and / or have a longer useful life. Summary of the invention

[0007] In view of the above, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide an improved load rack, such as a bicycle rack, and / or at least to provide a suitable alternative, which alleviates at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art. Other objects of the present disclosure are to provide an improved strap for a ratchet buckle and an improved license plate holder for a load rack.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the object is at least partially achieved by a bicycle rack suitable for mounting to a vehicle, wherein the bicycle rack extends along a length extension, a width extension and a height extension. The bicycle rack comprises:

[0009] a platform support arrangement for supporting at least one bicycle, the platform support arrangement comprising at least one wheel receiving member for receiving one or more wheels of the at least one bicycle, thereby supporting, such as laterally supporting, the bicycle;

[0010] - At least one bicycle support arm member configured to hold and secure the at least one bicycle when the at least one bicycle is being received into the at least one wheel receiving member, wherein the at least one bicycle support arm member is reconfigurable between a bicycle supporting state and a bicycle stowing state.

[0011] By providing a bicycle rack as disclosed herein, an improved bicycle rack that is more user-friendly is achieved. Specifically, by providing a bicycle support arm member that can be reconfigured, adjusted and / or positioned as disclosed herein, a more user-friendly loading and / or unloading procedure of one or more bicycles will be achieved. Improvements include, for example, speeding up the loading / unloading procedure, reducing the risk of damaging the bicycle, achieving a more stable and durable configuration, etc. In the following, advantageous embodiments related to the bicycle rack will be disclosed, as well as other advantages and technical effects.

[0012] As used herein, a "bicycle support state" of a bicycle support arm member refers to a state in which the bicycle support arm member is positioned and / or configured to hold and secure a bicycle. For example, such a state may be a state when the bicycle support arm member is in a substantially upright position as disclosed herein, and / or a state when the bicycle support arm member is extended at an angle such as 45 degrees or less relative to a vertical extension, which corresponds to a height extension when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle.

[0013] As used herein, a "bicycle loading state" of a bicycle support arm member refers to a state in which the bicycle support arm member is positioned and / or configured such that a bicycle can be loaded onto and / or unloaded from a bicycle rack without interfering with the bicycle support arm member, such as a state when the bicycle support arm member extends in a plane defined by the length and width extensions of the bicycle rack. Preferably, the "bicycle loading state" is a state of the bicycle support arm member in which a bicycle can be loaded into a bicycle support position on a platform support arrangement, wherein the bicycle will be at least primarily held and secured by another bicycle support arm member without interfering with the bicycle support arm member in the bicycle loading state.

[0014] Optionally, the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may be reconfigurable by at least one of: repositioning; pivoting, such as pivoting about a pivot axis extending substantially parallel to the length of the bicycle rack; telescoping, thereby allowing the length of the reconfigurable bicycle support arm member to be adjusted; translating; detaching from and / or attaching to the platform support arrangement; bending; and sliding. Thus, the reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may allow a user to adjust and / or achieve a position of the bicycle support arm member that is more conducive to loading and / or unloading procedures.

[0015] Optionally, the platform support arrangement may be arranged to support a plurality of bicycles by stacking the bicycles one behind the other along a length extension of the bicycle rack, and wherein the platform support arrangement may be arranged such that when the bicycles are supported by the platform support arrangement, the length extension of each bicycle is arranged substantially perpendicular to the length extension of the bicycle rack, such as along the width extension. This configuration may be particularly advantageous when the bicycle rack is mounted at the rear of a vehicle, for example by a tow bar coupling.

[0016] Optionally, the bicycle rack may include a plurality of bicycle support arm members, wherein the bicycle rack is configured such that at least one single bicycle support arm member is used to hold and fix a single bicycle of the plurality of bicycles, and / or wherein at least one bicycle support arm member is configured to hold and fix more than one bicycle, such as one bicycle on each side of the at least one bicycle support arm member, as seen along the length of the bicycle rack. For example, each bicycle support arm member of the plurality of bicycle support arm members may include a head for fixing a bicycle to the corresponding bicycle support arm member, such as a head that can pivot. The head may include a claw-like member and / or a strap for fixing a bicycle to the bicycle support arm member. Each head may be arranged to face the user when the user loads the bicycle to the bicycle rack. For example, the bicycle rack may be arranged such that when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle (i.e., when the bicycle rack is mounted at the rear of the vehicle), each head faces away from the vehicle in a rearward direction. This means that it is convenient to load the bicycle to the bicycle rack.

[0017] Optionally, the platform support arrangement may include at least one pair of wheel receiving members for receiving the wheel of at least one bicycle, wherein at least one of the wheel receiving members of the at least one pair of wheel receiving members is pivotable about a pivot axis extending substantially parallel to the length of the bicycle support, and wherein at least one of the bicycle support arm members capable of being reconfigured is pivotable about the same pivot axis, such as being pivotable coaxially relative to each other. In addition or alternatively, at least one bicycle support arm member capable of being reconfigured is pivotable about a pivot axis that is parallel or substantially parallel to the pivot axis of at least one wheel receiving member. Thus, in view of the above configuration, a more versatile bicycle support will be achieved, wherein, for example, the bicycle support can be folded into a stowed / contracted / non-use state. Optionally again, the bicycle support may be further configured such that the stowed / contracted / non-use state is achieved by folding (i.e., pivoting) the at least one bicycle support arm member capable of being reconfigured and the at least one pair of wheel receiving members to a corresponding upright position, as seen along the height direction or height extension. For example, the at least one bicycle support arm member can be arranged in a bicycle support state as disclosed herein in a stowed / contracted / non-use state. This means a compact stowed / contracted / non-use state. This also means a bicycle stand that is convenient for the user to carry and handle. For example, when the bicycle stand is arranged in the stowed / contracted / non-use state, it is easier to attach the bicycle stand to a vehicle and / or remove the bicycle stand from the vehicle.

[0018] Optionally, the bicycle rack may comprise a plurality of bicycle support arm members attachable and / or attached to the platform support arrangement at respective fixing points, which are distributed along the length extension of the bicycle rack and arranged to be offset from each other along the length extension. Each of the at least two bicycle support arm members is arranged such that: when the bicycle support arm member is in a bicycle supported state, such as being arranged in a substantially upright position extending from the platform support arrangement along the height extension, or at least being arranged in a position in which the bicycle support arm member extends from the platform support arrangement in a direction at an angle of 45 degrees or less to the upright position, the bicycle to be held and fixed by the bicycle support arm member can be loaded to the bicycle rack in a loading direction substantially parallel to the length extension of the bicycle rack. The loading direction is the same loading direction for each bicycle for each of the at least two bicycle support arm members, such as corresponding to a forward direction relative to the vehicle when the bicycle rack is mounted to the vehicle. Thus, a more user-friendly loading can be achieved, which means that the time for loading more than one bicycle to the bicycle rack is reduced. It has been recognized that it is advantageous if the bicycle support arm member is already arranged in the bicycle supporting state when the user loads the bicycle to be held by the bicycle support arm member. More specifically, since the bicycle support arm member is already in the correct position when loading the bicycle, the user will not need to reconfigure the bicycle support arm member when also holding the bicycle.

[0019] Optionally, when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle, one bicycle support arm member may be an innermost bicycle support arm member relative to the vehicle, wherein the innermost bicycle support arm member is biased toward or fixed in a substantially upright position as seen along the height extension. Thus, the innermost bicycle support arm member will be ready to hold a bicycle without requiring any unnecessary manipulation by the user. For example, there may be no need to reconfigure the innermost bicycle support arm member prior to loading a bicycle to be held by the innermost bicycle support arm member. For example, the bicycle rack may be configured such that when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle, each pair of wheel receiving members of the bicycle rack is disposed further away from the vehicle relative to the innermost bicycle support arm member as seen along the length extension.

[0020] Optionally, the at least one bicycle support arm member may have a cross-sectional peripheral profile, wherein the cross-section is defined by a plane extending perpendicular to the length of the at least one bicycle support arm member, wherein the cross-sectional peripheral profile is shaped, for example, in a substantially rectangular shape or an elliptical shape, so that when the bicycle support holds and secures the bicycle, the side surfaces of the cross-sectional peripheral profile extending along the length extension of the bicycle support are longer than the side surfaces of the cross-sectional peripheral profile extending along the width extension of the bicycle support, wherein when the bicycle support is mounted to a vehicle, the length extension corresponds to the direction of travel of the vehicle. Thus, a more stable bicycle support arm member may be achieved. This is achieved by having a longer side in the same direction as the direction of movement of the vehicle. Thus, the bicycle support arm member will thereby be better adapted to handle impact forces in the direction of travel of the vehicle. It has been recognized that such a shape may be more suitable than a cross-sectional peripheral profile that is, for example, circular or square.

[0021] Optionally, the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may be reconfigurable such that the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member can be folded down, such as by a folding joint, to a position where the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member extends substantially in a plane defined by a width extension and a length extension of the bicycle rack. The position may be a bicycle loading state.

[0022] Optionally, the bicycle rack may further comprise a restriction arrangement configured to restrict a reconfiguration movement, such as a pivoting and / or telescopic movement, of the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member. Thus, the bicycle support arm member may be restricted from being reconfigured, which means that the risk of unnecessary / unwanted reconfiguration of the bicycle support arm member is reduced.

[0023] Optionally, the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may be reconfigurable by pivoting as mentioned herein, and wherein a limiting arrangement, such as a rotation lock, may be configured to prevent the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member from pivoting due to the force applied to the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member when the force applied to the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member is below a threshold value. For example, the threshold value may be set such that, such as when the bicycle support arm member is in an upright position, a gravitational force applied to the bicycle support arm member will not cause the bicycle support arm member to pivot.

[0024] Optionally, the bicycle rack may include a pair of wheel accommodating members as mentioned herein, wherein the restriction arrangement may be further configured so that the at least one bicycle support arm member that can be reconfigured follows the wheel accommodating member that can pivot when pivoting, such as folding down to the bicycle support position. Therefore, the bicycle rack can be set to a state where one or more bicycles can be loaded thereon more quickly, which means that the time for loading these bicycles is reduced. Preferably, all bicycle support arm members are configured in this way, except for the innermost support arm member mentioned above, for example. Optionally again, the restriction arrangement and / or the wheel accommodating member may be further configured so that when the at least one bicycle support arm member that can be reconfigured is pivoted (such as folded upward) to the bicycle support position, the wheel accommodating member that can pivot is stationary. Therefore, when the at least one bicycle support arm member that can be reconfigured is pivoted, it may not be necessary for the user to hold and / or push the wheel accommodating member. This means a simplified bicycle installation procedure.

[0025] Optionally, the limiting arrangement may include a spring biasing member, a first friction member, and a second friction member, which are arranged to rotate around a pivot axis of the pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member. The limiting function is provided at least by the spring biasing member pushing or pulling at least one of the first friction member and the second friction member such that a friction force is generated therebetween, thereby preventing the at least one pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member from pivoting due to the applied force when the applied force to the at least one pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member is below a threshold value.

[0026] Optionally, the limiting arrangement may include a spring biasing member configured to apply a force in a radial and / or axial direction relative to the pivot axis. When the spring biasing member applies a radial force, the spring biasing member is optionally a sleeve-type member, such as a sleeve-type member that can be compressed and / or expanded, as seen in the radial direction of the pivot axis. The spring biasing member that applies a force in the axial direction may, for example, be a helical spring. Alternatively, the spring biasing member may optionally be a member arranged between two sleeve-type members, as seen in the radial direction.

[0027] Optionally, the sleeve-type member (i.e., the spring-biased sleeve-type member) may include a compression prevention portion configured to prevent the sleeve-type member from being compressed beyond a predetermined compression distance. Thus, it is ensured that the spring-biased sleeve-type member will not be compressed too much, which may otherwise reduce and impair the limiting function.

[0028] Optionally, the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may be reconfigurable by telescoping as mentioned herein, such as may be further reconfigurable, wherein a restriction arrangement such as a friction lock is configured to prevent the at least one telescoping bicycle support arm member from adjusting its length due to the applied force when the force applied to the at least one telescoping bicycle support arm member is below a threshold. The telescoping reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may optionally include a first telescoping arm member and a second telescoping arm member, and wherein the friction lock may optionally include a spring biasing member, such as a leaf spring, associated with the first telescoping arm member, wherein the spring biasing member is configured to engage with at least one groove associated with the second telescoping arm member, thereby preventing the at least one telescoping bicycle support arm member from adjusting its length due to the applied force when the force applied to the at least one telescoping bicycle support arm member is below a threshold. For example, the spring biasing member may be configured to engage with a corrugated or micro-corrugated profile including a plurality of continuous grooves, such as a corrugated profile disposed on a length of material extending along the second telescoping arm member.

[0029] Optionally, the bicycle rack may comprise a plurality of bicycle support arm members which are attachable and / or attachable to the platform support arrangement at respective fixing points, which are distributed along the length extension of the bicycle rack and are arranged to be offset from each other along the length extension, wherein the fixing points are alternately positioned on respective opposite sides relative to an axis of symmetry of the bicycle rack. The axis of symmetry extends along the length extension of the bicycle rack. In addition or alternatively, at least one wheel accommodating member may be arranged between two adjacent fixing points of adjacent bicycle support arm members, as seen along the length extension. Thus, a further simplified loading and / or unloading procedure may be achieved. For example, arranging the bicycle support arm members around the axis of symmetry as mentioned above may enable the bicycle rack to be more easily folded into a stowed state, thereby reducing the risk of the bicycle support arm members colliding with each other, for example during folding.

[0030] Optionally, the at least one bicycle support arm member may be a rigid arm, such as an arm made of a rigid low weight material, such as aluminum.

[0031] Optionally, the at least one bicycle support arm member may be configured to be disposed in a substantially upright position extending from the platform support arrangement along a height extension when the at least one bicycle support arm member holds and secures at least one bicycle, the substantially vertical position corresponding to a bicycle support state. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one bicycle support arm member may be configured to be disposed in a substantially angled position extending from the platform support arrangement relative to the height extension (such as at an angle of 45 degrees or less relative to the height extension) when the at least one bicycle support arm member holds and secures at least one bicycle, the height extension corresponding to a vertical direction when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle.

[0032] Optionally, the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member may be detachable from the bicycle rack. Thus, an even more versatile bicycle rack is achieved, wherein for example a user can select how many bicycle support arm members should be attached in a certain situation, i.e. depending on how many bicycles should be loaded to the bicycle rack.

[0033] Preferably, the at least one bicycle support arm member is attached and / or attachable to the platform support arrangement and is configured to at least partially extend upwardly from the platform support arrangement when a bicycle is loaded on the platform support arrangement and when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle (such as the rear of a vehicle) via the tow bar coupling.

[0034] Optionally, at least one bicycle support arm member and / or the wheel receiving member may include a ratchet buckle for receiving and retaining a strap for retaining and securing a bicycle, such as a bicycle frame, to the at least one bicycle support arm member.

[0035] Optionally, the at least one ratchet buckle may further be associated with at least one strap locking arrangement for locking a strap so as to prevent the strap from being released from the ratchet buckle. Optionally again, the strap locking arrangement may include a locking element arranged to engage with at least one buckle engagement member of the strap. The locking element may be adapted to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member by moving the locking element in a locking direction toward the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap, such as sliding and / or rotating the locking element. Thereafter, the locking element may be locked by using a key, which, after being rotated in a keyhole of the locking arrangement and released, prevents the locking element from moving to an unlocked position, i.e. sliding in the opposite direction relative to the aforementioned locking direction.

[0036] Optionally, at least one bicycle support arm member may include a pivotable head. The pivotable head may include a ratchet buckle and / or a strap for holding and securing a bicycle. By providing a pivotable head, a more versatile bicycle rack may be achieved, which means that the possibility of holding and securing bicycles with different kinds of frame designs is increased.

[0037] Optionally, at least one bicycle support arm member may be further configured to be reconfigurable, such as pivoting and / or telescoping, such that when the bicycle rack is mounted to the vehicle, the at least one bicycle support arm member may hold and / or support a bicycle located on the ground adjacent to the bicycle rack. Thus, an even more versatile bicycle support arm member may be provided that may also hold and support a bicycle located on the ground.

[0038] According to a second aspect, the object is at least partly achieved by a bicycle rack for a vehicle, such as a bicycle rack according to any one of the embodiments of the first aspect, wherein the bicycle rack comprises:

[0039] — a platform support arrangement for supporting two or more bicycles;

[0040] - a first bicycle support arm member, the first bicycle support arm member being used to hold and secure a first bicycle;

[0041] - A second bicycle support arm member for holding and securing a second bicycle, wherein the second bicycle support arm member is arranged to be reconfigurable during use.

[0042] The bicycle stand is constructed such that:

[0043] A first bicycle can initially be loaded onto the platform support arrangement and secured to the first bicycle support arm member, then a second bicycle support arm member can be reconfigured, and then a second bicycle can be loaded onto the platform support arrangement and secured to the second bicycle support arm member.

[0044] Thus, a simplified loading procedure is achieved. For example, when loading the first bicycle, the second bicycle support arm member can be in a state / position where it does not interfere with loading the first bicycle. Furthermore, by reconfiguring the second bicycle support arm member thereafter, the second bicycle support arm member can be set to a state / position ready to hold and secure the bicycle, i.e., a bicycle supporting state. Thus, the user will be able to load the second bicycle more easily with fewer operations and / or with a reduced risk of damaging either of the bicycles during loading.

[0045] The advantages and effects of the second aspect of the present disclosure are similar to those of the first aspect of the present disclosure, and vice versa. It should also be noted that all embodiments of the second aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0046] According to a third aspect, the object is achieved at least in part by a load carrier for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a ratchet buckle for receiving and retaining a strap. The ratchet buckle comprises:

[0047] — strap receiving section,

[0048] - A strap engaging member configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member of a strap to thereby retain the strap in the strap receiving section.

[0049] A load stand with a ratchet buckle as disclosed herein provides an improved ratchet buckle that is easier to use, more secure and / or safer than prior art load stand ratchet buckles. It should be noted that all embodiments of the third aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0050] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may further include an actuation lever for a user. The actuation lever may be configured to actuate the strap engagement member between an open state in which the strap is free to move in the strap receiving section and an engaged state in which the strap engagement member is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap.

[0051] Still optionally, the ratchet buckle may further include a ratchet buckle housing, wherein the actuation lever is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle housing when the strap engagement member is actuated between the open state and the engaged state.

[0052] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may further comprise a retaining arrangement configured to retain the actuating lever in a retaining position such that the strap engaging member is maintained in an open state. Thus, it will be easier for a user to tighten the strap, for example by using only one hand instead of two hands. Thus, the other hand may be used, for example, to retain a load, such as a bicycle, thereby preventing the load from falling off the load holder or being damaged during loading. This configuration simplifies the unloading procedure, as less manual involvement is required.

[0053] Optionally, the retention arrangement may include a first retention portion associated with the actuating rod and a second retention portion associated with the ratchet buckle housing, wherein the first retention portion and the second retention portion are configured to engage with each other to retain the actuating rod in a retained position. Optionally again, the first retention portion may be any of a protrusion, a groove, a hook, a protrusion configured to engage with the second retention portion, and / or the second retention portion may be any of a protrusion, a groove, a hook, a protrusion configured to engage with the first retention portion.

[0054] Optionally, the ratchet buckle housing may include a first wall and a second wall, wherein each wall at least partially extends along the length extension and height extension of the ratchet buckle, the length extension of the ratchet buckle corresponding to the length extension of the strap when the strap is accommodated in the strap accommodation section, wherein the walls are arranged to be offset from each other as seen along the width extension of the ratchet buckle, thereby defining a strap accommodation section therebetween. At least one of the first wall and the second wall includes a second retaining portion, such as a second retaining portion arranged on an inner surface of at least one of the walls and facing the other of the walls. This means an efficient configuration for providing a retaining function (such as a reduced number of required parts), an integrated configuration, etc. Optionally again, the actuating rod may be arranged in the space between the first wall and the second wall, and wherein the first retaining portion may be arranged on at least one outer surface of the actuating rod, which at least one outer surface faces the inner surface of one of the first wall and the second wall of the ratchet buckle housing when the actuating rod is in the retaining position. Optionally again, the retaining arrangement may be configured to retain the actuating rod in the retaining position by a snap-fit ​​connection, which means a more efficient and easier to use arrangement.

[0055] Optionally, the actuation lever may include a strap engagement portion configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member of the strap, wherein the actuation lever is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle such that the strap engagement portion moves the strap in the strap tightening direction in the strap receiving section. Thus, the actuation lever may further be used to tighten the strap, such as by moving the actuation lever in a back-and-forth movement mode (e.g., a back-and-forth pivoting movement mode). The back-and-forth movement mode may also be denoted as an actuation lever pumping mode. This configuration means that a simplified and more time-saving tightening procedure is provided to the user.

[0056] Optionally, the actuation lever may be spring biased towards a default position, such as being spring biased away from a holding position as mentioned above. Optionally still, the default position may be a position in which the strap engagement portion mentioned above engages the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap when the strap is disposed in the strap receiving section. Providing a default position for the actuation lever means further convenience for the user. Thus, before using the ratchet buckle, the actuation lever may be disposed in a default position, whereby the user may not need to make any initial corrections / adjustments to the actuation lever.

[0057] Optionally, the strap engagement member may further include a buckle state switching portion, wherein the buckle state switching portion is configured to engage with a protruding element of the strap when the strap is inserted into the strap receiving section and / or removed from the strap receiving section, so that the strap engagement member automatically switches from an open state to an engaged state, or vice versa, wherein in the open state, the strap can move freely in the strap receiving section, and wherein in the engaged state, the strap engagement member is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap. Therefore, by automatically switching from an open state to a closed state, or vice versa, when the strap is inserted into the strap receiving section and / or removed from the strap receiving section, it can be further facilitated for use by the user.

[0058] Optionally, the strap engaging member may be spring biased towards an engaged condition in which the strap engaging member is configured to engage the at least one buckle engaging member of the strap.

[0059] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may comprise a common spring biasing member for the actuation lever and the strap engaging member, which means that the number of components required to achieve the functionality of the ratchet buckle is reduced.

[0060] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may further include a strap guide portion, which is arranged at a strap entrance section of the strap receiving section and / or at a strap exit section of the strap receiving section, wherein the strap guide portion is an extension of the strap receiving section and / or a widened section of the strap receiving section. Thus, the strap can be prevented from getting stuck when, for example, it is bent too much. The strap guide section can further limit the bending of the strap when inserting the strap into the ratchet buckle and / or removing the strap from the ratchet buckle. The strap guide portion can, for example, extend 1 cm to 5 cm, such as 2 cm to 5 cm, from the ratchet buckle at the entrance and / or exit sections.

[0061] Optionally, the load carrier may also include straps for the ratchet buckle.

[0062] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may also include a visual and / or tactile indicator adapted to indicate to the user when the actuation lever is actuated such that the strap engagement member is in an open state and / or when the actuation lever is actuated such that the strap engagement member is in an engaged state. Optionally again, the visual and / or tactile indicator may be disposed on the strap engagement member. For example, the ratchet buckle may be configured such that when the strap engagement member is in an open state and / or when the strap engagement member is in an engaged state, the visual and / or tactile indicator (when disposed on the strap engagement member) extends through the aperture of the actuation lever. Preferably, the ratchet buckle may be configured such that when the strap engagement member is in an open state or an engaged state, the visual and / or tactile indicator extends through the aperture such that it is visible to the user and / or such that it can be touched by the user's hand / fingers. Furthermore, when the strap engagement member is in another state, the ratchet buckle may be configured such that the visual and / or tactile indicator is not visible to the user and / or such that it cannot be touched by the user's hand / fingers. In view of the above, it will be easier for a user to understand when the actuation lever is in an open or engaged state.The visual indicator may, for example, be colored a different color than the actuation lever, such as red.The tactile indicator may, for example, comprise a knurled surface.

[0063] According to a third aspect, the object can also be achieved at least in part by a binding for a ratchet buckle (preferably, the ratchet buckle mentioned above). The binding comprises:

[0064] - a plurality of snap-engaging members extending along the length of the strap,

[0065] a protruding element disposed at the free end of the strap, wherein the protruding element is configured to engage with a buckle state switching portion of a strap engagement member of the ratchet buckle when the strap is inserted into and / or removed from the strap accommodation section of the ratchet buckle, such that the strap engagement member automatically switches from an open state to an engaged state, or vice versa. The protruding element may include at least one inclined surface, such as a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface having respective inclined directions facing away from a top portion of the protruding element, as seen along the length extension of the strap. The inclined surface may be wedge-shaped, such as formed as a triangle, as seen in a plane defined by the length extension and the height extension of the strap.

[0066] The buckle engagement members are preferably formed as teeth extending along the length of the strap.The advantages and effects of the strap according to the third aspect are similar to those of the load support with ratchet buckle according to the third aspect.

[0067] According to a fourth aspect, the object is at least partly achieved by a load carrier for a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier being adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load. The load carrier comprises:

[0068] a base frame having a length extension, a width extension and a height extension, the base frame comprising a first elongated member and a second elongated member for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member and the second elongated member are spaced apart from each other and are arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension,

[0069] The base frame also includes:

[0070] - A first bridge portion and a second bridge portion, the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion are disposed between the first elongated member and the second elongated member and couple the first elongated member and the second elongated member together.

[0071] By providing a load support according to the fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a more modular load support configuration is achieved. More specifically, by providing a bridging portion as disclosed herein, the load support can be configured differently according to specific needs without requiring extensive redesign of different components. In other words, these bridging portions can be used for different types of load supports without changing the design and / or size of these bridging portions. It should be noted that all embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0072] Optionally, the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion may be spaced apart from each other, such as spaced apart from each other and offset from each other, thereby forming a coupling region therebetween, as seen along the length extension of the base frame, wherein optionally a load receiving section of the load support is coupled to the base frame in the coupling region. The load receiving section may be a bicycle support arm member and / or a wheel receiving section as disclosed herein.

[0073] Optionally, a load containing section may be coupled to each of and / or located between the spaced apart first and second bridge portions.

[0074] Optionally, the load holding section may be connected to the base frame and further be capable of pivoting about a pivot axis relative to the base frame extending substantially along the length, optionally wherein the pivot axis is defined by an axis, which is preferably an integral cylindrical rod extending through the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion, for example at least one of the separated first bridging portion and the second bridging portion includes a cylindrical portion, such as a cylindrical orifice and / or a cylindrical protrusion, thereby forming a pivotable connection with the connected and pivotable load holding section.

[0075] Optionally, the load receiving section may be configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example the load receiving section is a wheel tray and / or wherein the load receiving section is a bicycle support arm member for holding and securing a bicycle to a load carrier.

[0076] Optionally, at least the cross-sectional profiles of the first and second bridge portions have the same shape, wherein the cross-sectional planes are defined by planes perpendicular to the length extension, wherein optionally the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion have the same or different lengths as seen along the length extension of the load support. For example, the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion may be symmetrical with respect to a center line of each bridge portion extending along the height extension (i.e. a line defining two identical mirrored portions).

[0077] Optionally, each of the first bridging part and the second bridging part may be an extruded element, such as made of a lightweight material, for example aluminium, optionally wherein the extruded first bridging part and the second bridging part have an extruded extension extending substantially along the length extension of the base frame. Thus, a lightweight, robust and cost-effective bridging part may be provided. Preferably, the first bridging part and the second bridging part are extruded by the same extrusion tool, which means cost-effective manufacturing.

[0078] Optionally, each of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion may include a frame structure, such as a frame structure made of a lightweight material such as aluminum. Therefore, an additional stable bridging portion can be provided. Optionally again, each of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion may be formed at least in part by a wall facing upward and a wall facing downward, the wall facing upward facing upward along the height extension of the base frame, the wall facing downward facing downward, wherein the wall facing upward and the wall facing downward define a gap therebetween, and optionally wherein at least one supporting wall is disposed between the wall facing upward and the wall facing downward and connects the wall facing upward and the wall facing downward, so that at least a first sub-gap and a second sub-gap are formed therebetween, wherein optionally at least one supporting wall is a wall extending diagonally, and / or wherein at least one supporting wall is a wall extending substantially vertically, as seen in a plane defined by the width extension and height extension of the base frame. Therefore, an additional stable bridging portion can be provided.

[0079] Optionally, at least one of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion can be connected to at least one of the first slender member and the second slender member by at least one of the following: a snap-on connection; welding; a screw and / or bolt connection; a rivet connection; a press riveting / pressing, such as a flange or wall of the slender member being press riveted / pressed against the flange or wall of the bridging portion; a hook / engagement edge, such as being connected by a hook / engagement edge in the upper connection area and by welding in the lower area of ​​the corresponding bridging portion and the slender member; a track-type connection, such as being connected by a track-shaped extruded portion of the bridging portion and / or the slender member, wherein the track-shaped extruded portion extends along the length extension. In addition or alternatively, for example as an alternative to welding in the upper area and / or the lower area, one or more self-tapping screws can be advantageously used to provide a stable connection. The aforementioned connection techniques and / or configurations have been shown to provide a more stable and cost-effective connection.

[0080] Optionally, at least one of the first and second bridging portions may be coupled to at least one of the first and second elongated members by at least one of: an arcuate connection interface, a substantially diagonal connection interface, such that the bridging portion rests on top of the elongated member as seen in a cross section of the base frame defined by a plane extending perpendicular to the length. This has also been shown to provide a more stable and cost effective connection.

[0081] Optionally, at least one of the first and second elongated members may be an extruded element, such as made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum, and / or may include a frame structure, such as made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum, wherein optionally the frame structure forms a triangular cross-sectional profile preferably having a lower horizontal side and a first upper side for coupling / aligning with a side of at least one of the bridging portions, preferably with a side at about 45 degrees to the horizontal side. For example, the elongated members may be identical, thereby providing a more cost-effective configuration. For example, the elongated members may be extruded from one piece of material in the same extrusion process.

[0082] Optionally, the load support may include a plurality of pairs of corresponding first and second bridge portions extending along the length of the base frame, and / or the load support may include a plurality of load-receiving sections extending along the length of the base frame, such as a plurality of pairs of load-receiving sections, for example a plurality of pairs of transversely extending wheel trays for bicycles. Optionally, the plurality of pairs of corresponding first and second bridge portions and the plurality of load-receiving sections may be distributed alternately, such as in the following order: first bridge portion, wheel tray, second bridge portion and bicycle support arm member, and then optionally repeated.

[0083] Optionally, the first and second elongate members may be arranged in a common plane defined by the length extension and the width extension of the base frame, such as in a horizontal plane when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle arranged on a flat horizontally extending surface.

[0084] According to a fifth aspect, the object is achieved at least in part by a load carrier, such as a bicycle carrier, adapted to be mounted on the rear side of a vehicle. The load carrier has a length extension, a width extension and a height extension, and the load carrier comprises:

[0085] - a housing for the light-emitting and / or light-reflecting component and / or a holder for the housing.

[0086] The housing comprises a light emitting and / or light reflecting area which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load support, the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension and to a rearward direction of the vehicle when the load support is mounted to the vehicle.

[0087] By providing a load support including a housing for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member and / or a holder for the housing, an improved load support is achieved. For example, a more stable light emitting and / or light reflecting member and / or a holder for the housing is provided, which also enables light to be emitted in a more favorable direction, thereby also improving safety during use. The housing and / or holder as disclosed herein also provide an improved connection interface. For example, the connection interface is configured so that it can hide certain components / elements, thereby, for example, protecting these components / elements. It should be noted that all embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0088] Optionally, the luminous and / or light reflecting area has a three-dimensional shape. Optionally again, the luminous and / or light reflecting area may include a first sub-area having a first projected portion in a plane defined by the width extension and the height extension, and having a second projected portion in a plane defined by the length extension and the height extension, thereby forming a first luminous and / or light reflecting portion of the first sub-area pointing in the rearward direction, and a second luminous and / or light reflecting portion of the first sub-area pointing in the width extension and away from the load support. Thus, light can be emitted in a more favorable direction, not only in the rearward direction, but also along the width extension away from the load support.

[0089] The load carrier may be any kind of load carrier, such as a bicycle carrier as disclosed herein. The load carrier may also be in the form of a rear mounted cargo box, for example.

[0090] Optionally, the first sub-area may comprise a continuous surface having a main extension extending along a width formed by a first luminous and / or light reflecting portion, and another smaller extension extending along a length and / or height formed by a second luminous and / or light reflecting portion, wherein the first luminous and / or light reflecting portion and the second luminous and / or light reflecting portion are connected via edges such as smooth edges and / or reinforced edges. Thus, the first luminous and / or light reflecting portion may be able to emit more light, i.e. in a backward direction, while the second luminous and / or light reflecting portion may be smaller and more suitable for emitting lateral direct light, such as a flashlight. Thus, a more advantageous luminous portion may be achieved, which means, for example, increased safety.

[0091] Optionally, the luminous and / or light reflecting area may further include a second sub-area located below the first sub-area, as seen along the height extension, wherein the first sub-area and the second sub-area are divided by an edge. Optionally again, the edge dividing the first sub-area and the second sub-area may extend outwardly from the first sub-area and the second sub-area along the length extension, so that the edge forms a second sub-area overhang that at least partially covers the second sub-area from above. Thus, the second sub-area may be protected, for example, from above, thereby reducing the risk of, for example, damaging the second sub-area. For example, although the first sub-area is damaged, such as by a falling object, the second sub-area overhang may protect the second sub-area, so that the luminous and / or light reflecting area may not completely lose function.

[0092] Optionally, at least one of the first and second sub-areas is L-shaped as seen from behind along the length extension L of the load support, such as two L-shaped oppositely arranged and interconnected sub-areas extending along the width extension.

[0093] Optionally, the light emitting and / or light reflecting areas may be made of transparent glass.

[0094] Optionally, the load support may further comprise an overhanging portion arranged at a top portion of the housing and / or arranged above the holder, as seen along a height extension of the load support corresponding to a height extension of the vehicle when the load support is mounted to the vehicle. The overhanging portion protrudes from the housing and / or the holder such that the overhanging portion at least partially covers the light emitting and / or light reflecting area and / or the holder from above.

[0095] Optionally, the housing and / or the holder may comprise fastening elements for fastening the housing to the holder, and wherein the overhanging portion surrounds the fastening elements such that the fastening elements are not visible when the housing is mounted to the holder.

[0096] Optionally, the housing and / or the holder may include fastening elements for fastening the light emitting and / or light reflecting area to the housing, and wherein the overhang surrounds these fastening elements so that they are not visible when the housing is mounted to the holder. The fastening elements may be, for example, screws, bolts or any other type of fastening elements, also including snap-fit ​​connections.

[0097] Thus, the fastening element may be effectively protected by the protruding portion, which means that for example the risk of corrosion of the fastening element is reduced and / or the risk of the fastening element being stolen is reduced.

[0098] Optionally, the load support may further comprise a load receiving section configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example a wheel tray, wherein the overhanging portion forms part of the load receiving section. A more integrated configuration is thus achieved, which means high cost-effectiveness and a lower risk of damaging the housing.

[0099] Still optionally, the housing and / or a holder for the housing may be mounted to and / or may be part of the load containing section.

[0100] Optionally, the overhang and the housing may form a transition edge therebetween when the housing is mounted to the holder, wherein the overhang and the housing at the transition edge are shaped such that the overhang and the housing are aligned and / or flush with each other along the transition edge.

[0101] Optionally, the light emitting and / or light reflecting area may have a parallelogram-shaped outer contour as seen from behind extending along the length of the load support.

[0102] Optionally, the load support may further comprise a second housing for the light emitting and / or light reflecting member and / or a second holder for the housing. The second housing and / or holder may be formed as a housing and holder according to any one of the preceding embodiments, and wherein each housing and / or holder is arranged at a respective rear corner portion of the load support.

[0103] Optionally, the light emitting and / or light reflecting member preferably comprises one or more lamps / bulbs, such as LED (light emitting diode) lamps.

[0104] According to a sixth aspect, the object is achieved at least in part by a load carrier (such as a bicycle carrier) suitable for being mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, the load carrier having a length extension, a width extension and a height extension. The load carrier comprises:

[0105] - base frame part,

[0106] a load receiving section for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle,

[0107] Wherein the load receiving section is movable relative to the base frame portion such that when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle, the load receiving section is movable away from the vehicle.

[0108] By providing a load support according to the sixth aspect of the present disclosure, an improved load support is achieved which is more user-friendly, more stable and also provides a safe and fixed connection of the movable load containing section. It should be noted that all embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0109] Optionally, the movable load receiving section may be pivotable about a pivot axis, such as a pivot axis extending substantially along one of a length extension, a width extension and a height extension.

[0110] A load carrier and / or bicycle carrier as disclosed herein is preferably mounted to the rear of a vehicle, such as to a tow bar, although other mounting locations such as on the roof of a vehicle are possible for at least some embodiments disclosed herein.

[0111] Optionally, the base frame portion may include at least one connecting pin and / or connecting hook member for holding and fixing the load containing section in a fixed state relative to the base frame portion. A connecting pin is defined herein as a protruding element or protrusion adapted to be connected to a corresponding connecting element / arrangement. In this regard, a fixed state refers to a load containing section that cannot move relative to the base frame portion, such as cannot pivot. It has been recognized that it may be advantageous to provide a connecting pin and / or connecting hook member on the base frame portion (i.e., the portion mounted to the vehicle). Thus, the complexity of the base frame portion may be reduced, which means cost-effectiveness. In addition, it has been recognized that the load containing section may be more suitable for carrying a more complex and / or wider connection arrangement as disclosed herein. It has been further recognized that, for example, providing a hole in the base frame portion weakens the construction, thereby requiring the base frame portion to have a thicker wall. Therefore, by having no such hole in the base frame portion, thinner walls may be used, which means cost-effectiveness and reduced weight.

[0112] Optionally, the load containing section may comprise at least one corresponding connection arrangement, such as a connection arrangement comprising an aperture for accommodating the at least one connection pin and / or connection hook member. Due to the loads that the load containing section will carry, the load containing section may already require thicker walls and / or a more rigid configuration. Therefore, providing one or more apertures on the load containing section may not result in the need to provide, for example, thicker walls.

[0113] Optionally, the corresponding connection arrangement may comprise a spring biased locking mechanism for locking the at least one connection pin and / or connection hook member to the load accommodating section. Optionally still, the spring biased locking mechanism may be arranged to lock the at least one connection pin and / or connection hook member to the load accommodating section in a locking direction extending substantially perpendicularly to the length of the at least one connection pin and / or connection hook member. Thus, a more rigid and more secure locking may be achieved and such locking may also be more easily provided within the interior space of the load accommodating section, which means a more compact configuration.

[0114] Optionally, the corresponding connection arrangement may be at least partially hidden in the inner space of the load containing section. Optionally still, the corresponding connection arrangement may be arranged in a separate box housing in the inner space, such as a box housing that can be slid into the inner space, such as into the base frame tube. By hiding the corresponding connection arrangement, the connection arrangement may be better protected from the outside. Furthermore, by hiding the corresponding connection arrangement, a more attractive configuration may be achieved, wherein fewer components are visible from the outside. In addition, by arranging the corresponding connection arrangement in a separate box housing, a more flexible configuration may be achieved, wherein it will be easier to repair the load support, for example in case the connection arrangement is damaged / destroyed. A separate box housing also means a more modular configuration, wherein the same or similar box housings may be used for different types of load supports.

[0115] Optionally, the load support may further comprise a flexible elongated element, such as a wire, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism is arranged to be released by a pulling or pushing force applied to the flexible elongated element. A flexible elongated element means greater design freedom, requiring less adjustments to e.g. the load containing section. Optionally still further, the load support may comprise a rigid element, such as a rod, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism is arranged to be released by a pulling or pushing force applied to the rigid element.

[0116] Optionally, the flexible elongated element may be connected to a spring biased locking mechanism via a flexible element spring biasing member, which applies a tensioning force to the flexible elongated element. Thus, it can be ensured that the flexible elongated element is tensioned such that, for example, a user's handle for pulling the flexible elongated element is biased toward a handle default position.

[0117] Optionally, the spring biased locking mechanism may comprise at least one slidable plate element for locking the at least one connecting pin and / or connecting hook member to the load containing section.

[0118] Optionally, the at least one connecting pin may have a tapered shape that tapers in the direction towards the load containing section, such as a tapered shape having at least one recess for accommodating a locking element such as the at least one slidable plate element mentioned above. Thus, a more rigid and more secure connection may be provided, thereby reducing the risk of unsafe release. The tapered shape may be part of a mushroom-shaped connecting pin, such as a shape in which the profile has a waist section and an outer larger part with a diameter greater than the waist section. The tapered shape enables the connecting pin to fit and / or align more easily in the aperture mentioned above.

[0119] Optionally, the base frame portion may extend along a base frame portion extension axis extending along the length of the load carrier, wherein the pivot axis is offset from the base frame portion extension axis, such as being arranged below the base frame portion extension axis as seen along the height extension of the load carrier, and extending, for example, along the width extension of the load carrier. It will therefore be easier to pivot the load receiving section without interfering with other parts of the load carrier and / or the vehicle. For example, it has been appreciated that by providing a pivot axis as disclosed herein, it may be easier to open a vehicle rear door or tailgate.

[0120] Optionally, the pivot axis may be provided on a separate component which is attached to the base frame portion, such as by a plug-in connection. Thus, a more modular, adjustable and / or cost-effective configuration may be achieved. For example, the required offset of the pivot axis may be different for different vehicle types, and by providing the component as a separate component, the component may be adjusted without adjusting, for example, the base frame portion.

[0121] Optionally, the load support may further comprise a stop element for preventing the load receiving section from moving further away from the base frame portion when it has moved, such as pivoted, a maximum predetermined distance, wherein the stop element may be a flexible elongated element, such as a wire, connecting the base frame portion and the load receiving section. The maximum predetermined distance may be adjustable relative to the offset distance of the pivot axis.

[0122] Optionally, the at least one connecting pin and / or connecting hook member may be further configured to fix the load receiving section along the width extension when the load receiving section is connected to the base frame section, for example so that a gap-free connection is achieved along the width extension. Therefore, other guiding means, such as guide pins for width extension fixing, may not be required, which means a more cost-effective configuration.

[0123] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a license plate frame for a load carrier of a vehicle. The license plate frame has a main extension in the license plate frame plane and comprises:

[0124] a license plate attachment side and a load bracket attachment side, the license plate attachment side extending from the license plate frame in a first lateral direction relative to the plane of the license plate frame, the load bracket attachment side extending from the license plate frame in a second, opposite lateral direction.

[0125] The load holder attachment side comprises an attachment guide rail adapted to attach the license plate holder to the load holder and further adapted to enable a pivotal movement of the license plate holder relative to the load holder between a stowed position and a use position when the license plate holder is attached to the load holder. The attachment guide rail is arranged on and / or in a protruding portion which protrudes from the load holder attachment side in a second, opposite lateral direction.

[0126] By providing a license plate frame as disclosed herein, a more stable pivotable connection will be achieved. In particular, it has been recognized that by providing a protrusion for attaching the guide rail, the strength and / or stability of the connection can be improved. In addition, the pivoting movement will be more reliable, reducing the risk of the license plate frame getting stuck when pivoting. It should be noted that all embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0127] Optionally, the protruding portion may be at least partially an integral part of the license plate frame and / or comprise a separate component relative to the license plate frame.

[0128] Optionally, the separate member may be attached to the license plate frame by a snap fit connection, such as by at least one of a transversely extending and / or flexible arm member, a screw and / or bolt connection, and a rivet connection.

[0129] Optionally, the license plate frame may comprise a receiving section for the separate component, the receiving section being defined by a transversely extending wall which is integral with the license plate frame and which at least partially surrounds the separate component, as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0130] Optionally, the protruding portion (such as a separate component) may include a lateral outer wall extending from the load bracket attachment side in a second, opposite lateral direction, wherein the lateral outer wall at least partially or completely surrounds the attachment guide rail, thereby forming an at least partially enclosed space for the attachment guide rail as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0131] Optionally, the transverse outer wall may comprise at least one guide flange extending substantially in a direction perpendicular to the transverse outer wall and inwardly into the at least partially enclosed space, wherein the at least one guide flange forms part of a guide rail surface to which the guide rail is attached. Thus, the guide rail surface may be offset from the plane of the license plate frame, which means a more reliable pivoting movement.

[0132] Optionally, the transverse outer wall may extend in a second opposite transverse direction from the innermost portion to the outermost portion, wherein the at least one guide flange is located adjacent the outermost portion such that the at least one guide flange is at least positioned closer to the outermost portion than to the innermost portion.

[0133] Preferably, the attachment guide track extends in the plane of the license plate frame. Still preferably, the attachment guide track is curvilinear, such as S-shaped, as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0134] According to a seventh aspect, there may also be provided a load rack, such as a bicycle rack, comprising a license plate holder as disclosed herein.

[0135] According to an eighth aspect, the object is at least partially achieved by a bicycle rack for a vehicle, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0136] at least one strap for securing a bicycle to the bicycle rack, wherein the bicycle rack is adapted such that when the strap is in the bicycle securing position, the strap secures the bicycle to the bicycle rack,

[0137] The bicycle rack may further include a strap stowing portion, which is suitable for temporarily keeping the strap in a stowed position different from the bicycle fixing position.

[0138] By providing a bicycle stand according to the eighth aspect, a more user-friendly bicycle stand is achieved. For example, by using the stowed portion of the strap as disclosed herein, it may be easier to load a bicycle. In other words, the strap may be positioned so that it does not interfere with the user during loading. Furthermore, the bicycle stand according to the eighth aspect allows the strap to be fixed in a secure position, thereby reducing the risk of the strap hanging loose when not in use. It should be noted that all embodiments of the eighth aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0139] Optionally, the strap stowage portion may include either a magnetic member and a slot, such as an open or closed slot, to temporarily retain the strap in the stowed position.

[0140] Optionally, the strap stowage portion may be disposed on any of: a frame member of the bicycle rack, such as a bicycle support arm member, and a wheel receiving section of the bicycle rack, such as a wheel tray.

[0141] Optionally, the strap may be coupled, such as non-detachably coupled, to either of the frame member and the wheel receiving section.

[0142] Optionally, the strap may be pivotably coupled, such as pivotably coupled about a pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the length extension and / or width extension of the strap, and / or slidably coupled.

[0143] Optionally, the straps may be arranged to extend substantially along and be aligned with the length of the frame member or wheel receiving section when disposed in the stowed position.

[0144] Optionally, when the strap take-up portion is disposed on a frame member, the frame member may include a sleeve-type member, such as a separate sleeve-type member, wherein the strap take-up portion is disposed on the sleeve-type member, and wherein the sleeve-type member optionally surrounds a portion of the frame member.

[0145] Optionally, the frame member may be a telescopic bicycle support arm member comprising at least a first telescopic arm member and a second telescopic arm member, wherein a telescopic member is disposed near or at an intersection between the first telescopic arm member and the second telescopic arm member.

[0146] Optionally, when the strap stowage portion is disposed on the wheel accommodating section, the strap stowage portion may be disposed on a user side of the wheel accommodating section from which the user will load / unload the bicycle, such as the strap stowage portion being disposed on a side of the wheel accommodating section, which side is a side including a strap accommodating member such as a ratchet buckle, for example, a side opposite to a side on which the strap is connected, such as non-detachably connected to the wheel accommodating section, the strap accommodating member being used to hold the strap when the strap secures the bicycle to the wheel accommodating section.

[0147] Optionally, when the strap stowage portion is disposed on the wheel receiving section, the wheel receiving section may further include a strap receiving member, such as a ratchet buckle, for holding the strap as it secures the bicycle to the wheel receiving section, wherein the strap stowage portion is separated from the strap receiving member by a specific distance as seen along the length of the wheel receiving section. Thus, when the strap is in the stowed position, the strap may not interfere with the wheel of the bicycle when loading the bicycle onto the wheel receiving member. Thus, the specific distance may be selected such that the bicycle wheel will not interfere with the strap when loading the bicycle and when the strap is in the stowed position.

[0148] Optionally, when the strap take-up portion is provided on the wheel receiving section, the strap take-up portion may be a slot substantially aligned with the length extension of the wheel receiving section.

[0149] According to a ninth aspect, the object is at least partially achieved by a bicycle rack for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0150] A bicycle stand member for holding the bicycle in a standing position when the bicycle is positioned on the ground adjacent to the vehicle.

[0151] By providing a bicycle stand according to the ninth aspect, a more flexible and more user-friendly bicycle stand is achieved, wherein the bicycle can be kept on the ground adjacent to the vehicle when the vehicle is stationary. Thus, the bicycle can be kept in a safe manner without, for example, damaging the bicycle and / or scratching the vehicle, and without the need to mount the bicycle to a loading platform of the bicycle stand, such as the platform support arrangement mentioned above. It should be noted that all embodiments of the ninth aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of other aspects of the present disclosure, and vice versa.

[0152] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may be detachable from the bicycle rack or non-removably integrated with the bicycle rack. A detachable bicycle stand member means a more flexible configuration, allowing, for example, a user to choose whether to use the bicycle stand member. A non-removably integrated bicycle stand member means a rigid and secure connection, also reducing the risk of unwanted removal.

[0153] Optionally, the bicycle upright member may be configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, such as a tire of the wheel, such as in the form of a post, fork-shaped member, U-shape, or V-shape.

[0154] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may be configured to be locked to the bicycle rack when attached thereto, such that unwanted removal of the bicycle stand member while attached is prevented.

[0155] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may comprise at least one arm member, such as a pivoting arm member relative to the bicycle support, optionally wherein the at least one arm member is movable, for example to clamp a wheel, such as by two C-shaped or J-shaped movable arm members. Thus, a more versatile bicycle stand member may be provided, which is suitable for example to effectively clamp a wheel.

[0156] Optionally, the at least one arm member may include a lock or buckle for preventing the at least one arm member from being forcibly opened when the bicycle stand member holds the bicycle, such as a lock or buckle adapted to pass through the wheel between the spokes of the wheel. Thus, the bicycle can be secured to the bicycle stand, thereby reducing the risk of theft.

[0157] Optionally, the bicycle rack may further comprise at least one wheel tray for accommodating a wheel of a bicycle, wherein the bicycle upright member is arranged on or at the wheel tray, such as at an outer end portion of the wheel tray and / or between two outer end portions of two adjacent wheel trays.

[0158] Optionally, the at least one arm member may be configured to move, such as pivot, between a non-use position and a use position, wherein the at least one arm member is substantially flush with a surface of the bicycle rack, such as flush with a wheel receiving surface of the wheel tray, and the at least one arm member extends away from the wheel receiving surface of the wheel tray.

[0159] Optionally, the bicycle rack can be configured to move, such as pivot, such that when the bicycle rack is mounted to the vehicle, the bicycle loaded on the bicycle rack moves away from the vehicle, wherein the bicycle stand member is configured to maintain a bicycle held by the bicycle stand member in a standing position when the bicycle rack is moved, such as pivoted, away from the vehicle.

[0160] Optionally, the bicycle stand may be configured such that a bicycle may be held in a position substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the vehicle, substantially transverse to a direction of travel of the vehicle, or an angle therebetween, such that when the bicycle is held by the bicycle stand, at least one door may still be opened and / or conflicts with neighboring vehicles may be avoided.

[0161] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may be adjustable, such as by moving an arm member of the bicycle stand member so that the arm member can hold bicycle wheels having different shapes and / or thicknesses. Thus, a more flexible bicycle stand member may be provided, allowing for holding of more types of bicycles.

[0162] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may include at least one roller, such as a roller disposed on an outer portion of the arm member, adapted to roll on the bicycle wheel when the bicycle wheel is inserted into the bicycle stand member. Therefore, it may be easier to insert the bicycle wheel into the bicycle stand member, for example, which may result in reduced friction between the bicycle stand member and the bicycle wheel.

[0163] Optionally, the bicycle stand member may be configured, such as being spring biased, such that when a portion of a bicycle wheel is received in the bicycle stand member, the bicycle stand member may provide a clamping force around the portion of the bicycle wheel. Thus, a more secure and more reliable hold of the bicycle may be provided. For example, the bicycle stand member may include two arm members that are spring biased such that at least one of the arm members is biased toward the other arm member. Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the arm members may be adjustable such that the bicycle stand member may clamp the bicycle wheel, such as by a user rotating a screw or the like such that the at least one arm member pivots in a clamping direction.

[0164] Optionally, the bicycle upright member may include at least two portions that are offset from each other in a width direction of the bicycle upright member and are configured to engage a bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two portions, wherein the at least two portions are also offset from each other in a height direction of the bicycle upright member so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating about a longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle, the height direction corresponding to a height direction of the bicycle.

[0165] Optionally, the bicycle upright member may include at least two portions that are offset from each other in a width direction of the bicycle upright member and are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two portions, wherein the at least two portions are also offset from each other in a length direction of the bicycle upright member so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating about a yaw axis of the bicycle, the length direction corresponding to a length direction of the bicycle.

[0166] Optionally, the bicycle upright member may include at least four portions, wherein two portions are configured to engage a bicycle wheel on one side thereof, and two portions are configured to engage a bicycle wheel on another side thereof, and wherein the at least four portions are configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle, and are further configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a yaw axis of the bicycle.

[0167] Optionally, when the bicycle stand member can hold a bicycle, the bicycle stand member can be reconfigurable between the stowed condition and the use condition, such as the bicycle stand member can be pivotable between the stowed condition and the use condition.

[0168] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a bicycle rack for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0169] —Locking anchor, which is used to lock the bicycle to the bicycle rack.

[0170] By providing a bicycle stand according to the tenth aspect, an improved bicycle stand is achieved, wherein at least one bicycle can be locked to the bicycle stand, thereby preventing the bicycle from being stolen. In particular, a stable and cost-effective locking anchor is provided by a locking anchor configuration as disclosed herein. A locking anchor as used herein refers to a device configured to lock a bicycle to a bicycle stand. The locking anchor may include an annular rigid member in which a locking wire may be accommodated. In addition or alternatively, the locking anchor may include a flexible element, such as a locking wire, which is attached and / or can be attached to the locking anchor so that the flexible element can lock the bicycle to the locking anchor. The locking anchor may include a lock key arrangement, which is used, for example, to lock the locking wire to the locking anchor. It should be noted that all embodiments of the tenth aspect can be combined with all embodiments of the other aspects, and vice versa.

[0171] Optionally, the locking anchor may be detachable relative to the bicycle rack. Thus, a more flexible configuration is achieved, allowing, for example, a user to select whether the locking anchor should be used. Still optionally, the locking anchor may be rigidly fixed to the bicycle rack. For example, the locking anchor may be rigidly fixed, such as permanently fixed, such that it is not removable from the bicycle rack. Still optionally, the locking key arrangement for, for example, locking a locking wire to the locking anchor may be detachable relative to the bicycle rack and the locking anchor, such as when the locking key arrangement is in an unlocked state, such as when the locking wire is not locked thereto, and when the locking key arrangement is in a locked state, such as when the locking wire is locked thereto, it is not detachable. For example, the locking key arrangement for, for example, locking the locking wire may be a separate accessory that can be attached to the locking anchor.

[0172] Optionally, the bicycle rack may further comprise a base frame having a length extension, a width extension and a height extension. The base frame comprises a first elongated member and a second elongated member for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member and the second elongated member are spaced apart from each other and are arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension, wherein the locking anchor is arranged between the first elongated member and the second elongated member as seen along the width extension. Thus, an additional secure configuration may be achieved, making it more difficult for a thief, for example, to remove the locking anchor.

[0173] Optionally, the bicycle rack may further include at least one bridging portion disposed between the first elongated member and the second elongated member and coupling the first elongated member and the second elongated member together, wherein the locking anchor is disposed near the at least one bridging portion, such as coupled to the at least one bridging portion. Thus, an additional stable configuration may be achieved.

[0174] Optionally, the bicycle rack may include a first bridge portion and a second bridge portion disposed between and coupling the first elongated member and the second elongated member together, wherein the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion are offset and spaced apart from each other as seen along the length of the base frame, wherein the locking anchor is disposed between the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion as seen along the length of the base frame. It has been found that a location between the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion provides a more stable configuration.

[0175] Optionally, the bicycle rack may further comprise a cover, such as a polymer cover, covering the at least one bridge portion between the first and second elongated members, wherein the locking anchor is mounted and / or mountable to the cover, and / or wherein the cover comprises an aperture, preferably extending in height and facing upwards, adapted to accommodate the locking anchor, and / or wherein the locking anchor is integrated with the cover. Thus, a more attractive configuration may be achieved, in which case it is also more difficult for thieves to access the interior space of the bicycle rack.

[0176] Optionally, the locking anchor may be an extruded or molded profile, such as made from a lightweight material such as a polymer and / or aluminum. Additionally or alternatively, the locking anchor may be made from sheet metal such as aluminum or steel.

[0177] Optionally, the locking anchor may be adapted to be inserted into a locking anchor opening of a bicycle rack, such as an opening of a base frame, optionally wherein the locking anchor has a T-shaped profile, optionally wherein the locking anchor further comprises a protruding flange adapted to engage with a secure portion of the bicycle rack to position the locking anchor in a predetermined support position in the locking anchor opening. Thus, a more secure locking anchor configuration may be achieved.

[0178] Optionally, the bicycle rack (such as the base frame and / or the locking anchor) can be configured to prevent the locking anchor from being pulled out when inserted into the locking anchor opening, such as preventing the locking anchor from being pulled out in an upward direction, such as by using a plastic cover sleeve inserted into the locking anchor opening and suitable for preventing the locking anchor from being pulled out of the locking anchor opening.

[0179] Optionally, the bicycle rack may be configured to accommodate the locking anchor from below, i.e. the locking anchor may be insertable from below, such as between the first and second elongated members of the base frame, as seen along the height extension of the bicycle rack. Preferably, the locking anchor may be prevented from being removed from the bicycle rack when a bicycle is locked to the bicycle rack.

[0180] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a load support (such as a bicycle support) suitable for installation on the rear side of a vehicle, the load support having a length extension, a width extension and a height extension. The load support comprises:

[0181] a housing for the light-emitting and / or light-reflecting member and / or a holder for the housing, the housing comprising a light-emitting and / or light-reflecting area which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load carrier, the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension and to the rearward direction of the vehicle when the load carrier is mounted on the vehicle,

[0182] - a license plate frame having a main extension in the plane of the license plate frame, the license plate frame comprising a license plate attachment side, which protrudes from the license plate frame in a first transverse direction relative to the plane of the license plate frame, wherein the housing and / or the retaining frame are positioned so that when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame, the luminous and / or light reflecting area is inhibited from emitting and / or reflecting light onto the license plate.

[0183] By providing a load support according to the eleventh aspect, an improved load support is provided, wherein greater design freedom is achieved. In prior art load supports, the light emitting and / or light reflecting area has been configured to emit light onto the license plate frame. It has been recognized that this reduces the design freedom of the load support. It should be noted that all embodiments of the eleventh aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with all embodiments of the other aspects, and vice versa.

[0184] Preferably, the load support comprises an auxiliary light source for emitting light onto the license plate, wherein the auxiliary light source is preferably arranged on the license plate frame, such as above the license plate attachment position. The auxiliary light source comprises, for example, an LED lamp.

[0185] Optionally, the housing and / or holder may be positioned so that the outermost portion of the luminous and / or light reflecting area is aligned with and / or behind the plane of the license plate frame, as seen along the length extension. Specifically, the housing and / or holder may be positioned so that when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame, the luminous and / or light reflecting area is aligned with and / or behind the license plate.

[0186] Optionally, the load carrier may further comprise a load receiving section configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example the load receiving section is a wheel tray, wherein the housing and / or the holder are attached to the load receiving section.

[0187] Optionally, the light emitting and / or light reflecting areas may have a three-dimensional shape.

[0188] Optionally, the light emitting and / or light reflecting areas may be made of transparent glass.

[0189] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a bicycle support arm member for a bicycle rack, the bicycle support arm member comprising:

[0190] - a ratchet buckle for receiving and retaining the strap; and

[0191] A strap locking arrangement associated with the ratchet buckle for locking the strap so as to prevent the strap from being released from the ratchet buckle.

[0192] By providing a bicycle support arm member according to the twelfth aspect, an improved bicycle support arm member is provided, wherein the strap can be effectively locked when holding the bicycle. The strap locking arrangement as disclosed herein provides an effective lock that is easy to use, more flexible and also has a cost-effective configuration, such as fewer parts required to achieve the locking function. The bicycle support arm member according to the twelfth aspect also reduces the risk of damaging the bicycle, especially the bicycle frame. It should be noted that all embodiments of the twelfth aspect can be combined with all embodiments of the other aspects, and vice versa.

[0193] Optionally, the strap locking arrangement may comprise a locking element arranged to engage with at least one buckle engagement member of the strap.

[0194] Optionally, the locking element may be a frame-shaped element, such as a square element, having an opening for accommodating the strap, wherein preferably the main extension plane of the frame-shaped element is adapted to extend substantially perpendicularly to the length of the strap when the strap is arranged to pass through the frame-shaped element.

[0195] Optionally, the locking element may be adapted to engage with the at least one snap-engaging member of the strap by moving, such as sliding and / or rotating, the locking element in a locking direction toward the at least one snap-engaging member of the strap to achieve a locked state for the strap.

[0196] Optionally, the locking element may be adapted to be locked using a key which, after being rotated and released in a keyhole of a strap locking arrangement, such as a keyhole of a lock cylinder, prevents the locking element from moving from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0197] Optionally, the keyway (eg lock cylinder) and the locking element may be arranged to move together simultaneously when the locking arrangement moves from the unlocked state to the locked state, or vice versa.

[0198] Optionally, the locking arrangement (at least the locking element) may be spring biased towards an unlocked state in which the strap is free to move within the locking arrangement.

[0199] Optionally, a strap locking arrangement may be provided at an outer end portion of the bicycle support arm member, such as on a pivotable head, wherein optionally the outer end portion (such as the pivotable head) comprises a bicycle support surface (such as a solid or cushioned surface) against which the bicycle will rest when the strap has tightened the bicycle to the bicycle support arm member.

[0200] Optionally, the strap locking arrangement may be provided on a rotatable member, such as on a pivotable head, wherein the rotatable member may be substantially L-shaped or V-shaped.

[0201] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a load carrier for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a ratchet buckle for receiving and retaining a strap, the ratchet buckle comprising:

[0202] a strap receiving section, the strap receiving section having a length direction, a width direction and a height direction, the length direction corresponding to the length direction of the strap when the strap is received in the strap receiving section,

[0203] a strap engaging member configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member of a strap to thereby retain the strap in the strap receiving section,

[0204] an actuation lever for a user, the actuation lever being configured to actuate the strap engagement member between an open state in which the strap is free to move in the strap receiving section and an engaged state in which the strap engagement member is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap, and

[0205] - wherein any one of the strap engaging member, the actuating lever and the ratchet buckle housing of the ratchet buckle includes a strap guiding element configured to prevent a portion of the strap in the strap receiving section from bending upward in a height direction in an open state.

[0206] By providing a load support according to the thirteenth aspect, an improved load support is provided, wherein the risk of damaging the strap and / or the risk of the strap getting stuck in the strap receiving section can be reduced. More specifically, by this configuration and by using the at least one strap guiding element, the strap can also be kept in its intended position when the ratchet buckle is in an open state in which the strap can move freely in the strap receiving section. It should be noted that all embodiments of the thirteenth aspect can be combined with all embodiments of the other aspects and vice versa.

[0207] Optionally, the strap guiding element may be configured to push the portion of the strap downwardly in the open state, as seen in the height direction.

[0208] Optionally, the load support may further comprise a strap having at least one snap-engagement member, such as teeth. The strap guide element may be configured to contact the at least one snap-engagement member in the open state, such that the portion of the strap in the strap receiving section is prevented from bending upwards in the height direction. Preferably, the strap guide element is configured to contact at least two snap-engagement members, such as teeth, in the open state, such that the portion of the strap in the strap receiving section is prevented from bending upwards in the height direction. Thus, a compact and efficient configuration is achieved.

[0209] Optionally, as seen in a cross-sectional plane defined by the height direction and the length direction, the strap guide element may have a peripheral surface, such as a curved peripheral surface, for example a curved peripheral surface with different radii, wherein at least a portion of the peripheral surface is configured to prevent the portion of the strap in the strap receiving section from bending upward in the height direction in the open state. The curved peripheral surface means smooth contact with the at least one buckle engagement member of the strap, thereby reducing the risk of the strap getting stuck in the open state.

[0210] Optionally, the strap guide element may comprise at least a first guide portion and a second guide portion offset from each other, as seen in the width direction.This implies a lightweight configuration which also provides a reliable contact interface between the strap guide element and the strap.

[0211] Optionally, at least two of the strap engagement member, the actuation lever, and the ratchet buckle housing, such as each, may include a respective strap guide element, wherein each respective strap guide element is a strap guide element according to any of the embodiments for strap guide elements disclosed herein.

[0212] Optionally still, the respective strap guide elements may be offset from one another, as seen in the length direction of the strap receiving section. This means a further improved contact interface between the respective strap guide elements and the strap. Thus, the risk of the strap getting stuck and bending when the ratchet buckle is in the open state is reduced.

[0213] Optionally, the strap engagement member and the actuation lever may be separate components having respective separate connection interfaces, such as respective separate pivot axes, for connection to the ratchet buckle. These respective separate connection interfaces may be offset from one another, as seen in the length direction of the strap receiving section. Alternatively, the strap engagement member and the actuation lever as disclosed herein may be made as a single piece.

[0214] Optionally, the respective strap guiding elements may be arranged between the respective individual connection interfaces.

[0215] Optionally, when the actuation lever includes a strap guide element, the strap guide element of the actuation lever may be configured to move, such as pivot, with the actuation lever between the open state and the engaged state.

[0216] Optionally, when the strap engaging member includes a strap guiding element, the strap guiding element of the strap engaging member may be configured to move, such as pivot, with the strap engaging member between the open state and the engaged state.

[0217] Optionally, the actuation rod may include a strap engaging portion configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member of the strap, wherein the actuation rod is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle so that the strap engaging portion moves the strap in a strap tightening direction within the strap receiving section.

[0218] Optionally, the actuation rod may be spring biased toward a default position, such as being spring biased toward an engaged state in which the strap engagement member is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member of the strap, and / or the strap engagement member may be spring biased toward an engaged state in which the strap engagement member is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member of the strap.

[0219] Optionally, the ratchet buckle may further include a strap guide portion, which is arranged at the strap entrance section of the strap receiving section and / or at the strap exit section of the strap receiving section, wherein the strap guide portion is an extension of the strap receiving section and / or a widened section of the strap receiving section. Optionally again, the strap guide portion may include a bottom section and a top section for the strap, as seen in the height direction. By providing a strap guide portion, a further improved guidance of the strap buckle can be achieved, thereby reducing the risk of the strap being damaged due to the strap getting stuck and / or bending. Optionally again, the strap guide portion (such as the bottom section and / or the top section) may have a length that corresponds to or is greater than the length between the two buckle engagement members of the strap. Therefore, a smooth contact is achieved, thereby reducing the risk of the strap getting stuck and / or unwanted bending when moving in the strap receiving section. Optionally again, the strap guide portion (such as the bottom section and / or the top section) may be convex. This means a further improved guidance of the strap, thereby reducing the risk of the strap getting stuck when moving in the strap receiving section.

[0220] According to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a load carrier for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a bicycle support pad against which a bicycle will abut when the bicycle is mounted to the load carrier. The bicycle support pad can be releasably mounted to the load carrier.

[0221] By providing a bicycle support pad according to the fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, a more versatile load support is provided. In fact, by using a bicycle support pad that can be released from the load support, the load support can be equipped with different types of bicycle support pads according to current needs. For example, the bicycle to be supported may have different types of frame materials, such as aluminum, carbon fiber, etc., and it may be advantageous to adjust the bicycle support pad material to the specific frame material. In addition, the shape of different bicycle frames may also vary, and it may be advantageous to use bicycle support pads with different shapes. In addition, the bicycle support pad may wear during use, and it may also be advantageous to replace the worn bicycle support pad. It should be noted that all embodiments of the fourteenth aspect can be combined with all embodiments of the other aspects, and vice versa.

[0222] Optionally, the bicycle support pad can be releasably mounted to the load carrier by a snap-fit ​​connection. This means a simplified connection / release procedure, whereby no tools are required for the attachment / release procedure and / or the required tools are less complex.

[0223] Optionally, the bicycle support pad may include first and second mounting members for releasably mounting the bicycle support pad to the load carrier, and the load carrier may include corresponding first and second retaining members for retaining the first and second mounting members.

[0224] Optionally still, the bicycle support pad and / or the first retaining member and the second retaining member may be configured such that the bicycle support pad can be releasably mounted to the load carrier by first engaging the first mounting member with the first retaining member and then pivoting the bicycle support pad relative to the first mounting member until the second mounting member engages with the second retaining member. This means a simple and intuitive attachment procedure for the user.

[0225] Optionally still further, the first and second mounting members and corresponding first and second retaining members may be configured such that the bicycle support pad may be releasably mounted to the load carrier by simultaneously engaging the first and second mounting members with the corresponding first and second retaining members.

[0226] Optionally, at least the second mounting member and the second retaining member may be configured as a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0227] Optionally, the first mounting member and the first retaining member may be configured to be hingedly connected.

[0228] Optionally, the bicycle support pad may include a release portion configured to be actuated to release the bicycle support pad from the load support when the bicycle support pad is mounted to the load support, wherein the release portion is concealed by the load support so as to prevent a user from accessing the release portion without using a separate tool. Thus, the risk of theft or unwanted release of the bicycle support pad may be reduced.

[0229] Optionally, the release portion may be accessible through an aperture of the load holder, such as an aperture having a width or diameter of less than 15 mm, for example less than 10 mm, and / or such as an aperture having a length from its opening to the release portion that is greater than 5 mm, for example greater than 10 mm. Thus, it may be ensured that the release portion cannot be accessed, for example by a finger.

[0230] Optionally, the bicycle support pad may comprise a first material forming a surface against which the bicycle will rest when the bicycle is mounted to the load carrier, and a second material forming a mounting interface for mounting to the load carrier, wherein preferably the first material is softer than the second material. Thus, a reliable and secure connection may be achieved, while the contact surface for the bicycle may remain soft enough not to damage, for example, the bicycle frame.

[0231] Optionally, the first material may be a thermoplastic elastomer, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, and / or the second material may be a glass-fiber reinforced polymer, such as glass-fiber reinforced polyamide.

[0232] Optionally, the bicycle support pad may be disposed on any one of the bicycle support arm of the load carrier, the wheel receiving member, the gripping claw, and the pivotable head on the bicycle support arm.

[0233] Still optionally, the load carrier may be a roof mounted load carrier or a rear mounted load carrier for a vehicle.

[0234] According to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, the object is at least partially achieved by a load carrier, such as a bicycle carrier, which is suitable for being mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load. The load carrier has a length extension, a width extension and a height extension.

[0235] The load support includes:

[0236] - base frame part,

[0237] a load receiving section for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle,

[0238] Wherein the base frame portion comprises two separate elongate members extending along the length extension, the two separate elongate members being offset from each other along the width extension, and wherein the load support further comprises a retaining frame for retaining auxiliary equipment, such as for retaining a loading ramp arrangement for bicycles, wherein the retaining frame for retaining auxiliary equipment is releasably attached to the load support between the separate elongate members.

[0239] By providing a load support according to the fifteenth aspect, an improved load support is achieved, wherein auxiliary equipment (such as a loading ramp for bicycles) can be effectively stored on the load support during use of the load support. More specifically, compact storage is achieved between the two separate elongated members, which can be cylindrical beam-like elements. In addition, the load support of the fifteenth aspect simplifies the installation and removal procedures of the holder for holding the auxiliary equipment. According to an exemplary embodiment, the holder for holding the auxiliary equipment includes a container for accommodating the auxiliary equipment.

[0240] Optionally, a holder for holding auxiliary equipment may be releasably attached to the load carrier below the load receiving section, as seen when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle disposed on a flat, horizontally extending surface. This means compact and efficient storage of auxiliary equipment.

[0241] Optionally, the load receiving section may be movable relative to the base frame portion so that when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle, the load receiving section can be moved away from the vehicle. Thus, the holder may be more easily accessible to the user, which also means that installation / removal of the holder is simplified.

[0242] Optionally, the movable load receiving section may be pivotable about a pivot axis, such as a pivot axis extending substantially along one of a length extension, a width extension and a height extension.

[0243] Optionally, the load carrier and / or the holder for holding auxiliary equipment are arranged such that the holder for holding auxiliary equipment can be attached to the load carrier from above, such as when the load containing section as mentioned above is moved away from the vehicle, as seen when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle arranged on a flat, horizontally extending surface.

[0244] Optionally, a holder for holding auxiliary equipment may be attached to the two separate elongated members by a snap-fit ​​connection. This means a simplified installation / removal procedure.

[0245] Optionally, at least one of the two separate elongated members and / or the holder for holding the auxiliary equipment may include a fixing member, such as a pin member, for fixing the holder for holding the auxiliary equipment so that the holder for holding the auxiliary equipment is prevented from moving along the length extension. Thus, a stable and reliable connection is achieved, thereby preventing the holder from moving during travel of the vehicle.

[0246] Optionally, the load support and / or the holder for holding auxiliary equipment may be configured such that the holder for holding auxiliary equipment can be attached to the load support by attaching the holder for holding auxiliary equipment to each of the two separate elongated members substantially simultaneously. This means a simplified installation procedure, for example avoiding performing any additional rotational movements when mounting the holder to the load support.

[0247] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the first and second aspects are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0248] 1. A load carrier (1) adapted to be mounted on a vehicle, wherein the bicycle carrier (1) extends along a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the bicycle carrier (1) comprising:

[0249] a platform support arrangement (10) for supporting at least one bicycle, the platform support arrangement (10) comprising at least one wheel receiving member (12, 14, 16) for receiving one or more wheels of the at least one bicycle, thereby supporting, such as laterally supporting, the bicycle;

[0250] - At least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) configured to hold and secure the at least one bicycle when the at least one bicycle is being received in the at least one wheel receiving member (12, 14, 16), wherein the at least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable between a bicycle supporting state and a bicycle stowing state.

[0251] 2. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 1, wherein the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is capable of being reconfigured in at least one of the following ways: repositioning; pivoting, such as pivoting about a pivot axis (P1, P2) substantially parallel to the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1); telescoping, thereby allowing the length of the reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) to be adjusted; translating; detaching from and / or attaching to the platform support arrangement (10); bending; and sliding.

[0252] 3. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the platform support arrangement (10) comprises at least one pair of wheel receiving members (12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16") for receiving the wheels of at least one bicycle, wherein at least one of the wheel receiving members (12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16") of the at least one pair of wheel receiving members is pivotable about a pivot axis (P1, P2) substantially parallel to the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1), and wherein at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is pivotable about the same pivot axis, such as being pivotable coaxially relative to each other.

[0253] 4. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle rack (1) comprises a plurality of bicycle support arm members (20, 24, 26) which are attachable to and / or attached to the platform support arrangement (10) at respective fixing points (f1, f2, f3), the fixing points being distributed along the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1) and being arranged to be offset from one another along the length extension, wherein

[0254] Each of the at least two bicycle support arm members (20, 24, 26) is arranged such that: when the bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is arranged in a bicycle supporting state, such as being arranged in a substantially upright position extending from the platform support arrangement (10) along the height extension (h), or at least being arranged in a position where the bicycle support arm member extends from the platform support arrangement in a direction that is 45 degrees or less from the upright position, the bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is to be supported by the bicycle support arm member (20,

[0255] A bicycle held and secured by the bicycle support arm members (24, 26) can be loaded onto the bicycle rack (1) in a loading direction (L1) substantially parallel to the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1), wherein the loading direction (L1) is the same loading direction for each bicycle for each of the at least two bicycle support arm members (20, 24, 26), such as corresponding to a forward direction relative to the vehicle when the bicycle rack (1) is mounted to the vehicle.

[0256] 5. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein when the bicycle rack (1) is mounted to the vehicle, one bicycle support arm member (20) is an innermost bicycle support arm member relative to the vehicle, wherein the innermost bicycle support arm member (20) is biased towards or fixed in a substantially upright position as seen along the height extension (h).

[0257] 6. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the at least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) has a transverse peripheral profile, wherein the transverse profile is defined by a plane extending perpendicular to the length of the at least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26), wherein the transverse peripheral profile is formed into, for example, a substantially rectangular shape or an elliptical shape, so that when the bicycle rack (1) holds and fixes a bicycle, a side surface of the transverse peripheral profile extending along the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack is longer than a side surface of the transverse peripheral profile extending along the lateral extension (w) of the bicycle rack, wherein when the bicycle rack (1) is mounted to the vehicle, the length extension corresponds to the direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0258] 7. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable so that the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member can be folded downward, such as by a folding joint, to a position in which the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member extends substantially in a plane defined by the width extension (w) and the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1), which position is the bicycle loading state.

[0259] 8. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a limiting arrangement (210, 220) configured to limit a reconfiguration movement, such as a pivoting and / or telescopic movement, of the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26).

[0260] 9. The bicycle stand (1) according to item 8, wherein the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable by pivoting according to item 2, and wherein the restriction arrangement such as a rotation lock (210) is configured to prevent the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) from being reconfigured.

[0261] 26) The at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member pivots due to the applied force when the applied force is below a threshold.

[0262] 10. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 9, wherein the bicycle rack includes a pair of wheel receiving members (12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16") according to item 3, wherein the restraining arrangement (210) is further configured so that the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) follows the pivotable wheel receiving member when pivoting to a position such as folding down to a bicycle support position.

[0263] 11. The bicycle stand (1) according to any one of items 8 to 10, wherein the restraining arrangement (210) comprises a spring biasing member (211) and first and second friction members (212, 213), the first and second friction members being arranged around the pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24,

[0264] The invention relates to a bicycle support arm member capable of pivoting and reconfiguring said bicycle support arm member according to the present invention, wherein the pivot axis of the bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is rotated, wherein the limiting function is provided at least in the following manner: the spring biasing member pushes or pulls at least one of the first friction member and the second friction member (212, 213) so that a friction force is generated therebetween, thereby preventing the at least one pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) from pivoting due to the force applied thereto when the force applied thereto is below a threshold value.

[0265] 12. A bicycle rack () according to any one of items 8 to 11, wherein the limiting arrangement (210) includes a spring biasing member, which is configured to apply a force in a radial and / or axial direction relative to the pivot axis, and wherein when the spring biasing member applies a radial force, the spring biasing member is optionally a sleeve-type member (), such as a sleeve-type member that can be compressed and / or expanded, as seen in the radial direction of the pivot axis, or the spring biasing member is optionally a member arranged between two sleeve-type members (2142', 2144'), as seen in the radial direction.

[0266] 13. The bicycle stand () according to item 12, wherein the sleeve-type member () includes a compression prevention portion (), the compression prevention portion being configured to prevent the sleeve-type member from being compressed beyond a predetermined compression distance.

[0267] 14. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 8 to 13, wherein the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable by telescoping according to item 2, such as being further reconfigurable, wherein the restriction arrangement (220), such as a friction lock, is configured to prevent the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) from adjusting its length due to the force applied to the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) when the force applied to the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is below a threshold value, wherein the telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) can optionally include a first telescopic arm member and a second telescopic arm member (241, 242), and wherein the friction lock can optionally include a spring biasing member (243), such as a leaf spring, associated with the first telescopic arm member (241), wherein the spring biasing member is configured to engage with at least one groove (244) associated with the second telescopic arm member (242) to prevent the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) from adjusting its length due to the force applied to the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member when the force applied to the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member is below a threshold.

[0268] 15. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, such as the bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, comprising:

[0269] a platform support arrangement (10) for supporting two or more bicycles;

[0270] - a first bicycle support arm member (20), the first bicycle support arm member being used to hold and secure a first bicycle;

[0271] - a second bicycle support arm member (22), the second bicycle support arm member being used to hold and secure a second bicycle, wherein the second bicycle support arm member (22)

[0272] being arranged to be reconfigurable during use;

[0273] The bicycle rack (1) is configured such that:

[0274] The first bicycle can be initially loaded onto the platform support arrangement (10) and secured to the first bicycle support arm member (20), the second bicycle support arm member (22) can then be reconfigured, and the second bicycle can then be loaded onto the platform support arrangement (10) and secured to the second bicycle support arm member (22)

[0275] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the third aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0276] 1. A load support (1) for a vehicle, the load support comprising a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining a strap (400), the ratchet buckle comprising:

[0277] - a strap receiving section (302),

[0278] - a strap engaging member (304) configured to engage with a strap

[0279] (400) is engaged with at least one snap-engagement member (402) to thereby secure the strap

[0280] (400) is retained in the strap receiving section (302).

[0281] 2. A load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) further comprises an actuating rod (306) for a user, the actuating rod (306) being configured to actuate the strap engaging member (304) between an open state and an engaged state, wherein in the open state the strap (400) is able to move freely in the strap receiving section (302), and in the engaged state the strap engaging member (304) is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400).

[0282] 3. A load support (1) according to item 2, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) further includes a ratchet buckle housing (308), and wherein the actuating rod (306) is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle housing (308) when the strap engagement member (304) is actuated between an open state and an engaged state.

[0283] 4. A load support (1) according to item 2 or 3, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) further comprises a retaining arrangement (310) configured to retain the actuating rod (306) in a retaining position such that the strap engaging member (304) is maintained in an open state, optionally wherein the retaining arrangement (310) comprises a first retaining portion (3101) associated with the actuating rod (306) and a second retaining portion (3102) associated with the ratchet buckle housing (308), wherein the first retaining portion and the second retaining portions (3101, 3102) are configured to engage with each other to retain the actuator rod (306) in the retaining position, and / or optionally wherein the first retaining portion (3101) is configured to be any of a protrusion, a groove, a hook, a projection that engages with the second retaining portion (3102), and / or wherein the second retaining portion (3102) is configured to be any of a protrusion, a groove, a hook, a projection that engages with the first retaining portion (3101).

[0284] 5. A load support (1) according to item 4, wherein the ratchet buckle housing (308) comprises a first wall and a second wall (3081, 3082), wherein each wall extends at least partially along a length extension (L1) and a height extension (h1) of the ratchet buckle (300), the length extension of the ratchet buckle (300) corresponding to the length extension of the strap (400) when the strap (400) is accommodated in the strap accommodation section (302), wherein as seen along a width extension (w1) of the ratchet buckle (300), the walls are arranged offset from each other so as to define a strap accommodation section (302) therebetween, and wherein the first wall and the second wall (3081, 3082)

[0285] At least one of the walls includes a second retaining portion (3102), such as a second retaining portion (3102) disposed on an interior surface of at least one of the walls and facing another of the walls.

[0286] 6. A load bracket (1) according to item 5, wherein the actuating rod (306) is arranged in the space between the first wall and the second wall (3081, 3082), and wherein the first retaining portion (3101) is arranged on at least one external surface of the actuating rod (306), and when the actuating rod (306) is in the retaining position, the at least one external surface faces the internal surface of one of the first wall and the second wall (3081, 3082) of the ratchet buckle housing (308).

[0287] 7. The load support (1) according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein the retaining arrangement (310) is configured to retain the actuating rod (306) in the retaining position by means of a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0288] 8. A load support (1) according to any one of items 2 to 7, wherein the actuating rod (306) includes a strap engaging portion (3061) which is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of a strap (400), wherein the actuating rod (306) is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle (300) so that the strap engaging portion (3061) moves the strap in a strap tightening direction in the strap receiving section (302).

[0289] 9. A load support (1) according to any one of items 2 to 8, wherein the actuation rod (306) is spring biased towards a default position, such as being spring biased away from a holding position according to item 4.

[0290] 10. The load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the strap engagement member (304) further comprises a buckle state switching portion (3041), wherein the buckle state switching portion (3041) is configured to be buckled when the strap (400) is inserted into the strap receiving section (302).

[0291] When the strap is inserted into and / or removed from the strap receiving section, the strap (400)

[0292] The strap engaging member (304) is configured to engage with the protruding element (403) so that the strap engaging member (304) is automatically switched from an open state to an engaged state, or vice versa, wherein in the open state, the strap (400) is able to move freely in the strap accommodating section (302), and wherein in the engaged state, the strap engaging member (304) is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400).

[0293] 11. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the strap engagement member (304) is spring biased towards an engaged state, in which the strap engagement member (304) is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member (402) of the strap (400).

[0294] 12. The load support (1) according to items 9 and 11, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) comprises a common spring biasing member (312) for the actuating lever (306) and the strap engaging member (304).

[0295] 13. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) further comprises a strap guide portion (318, 320), which is arranged at a strap entrance section of the strap accommodating section (302) and / or at a strap exit section of the strap accommodating section (302), wherein the strap guide portion (318, 320) is an extension of the strap accommodating section (302) and / or a widened section of the strap accommodating section (302).

[0296] 14. The load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a strap (400) for the ratchet buckle (300).

[0297] 15. A binding strap (400) for a ratchet buckle (300), the binding strap comprising:

[0298] - A plurality of snap-engagement members (402) extending along the strap

[0299] (400) is set to extend the length (L1),

[0300] a protruding element (403) disposed at the free end of the strap (400), wherein the protruding element (403) is configured to engage with a buckle state switching portion (3041) of a strap engagement member (304) of the ratchet buckle when the strap (400) is inserted into the strap receiving section (302) of the ratchet buckle (300) and / or the strap is removed from the strap receiving section, so that the strap engagement member (304) is automatically switched from an open state to an engaged state, or vice versa, wherein the protruding element

[0301] (403) may include at least one inclined surface, such as a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface having respective inclined directions away from a top portion of the protruding element (403) as seen extending along the length of the strap (400).

[0302] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the fourth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0303] 1. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier (1), adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0304] a base frame (500) having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the base frame (500) comprising a first elongated member and a second elongated member (510, 520) for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member and the second elongated member (510, 520) are spaced apart from each other and are arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension (L),

[0305] The base frame (500) further comprises:

[0306] a first bridge portion and a second bridge portion (530, 540) disposed between the first elongated member and the second elongated member

[0307] (510,520) and the first elongated member and the second elongated member

[0308] (510,520) are connected together.

[0309] 2. A load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) are separated from each other, such as separated from each other and offset from each other, thereby forming a connection area (C1) therebetween, as seen along the length extension (L) of the base frame (500), wherein optionally the load-receiving section of the load support is connected to the base frame in the connection area.

[0310] 3. A load support (1) according to item 2, wherein the load receiving section is connected to each of the separated first bridge part and the second bridge part and / or is located between the separated first bridge part and the second bridge part.

[0311] 4. A load support (1) according to any one of items 2 to 3, wherein the load holding section is connected to the base frame (500) and is also capable of pivoting about a pivot axis (P1, P2) relative to the base frame (500) extending substantially along the length extension (L), optionally wherein the pivot axis is defined by an axis, which is preferably an integral cylindrical rod extending through the first bridging part and the second bridging part (530, 540), for example at least one of the separated first bridging part and the second bridging part includes a cylindrical part, such as a cylindrical orifice and / or a cylindrical protrusion, thereby forming a pivotable connection with the connected and pivotable load holding section.

[0312] 5. A load carrier (1) according to any one of items 2 to 4, wherein the load receiving section is configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example the load receiving section is a wheel tray, and / or wherein the load receiving section is a bicycle support arm member for holding and fixing a bicycle to the load carrier.

[0313] 6. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least the cross-sectional profiles of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) have the same shape, wherein the cross-section is defined by a plane perpendicular to the length extension (L), wherein optionally the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion have the same or different lengths as seen along the length extension (L) of the load support ().

[0314] 7. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein each of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) is an extruded element, such as made of a lightweight material such as aluminum, optionally wherein the extruded first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) have an extruded extension extending substantially along the length extension (L) of the base frame (500).

[0315] 8. The load support (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and second bridge parts (530, 540) comprises a frame structure, such as a frame structure made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum.

[0316] 9. A load bracket (1) according to item 8, wherein each of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) is at least partially formed by an upward facing wall and a downward facing wall, the upward facing wall facing upward along the height extension (h) of the base frame (500), and the downward facing wall facing downward, wherein the upward facing wall and the downward facing wall define a gap therebetween, and optionally wherein at least one supporting wall is arranged between the upward facing wall and the downward facing wall and connects the upward facing wall and the downward facing wall so that at least a first sub-gap and a second sub-gap are formed therebetween, wherein optionally at least one supporting wall is a diagonally extending wall, and / or wherein at least one supporting wall is a substantially vertically extending wall as seen in a plane defined by the width extension (w) and the height extension (h) of the base frame (500).

[0317] 10. The load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) is coupled to the first elongated member and the second elongated member (510, 520) by at least one of the following means:

[0318] At least one of: a snap-on connection; welding; a screw and / or bolt connection; a rivet connection; a press riveting / pressing, such as press riveting / pressing the flange or wall of the bridging portion with the flange or wall of the slender member; a hook / engaging edge, such as connecting by a hook / engaging edge in the upper connection area and by welding in the lower area of ​​the corresponding bridging portion and the slender member; a track-type connection, such as connecting by a track-shaped extruded portion of the bridging portion and / or the slender member, wherein the track-shaped extruded portion extends along the length extension (L).

[0319] 11. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first bridging portion and the second bridging portion (530, 540) is connected to at least one of the first slender member and the second slender member (510, 520) by at least one of the following: an arcuate connection interface, a substantially diagonal connection interface, so that the bridging portion rests on the top of the slender member as seen in a cross-section of the base frame, the cross-section being defined by a plane perpendicular to the length extension (L).

[0320] 12. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the first slender member and the second slender member (510, 520) is an extruded element, such as made of a lightweight material such as aluminum, and / or comprises a frame structure, such as a frame structure made of a lightweight material such as aluminum, wherein optionally the frame structure forms a triangular cross-sectional profile preferably having a lower horizontal side and a first upper side, the first upper side being used to connect / align with one side of at least one of the bridging parts, preferably with a side that is about 45 degrees to the horizontal side.

[0321] 13. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, comprising a plurality of pairs of corresponding first bridging parts and second bridging parts extending along the length of a base frame (500), and / or comprising a plurality of load-holding sections extending along the length of the base frame (500), such as a plurality of pairs of load-holding sections, for example a plurality of pairs of transversely extending wheel trays for bicycles, wherein optionally the plurality of pairs of corresponding first bridging parts and second bridging parts and the plurality of load-holding sections are alternately distributed such as in the following order: first bridging part, wheel tray, second bridging part and bicycle support arm member, and then optionally repeated.

[0322] 14. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first and second elongated members (510, 520) are arranged in a common plane defined by a length extension (L) and a width extension (w) of a base frame (500).

[0323] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the fifth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0324] 1. A load carrier (1) suitable for mounting on the rear side of a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0325] - a housing (600) for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member and / or a housing for the same

[0326] (600) retainer (602, 602'),

[0327] The housing (600) comprises a luminous and / or light reflecting area (604) which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load support (1), the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension (L) and to the rearward direction of the vehicle when the load support (1) is mounted to the vehicle.

[0328] 2. A load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the light emitting and / or light reflecting area has a three-dimensional shape.

[0329] 3. A load bracket (1) according to item 2, wherein the luminous and / or light reflecting area includes a first sub-area (606), which has a first projection portion (606') in a plane defined by a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), and has a second projection portion (606") in a plane defined by a length extension (L) and a height extension (h), thereby forming a first luminous and / or light reflecting portion (6061) of the first sub-area pointing to the backward direction, and a second luminous and / or light reflecting portion (6062) of the first sub-area pointing to the width extension (w) and away from the load bracket (1).

[0330] 4. A load support (1) according to item 3, wherein the first sub-region (606) comprises a continuous surface having a main extension along a width extension (w) formed by a first luminous and / or light reflecting portion (6061), and another smaller extension along a length extension (L) and / or a height extension (h) formed by a second luminous and / or light reflecting portion (6062), wherein the first luminous and / or light reflecting portion and the second luminous and / or light reflecting portion are connected via an edge (6063) such as a smooth edge and / or a reinforced edge.

[0331] 5. The load support (1) according to item 3 or 4, further comprising a second sub-area (608) located below the first sub-area (606), as seen along the height extension (h), wherein the first sub-area and the second sub-area are divided by an edge (610).

[0332] 6. A load bracket (1) according to item 5, wherein the edge (610) dividing the first sub-region and the second sub-region extends outward from the first sub-region and the second sub-region along the length extension (L) so that the edge forms a second sub-region overhanging portion (610) that at least partially covers the second sub-region from above.

[0333] 7. A load support (1) according to any one of items 3 to 6, wherein at least one of the first sub-area and the second sub-area is L-shaped, as seen from the rear along the length extension (L) of the load support (1), such as two L-shaped oppositely arranged and interconnected sub-areas extending along the width extension (w).

[0334] 8. The load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) is made of transparent glass.

[0335] 9. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising an overhang (612, 612') arranged at the top portion of the housing and / or above the retaining frame, as seen along a height extension (h) of the load support (1), the height extension corresponding to the height extension of the vehicle when the load support is mounted to the vehicle, wherein the overhang (612, 612') protrudes from the housing and / or the retaining frame such that the overhang at least partially covers the light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) and / or the retaining frame from above.

[0336] 10. A load support (1) according to item 9, wherein the housing comprises fastening elements for fastening the light-emitting and / or light-reflecting area (604) to the housing, and wherein the overhanging portion surrounds these fastening elements so that these fastening elements are not visible when the housing is mounted to the retaining frame.

[0337] 11. A load carrier (1) according to any one of items 9 to 10, further comprising a load receiving section which is configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example the load receiving section is a wheel tray, wherein the overhanging portion forms part of the load receiving section.

[0338] 12. A load bracket (1) according to any one of items 9 to 11, wherein the overhanging portion and the shell form a transition edge (614) therebetween when the shell is mounted to the retaining frame, wherein the overhanging portion and the shell at the transition edge are formed so that the overhanging portion and the shell are aligned and / or flush with each other along the transition edge.

[0339] 13. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the luminous and / or light reflecting area (604) has a parallelogram-shaped outer contour, as seen from behind along the length extension (L) of the load support (1).

[0340] 14. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second housing for a light-emitting and / or light-reflecting component and / or a second holder for the housing, wherein the second housing and / or the holder are formed as a housing and a holder according to any one of the preceding items, and wherein each housing and / or the holder is arranged at a corresponding rear corner portion of the load support.

[0341] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the sixth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0342] 1. A load carrier (1) adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0343] - a base frame portion (700),

[0344] a load receiving section (702) for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle,

[0345] The load containing section (702) is movable relative to the base frame portion (700) such that when the load carrier (1) is mounted to a vehicle, the load containing section can be moved away from the vehicle.

[0346] 2. A load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the movable load-receiving section (702) is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis (P3), such as a pivot axis extending substantially along one of the length extension (L), the width extension (w) and the height extension (h).

[0347] 3. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the base frame portion (700) comprises at least one connecting pin (708, 710) and / or a connecting hook member for maintaining the load holding section (702) in a fixed state relative to the base frame portion (700).

[0348] 4. A load support (1) according to item 3, wherein the load receiving section (702) includes at least one corresponding connection arrangement (712), such as a connection arrangement (712) including an aperture (714) for accommodating the at least one connection pin (708) and / or connection hook member.

[0349] 5. The load support (1) according to item 4, wherein the corresponding connection arrangement (712)

[0350] A spring biased locking mechanism (716) is included for locking the at least one connecting pin (708) and / or connecting hook member to the load containing section (702).

[0351] 6. A load support according to item 5, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism (716) is arranged to lock the at least one connecting pin (708) and / or connecting hook member to the load holding section (702), and the locking direction extends substantially perpendicular to the length of the at least one connecting pin (708) and / or connecting hook member.

[0352] 7. A load support (1) according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein the corresponding connection arrangement (712) is at least partially hidden in the inner space of the load containing section (702), optionally wherein the corresponding connection arrangement (712) is arranged in a separate box-like housing (718) in the inner space, such as a box-like housing capable of sliding into the inner space, such as sliding into a base frame tube.

[0353] 8. A load support (1) according to any one of items 5 to 7, further comprising a flexible elongated element (720), such as a wire, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism (716) is arranged to be released by a pulling or pushing force applied to the flexible elongated element.

[0354] 9. A load support (1) according to item 8, wherein the flexible elongated element is connectable to the spring biased locking mechanism (716) via a flexible element spring biasing member (722) which applies a tensioning force to the flexible elongated element.

[0355] 10. A load support (1) according to any one of items 5 to 9, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism includes at least one slidable plate element (724), which is used to lock the at least one connecting pin (708) and / or connecting hook member to the load holding section (702).

[0356] 11. A load support (1) according to any one of items 3 to 10, wherein the at least one connecting pin (708) has a conical shape that tapers in the direction toward the load-receiving section (702), such as a conical shape having at least one recess for accommodating a locking element such as the at least one sliding plate element described in item 10.

[0357] 12. A load support (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein the base frame part (700) extends along a base frame part extension axis (A3), which is along the length extension (L) of the load support (), wherein the pivot axis (P3) is offset from the base frame part extension axis, such as being arranged below the base frame part extension axis, as seen along the height extension of the load support (1), and for example extends along the width extension (w) of the load support (1).

[0358] 13. The load support (1) according to item 12, wherein the pivot axis is arranged on a separate component (726) which is attached to the base frame part (700), such as by a plug-in connection.

[0359] 14. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, further comprising a stop element for preventing the load holding section (702) from moving further away from the base frame part (700) after having moved, such as pivoting, a maximum predetermined distance, wherein the stop element may be a flexible, elongated element, such as a wire, connecting the base frame part (700) and the load holding section (702).

[0360] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the seventh aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0361] 1. A license plate frame (800) for a vehicle load support (1), the license plate frame being

[0362] The license plate frame (800) has a main extension in the plane of the license plate frame, and comprises:

[0363] a license plate attachment side (802) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a first lateral direction relative to the plane of the license plate frame, and a load bracket attachment side (804) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a second, opposite lateral direction,

[0364] The load bracket attachment side (804) includes an attachment guide rail (806) which is suitable for attaching the license plate frame (800) to the load bracket (1) and is also suitable for enabling the license plate frame (800) to be pivotally moved relative to the load bracket (1) between a stowed position and a use position when the license plate frame (800) is attached to the load bracket (1), wherein the attachment guide rail (806) is arranged on and / or in a protruding portion (808) which protrudes from the load bracket attachment side (804) in a second opposite lateral direction.

[0365] 2. The license plate frame (800) according to item 1, wherein the protruding portion (808) is at least partially an integrated part of the license plate frame (800) and / or comprises a separate component (808") relative to the license plate frame (800).

[0366] 3. A license plate frame (800) according to item 2, wherein the separate member (808") is attached to the license plate frame by a snap-fit ​​connection such as by at least one of a transversely extending and / or flexible arm member (810), a screw and / or bolt connection, a rivet connection.

[0367] 4. A license plate frame (800) according to any one of items 2 or 3, wherein the license plate frame (800) includes a receiving section (812) for a separate component (808"), which receiving section is defined by a transversely extending wall that is integral with the license plate frame and at least partially surrounds the separate component (808") as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0368] 5. A license plate frame (800) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the protruding portion (808) such as a separate component (808") includes a lateral outer wall extending from the load bracket attachment side in a second opposite lateral direction, wherein the lateral outer wall at least partially or completely surrounds the attachment guide rail (806), thereby forming an at least partially enclosed space for the attachment guide rail (806) as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0369] 6. A license plate frame (800) according to item 5, wherein the transverse outer wall (808") includes at least one guide flange (8081), which extends substantially in a direction perpendicular to the transverse outer wall and extends inwardly into the at least partially enclosed space, wherein the at least one guide flange forms a part of the guide rail surface to which the guide rail is attached.

[0370] 7. A license plate frame (800) according to item 6, wherein the lateral outer wall (808") extends from the innermost portion to the outermost portion in a second opposite lateral direction, wherein the at least one guide flange is located near the outermost portion, so that the at least one guide flange is at least positioned closer to the outermost portion than to the innermost portion.

[0371] 8. A license plate frame (800) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the attachment guide rail (806) extends in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0372] 9. A license plate frame (800) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the attachment guide rail (806) is curvilinear, such as S-shaped, as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0373] 10. A load carrier (1), such as a bicycle carrier, comprising a license plate holder (800) according to any of the preceding items.

[0374] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the eighth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0375] 1. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0376] - at least one strap (400) for securing a bicycle to a bicycle rack (1), wherein the bicycle rack (1) is adapted so that when the strap

[0377] When (400) is in the bicycle fixing position (420), the strap (400) fixes the bicycle to the bicycle rack (1).

[0378] The bicycle rack (1) further comprises a strap stowing portion (430), which is suitable for temporarily keeping the strap (400) in a stowed position different from the bicycle fixing position.

[0379] 2. The bicycle stand (1) according to item 1, wherein the strap stowage portion (430)

[0380] Any of a magnetic member and a slot, such as an open or closed slot, are included to temporarily retain the strap (400) in a stowed position.

[0381] 3. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the strap stowage portion (430) is arranged on any one of the following: a frame member of the bicycle rack (1), such as a bicycle support arm member, and a wheel receiving section of the bicycle rack, such as a wheel tray.

[0382] 4. The bicycle rack (1) according to item 3, wherein the strap is coupled to any one of the frame member and the wheel receiving section, such as being non-detachably coupled. 5. The bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 3 or 4, wherein the strap is capable of

[0383] Pivotably coupled, such as pivotably coupled about a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to the length extension (L1) and / or width extension (w1) of the strap, and / or slidably coupled.

[0384] 6. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the straps are arranged to extend substantially along and be aligned with the length of the frame member or wheel receiving section when arranged in the stowed position.

[0385] 7. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 3 to 6, wherein when the strap stowage portion is arranged on a frame member, the frame member comprises a sleeve-type member, such as a separate sleeve-type member, wherein the strap stowage portion is arranged on the sleeve-type member, and wherein the sleeve-type member optionally surrounds a portion of the frame member.

[0386] 8. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 7, wherein the frame member is a telescopic bicycle support arm member, which includes at least a first telescopic arm member and a second telescopic arm member, wherein a sleeve-type member is arranged near or at an intersection between the first telescopic arm member and the second telescopic arm member.

[0387] 9. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 4 to 6, wherein when the strap stowage portion (430) is arranged on the wheel accommodating section, the strap stowage portion (430) is arranged on the user side of the wheel accommodating section, and the user will load / unload the bicycle from the user side, such as the strap stowage portion (430) is arranged on a side of the wheel accommodating section, which side is a side including a strap accommodating member such as a ratchet buckle (300), for example, a side opposite to a side to which the strap is connected, such as being non-detachably connected to the wheel accommodating section according to item 4, the strap accommodating member being used to hold the strap when the strap secures the bicycle to the wheel accommodating section.

[0388] 10. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 3 to 6 or 9, wherein when the strap take-up portion (430) is arranged on the wheel receiving section, the wheel receiving section also includes a strap receiving member, such as a ratchet buckle, which is used to hold the strap when the strap secures the bicycle to the wheel receiving section, wherein the strap take-up portion (430) is separated from the strap receiving member by a specific distance as seen along the length of the wheel receiving section.

[0389] 11. A bicycle stand (1) according to any one of items 3 to 6 or 9 to 10, wherein

[0390] When the strap take-up portion (430) is disposed on the wheel receiving section, the strap take-up portion (430) is a slot that is substantially aligned with the length extension of the wheel receiving section.

[0391] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the ninth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0392] 1. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being suitable for being mounted on a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0393] A bicycle stand member (900) for holding a bicycle in a standing position when the bicycle is positioned on the ground adjacent to a vehicle.

[0394] 2. The bicycle rack (1) according to item 1, wherein the bicycle stand member (900) is detachable from the bicycle rack (1) or is non-removably integrated with the bicycle rack.

[0395] 3. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle stand is configured to accommodate and hold a wheel of a bicycle, such as a tire of the wheel, such as in the form of a strut, a fork-shaped member, a U-shape or a V-shape.

[0396] 4. The bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle stand member (900) is configured to be locked to the bicycle rack when attached to the bicycle rack, so that unwanted removal of the bicycle stand member when attached is prevented.

[0397] 5. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle upright member (900) comprises at least one arm member (910), such as a pivoting arm member relative to the bicycle rack (1), optionally wherein the at least one arm member is movable, for example to clamp a wheel, such as by two C-shaped or J-shaped movable arm members.

[0398] 6. A bicycle stand (1) according to item 5, wherein the at least one arm member comprises a lock or buckle for preventing the at least one arm member from being forcibly opened when the bicycle stand member holds the bicycle, such as a lock or buckle suitable for passing through the wheel between the spokes of the wheel.

[0399] 7. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising at least one wheel tray for accommodating a wheel of a bicycle, wherein the bicycle upright member (900) is arranged on or at the wheel tray, such as at an outer end portion of the wheel tray and / or between two outer end portions of two adjacent wheel trays.

[0400] 8. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 7, when depending on any one of items 5 to 6, wherein the at least one arm member (910) is configured to move, such as pivot, between a non-use position and a use position, wherein in the non-use position, the at least one arm member (910) is substantially flush with a surface of the bicycle rack, such as flush with a wheel receiving surface of a wheel tray, and in the use position, the at least one arm member (910) is flush with the wheel receiving surface extending away from the wheel tray.

[0401] 9. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle rack is configured to move, such as pivot, so that when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle, the bicycle loaded on the bicycle rack moves away from the vehicle, and wherein the bicycle stand member is configured so that when the bicycle rack is moved, such as pivoted, away from the vehicle, the bicycle held by the bicycle stand member is maintained in a standing position.

[0402] 10. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle stand is configured so that the bicycle can be held in a position substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle, substantially transverse to the direction of travel of the vehicle or in a position equal to an angle therebetween, so that when the bicycle is held by the bicycle stand, at least one door can still be opened and / or a conflict with adjacent vehicles can be avoided.

[0403] 11. The bicycle stand (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle stand member (900) is adjustable, such as by moving an arm member (910) of the bicycle stand member so that the arm member can hold bicycle wheels with different shapes and / or thicknesses.

[0404] 12. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle frame member comprises at least one roller (911), such as a roller arranged on an outer portion of the arm member (910) and adapted to roll on the bicycle wheel when the bicycle wheel is inserted into the bicycle frame member.

[0405] 13. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle stand member is configured, such as being spring biased, such that when a portion of a bicycle wheel is received in the bicycle stand member, the bicycle stand member can provide a clamping force around the portion of the bicycle wheel.

[0406] 14. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle frame member comprises at least two parts, which are offset from each other in a width direction of the bicycle frame member and are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two parts, wherein the at least two parts are also offset from each other in a height direction of the bicycle frame member so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating around a longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle, the height direction corresponding to a height direction of the bicycle.

[0407] 15. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle frame member comprises at least two parts, which are offset from each other in a width direction of the bicycle frame member and are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two parts, wherein the at least two parts are also offset from each other in a length direction of the bicycle frame member so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating around a yaw axis of the bicycle, the length direction corresponding to the length direction of the bicycle.

[0408] 16. A bicycle rack (1) according to items 14 and 15, wherein the bicycle upright member includes at least four parts, two of which are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on one side thereof, and two of which are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on another side thereof, and wherein the at least four parts are configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle, and are further configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a yaw axis of the bicycle.

[0409] 17. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein when the bicycle stand member can hold a bicycle, the bicycle stand member can be reconfigured between a stowed state and a use state, such as the bicycle stand member can be pivoted between the stowed state and the use state.

[0410] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the tenth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0411] 1. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being suitable for being mounted on a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising:

[0412] - A locking anchor (920) for locking a bicycle to a bicycle rack

[0413] (1).

[0414] 2. The bicycle rack (1) according to item 1, wherein the locking anchor (920) is detachable relative to the bicycle rack (1).

[0415] 3. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a base frame (500) having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the base frame (500) comprising a first slender member and a second slender member (510, 520) for carrying a load, wherein the first slender member and the second slender member are separated from each other and arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension (L), wherein a locking anchor is arranged between the first slender member and the second slender member (510, 520), as seen along the width extension (w).

[0416] 4. According to the bicycle rack (1) described in item 3, the bicycle rack also includes at least one bridging portion (530, 540), which is arranged between the first slender member and the second slender member (510, 520) and connects the first slender member and the second slender member together, wherein the locking anchor (920) is arranged near the at least one bridging portion (530, 540), such as connected to the at least one bridging portion.

[0417] 5. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 4, comprising a first bridge portion and a second bridge portion (530, 540), wherein the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion are arranged between a first slender member and a second slender member and connect the first slender member and the second slender member together, wherein the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion are offset and separated from each other as seen along the length extension (L) of the base frame, wherein a locking anchor (920) is arranged between the first bridge portion and the second bridge portion as seen along the length extension (L) of the base frame.

[0418] 6. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of items 4 or 5, further comprising a cover (922), such as a polymer cover, covering the at least one bridging portion (530, 540) between the first slender member and the second slender member, wherein the locking anchor is mounted and / or can be mounted to the cover, and / or wherein the cover comprises an aperture preferably extending upward along the height, which aperture is suitable for accommodating the locking anchor, and / or wherein the locking anchor is integrated with the cover.

[0419] 7. Bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking anchor is an extruded profile or a moulded profile, such as made of a lightweight material, for example a polymer and / or aluminium.

[0420] 8. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking anchor is adapted to be inserted into a locking anchor opening of the bicycle rack, such as an opening of a base frame (500), optionally wherein the locking anchor has a T-shaped profile, optionally wherein the locking anchor further comprises a protruding flange (924, 926) adapted to engage with a secure portion of the bicycle rack to position the locking anchor in a predetermined support position in the locking anchor opening.

[0421] 9. A bicycle rack (1) according to item 8, wherein the bicycle rack (such as the base frame and / or the locking anchor) is configured to prevent the locking anchor from being pulled out when inserted into the locking anchor opening, such as preventing the locking anchor from being pulled out in an upward direction, such as by using a plastic cover sleeve inserted into the locking anchor opening and suitable for preventing the locking anchor from being pulled out of the locking anchor opening.

[0422] 10. A bicycle rack (1) according to any of the preceding items, which is configured to accommodate the locking anchor from below, i.e. the locking anchor can be inserted from below, such as between the first slender member and the second slender member of the base frame (500), as seen along the height extension (h) of the bicycle rack.

[0423] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the eleventh aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0424] 1. A load carrier (1) suitable for mounting on the rear side of a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0425] - a housing (600) for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member and / or a housing for the same

[0426] (600) retainer (602, 602'),

[0427] The housing (600) comprises a light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load support (1), the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension (L) and to the rearward direction of the vehicle when the load support (1) is mounted on the vehicle,

[0428] A license plate frame (800) having a main extension in a license plate frame plane (PL), the license plate frame (800) comprising a license plate attachment side (802) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a first transverse direction relative to the license plate frame plane

[0429] Reach out,

[0430] The housing and / or the holder are positioned such that when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame, the light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) is prohibited from emitting and / or reflecting light onto the license plate frame.

[0431] 2. A load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the housing and / or the holder are positioned so that the outermost part of the light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) is aligned with and / or located behind the license plate frame plane (PL), such as along the length extension (L)

[0432] What I see.

[0433] 3. A load carrier (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a load receiving section which is configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example the load receiving section is a wheel tray, wherein the housing and / or the retaining frame are attached to the load receiving section.

[0434] 4. The load carrier (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the light emitting and / or light reflecting area has a three-dimensional shape.

[0435] 5. The load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the light emitting and / or light reflecting area is made of transparent glass.

[0436] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the twelfth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0437] 1. A bicycle support arm member (24) for a bicycle rack (1), the bicycle support arm member comprising:

[0438] - a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining the strap (400); and

[0439] A strap locking arrangement (350) associated with the ratchet buckle (300) for locking the strap (400) so as to prevent the strap from being released from the ratchet buckle.

[0440] 2. The bicycle support arm member (24) according to item 1, wherein the strap locking arrangement (350) comprises a locking element (351) arranged to engage with at least one buckle engagement member (402) of the strap (400).

[0441] 3. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to item 2, wherein the locking element (351) is a frame-shaped element, such as a square element, having an opening for accommodating the strap (400), wherein preferably, the main extension plane of the frame-shaped element is suitable for extending substantially perpendicularly to the length (L1) of the strap when the strap (400) is arranged to pass through the frame-shaped element.

[0442] 4. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the locking element (351) is suitable for engaging with the at least one snap-engaging member (402) of the strap (400) by moving the locking element (351) in a locking direction toward the at least one snap-engaging member (402), such as sliding and / or rotating, to achieve a locked state for the strap (400).

[0443] 5. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to item 4, wherein the locking element (351) is adapted to be locked by using a key which, after being rotated and released in a keyhole of a strap locking arrangement such as a keyhole of a lock cylinder, prevents the locking element (351) from moving from a locked state to an unlocked state.

[0444] 6. The bicycle support arm member (24) according to item 5, wherein the key hole (353)

[0445] (eg a lock cylinder) and a locking element (351) are arranged to move together simultaneously when the locking arrangement (350) moves from an unlocked state to a locked state, and vice versa.

[0446] 7. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the locking arrangement (350) (at least the locking element (351)) is spring biased towards an unlocked state in which the strap (400) is free to move in the locking arrangement (350).

[0447] 8. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to any of the preceding items, wherein a strap locking arrangement (350) is provided at an outer end portion of the bicycle support arm member (24), such as on a pivotable head, wherein optionally the outer end portion (such as the pivotable head) comprises a bicycle support surface (such as a solid or cushioned surface) against which the bicycle will rest when the strap (400) has tightened the bicycle to the bicycle support arm member (24).

[0448] 9. A bicycle support arm member (24) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the strap locking arrangement (350) is provided on a rotatable member, such as on a pivotable head, wherein the rotatable member may be substantially L-shaped or V-shaped.

[0449] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the thirteenth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0450] 1. A load support (1) for a vehicle, the load support comprising a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining a strap (400), the ratchet buckle comprising:

[0451] —A strap receiving section (302), the strap receiving section (302) having a length direction (L1), a width direction (w1) and a height direction (h1).

[0452] (400) when received in the strap receiving section, the length direction corresponds to the length direction of the strap,

[0453] a strap engaging member (304') configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400) to retain the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302),

[0454] an actuation lever (306') for a user, the actuation lever (306') being configured to actuate the strap engagement member (304) between an open state in which the strap (400) is free to move within the strap receiving section (302) and an engaged state in which the strap engagement member (304) is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member (402) of the strap (400), and

[0455] —Wherein any one of the strap engaging member (304'), the actuating rod (306') and the ratchet buckle housing (308) of the ratchet buckle (300) includes a strap guiding element (3044, 3064) which is configured to prevent a portion of the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302) from bending upward in the height direction (h1) in an open state.

[0456] 2. The load support (1) according to item 1, wherein the strap guide element (3044,

[0457] 3064) is configured to push downwardly that portion of the strap (400) in the open state, as seen in the height direction (h1).

[0458] 3. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a strap (400) having at least one snap-fitting member (402) such as teeth, wherein the strap guiding element (3044, 3064) is configured to contact the at least one snap-fitting member (402) in an open state so as to prevent the portion of the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302) from bending upward in the height direction (h1).

[0459] 4. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the strap guide element (3044, 3064) has a peripheral surface, such as a curved peripheral surface, for example a curved peripheral surface with different radii, as seen in a cross-sectional plane defined by a height direction and a length direction (h1, L1), wherein at least a portion of the peripheral surface is configured to prevent the portion of the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302) from bending upward in the height direction (h1) in an open state.

[0460] 5. The load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the strap guide element (3044, 3064) comprises at least a first guide portion and a second guide portion (30441, 30442; 30641, 30642) offset from each other as seen in the width direction (w1).

[0461] 6. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least two of the strap engagement member (304'), the actuation rod (306') and the ratchet buckle housing (308), such as each, comprise corresponding strap guide elements (3044, 3064), wherein each corresponding strap guide element (3044, 3064) is a strap guide element (3044, 3064) according to any of the preceding items.

[0462] 7. The load support (1) according to item 6, wherein the respective strap guiding elements (3044, 3064) are offset from each other as seen in the length direction (L1) of the strap receiving section (302).

[0463] 8. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the strap engaging member (304') and the actuating rod (306') are separate components having respective separate connection interfaces for connecting to the ratchet buckle (300), such as respective separate pivot axes (314, 316), wherein these respective separate connection interfaces are offset from each other as seen in the length direction (L1) of the strap receiving section (302).

[0464] 9. The load support (1) according to item 8, when also depending on any one of items 6 or 7, wherein the respective strap guiding element (3044, 3064) is arranged between the respective individual connection interfaces (314, 316).

[0465] 10. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein when the actuating rod (306') comprises a strap guide element (3064), the strap guide element (3064) of the actuating rod (306') is configured to move, such as pivot, together with the actuating rod (306') between an open state and an engaged state.

[0466] 11. The load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein when the strap engagement member (304') comprises a strap guiding element (3044), the strap engagement member (304')

[0467] The strap guide element (3044) is configured to move, such as pivot, with the strap engagement member (304') between an open state and an engaged state.

[0468] 12. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the actuating rod (306) includes a strap engaging portion (3061) which is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of a strap (400), wherein the actuating rod (306) is configured to move, such as pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle (300) so that the strap engaging portion (3061) moves the strap in a strap tightening direction in the strap accommodating section (302).

[0469] 13. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the actuating rod (306') is spring biased towards a default position, such as being spring biased towards an engaged state, in which the strap engaging member (304') is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400), and / or wherein the strap engaging member (304') is spring biased towards an engaged state, in which the strap engaging member (304') is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400).

[0470] 14. A load support (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the ratchet buckle (300) further comprises a strap guide portion (318, 320), which is arranged at a strap entrance section of the strap accommodating section (302) and / or at a strap exit section of the strap accommodating section (302), wherein the strap guide portion (318, 320) is an extension of the strap accommodating section (302) and / or a widened section of the strap accommodating section (302).

[0471] 15. The load support (1) according to item 14, wherein the strap guide portion (318, 320) comprises a bottom section (3181, 3201) and a top section (3182, 3202) for the strap (400), as seen in the height direction (h1).

[0472] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the fourteenth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0473] 1. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a bicycle support pad (355) against which a bicycle will rest when the bicycle is mounted to the load carrier (1), wherein the bicycle support pad (355) can be releasably mounted to the load carrier (1).

[0474] 2. The load carrier (1) according to item 1, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) is releasably mounted to the load carrier (1) by means of a snap-fit ​​connection (3552).

[0475] 3. A load carrier (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) comprises a first mounting member and a second mounting member (3551, 3552) for releasably mounting the bicycle support pad (355) to the load carrier (1), and wherein the load carrier (1) comprises a corresponding first retaining member and a second retaining member (3541, 3542) for retaining the first mounting member and the second mounting member (3551, 3552).

[0476] 4. The load carrier (1) according to item 3, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) and / or the first retaining member and the second retaining member (3541, 3542) are configured so that the bicycle support pad (355) can be releasably mounted to the load carrier (1) by first engaging the first mounting member (3551) with the first retaining member (3541) and then pivoting the bicycle support pad (355) relative to the first mounting member 3551.

[0477] Rotate until the second mounting member (3552) engages with the second retaining member (3542).

[0478] 5. A load rack (1) according to item 3, wherein the first mounting member and the second mounting member and the corresponding first retaining member and the second retaining member are configured so that the bicycle support pad (355) can be releasably mounted to the load rack (1) by simultaneously engaging the first mounting member and the second mounting member with the corresponding first retaining member and the second retaining member.

[0479] 6. The load support (1) according to any one of items 3 to 5, wherein at least the second mounting member (3552) and the second retaining member (3542) are configured as a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0480] 7. The load support (1) according to item 6, wherein the first mounting member (3551) and the first retaining member (3541) are configured to be hingedly connected.

[0481] 8. A load rack (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) comprises a release portion (35521) which is configured to be actuated to release the bicycle support pad from the load rack when the bicycle support pad (355) is mounted to the load rack (1), wherein the release portion (35521) is hidden by the load rack (1) so as to prevent a user from accessing the release portion (35521) without using a separate tool.

[0482] 9. A load holder (1) according to item 8, wherein the release portion (35521) is accessible through an orifice (35421) of the load holder (1), such as an orifice having a width or diameter of less than 15 mm (for example less than 10 mm), and / or such as an orifice having a length from its opening to the release portion (35521) that is greater than 5 mm, for example greater than 10 mm.

[0483] 10. A load carrier (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) comprises a first material forming a surface against which the bicycle will rest when the bicycle is mounted to the load carrier (1), and further comprising a second material forming a mounting interface for mounting to the load carrier (1), wherein preferably the first material is softer than the second material.

[0484] 11. A load support (1) according to item 10, wherein the first material is a thermoplastic elastomer, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, and / or wherein the second material is a glass-fiber reinforced polymer, such as glass-fiber reinforced polyamide.

[0485] 12. A load carrier (1) according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the bicycle support pad (355) is arranged on any one of the bicycle support arms (20, 24, 26), the wheel receiving member, the gripping claw and the pivotable head (354) on the bicycle support arm of the load carrier (1).

[0486] 13. A load carrier (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the load carrier (1) is a roof mounted load carrier or a rear mounted load carrier (1) for a vehicle.

[0487] In the following, possible features and feature combinations of the fifteenth aspect are presented as a bullet list and form part of the present disclosure:

[0488] 1. A load carrier (1) adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising:

[0489] - a base frame portion (700),

[0490] a load receiving section (702) for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle,

[0491] wherein the base frame portion (700) comprises two separate elongated members (704, 706) extending along a length extension (L), the two separate elongated members (704, 706) being offset from one another along a width extension (w), and

[0492] The load carrier further comprises a holder (740) for holding auxiliary equipment, such as for holding a loading ramp arrangement for bicycles, wherein the holder for holding auxiliary equipment is releasably attached to the load carrier (1) between separate elongated members (704, 706).

[0493] 2. A load carrier (1) according to item 1, wherein the holder for holding auxiliary equipment is releasably attached to the load carrier (1) below the load receiving section (702), as seen when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle arranged on a flat horizontally extending surface.

[0494] 3. A load carrier (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the load containing section (702) is movable relative to the base frame portion (700) such that when the load carrier (1) is mounted to a vehicle, the load containing section is movable away from the vehicle.

[0495] 4. A load support (1) according to item 3, wherein the movable load receiving section (702) is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis (P3), such as a pivot axis extending substantially along one of the length extension (L), width extension (w) and height extension (h).

[0496] 5. A load carrier (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the load carrier (1) and / or a holder for holding auxiliary equipment are arranged so that, for example when the load holding section (702) according to item 3 is moved away from the vehicle, the holder for holding auxiliary equipment can be attached to the load carrier (1) from above, as seen when the load carrier is mounted to a vehicle arranged on a flat horizontally extending surface.

[0497] 6. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein a holder for holding auxiliary equipment is attached to the two separate elongated members by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0498] 7. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one of the two separate elongated members and / or the retaining frame for holding auxiliary equipment includes a fixing member, such as a pin member, for fixing the retaining frame for holding auxiliary equipment so as to prevent the retaining frame for holding auxiliary equipment from moving along the length extension (L).

[0499] 8. A load support (1) according to any of the preceding items, wherein the load support (1) and / or the retaining frame for retaining auxiliary equipment are configured so that the retaining frame for retaining auxiliary equipment can be attached to the load support (1) in the following manner: the retaining frame for retaining auxiliary equipment is attached to each of the two separate slender members substantially simultaneously. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0500] Embodiments of the present disclosure cited as examples are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0501] In the attached picture:

[0502] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a bicycle rack according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0503] 2a-2b illustrate cross-sectional views of a bicycle support arm member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0504] Figure 3a to Figure 3b An exemplary embodiment of a bicycle support arm member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in perspective and exploded views;

[0505] Figures 4a to 4dAn exemplary embodiment of a connection and restraint arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in perspective and exploded views;

[0506] Figure 5a to Figure 5c Another exemplary embodiment of a connection and restraint arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in perspective and cross-sectional views;

[0507] Figure 6a to Figure 6b Still another exemplary embodiment of a connection and restraint arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in perspective and cross-sectional views;

[0508] Figure 7a to Figure 7b shows a perspective view of a ratchet buckle and a strap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0509] Figure 8 It shows that Figure 7a to Figure 7b Ratchet buckle shown;

[0510] Fig. 9 shows a perspective exploded view of a ratchet buckle and a strap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0511] Fig.10 shows a side view of a strap engagement member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0512] Fig.11 a to Fig.11 f shows a series of steps when inserting a strap into a ratchet buckle and removing the strap from the ratchet buckle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0513] Fig.12 shows a perspective view of a base frame of a load stand according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0514] Fig.13 Another perspective view of a base frame of a load carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0515] Figure 14a to Figure 14b shows a cross-sectional view of a base frame of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0516] Fig.14c Shows Figure 14a to Figure 14b An alternative embodiment of the embodiment shown in;

[0517] Figure 15a to Figure 15b shows a perspective view of a housing for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member for a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0518] Fig.16shows a perspective view of a housing for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member for a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0519] Fig.17 shows a rear view of a housing for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member for a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0520] Fig.18 and Fig.19 An alternative embodiment of a light emitting and / or light reflecting member of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0521] Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of a sixth aspect of the present disclosure;

[0522] Fig.21 shows a perspective view of a connection arrangement according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure;

[0523] Fig. 22 shows an internal view of a load support according to an embodiment of the sixth aspect of the present disclosure;

[0524] Fig.23 It shows that Fig. 20 an enlarged perspective view of the load support shown;

[0525] Fig.24a and Figure 24b shows a perspective view of a license plate frame according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0526] Fig.25 shows a perspective view of a license plate frame according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0527] Fig.26 shows a perspective view of a load carrier with a license plate holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0528] Figures 27a to 27c shows a perspective view of a bicycle stand including a strap stowage portion according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0529] Fig.28 shows a perspective view of a bicycle stand including a strap stowage portion according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0530] Fig.29 shows a perspective view of a bicycle rack including a bicycle stand member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0531] Fig.30 Shown include Fig.29A perspective view of a bicycle stand with a bicycle frame member shown;

[0532] Figure 31a to Figure 31b shows a perspective view of a bicycle rack including a bicycle stand member according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0533] Fig.32 shows a perspective view of a bicycle stand with a locking anchor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0534] Fig.33 shows a locking anchor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0535] Fig.34 Shown as Fig.32 a perspective bottom view of the bicycle stand shown;

[0536] Fig.35 shows a top view of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure;

[0537] Fig.36 Shown from behind Fig.35 The load bracket in the

[0538] Figures 37a to 37d A view showing a strap locking arrangement for locking a strap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0539] Figures 38a to 38c A view showing a ratchet buckle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0540] Figures 39a to 39c A restriction arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in perspective, exploded and cross-sectional views,

[0541] Figures 40a to 40c shows a perspective view of a bicycle rack including a bicycle stand member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0542] Figure 41a to Figure 41b shows a cross-sectional view of a ratchet buckle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0543] Fig.42 shows a perspective view of a ratchet buckle and a strap according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0544] Fig.43a host Figure 43b A perspective view showing components of a ratchet buckle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0545] Figure 44a to Figure 44bshows a cross-sectional view of a ratchet buckle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0546] Fig.45 shows a cross-sectional view of a ratchet buckle according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0547] Figures 46a to 46c shows a cross-sectional view of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure,

[0548] Figure 47a to Figure 47b shows a perspective view of a locking anchor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0549] Figure 48a to Figure 48b shows a perspective view of a load support according to an exemplary embodiment of a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure,

[0550] Fig.49 shows a connecting pin according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure,

[0551] Figures 50a to 50c A base frame portion having a vehicle coupling interface according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, and

[0552] Fig.51 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of a bicycle rack in FIG. 1 when arranged in a retracted state.

[0553] These drawings are schematic and not necessarily drawn to scale. It should be understood that the embodiments shown and described are exemplary and that the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. It should also be noted that some details in the drawings may be exaggerated in order to better describe and illustrate the present disclosure. Unless otherwise expressed, similar reference characters throughout the drawings refer to the same or similar types of elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0554] Figure 1A perspective view of a bicycle rack 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. The bicycle rack 1 is suitable for mounting to a vehicle (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle rack 1 may be capable of being mounted to the rear side of the vehicle, preferably by connecting the bicycle rack 1 to a tow bar, such as a tow ball (not shown) connected to the vehicle. It should be noted that the bicycle rack 1 as disclosed herein may also be capable of being mounted to the vehicle at other locations, such as above the roof. However, it has been found that the disclosed bicycle rack 1 is particularly suitable for being arranged on the rear side of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle rack 1 may be capable of being connected to the tow bar via a coupling device 11, which as shown may include an arm 111, which can be rotated about an axis extending along the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1. The bicycle rack 1 is securely attached to the tow bar by rotating the arm 111. Therefore, the bicycle rack 1 can be easily attached to the vehicle by the user rotating the arm 111.

[0555] The bicycle rack 1 extends along a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h. In the embodiment shown, the length extension L corresponds to the length extension of the vehicle and the width extension corresponds to the lateral extension of the vehicle.

[0556] The bicycle stand 1 comprises:

[0557] a platform support arrangement 10 for supporting at least one bicycle (not shown), the platform support arrangement 10 comprising at least one wheel receiving member 12, 14, 16 for receiving one or more wheels of the at least one bicycle, thereby supporting, such as laterally supporting, the bicycle;

[0558] —At least one bicycle support arm member 20, 24, 26 configured to hold and secure the at least one bicycle when the at least one bicycle is being received in the at least one wheel receiving member 12, 14, 16, wherein the at least one bicycle support arm member 20, 24, 26 is reconfigurable between a bicycle supporting state and a bicycle stowing state.

[0559] In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle rack 1 comprises three bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 and three corresponding wheel receiving members 12, 14, 16. As further shown in the figure, the bicycle rack 1 is arranged to support the bicycle laterally, i.e. the length extension of the bicycle will extend along the width extension w of the bicycle rack 1. It should be noted that the bicycle rack 1 can be configured to hold fewer bicycles, or more. Therefore, the bicycle rack 1 can have more than Figure 1 Fewer bicycle support arm members and wheel receiving members are shown, but more may be provided.

[0560] As shown, the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 that can be reconfigured can be reconfigured by pivoting about a first pivot axis P1 and a second pivot axis P2 that are substantially parallel to the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1. More specifically, the bicycle support arm members 20 and 26 can be pivoted about the pivot axis P1, and the bicycle support arm member 24 can be pivoted about the pivot axis P2. The bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 can be reconfigured in other ways as disclosed herein, such as by telescoping, such as by being retracted relative to the bicycle rack 1. Figure 3a to Figure 3b As described.

[0561] like Figure 1 As further shown, the platform support arrangement 10 may include at least one pair of wheel receiving members 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16" for receiving the wheel of at least one bicycle, wherein at least one of the wheel receiving members 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16" of the at least one pair of wheel receiving members is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis P1, P2 substantially parallel to the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1, and wherein at least one of the reconfigurable bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 is capable of pivoting about the same pivot axis, such as being capable of pivoting coaxially relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, each wheel receiving member of each pair of wheel receiving members is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis P1 or P2.

[0562] Therefore, as mentioned above, Figure 1 The bicycle rack 1 shown comprises a plurality of bicycle support arm members 20 , 24 , 26 and the plurality of bicycle support arm members are attachable and / or attachable to the platform support arrangement 10 at respective fixing points f1 , f2 , f3 .

[0563] The fixing points f1, f2, f3 are distributed along the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1 and are arranged offset from each other along the length extension L. Furthermore, as shown in the figures, each of the at least two bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 can be arranged such that: when the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 are arranged in the bicycle support state, a bicycle to be held and fixed by the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 can be loaded to the bicycle rack 1 in a loading direction L0 substantially parallel to the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1. The bicycle support state is here a substantially upright position extending from the platform support arrangement 10 along the height extension h. As shown in the figures, the loading direction L0 is the same loading direction for each bicycle for each of the at least two bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26, such as corresponding to a forward direction relative to the vehicle when the bicycle rack 1 is mounted to the vehicle. Thus, when the bicycle support arm member 24 has been set to its upright bicycle support state, the bicycle can be loaded into its position, such as into the wheel receiving member 14', 14". Therefore, the bicycle support arm member 24 does not need to be reconfigured after the bicycle has been loaded into the wheel receiving member 14', 14". However, some minor adjustments of the bicycle support arm member 24 can be performed after loading, but these adjustments can be done, for example, after the bicycle has been at least partially secured, such as by a strap (not shown) connected to the bicycle support arm member. With this configuration, the loading procedure will be significantly easier for the user, which means faster loading and reduced risk of damaging the bicycle.

[0564] The bicycle rack 1 as shown is configured such that at least a single bicycle support arm member 20 , 24 , 26 is used to hold and secure a single bicycle among a plurality of bicycles.

[0565] In the shown embodiment, the fixing points f1, f2, f3 are positioned alternately on respective opposite sides with respect to an axis of symmetry A1 of the bicycle holder 1, which extends along a length extension L of the bicycle holder 1. Furthermore, each wheel receiving member 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16" is arranged between two adjacent fixing points of adjacent bicycle support arm members, as seen along the length extension L.

[0566] The pivot axes P1, P2 are preferably arranged close to each other, such as 50 centimeters (cm), 40 cm, 30 cm or less from each other, so as to facilitate folding the bicycle rack 1 into a collapsed state, such as a stowed state, when the bicycle rack is not used to carry a bicycle. The wheel receiving members 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16" and the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 are preferably arranged in an upright position when folded into the collapsed state. Fig.51 An example of a collapsed or stowed state is shown in . When in the collapsed state, the area between the pivot axes P1 and P2 can create a substantially flat surface, which can be advantageously used as a support surface when the bicycle rack 1 is stowed, so that the bicycle rack 1 can be in an upright position when stowed.

[0567] As shown, the bicycle rack 1 is preferably configured such that the bicycle support arm members 24, 26 are folded away from the symmetry axis A1 when folded into the bicycle loading state, in this case pivoting. Therefore, the bicycle support arm members 24, 26 are folded toward the symmetry axis A1 when folded into the bicycle supporting state, in this case pivoting. This folded configuration has been shown to provide an efficient and simple method of loading a bicycle onto the bicycle rack 1, and requires minimal steps by the user during the bicycle loading procedure.

[0568] Additionally, as shown, the bicycle rack 1 may be configured such that there is only one bicycle supporting arm member 24, 26 between each pair of wheel receiving members 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16". This may also mean a simplified bicycle loading procedure.

[0569] The bicycle support arm members 20 , 24 , 26 are preferably rigid arms, such as arms made of a rigid, low-weight material like aluminum.

[0570] Furthermore, at least one of the reconfigurable bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 may be detachable from the bicycle rack 1. For example, the at least one detachable bicycle support arm member may thereby be moved between different positions on the platform arrangement 10, thereby enabling the bicycle support arm member to be moved to a more suitable position where it can better hold and secure the bicycle. This may also increase space if, for example, another load carrying device (e.g., a cargo box) is attached. Removability may be prevented by a lock (not shown).

[0571] When the bicycle rack 1 is mounted to a vehicle, the bicycle support arm member 20 is the innermost bicycle support arm member relative to the vehicle. The innermost bicycle support arm member 20 can be biased toward or fixed in a substantially upright position, as seen along the height extension h. For example, when the bicycle rack 1 is deployed, the bicycle support arm member 20 can be held in the upright position by a biasing member, such as a spring biasing member (not shown).

[0572] The reconfigurable bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 may be reconfigurable such that they may be folded down, such as by a folding joint (not shown), to a position in which they extend substantially in a plane defined by the width extension w and the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1. This position may be denoted as a bicycle stowed state.

[0573] Each of the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26 may include a head, such as a pivotable head 354, for securing a bicycle to the corresponding bicycle support arm member. The head may include a claw-like member and / or a strap 400 for securing the bicycle to the bicycle support arm member. Each head may be arranged to face the user when the user loads the bicycle to the bicycle rack 1. For example, the bicycle rack 1 may be arranged so that when the bicycle rack 1 is mounted to a vehicle (i.e., when the bicycle rack is mounted at the rear of the vehicle), each head faces away from the vehicle in a rearward direction. This means that it is convenient to load the bicycle to the bicycle rack.

[0574] With particular reference to FIGS. 2 a to 2 b , an embodiment is depicted in which at least one bicycle support arm member 20 , 24 , 26 has a cross-sectional peripheral profile, wherein the cross-section is defined by a plane extending perpendicularly to the length of the at least one bicycle support arm member 20 , 24 , 26 , and wherein the cross-sectional peripheral profile is shaped, for example, into a substantially rectangular shape ( FIG. 2 b ) or an elliptical shape ( FIG. 2 a ), such that when the bicycle rack 1 holds and secures a bicycle, a side surface S1 of the cross-sectional peripheral profile extending along a length extension L of the bicycle rack is longer than a side surface S2 of the cross-sectional peripheral profile extending along a width extension w of the bicycle rack 1 , wherein when the bicycle rack 1 is mounted to a vehicle, the length extension L corresponds to a direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0575] 3 to 6 , the bicycle rack 1 may further include a limiting arrangement 210, 220 configured to limit a reconfiguration movement, such as a pivoting and / or telescopic movement, of at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24. The at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member will be referred to hereinafter as the bicycle support arm member 24. However, it should be noted that the disclosed configuration is applicable to any one of the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26.

[0576] For example, Figure 3a to Figure 3bAs shown, at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 can be reconfigurable by telescoping as mentioned above, such as can be further reconfigured, wherein a restriction arrangement 220, such as a friction lock, is configured to adjust its length due to the applied force when the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 is below a threshold. The telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 can optionally include a first telescopic arm member 241 and a second telescopic arm member 242, and wherein the friction lock 220 can optionally include a spring biasing member 243, such as a leaf spring as shown, associated with the first telescopic arm member 241. The spring biasing member 243 is configured to engage with at least one groove 244 associated with the second telescopic arm member 242, thereby preventing the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 from adjusting its length due to the applied force when the at least one telescopic reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 is below a threshold. The groove 244 is preferably a portion of a plurality of grooves, such as a portion of the length shown of the material 245 presenting a corrugated or micro-corrugated profile. Thus, the second telescopic arm member 242 extending inside the first telescopic arm member 241 can be adjusted between a plurality of predetermined positions, thereby adjusting the length of the bicycle support arm member 24. The spring biasing member 243 is here disposed in a sleeve-type member 246 that is attached to and surrounds the first telescopic arm member 241.

[0577] As mentioned above, at least one bicycle support arm member 24 capable of being reconfigured may be capable of being reconfigured, such as by pivoting about pivot axes P1, P2. With particular reference to FIGS. 4 to 6, a restriction arrangement 210 (such as a rotation lock 210) may be configured to prevent the at least one bicycle support arm member 24 capable of being reconfigured from pivoting due to the force applied when the force applied to the at least one bicycle support arm member 24 is below a threshold. In the illustrated embodiment, only the lower portion 2401 of the bicycle support arm member 24 is shown. Therefore, the arm extending from the lower portion 2401 is omitted here. The arm is preferably attached to the lower portion 2401 by welding, even though the arm may be attached in any other suitable manner. Alternatively, the lower portion 2401 and the arm may be a single component together, such as a molded member.

[0578] The restraining arrangement 210 may be configured such that the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 follows the pivotable wheel receiving member 14 when pivoting, such as folding down, to the bicycle support position. Optionally again, the restraining arrangement and / or the wheel receiving member 14 may be further configured such that the pivotable wheel receiving member 14 is stationary when the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 is pivoted (such as folded up) to the bicycle support position. Thus, there may be no need for the user to hold and / or push the wheel receiving member when the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member is pivoting. This means a simplified bicycle installation procedure.

[0579] In the illustrated embodiment, at least one bicycle support arm member 24 is rotatably coupled to the platform support arrangement 10 via the shaft 12 (in Figure 1 ). As shown, at least one bicycle support arm member 24 may be coupled to the shaft 12 by surrounding the shaft 12. The wheel receiving member pivotable about the pivot axis P2 may be non-rotatably coupled to the same shaft 12. The bicycle support arm member pivotable about the other pivot axis P1 and the wheel receiving member are preferably constructed in the same or similar manner.

[0580] The restriction arrangement 210 may be, for example, Figures 4a to 4c The bicycle support arm member 24 is provided with a spring biasing member 211, a first friction member 212 and a second friction member 213, which are arranged to rotate about a pivot axis P2 of the pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24, wherein a limiting function is provided at least in the following manner: the spring biasing member 211 pushes or pulls at least one of the first friction member 212 and the second friction member 213 so that a friction force is generated therebetween, thereby preventing the at least one pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 from pivoting due to the applied force when the force applied thereto is below a threshold value. The first friction member 212 and the second friction member 213 include conical mating surfaces that generate a friction force therebetween.

[0581] exist Figures 4a to 4d In the embodiment shown, it can be seen that there may be two pairs of first friction members 212 and second friction members 213, with one spring biasing member 211 in each pair. The spring biasing member 211 is integrated with the second friction member 212. The friction members 212, 213 may be sleeve-type members surrounding the shaft 12 as shown. The integrated spring biasing member 211, which may also be a separate component, is here in the form of a helical spring surrounding the shaft 12, which exerts a force in the axial direction relative to the pivot axis P2.

[0582] The friction member 212 is attached to the bicycle support arm member 24 such that the friction member 212 rotates with the bicycle support arm member 24. The friction member 213 preferably rotates with the shaft 12.

[0583] The friction member 212 can be attached to the bicycle support arm member 24 by a snap-fit ​​connection as shown, such as via one or more apertures 240 or grooves on the bicycle support arm member 24 as shown. The friction member can include corresponding flexures 2120, such as protruding flexures, as shown, that snap fit into each corresponding aperture 240. The friction members 212, 213 can also include one or more axially extending slits 2121 as shown, for example, to enable a better and secure fit to the shaft 12.

[0584] In the illustrated embodiment, the restriction arrangement 210 also includes an intermediate spring biasing member 214 disposed between the two pairs of friction members 212, 213. The spring biasing member 214 is configured to apply a force in a radial direction relative to the pivot axis P2. The spring biasing member 214 is optionally a sleeve-type member as shown. As shown, the sleeve-type member 214 can be compressed and / or expanded, as seen in the radial direction of the pivot axis P2. The sleeve-type member 214 is separated along a separation line 2141, so that it can be compressed and / or expanded, and the separation line extends along the pivot axis P2.

[0585] The sleeve-type member 214 is as follows Figure 4b to Figure 4d Also shown is a compression prevention portion 2142 (see Figure 4d ), the compression prevention portion is configured to prevent the sleeve-type member 214 from being compressed beyond a predetermined compression distance. The compression prevention portion 2142 is configured to abut against the surface of the axially extending groove 121 or the like of the shaft 12. Therefore, the spring biased sleeve-type member 214 will rotate with the shaft 12, and by biasing it toward the expanded state, the spring biased sleeve-type member will also generate friction between the outer peripheral surface 2143 of the spring biased member 214 and the corresponding inner surface of the lower portion 2401 of the bicycle support arm member 24. The lower portion 2401 is preferably a cylindrical portion adapted to surround the shaft 12 as shown.

[0586] 5-6 depict other examples of connection and restriction arrangements 210 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 5a to Figure 5cAs shown, the restriction arrangement 210 includes two sleeve-type members 215, 216, which are preferably press-fitted onto the shaft 12 so that friction forces can be generated between the sleeve-type members 215, 216 and the shaft. Therefore, the sleeve-type members 215, 216 can be denoted as "friction members" as disclosed herein. The compression force against the shaft is at least partially provided by a plurality of rings 217 (such as, for example, O-rings made of rubber) surrounding the sleeve-type members 215, 216. However, it should be noted that in addition or alternatively, the sleeve-type members 215, 216 can be configured so that they are biased towards a compressed state, thereby enabling a press-fit connection with the shaft 12. The sleeve-type members 215, 216 are attached to the lower portion 2401 of the bicycle support arm member 24 so that these sleeve-type members rotate together with the lower portion 2401. The sleeve-type members 215, 216 may include a corresponding flexure 2120, such as a protruding flexure, similar to the above, which is snap-fitted into the corresponding aperture 240. In addition or alternatively, the sleeve-type members 215, 216 may include press-fit portions 2151, which are suitable for providing a press-fit connection between the lower portion 2401 and each sleeve, which means an additional stable connection. The press-fit portions 2151 are compressible portions here, which will be compressed when the sleeve-type members 215, 216 are inserted into the cylindrical lower portion 2401, so that a strong and gapless press-fit can be achieved therebetween. The press-fit portions 2151 may be protruding portions of the sleeve-type members 215, 216 as shown.

[0587] exist Figure 6a to Figure 6b , the connection and limiting arrangement 210 comprises a spring biasing member 211' in the form of a coil spring, a first friction member 212' and a second friction member 213' in the form of a sleeve, which are arranged to rotate about a pivot axis P2 of a pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24, wherein the limiting function is provided at least in the following way: the spring biasing member 211' pushes the second friction member 213' so that a friction force is generated therebetween, thereby preventing the at least one pivotable and reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 (not shown) from pivoting due to the applied force when the applied force is below a threshold value. The coil spring 211' is an axial spring, which applies an axial force to the second friction member 213'. The friction members 212', 213' comprise mating conical friction surfaces (see in particular Figure 6b ), similar to what was explained above. The restriction arrangement 210 is here also attached to the lower portion (not shown) of the bicycle support arm member 24, i.e. it rotates together with the lower portion. Again, this restriction arrangement 210 is preferably configured to have a secure fit with the lower portion, similar to what was explained with respect to other embodiments.

[0588] refer to Figures 39a to 39c , another embodiment of a restraining arrangement 210 for a bicycle support arm member 24 is shown. Fig.39a depicts an exploded view of a restraining arrangement 210, Fig.39b depicts a perspective view of a portion of a restraining arrangement 210, and Fig.39c A cross-sectional view of a restraining arrangement 210 is depicted.

[0589] Figures 39a to 39c The restraining arrangement 210 in the embodiment is configured to pivot the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 due to the applied force when the force applied to the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 is below a threshold value. In this embodiment, this is achieved because the restraining arrangement 210 includes a spring biasing member 214' configured to apply a force in a radial direction relative to the pivot axis P2. The spring biasing member 214' is disposed between two sleeve-type members 2142', 2144' (i.e., outer 2142' and inner 2144' sleeve-type members, respectively), as seen in the radial direction.

[0590] The inner sleeve-type member 2144' is configured to surround and be rotationally locked to, for example, the aforementioned shaft 12 (not shown here), such as being rotationally locked to the aforementioned shaft via the aforementioned axially extending groove 121 of the shaft 12, etc. Therefore, the inner sleeve-type member 2144' may include one or more corresponding protrusions 21441' on its inner enveloping surface as shown, which are configured to engage with the axially extending groove 121 of the shaft 12, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 21441' extends inwardly in the radial direction and also extends longitudinally along the pivot axis P2. Even though this embodiment has been shown to provide a secure and reliable connection with the shaft 12, other configurations are certainly possible.

[0591] The outer sleeve-type member 2142', the inner sleeve-type member 2144' and the spring biasing member 214' are configured so that when the restriction arrangement 210 is in an assembled state (i.e., when the different components are assembled together), the spring biasing member 214' is compressed in the radial direction. Therefore, the outer sleeve-type member 2142' will be biased away from the pivot axis P2 in the radial direction.

[0592] The outer sleeve type member 2142', the inner sleeve type member 2144' and the spring biasing member 214' disposed inside the tubular member 210' of the bicycle support arm member 24 are in an assembled state. The rotation axis of the tubular member 210' corresponds to the pivot axis P2.

[0593] Thus, the outer sleeve-type member 2142' is thereby configured to apply a force radially outward to the inner encapsulating surface of the tubular member 210' when disposed therein. As such, the restraining arrangement 210 will thereby prevent the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member 24 from pivoting due to the applied force when the applied force is below a threshold. The outer surface of the outer sleeve-type member 2142' and the inner encapsulating surface of the tubular member 210' are rounded, thereby enabling rotation therebetween when the applied force is above a threshold.

[0594] like Figures 39a to 39c As shown, the restriction arrangement 210 may further include two end caps 2146', 2148' disposed on opposite sides of the tubular member 210'. The end caps 2146', 2148' are configured to be rotationally locked relative to the tubular member 210' and are configured to surround an interior portion of the restriction arrangement 210. The end caps 2146', 2148' may be configured to provide additional friction between a surface of the end caps 2146', 2148' and, for example, the inner sleeve-type member 2144'.

[0595] The spring biasing member 214' may include more than one spring element as shown, such as four spring elements distributed around the circumference of the inner sleeve-type member 2144'. Each spring element 214' may be substantially V-shaped or U-shaped, as seen in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the pivot axis P2. In addition, as shown, each spring element 214' may extend longitudinally along the pivot axis P2. For example, each spring element 214' may be made of sheet metal to provide a reliable and stable biasing effect.

[0596] In addition, as shown in the figure, each spring element 214' and / or the inner sleeve type member 2144' may also include a device 21442' for axially and / or circumferentially positioning and / or locking the spring element 214' relative to the inner sleeve type member 2144'. The device 21442' can be formed by a recess or cutout on the spring element 214' and a corresponding protrusion on the inner sleeve type member 2144' as shown in the figure. The opposite configuration is certainly possible. Therefore, a reliable and stable connection is provided therebetween, thereby avoiding axial and / or circumferential displacement of the spring element 214'. This configuration means that the risk of losing the limiting function of the bicycle support arm member 24 during use is reduced.

[0597] In order to simplify the assembly procedure, and in order to allow the biasing effect to be applied to the inner envelope surface of the tubular member 210' as mentioned above, the outer sleeve member 2142' is preferably divided into at least two sections as shown in the figure, thereby forming a corresponding part of a circle, as seen in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the pivot axis P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer sleeve member 2142' is divided into two sections. However, the outer sleeve member 2142' can be formed by any number of such sections (such as three, four, five or six sections) forming a corresponding part of a circle, as seen in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the pivot axis P2.

[0598] It should be noted that the restraining arrangement as disclosed herein may alternatively be configured to restrain pivotal movement of any of the wheel receiving members 12 ′, 12 ″, 14 ′, 14 ″, 16 ′, 16 ″.

[0599] Figure 1 A bicycle rack 1 according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is also depicted.

[0600] Therefore, the bicycle rack 1 is constructed such that:

[0601] Initially a first bicycle can be loaded onto the platform support arrangement 10 and secured to the first bicycle support arm member 20, then the second bicycle support arm member 24 can be reconfigured, e.g., placed into an upright bicycle support state, then a second bicycle can be loaded onto the platform support arrangement 10 and secured to the second bicycle support arm member 24. Thereafter, the bicycle support arm member 26 can be reconfigured, e.g., placed into an upright bicycle support state, then a third bicycle can be loaded onto the platform support arrangement 10 and secured to the bicycle support arm member 26.

[0602] Refer to Figure 7 to Fig.11 , depicts a ratchet buckle 300 of a load support for a vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the third aspect of the present disclosure. The load support may be, for example, Figure 1 The bicycle rack 1 shown in the figure, and the ratchet buckle 300 can be arranged on any one of the bicycle support arm members 20, 24, 26, and the wheel receiving member 12', 12', 14', 14', 16', 16'. Therefore, the ratchet buckle 300 can be used to hold and fix the wheel and / or the frame of the bicycle to the bicycle rack 1. Figure 1 The illustrated bicycle rack may also include one or more straps 400 .

[0603] Ratchet Buckle 300 includes:

[0604] - strap receiving section 302,

[0605] - Strap engagement member 304 (see e.g. Figures 9 to 11 ), the strap engagement member is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member 402 of strap 400, thereby retaining strap 400 in strap receiving section 302.

[0606] The buckle engagement members 402 of the strap may be in the form of teeth as shown.

[0607] The ratchet buckle 300 also includes an actuation lever 306 for the user. The actuation lever 306 is configured to actuate the strap engagement member 304 between an open state in which the strap 400 is free to move in the strap receiving section 302 and an engaged state in which the strap engagement member 304 is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member 402 of the strap 400.

[0608] As shown, the ratchet buckle 300 may also include a ratchet buckle housing 308, and the actuation lever 306 may be configured to move, in this case pivot, relative to the ratchet buckle housing 308 when the strap engagement member 304 is actuated between the open state and the engaged state.

[0609] The ratchet buckle can be used as Figure 8 Also shown is a retention arrangement 310 configured to retain the actuation rod 306 in a retention position such that the strap engagement member 304 is maintained in an open state. As further shown, the retention arrangement 310 may include a first retention portion 3101 associated with the actuation rod 306 and a second retention portion 3102 associated with the ratchet buckle housing 308, wherein the first retention portion 3101 and the second retention portion 3102 are configured to engage with each other to retain the actuation rod 306 in a retention position. In the illustrated embodiment, the first retention portion 3101 is a protrusion configured to engage with the second retention portion 3102. The second retention portion 3102 is here a groove configured to engage with the first retention portion 3101.

[0610] Furthermore, as shown, the ratchet buckle housing 308 may include a first wall 3081 and a second wall 3082, wherein each wall at least partially extends along the length extension L1 and the height extension h1 of the ratchet buckle 300. When the strap 400 is accommodated in the strap accommodation section 302, the length extension L1 of the ratchet buckle 300 corresponds to the length extension of the strap. As seen along the width extension w1 of the ratchet buckle 300, the walls 3081, 3082 are arranged to be offset from each other, thereby defining the strap accommodation section 302 therebetween. The first wall 3081 and the second wall 3082 include a second retaining portion 3102. More specifically, the second retaining portion 3102 is provided on an inner surface of each of the walls 3081, 3082, facing the other of the walls.

[0611] The actuating rod 306 may be preferably disposed in the space between the first wall 3081 and the second wall 3082 as shown, and the first retaining portion 3101 may be disposed on at least one outer surface of the actuating rod 306 as shown, and when the actuating rod 306 is in the retaining position, the at least one outer surface faces the inner surface of one of the first wall 3081 and the second wall 3082 of the ratchet buckle housing 308. The retaining arrangement 310 is here configured to retain the actuating rod 306 in the retaining position by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0612] The actuation rod 306 may further include a strap engagement portion 3061 as shown, which is configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member 402 of the strap 400, and wherein the actuation rod 306 is configured to move (in this case pivot) relative to the ratchet buckle 300 so that the strap engagement portion 3061 moves the strap 400 in the strap tightening direction in the strap receiving section 302. The strap tightening direction is here the L1 direction as shown. Thus, by moving the actuation rod 306 in a counterclockwise pivoting motion, the strap 400 will move in the L1 direction. Furthermore, by moving the actuation rod 306 back and forth, such as in a pumping mode, the strap 400 will move in the L1 direction, thereby tightening the strap 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation rod 306 includes three strap engagement portions 3061 in the form of teeth, which are configured to engage with at least one buckle engagement member 402 of the strap 400. As shown, teeth 3061 are disposed on an outer curved surface of the actuator rod 306 .

[0613] In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation rod 306 is spring biased toward a default position, in this case away from a holding position.

[0614] Especially refer to Fig.11 a to Fig.11 f, these figures show a cross-sectional view of the ratchet buckle 300, and the strap engaging member 304 may further include a buckle state switching portion 3041. The strap engaging member 304 is configured to engage with the protruding element 403 of the strap 400 when the strap 400 is removed from the strap receiving section 302, so that the strap engaging member 304 automatically switches from the open state to the engaged state. In the open state, the strap 400 is able to move freely in the strap receiving section 302, and in the engaged state, the strap engaging member 304 is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member 402 of the strap 400. The strap engaging member 304 may, for example, include teeth 3040 as shown in the figure, or include only one tooth, which engages with at least one buckle engaging member 402 of the strap 400 (such as, as shown in the figure, a corresponding tooth on the strap 400). As Fig.11 The cross section shown in the sequence of figures is a cross section of a plane defined by the length extension L1 and the height extension h1 of the ratchet buckle 300.

[0615] For example, as shown, the strap engagement member 304 can be pivoted in a clockwise direction toward the engaged state and in a counterclockwise direction toward the open state. The reverse configuration is of course also possible. The pivot axis is here essentially parallel to the width extension w1 and is defined by the pivot pin 316. When the strap 400 is removed, i.e. Fig.11 e to Fig.11 f), the pivoting movement is achieved by the engagement of the buckle state switching portion 3041 with the protruding element 403. Therefore, when the strap 400 is removed from the strap receiving section 302, the strap engaging member 304 will pivot in the clockwise direction. The strap engaging member 304 is arranged to push the actuating lever 306 when it is pivoted to the engaged state, so that the actuating lever 306 moves away from the holding position. The buckle state switching portion 3041 is here a protruding portion in the form of a tooth of the strap engaging member 304, and the protruding element 403 is here in the form of a wedge-shaped portion.

[0616] exist Fig.11 In the sequence of drawings, starting from the upper left drawing (i.e., Fig.11 a) To begin, the strap 400 is inserted into the strap receiving section 302 when the strap engagement member 304 is in an engaged state. The protruding element 403 can be inserted and freely passed by the strap engagement member 304 because the strap engagement member 304 includes a protruding element 403. Fig.10 The free engagement section 3042 is shown. The free engagement section 3042 is here a recess or groove arranged in the middle between the outer end portions of the teeth 3040 mentioned above, as seen along the width extension w1. It should be noted that such a free segment may not necessarily be arranged in the middle between the above-mentioned outer end portions, but can be placed differently as long as the segment corresponds to the position and shape of the protruding element 403. In the upper right figure— Fig.11 In b, the situation in which the strap 400 will freely pass through the strap engagement member 304 is shown.

[0617] In the next two accompanying figures— Fig.11 c to Fig.11 d, the actuation lever 306 is shown actuated in a clockwise direction toward the holding position. This can be done at least in part by the user. When in the holding position, the strap can move freely in the strap receiving section 302, as mentioned above. When the strap 400 is removed ( Fig.11 e to Fig.11 f), the buckle state switching portion 3041 engages with the protruding element 403, so that the strap engaging member 304 will automatically switch from the open state to the engaged state.

[0618] The strap engaging member 304 is spring biased toward an engaged state in which the strap engaging member 304 is configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member 402 of the strap 400 .

[0619] In the illustrated embodiment, see Fig. 9 , the ratchet buckle 300 includes a common spring biasing member 312 for the actuation rod 306 and the strap engaging member 304. The common spring biasing member 312 connects the actuation rod 306 and the strap engaging member 304 via respective pivot pins 314, 316. The common spring biasing member 312 is here a helical spring formed of a wire such as a metal wire, and is configured to apply a biasing force in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis of the actuation rod 306 and the strap engaging member 304.

[0620] The pivot pin 316 is disposed in the slots 3083, 3084 of the respective walls 3081, 3082. The slots 3083, 3084 may extend upward at least partially along the height extension h1 as shown, such as extending upward at a certain inclination. Thus, when, for example, the strap 400 is inserted into the strap receiving section 302, the actuating rod 306 may be moved upward in the height direction h1 by engaging with the wedge-shaped protruding element 403. For example, referring to Fig.11 a. When the binding belt 400 moves to the right, ie, moves in the L1 direction, the actuating rod 306 will be pushed upward by the first inclined surface of the wedge-shaped protruding element 403 .

[0621] The ratchet buckle 300 may further include a strap guide portion 318, 320 as shown in the figure, which is provided at the strap entrance section of the strap receiving section 302 and the strap exit section of the strap receiving section 302, wherein the strap guide portion 318, 320 is an extension of the strap receiving section 302 and a widened section of the strap receiving section 302 (e.g., Figure 8 As seen along the height extension h1 , the section widens, creating an inlet that tapers towards the outlet and an outlet that tapers towards the inlet.

[0622] References Fig.12 , showing in perspective a load support for a vehicle (such as Figure 1 A portion of a bicycle rack 1) is shown. The load rack is suitable for being mounted on a vehicle for transporting a load. The load rack comprises:

[0623] - A base frame 500 having a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h. The base frame 500 is shown as Figure 1 The portion of the platform support arrangement 10 shown is shown. Therefore, the length extension L, the width extension w and the height extension h are here the same as Figure 1 The same as in.

[0624] The base frame 500 includes a first elongated member 510 and a second elongated member 520 for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 are spaced apart from each other and are disposed along a length extension L substantially parallel to each other.

[0625] The base frame 500 also includes:

[0626] - A first bridge portion 530 and a second bridge portion 540, which are disposed between the first slender member 510 and the second slender member 520 and couple the first slender member 510 and the second slender member 520 together.

[0627] The first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540 are spaced apart from each other and offset from each other, thereby forming a coupling region C1 therebetween, as seen along the length extension L of the base frame 500, wherein the load receiving section of the optional load support is coupled to the base frame 400 in the coupling region C1. Figure 1 As shown, Fig.12 The illustrated coupling region C1 may include one of the wheel receiving members 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16". In this embodiment, the wheel receiving member 16', 16" is coupled to the base frame 500 in the coupling region C1. In this case, the coupling is by, for example Figure 5a to Figure 5b This is achieved by the shaft 12 shown.

[0628] The load containing section (ie, wheel containing members 16 ′, 16 ″) is here coupled to each of the spaced-apart first and second bridge portions 530 , 540 and is located between the spaced-apart first and second bridge portions 530 , 540 .

[0629] More specifically, in the embodiment shown, the wheel receiving members 16', 16" are coupled to the base frame 500 and are also pivotable about respective pivot axes P1, P2 relative to the base frame 500 extending substantially along the length extension L. Thus, the pivot axes P1, P2 are here connected to the base frame 500. Figure 1 Same as shown.

[0630] Each pivot axis P1, P2 is defined by an axis (such as axis 12), which is here an integral cylindrical rod extending through the first bridge part 530 and the second bridge part 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the separated first bridge part 530 and the second bridge part 540 include corresponding cylindrical parts 531, 541, 531', 541', in this case corresponding cylindrical apertures, which form corresponding pivotable connections with the connected and pivotable wheel receiving members 16', 16". The connected and pivotable wheel receiving members 16', 16" are arranged on opposite sides relative to the base frame 500.

[0631] Additionally or alternatively, the load receiving section may be a bicycle supporting arm for holding and securing a bicycle to the load carrier.

[0632] like Fig.12 The illustrated base frame 500 comprises a plurality of pairs of corresponding first and second bridge portions, namely 530 , 540 , 530 ′, 540 ′, 530 ″, 540 ″, distributed along the length extension L of the base frame 500 .

[0633] like Figure 1 As shown, a plurality of load containing sections distributed along the length extension L of the base frame 500 may also be included, such as a plurality of pairs of load containing sections, namely wheel containing members 12 ′, 12 ″, 14 ′, 14 ″, 16 ′, 16 ″.

[0634] The plurality of corresponding pairs of first and second bridge portions 530, 540, 530', 540', 530", 540" and the plurality of load receiving sections 12', 12", 14', 14", 16', 16" are alternately distributed in the following order: first bridge portion 530, wheel receiving member 16', second bridge portion 540 and bicycle support arm member 26, and then optionally repeated. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the bicycle support arm member is arranged as follows Fig.12 Shown between bridge portions 540' and 530".

[0635] The first and second elongated members 510, 520 are here also arranged in a common plane defined by the length extension L and the width extension w of the base frame 400. The common plane corresponds to a substantially horizontal plane when the load carrier 1 is mounted to a vehicle.

[0636] exist Fig.13 In it, it is described as Fig.12 Another perspective view of the base frame 500 is shown, focusing on the first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540 .

[0637] Especially about Fig.12 and Fig.13 , it is shown that the cross-sectional profiles of the first bridge section 530 and the second bridge section 540 have the same shape, wherein these cross sections are defined by planes perpendicular to the length extension L. In the embodiment shown, the first bridge section 530 and the second bridge section 540 and the other bridge sections 530', 540", 530', 540" have the same length, as seen along the length extension L of the load support. The bridge sections 530, 540, 530', 540', 530", 540" are also symmetrical here with respect to a center line A2 of each bridge section extending along the height extension h (see Fig.14a ), i.e. line A2 defines two identical mirror-image portions of each bridging portion.

[0638] Furthermore, as shown, each of the first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540 is an extruded element, here made of aluminum. The extruded first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540 have an extruded extension extending substantially along the length extension L of the base frame 500. Fig.12 In the illustrated embodiment, all bridge portions 530, 540, 530', 540", 530', 540" are constructed like this.

[0639] about Figure 14a to Figure 14b , one of the bridging portions 530 is shown in cross section. The cross section is perpendicular to the length extension L. It should be understood that even if only one bridging portion is shown, the other bridging portions of the base frame 500 can be constructed in the same manner. The bridging portion 530 includes a frame structure made of aluminum. More specifically, the first bridging portion 530 is formed by an upward-facing wall 532 and a downward-facing wall 533, the upward-facing wall facing upward along the height extension h of the base frame 500, and the downward-facing wall facing downward, wherein the upward-facing wall 532 and the downward-facing wall 533 define a gap therebetween. A plurality of support walls 534 are disposed between the upward-facing wall 532 and the downward-facing wall 533 and connect the upward-facing wall and the downward-facing wall so that a number of sub-gaps are formed therebetween. The support wall 534 is a wall extending diagonally, as seen in a plane defined by the width extension w and the height extension h of the base frame 500. Therefore, the sub-gaps are substantially triangular, which means a more rigid frame structure.

[0640] As further shown, the first bridge portion 530 is coupled to the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 by welding, hook / engagement edge 535, and in the upper connection region by hook / engagement edge. A welding point 536 is provided in the lower region of the first bridge portion 530 and the respective elongated member 510, 520.

[0641] The respective connection to the elongated members 510 , 520 is a track-type connection. Specifically, the track-type connection is formed by the bridge portion 530 and the track-shaped extruded portion of the elongated members 510 , 520 , wherein the track-shaped extruded portion extends along the length extension L.

[0642] The connection interface shown is a substantially diagonal connection interface. More specifically, as shown, the first bridging portion 530 rests on top of the respective elongated members 510, 520, as seen in a cross-section of the base frame 500, the cross-section being defined by a plane perpendicular to the length extension L. Thus, a secure connection and support is provided for the bridging portion 530.

[0643] Furthermore, as shown, the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 can be extruded components, such as made of aluminum. The two elongated members also include a frame structure, wherein the frame structure forms a triangular cross-sectional profile having a lower horizontal side and a first upper side, the first upper side being used to couple / align with one side of the first bridging portion 530. In the illustrated embodiment, the side is set at about 45 degrees to the horizontal lower side. Reference Fig.14c , showing the Figure 14a to Figure 14b A configuration similar to the one shown.

[0644] Specifically, the connection interface as shown in the figure is also a connection interface that is basically diagonal here.Therefore, the first bridging portion 530 rests on the top of the corresponding elongated member 510,520, as seen in the cross section of the base frame 500, and the cross section is limited by a plane perpendicular to the length extension L.In the illustrated embodiment, a connection surface in the connection surface (in this case, the surface 534' of the bridging portion 530) is curved or curved, so that a gap is formed between two face-to-face surfaces.Therefore, two parts can be connected together more easily, because a surface in these face-to-face surfaces (in this case, the surface 534' of the bridging portion 530) will be allowed to be flexed.Therefore, a tight fit can be realized therebetween without the need for high-precision tolerances.Therefore, a reliable and cost-effective connection is achieved.In this embodiment, the hook / engagement edge 535 is arranged in the upper region and the lower connection region.

[0645] Refer to Figure 15 to Fig.19 , depicts a load support according to the fifth aspect. As shown in Figures 15 to Fig.17 The load carrier shown here can also be, for example, Figure 1 The bicycle rack 1 shown. Alternatively, the load rack may be a rear-mounted cargo box 1 ', i.e. a cargo box mounted at the rear of a vehicle, such as Figure 18 to Figure 19 shown.

[0646] The load support has a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h and comprises:

[0647] - a housing 600 for a light emitting and / or light reflecting member and a holder 602, 602' for the housing 600 (see Fig.16 and Fig.19 ).

[0648] The light reflecting member in this case is an LED lamp.

[0649] The housing 600 comprises a light emitting area 604 which is at least partially directed towards a rearward direction of the load carrier 1 , 1 ′, which rearward direction corresponds to the length extension L and to a rearward direction of the vehicle when the load carrier 1 , 1 ′ is mounted to the vehicle.

[0650] The light emitting area 604 has a three-dimensional shape. More specifically, Fig.15b As shown, the light-emitting area includes a first sub-area 606, which has a first projection portion 606' in a plane defined by a width extension w and a height extension h, and has a second projection portion 606" in a plane defined by a length extension L and a height extension h, thereby forming a first light-emitting portion 6061 of the first sub-area 606 pointing in a rearward direction, and a second light-emitting portion 6062 of the first sub-area 606 pointing to the width extension w and away from the load bracket 1.

[0651] In addition, if Fig.15a As shown and indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. , the first sub-area 606 may include a continuous surface having a main extension along a width extension w formed by the first light emitting and / or light reflecting portion 6061, and another smaller extension along a length extension L and a height extension h formed by the second light emitting portion 6062, wherein the first light emitting portion 6061 and the second light emitting portion 6062 are connected via an edge 6063, which is a smooth edge here. The edge 6063 is formed by Fig.15a As shown in the figure, the extension portion extending along the length formed by the second light emitting portion 6062 extends rearward, and when the load bracket 1 is mounted on the vehicle, the rearward direction corresponds to the forward driving direction.

[0652] As further shown, the light emitting region 604 may include a second sub-region 608 located below the first sub-region 606, as seen along the height extension h, wherein the first sub-region 606 and the second sub-region 608 are divided by an edge 610. Fig.15bIn the illustrated embodiment, the edge 610 dividing the first sub-region 606 and the second sub-region 608 extends outwardly from the first sub-region and the second sub-region along the length extension L, so that the edge forms a second sub-region overhang 610 that at least partially covers the second sub-region 508 from above.

[0653] like Fig.17 As indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 1 , the first sub-area 606 and the second sub-area 608 may be L-shaped, as seen from behind along the length extension L of the load support 1, the L-shape being shown as oppositely arranged and interconnected sub-areas extending along the width extension w. The L-shape may be formed by lights arranged behind the transparent glass. The L-shape may be provided by using different colors for different lights, such as brake lights, parking lights, main lights, flashing lights.

[0654] In the illustrated embodiment, the light emitting reflective area 604 is made of clear glass, and the LED lights are disposed behind the clear glass.

[0655] As further shown in the figure, the load holder 1, 1' may also include an overhang 612, 612' arranged above the holder 602, 602', as seen along a height extension h of the load holder 1, 1', which corresponds to the height extension of the vehicle when the load holder 1, 1' is mounted to the vehicle. The overhang 612, 612' protrudes from the holder 602, 602' so that the overhang at least partially covers the light emitting area 604 and the holder 602, 602' from above.

[0656] The overhangs 612, 612' surround fastening elements (not shown) so that they are not visible when the housing 500 is mounted to the holders 602, 602'. These fastening elements may be, for example, fastening elements for the light emitting area 604, which may be the transparent glass mentioned above.

[0657] As shown in Figure 15 to Fig.17 As shown, the load support 1 may include a load receiving section 16' configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle. In the embodiment shown, the load receiving section 16' is a wheel tray, wherein the overhang 612 forms part of the load receiving section 16'. Therefore, fewer parts may be used to achieve the configuration, which means high cost-effectiveness.

[0658] like Figure 15a to Figure 15b As further shown, the overhang 612 and the housing 600 form a transition edge 614 therebetween when the housing 600 is mounted to the retaining frame 602 , wherein the overhang 612 and the housing 600 at the transition edge are shaped such that the overhang and the housing are aligned and / or flush with each other along the transition edge 614 .

[0659] like Fig.17 As shown using dashed lines, the light emitting region 604 may have an outer profile that is a parallelogram, as seen from behind along the length extension L of the load support.

[0660] The load support 1, 1' preferably comprises a second housing for the light emitting member and a second holder for the housing, wherein the second housing and / or the holder are formed as a housing and a holder according to any of the preceding embodiments, and wherein each housing and a holder are arranged at a respective rear corner portion of the load support 1, 1', such as Figure 1 and Fig.18 shown.

[0661] refer to Figure 20 to Figure 23 , depicts a load support 1 according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure. The load support 1 as shown in the figure can be, for example, Figure 1 The bicycle stand 1 is shown.

[0662] The load carrier 1 is suitable for being mounted on a vehicle for transporting loads. The load carrier 1 has a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h, similar to Figure 1 Thus, when mounted to a vehicle, the load carrier 1 extends along a length extension L at the rear side of the vehicle out from the vehicle.

[0663] The load support 1 comprises:

[0664] - a base frame portion 700,

[0665] a load receiving section 702 for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle,

[0666] The load containing section 702 is movable relative to the base frame portion 700 so that when the load carrier 1 is mounted to a vehicle, the load containing section 702 can be moved away from the vehicle.

[0667] The base frame portion 700 as shown includes two separate elongated members 704 , 706 extending along a length extension L.

[0668] The movable load receiving section 702 is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis P3. As shown, the pivot axis may extend along the width extension (w). Thus, the load receiving section 702 may be effectively pivoted away from the vehicle.

[0669] As shown in the figure, the load receiving section 702 includes Figure 1 The platform support arrangement 10 is shown. However, it should be noted that the load receiving section 702 may have any other suitable configuration for carrying a load and not just for bicycles.

[0670] The base frame portion 700 as shown includes two connecting pins 708 , 710 for holding and securing the load containing section 702 in a fixed state relative to the base frame portion 700 .

[0671] about Fig.21 and Fig. 22 , shows that the load receiving section 702 includes two corresponding connection arrangements 712. Only one connection arrangement for one of the connection pins is shown. The two connection arrangements 712 are identical here, and therefore only one of them will be described.

[0672] The connection arrangement 712 includes an aperture 714 for receiving the connection pin 708 .

[0673] In the illustrated embodiment, the corresponding connection arrangement 712 comprises a spring-biased locking mechanism 716 for locking the connection pin 708 to the load receiving section 702. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring-biased locking mechanism 716 comprises a helical spring 716' extending along the length extension L. The spring-biased locking mechanism 716 is arranged to lock the connection pin 708 to the load receiving section 702 in a locking direction extending substantially perpendicularly to the length of the at least one connection pin 708. Thus, the locking direction is here along the length extension L.

[0674] like Fig. 22 As shown, the corresponding connection arrangement 712 is hidden in the interior space of the load containing section 702. In this embodiment, the connection arrangement 712 is hidden in, for example, Fig.12 In the elongated member 510 shown. In addition, Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the corresponding connection arrangement 712 is arranged in a separate box housing 718 in the interior space. The box housing 718 as shown can be slid into the interior space of the elongated member 510. Therefore, the box housing 718 can be easily inserted into the elongated member 510 and removed from the elongated member.

[0675] The load support 1 may, as shown, further comprise a flexible elongated element 720 , here a wire, wherein the spring biased locking mechanism 716 is arranged to be released by a pulling force applied to the flexible elongated element 720 .

[0676] The flexible elongated element 720 is connected to the spring biased locking mechanism 716 via a flexible element spring biasing member 722 which applies a tensioning force to the flexible elongated element 720. The flexible element spring biasing member 722 is here a helical spring which applies a tensioning force along the length extension L.

[0677] The spring biased locking mechanism 716 may include a slidable plate element 724 for locking the connecting pin 708 to the load containing section 702 as shown. The slidable plate element 724 as shown includes a partition wall 724' that separates the two coil springs 716', 722. The partition wall 724' extends along a height extension h and a width extension w. The coil spring 716' applies a thrust to the partition wall 724' toward the locking position of the connecting pin 708. The coil spring 722 applies a thrust to the partition wall 724' so that the flexible element 720 is tensioned.

[0678] The slidable plate element 724 further comprises a locking wall 724 ″ which applies a locking force to the connecting pin 708 . The locking wall 724 ″ extends along a length extension L and a width extension w.

[0679] The connecting pins 708, 710 have a tapered shape that tapers in the direction toward the load-containing section 702. In addition, the tapered shape has a recessed portion 708' for accommodating a locking element, which is here a locking wall 724". The locking wall 724" is suitable for partially surrounding the waist section of the connecting pin 708 (i.e., the section in the recessed portion 708'), thereby providing a stable gap-free connection. It should be noted that the connecting pin may have other shapes, such as a more rectangular and / or triangular shape, instead of the smoother tapered shape shown in the figure. Such a configuration should preferably also have a recessed portion or waist section for, for example, a sliding plate element 724. Fig.49 Another example of a connector pin configuration is shown, depicting a connector pin 708" having more distinct corners, thereby forming a substantially triangular shaped connector pin.

[0680] The base frame portion 700 shown in the figure extends along a base frame portion extension axis A3, which is an extension L of the length of the load support 1, wherein the pivot axis P3 is offset from the base frame portion extension axis A3. In the embodiment shown, the pivot axis P3 is arranged at a distance d1 below the base frame portion extension axis A3, as seen along the height extension h of the load support 1, see Fig.23 The distance d1 may for example be 1 cm to 25 cm, such as 5 cm to 15 cm. The base frame portion extension axis A3 is here arranged at the same level as the central axis of at least one of the elongated members 704, 706, as seen along the height extension h.

[0681] As further shown, the pivot axis P3 can be provided on a separate member 726 which is attached to the base frame portion 700, such as by an insertion connection. The separate member 726 is here inserted into the respective elongated members 704, 706 and attached to these elongated members by a fastening member 728.

[0682] The separate member 726 may, for example, as shown, be a curved member that curves downwardly from the base frame portion 700 along a height extension h, such as shown by two tubular curved members connected to each respective elongated member 704, 706. Thus, a relatively large deflection may be provided in a rigid and stable manner relative to the base frame portion 700.

[0683] The load support 1 may further include a stop element (not shown) for preventing the load holding section 702 from moving further away from the base frame portion 700 after having moved, such as pivoting, a maximum predetermined distance, wherein the stop element may be a flexible, elongated element, such as a wire, connecting the base frame portion 700 and the load holding section 702.

[0684] Refer to Figure 24 to Fig.26 , shows an exemplary embodiment of a license plate frame 800 according to the seventh aspect. The license plate frame 800 can be attached to a Figure 1 The bicycle stand 1 is shown.

[0685] The license plate frame 800 has its main extension in the license plate frame plane and comprises:

[0686] A license plate attachment side 802 and a load bracket attachment side 804, the license plate attachment side extending from the license plate frame 800 in a first lateral direction relative to the plane of the license plate frame, the load bracket attachment side extending from the license plate frame 800 in a second, opposite lateral direction. These lateral directions may be respectively along the following lines: Figure 1 The length extension L shown is extended.

[0687] The load holder attachment side 804 comprises an attachment guide rail 806 adapted to attach the license plate holder 800 to the load holder 1 and further adapted to enable pivotal movement of the license plate holder 800 between the stowed position and the use position relative to the load holder 1 when the license plate holder 800 is attached to the load holder 1. The attachment guide rail 806 is provided on a protruding portion 808 that protrudes in a second opposite lateral direction from the load holder attachment side 804. For example, the protruding portion 808 may protrude from the load holder attachment side 804 by 1 cm to 5 cm, such as 2 cm to 5 cm or 3 cm to 5 cm.

[0688] The protruding portion 808 is at least partially an integral part 808 ′ of the license plate frame 800 and comprises a separate component 808 ″ relative to the license plate frame 800 .

[0689] The separate member 808" is attached to the license plate frame 800 by a snap fit connection, in this case by a laterally extending flexible arm member 810.

[0690] like Fig.25 As further shown, the license plate frame 800 may include a receiving section 812 for the separate component 808 ″ defined by a transversely extending wall that is integral with the license plate frame 800 and at least partially surrounds the separate component 808 ″ as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0691] As shown, the separate member 808" may include a lateral outer wall extending from the load bracket attachment side 804 in a second, opposite lateral direction, wherein the lateral outer wall completely surrounds the attachment guide rail 806, thereby forming an at least partially enclosed space for the attachment guide rail 806, as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0692] As further shown in the figure, the transverse outer wall 808" may include a guide flange 8081, which extends substantially in a direction perpendicular to the extension of the transverse outer wall and extends inwardly into the enclosed space, wherein at least one guide flange 8081 forms a portion of the guide track surface to which the guide track 806 is attached. The guide flange 8081 is located near the outermost portion, so that the guide flange 8081 is at least positioned closer to the outermost portion than to the innermost portion, which is closer to the license plate frame plane.

[0693] As shown, the attachment guide track 806 extends in the plane of the license plate frame. In addition, the attachment guide track 806 is curved, in this case S-shaped, as seen in the plane of the license plate frame.

[0694] The license plate holder can be attached to the load carrier 1 via the attachment guide rail 806 and via the pivot connection interface 814 .

[0695] The license plate frame 800 is preferably made of a lightweight material such as a polymer and / or aluminum. The license plate frame 800 may include a separate light arrangement (not shown) for illuminating the license plate during use. Therefore, the housing 600 with light emitting and / or light reflecting components may not be used for this purpose. A separate light arrangement may be provided above, below and / or to the side of the license plate.

[0696] exist Fig.26 , a load carrier 1 in the form of a bicycle carrier 1 as disclosed herein is shown, the load carrier comprising a license plate holder 800 .

[0697] Now refer to Figures 27 and Fig.28 , depicts a bicycle rack 1 for a vehicle according to a corresponding exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The bicycle rack 1 includes:

[0698] at least one strap 400 for securing a bicycle to the bicycle rack 1 , wherein the bicycle rack 1 is adapted such that the strap 400 secures the bicycle to the bicycle rack 1 when the strap 400 is in the bicycle securing position 420 .

[0699] exist Figures 27a to 27c In FIG. 1 , a wheel receiving section in the form of a wheel receiving member 12 ′ as disclosed herein is shown. Fig.28 , a bicycle support arm member 24 as disclosed herein is shown.

[0700] When the strap 400 is set in the ratchet buckle 300 as disclosed herein, a bicycle securing position 420 is provided. Fig.27a The dashed line 420 entering the ratchet buckle 300 is indicated.

[0701] As shown in Figure 27 and Fig.28 As shown, the bicycle rack 1 may further include a strap stowing portion 430, which is adapted to temporarily hold the strap 400 in a stowed position different from the bicycle fixing position 420. Fig.27a 4, it can be seen that when the strap 400 is disposed in the strap take-up portion 430, the strap will extend along a different path than the bicycle securing location 420. The strap take-up portion 430 may be a separate component attached to the wheel receiving member 12'.

[0702] In the illustrated embodiment, the strap stowage portion 430 includes a slot to temporarily hold the strap 400 in the stowed position. The slot is here an open slot so that when the strap 400 is disposed in the slot, the strap 400 can enter and exit the slot. As such, a closed slot may refer to a slot in which the strap can only enter, such as a pocket-shaped slot. Thus, the stowage portion may alternatively be a closed slot, such as a pocket-shaped slot. The slot may be adapted to align the entry direction of the strap 400 along its length extension L1 with the width extension w or the height extension h, or somewhere in between.

[0703] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the strap 400 is non-detachably coupled to the bicycle support arm member 24 and the wheel receiving member 12' at respective attachment points 420'. More specifically, the strap 400 is pivotably coupled about a pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the length extension L1 and the width extension w1 of the strap. Additionally or alternatively, and as Figure 27b to Figure 27cAs shown, the strap 400 may be slidably coupled, thereby allowing adjustment of the length of the strap 400 around, for example, a bicycle wheel of a bicycle frame. Fig.27c In FIG. 4 , the pivot axis of the strap 400 corresponds to the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1 . Fig.28 The pivot axis of the strap 400 corresponds to the pivot axis of the bicycle support arm member 24 .

[0704] Figure 27b to Figure 27c Another configuration is shown, in which the stowed portion 430 is arranged on the same side as the attachment point 420' of the strap 400. When the strap 400 is in the stowed portion 430, the strap extends along the length of the wheel receiving member 12' and also on the side on which it is located. In this case, when the bicycle rack 1 is mounted to a vehicle, this side faces the vehicle. Of course, the strap can also be on the other opposite side, i.e. the side facing away from the vehicle. Therefore, when loading the bicycle into the wheel receiving member 12', the strap will not get in the way and interfere.

[0705] In Figures 27 to Fig.28 In the illustrated embodiment, the slotted strap stowage portion 430 is configured as a clip that can hold strap 400 therein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the clip is flexible, thereby allowing strap 400 to be press-fitted into the clip. Thus, strap 400 will be securely retained in stowage portion 430, thereby reducing the risk of strap 400 being inadvertently released from the stowage portion.

[0706] exist Figure 27b to Figure 27c In the embodiment shown, strap 400 may include a first stop portion 410 and / or a second stop portion 412 (such as wing-shaped members 412), thereby defining end points between which strap 400 can be slid / adjusted. Thus, the length of strap 400 as seen from attachment point 420' to the free end of strap 400 can be adjusted, which means that flexibility is increased.

[0707] like Fig.28 As shown, the strap 400 can be arranged to extend substantially along and align with the length of the bicycle support arm member 24 when disposed in the stowed position. Therefore, when the strap 400 is disposed in the stowed portion 430, the strap will not obstruct or interfere with any other portion of the bicycle rack 1. Therefore, the risk of the strap 400 getting stuck when folding / unfolding the bicycle rack 1 and its different components can be effectively avoided.

[0708] like Fig.28As shown, when the strap stowage portion 430 is disposed on the frame member, the frame member 24 may include a sleeve-type member 431, in this case a separate sleeve-type member, wherein the strap stowage portion 430 is disposed on the sleeve-type member 431. As further shown, the sleeve-type member 431 may optionally surround a portion of the frame member 24 (i.e., in this case, the bicycle support arm member). As further shown, the frame member 24 may be a telescopic bicycle support arm member, which includes at least a first telescopic arm member 241 and a second telescopic arm member 242, wherein the sleeve-type member 431 is disposed near or at the intersection between the first telescopic arm member 241 and the second telescopic arm member 242. Therefore, by, for example, providing the strap 400 with a length corresponding to the length of the second arm member 242, it can be ensured that the strap 400 can always be disposed in the stowage portion 430. This configuration also means a more cost-effective configuration, because it is easier to attach the sleeve-type member 431 at the intersection between the arm members 241, 242.

[0709] like Fig.27a As shown, the strap take-up portion 430 may be provided on the user side of the wheel receiving member 12' from which the user will load / unload the bicycle. In this case, the strap take-up portion 430 is provided on a side of the wheel receiving member 12', which is the side that includes the ratchet buckle 300 for holding the strap when the strap secures the bicycle to the wheel receiving member. Fig.27a As further shown, the strap stowage portion 430 may be spaced apart from the ratchet buckle 300 by a certain distance d2, as seen along the length extension of the wheel receiving member 12', which here corresponds to the width extension of the bicycle rack 1. More specifically, as shown in FIG. Fig.27a As shown, the position and configuration of the strap take-up portion 430 can be such that it allows the strap 400 to achieve a U-shape and further does not interfere with the bicycle wheel when the bicycle is loaded onto the bicycle rack 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the strap take-up portion 430 is disposed at a distance d2 from the ratchet buckle 300, so that the strap take-up portion 430 is disposed closer to the pivot axis of the wheel receiving member 12'. It should be noted that, alternatively, the strap take-up portion 430 can be disposed at a distance from the ratchet buckle 300, so that the strap take-up portion 430 is disposed closer to the outer end portion of the wheel receiving member 12'.

[0710] like Fig.27a As further shown, the slot 430 is substantially aligned with the length extension of the wheel receiving member 12 ′, thereby providing a further improved U-shape of the strap 400 .

[0711] refer to Fig.29 To Figure 31 and Figures 40a to 40c, shows a bicycle rack 1 including a bicycle upright member 900 according to the ninth aspect of the present disclosure. As described above, the bicycle rack 1 may be as follows: Figure 1 Bicycle stand shown.

[0712] The bicycle rack is suitable for mounting to a vehicle for transporting bicycles and comprises:

[0713] A bicycle stand member 900 for holding a bicycle BC in a standing position when the bicycle BC is positioned on the ground adjacent to the vehicle.

[0714] For example Figure 29 to Figure 30 The bicycle stand member 900 shown is detachable from the bicycle rack 1. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle stand member 900 includes a first attachment portion 902 and a second attachment portion 904, which are adapted to attach the bicycle stand member 900 to two adjacent wheel receiving members 16", 14". For example, at least one of the attachment portions 902, 904 may be adapted to attach to a wheel ramp receiving portion of one of the respective wheel receiving members 16", 14". The wheel ramp receiving portion (not shown) may be adapted to receive a wheel ramp (not shown), wherein the wheel ramp is used to roll the bicycle from the ground onto the bicycle rack 1 and into the wheel receiving member. Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment, the bicycle stand member 900 may include at least one wheel ramp receiving portion 913, which is here in the form of a slot and is arranged so that the wheel ramp will be aligned with the wheel receiving member 16" when mounted to the bicycle rack 1.

[0715] The attachment portions 902, 904 as shown are symmetrical, i.e. they are constructed in the same way but are mirror images. However, asymmetrical attachment portions are also conceivable. Symmetrical attachment portions may allow and facilitate the installation of two bicycle upright components next to each other. For example, one attachment portion of one bicycle upright component may extend above another attachment portion of another adjacent bicycle upright component, as seen along the height extension h. This may also be represented as a puzzle configuration. Alternatively, one attachment portion of one bicycle upright component may overlap another attachment portion of another bicycle upright component. Thus, with the exemplary configuration described, two bicycle upright components may be installed close to each other on one side of the bicycle rack 1.

[0716] For example Fig.30 As further shown, the bicycle upright member 900 can be configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle BC, such as a tire of the wheel. In the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle upright member 900 is U-shaped or V-shaped.

[0717] The bicycle frame member 900 comprises at least one arm member 910, in this case a pivoting arm member relative to the bicycle rack 1. Figure 29 to Figure 30 In the embodiment, the arm member 910 is movable so that the arm member can clamp the wheel.

[0718] The bicycle stand member 900 may be configured to be locked to the bicycle rack when attached to the bicycle rack 1 , such that unwanted removal of the bicycle stand member while attached is prevented.

[0719] As shown in each embodiment, the bicycle rack 1 may further include wheel trays 16", 14", 16', 14', which are used to accommodate the wheels of the bicycle, wherein the bicycle upright member 900 is disposed on or at the wheel tray, such as at the outer end portion of the wheel tray. Figures 40a to 40c In the embodiment, the bicycle stand member 900 is disposed between the outer end portions of the wheel trays 16', 14'. For example, as shown in the figure, the bicycle stand member 900 can be symmetrically attached to the bicycle rack 1 between the outer end portions of the wheel trays 16', 14'.

[0720] exist Figure 31a to Figure 31b In the embodiment shown, the at least one arm member 910, which is here U-shaped, is configured to pivot between a non-use position and a use position (see dashed arrows), in which the at least one arm member 910 is substantially flush with a surface of the bicycle rack, in this case flush with the wheel receiving surface of the wheel tray 16″ (see Fig.31b ), in which the at least one arm member 910 extends away from the wheel receiving surface of the wheel tray 16″ (see Fig.31a ).exist Fig.31b , at least one arm member 910 is shown following the contour of a wheel tray that will receive a bicycle wheel. Thus, a more attractive and less intrusive position of the bicycle stand member 900 can be achieved when the bicycle stand member 900 is in a non-use position.

[0721] The bicycle rack 1 may be configured to move, such as pivot, so that when the bicycle rack is mounted to a vehicle, a bicycle loaded on the bicycle rack moves away from the vehicle, such as, for example Fig.23 Thus, the bicycle stand member 900 can be configured to maintain a bicycle held by the bicycle stand member in a standing position when the bicycle rack is moved, such as pivoted, away from the vehicle. For example, the bicycle stand member 900 can be attached to the base frame portion 700.

[0722] exist Fig.30, it is shown that the bicycle stand member 900 can be configured so that the bicycle BC can be held in a position at an angle substantially equal to an angle between an angle parallel to the direction of travel of the vehicle and an angle substantially transverse to the direction of travel of the vehicle, so that at least one door can still be opened when the bicycle BC is held by the bicycle stand member 900. In the embodiment shown, the bicycle BC is held by its rear wheel so that it extends at an angle (about 45 degrees) in the rearward direction of the vehicle corresponding to the length extension L.

[0723] like Fig.29 The illustrated bicycle upright member 900 is adjustable by pivoting (see dashed arrow) the arm member 910 so that the arm member can hold bicycle wheels having different shapes and / or thicknesses.

[0724] like Fig.29 As further shown, the bicycle stand member 900 may include at least one roller 911, 912, such as the roller 911 disposed on the outer portion of the arm member 910 and adapted to roll on the bicycle wheel when the bicycle wheel is inserted into the bicycle stand member 910. Another roller 912 is disposed here in a similar but opposite position to the roller 911, thereby defining a wheel entrance of the bicycle stand member 900.

[0725] The arm member 910 can be, for example, spring biased so that when a portion of a bicycle wheel is received in the bicycle upright member 900, the arm member can provide a clamping force around the portion of the bicycle wheel. Additionally or alternatively, the arm member 910 can be adjusted to different permanent positions to produce a fixed opening gap for a bicycle wheel having a specific thickness. For example, a user can adjust the position of the arm member 910 by using a tool (not shown) so that the distance between the rollers 911, 912 is adjusted. This is of course also possible if the rollers 911, 912 are not present.

[0726] refer to Figures 40a to 40c , another embodiment of a bicycle rack 1 including a bicycle stand member 900 is shown. The bicycle stand member 900 shown is detachable from the bicycle rack 1. In addition, the bicycle stand member 900 is configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle (not shown). In the embodiment shown, the bicycle stand member 900 is substantially V-shaped so that a wheel of a bicycle can be received therein. The V-shaped bicycle stand member 900 as shown is thus configured to grip around a portion of the wheel so that the bicycle is held in a stable position. In this embodiment, the V-shape is seen in a plane defined by the length extension L and the width extension w.

[0727] The bicycle stand member 900 is detachably attached to the bicycle rack 1 between the outer portions of the wheel trays 14', 16'. In this embodiment, the bicycle stand member 900 is attached to the bicycle rack 1 by a snap-fit ​​connection. As shown, the snap-fit ​​connection can be provided because the bicycle stand member 900 is formed by a bent tubular element 910', wherein a portion 910" of the tubular element is inserted into an at least partially enclosed container 914 for the tubular element 910'. The tubular element 910' and the container 914 are configured to provide a snap-fit ​​connection. In this case, the container 914 has elasticity, which allows the opening of the container 914 to increase in size when the portion 910" of the tubular element 910' is pressed into the container 914.

[0728] like Figure 40a to Figure 40b The bicycle frame member 900 shown can also be in a non-use position ( Fig.40b ) or collapsed state and use position ( Fig.40a ) or a use state. When the bicycle stand member 900 is in any one of the use position or the non-use position, the bicycle stand member 900 and / or the container may be configured such that a force above a predefined threshold needs to be applied to the bicycle stand member 900 until the bicycle stand member 900 pivots from the use position or the non-use position. Thus, when the bicycle stand member 900 is in the non-use position, an unwanted pivoting of the bicycle stand member 900, such as during travel of the vehicle, may be avoided. For example, the bicycle stand member 900 and / or the container may have an auxiliary snap-fit ​​function (not shown) that prevents the bicycle stand member 900 from pivoting when disposed in any one of the use position and the non-use position. In this example, the pivoting movement is performed about an axis parallel to or substantially parallel to the length extension L of the bicycle rack 1. Additionally or alternatively, the pivoting movement may be performed about an axis parallel to or substantially parallel to the height extension h of the bicycle rack 1.

[0729] As further shown, in the stowed state of the bicycle stand member 900, the bicycle stand member 900 is preferably disposed below the wheel trays 14', 16', as seen when the bicycle rack 1 is in its use state (i.e., when the bicycle rack 1 is not in the stowed state). The bicycle stand member 900 can be secured in the stowed state by using a transport securing member (not shown).

[0730] refer to Fig.40c , it is shown that the bicycle frame member 900 may include at least two parts 9161, 9162, which are offset from each other in the width direction of the bicycle frame member and are configured to engage with a bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two parts. Fig.40a), the width direction of the bicycle frame member 900 corresponds to the width direction of the bicycle rack 1. The at least two parts 9161, 9162 are also offset from each other in the height direction of the bicycle frame member, corresponding to the height direction h of the bicycle, so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating around the longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle.

[0731] As further shown in the figure, the bicycle frame member 900 may include at least two parts 9161, 9162, which are offset from each other in the width direction of the bicycle frame member and are configured to engage with the bicycle wheel on opposite sides of the at least two parts, wherein the at least two parts 9161, 9162 are also offset from each other in the length direction of the bicycle frame member 900, so as to prevent the bicycle from rotating around the yaw axis of the bicycle, the length direction corresponding to the length direction of the bicycle. Therefore, in this example, the same parts 9161, 9162 are also offset in the length direction of the bicycle frame member 900.

[0732] More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the bicycle upright member 900 includes at least four portions 9161, 9162, 9163, 9164, wherein two portions 9161, 9163 are configured to engage a bicycle wheel on one side thereof, and two other portions 9162, 9164 are configured to engage a bicycle wheel on another side thereof. The at least four portions 9161, 9162, 9163, 9164 are configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a longitudinal or rolling axis of the bicycle, and are further configured to prevent the bicycle from rotating in any direction about a yaw axis of the bicycle. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the inner portions 9162, 9163 is less than the corresponding distance between the outer portions 9161, 9164, thereby providing a wedge-shaped or V-shaped bicycle upright member 900.

[0733] exist Figures 40a to 40c The embodiment in also depicts that the bicycle stand 1 as disclosed herein may have a handle 918 for a user, which can be used to pivot the wheel receiving member 14 ′, 16 ′. As shown, the bicycle stand member 900 may be disposed adjacent to the handle 918 .

[0734] The bicycle stand component 900 may also have a knurled, rugged or uneven surface which will contact, for example, a bicycle wheel. Therefore, the knurled, rugged or uneven surface may further prevent the bicycle wheel from being released from the bicycle stand component 900. Preferably, the knurled, rugged or uneven surface is disposed inside the V-shaped or U-shaped bicycle stand component 900 which will receive the bicycle wheel.

[0735] like Figures 40a to 40cAs shown, the bicycle rack 1 may further include an aperture 915 or any other connection interface for receiving the loading ramp arrangement 745. The aperture 915 or connection interface is preferably arranged to align with the respective wheel receiving member 14', 16'.

[0736] refer to Figure 32 to Figure 34 and Figure 47a to Figure 47b , shows a bicycle rack 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the tenth aspect. The bicycle rack 1 can be as follows Figure 1 The bicycle stand 1 is shown.

[0737] The bicycle rack comprises a locking anchor 920 for locking a bicycle to the bicycle rack 1 .

[0738] The locking anchor 920 may include a key 928 as shown for locking a locking wire (not shown) in a locking wire opening 930 .

[0739] The locking anchor 920 is detachable relative to the bicycle rack 1. Specifically, the locking anchor 920 can be removed from below the bicycle rack 1 (see Fig.34 ).

[0740] The bicycle rack 1 may further include a base frame 500 having a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h as shown. The base frame 500 includes a first elongated member 510 and a second elongated member 520 for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 are spaced apart from each other and are arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension L. A locking anchor 920 is arranged between the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 as seen along the width extension w.

[0741] The bicycle rack 1 may further include bridge portions 530, 540 as shown, which are disposed between the first elongated member 510 and the second elongated member 520 and couple the first elongated member and the second elongated member together. The locking anchor 920 is disposed near the bridge portions 530, 540, such as coupled to the bridge portions. More specifically, the first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540 are spaced apart from each other and offset from each other, as seen along the length extension L of the base frame 500, wherein the locking anchor 920 is disposed between the first bridge portion 530 and the second bridge portion 540, as seen along the length extension L of the base frame 500.

[0742] The bicycle rack 1 may further include a cover 922 as shown, in this case as a polymer cover, which covers the bridging portions 530 , 540 from above between the first slender member 510 and the second slender member 520 , wherein the cover includes an aperture extending upward along the height, which is suitable for accommodating the locking anchor 920 .

[0743] The locking anchor 920 may be adapted to be inserted into a locking anchor opening of a bicycle rack as shown, in this case the opening of the base frame 500 as seen from below. The locking anchor has a T-shaped profile and also includes protruding flanges 924, 926 that are adapted to engage with a secure portion of the bicycle rack 1 to position the locking anchor 920 in a predetermined support position in the locking anchor opening. Thus, the base frame 500 and the locking anchor 920 are configured such that the locking anchor is prevented from being pulled out when inserted into the locking anchor opening, in this case in an upward direction.

[0744] As shown, the bicycle rack 1 may be configured to accommodate the locking anchor from below, i.e. the locking anchor can be inserted from below, in this case between the first and second elongated members 510 , 520 of the base frame 500 , as seen along the height extension h of the bicycle rack 1 .

[0745] Figure 47a to Figure 47b Depicted is an alternative embodiment of a locking anchor 920' according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure. Similar to the above, the locking anchor 920' includes protruding flanges 924', 926', which are suitable for engaging with a firm portion of the bicycle rack 1 to position the locking anchor 920 in a predetermined support position in the locking anchor opening. Therefore, the base frame 500 and the locking anchor 920' are configured to prevent the locking anchor 920' from being pulled out when inserted into the locking anchor opening, in this case, to prevent the locking anchor from being pulled out in an upward direction. As shown, the protruding flanges 924', 926' can be divided into their corresponding flange sections, which are divided into four corresponding flange sections in this article. As further shown, each flange section, when attached to the bicycle rack 1, can be angled to conform to the shape of the base frame 500 and / or any other part on the bicycle rack. In addition, as shown, the locking anchors 920, 920' can be made of bent metal sheets, such as bent into a U-shape, as seen along the cross-sectional view. Thus, a robust, reliable and cost-effective configuration is achieved.

[0746] Alternatively, the locking anchor 920' may be rigidly fixed to the bicycle rack 1. Thus, for example, the flanges 924', 926' may not be needed in this case. The locking anchor 920' may be rigidly fixed to the bicycle rack 1, for example by welding.

[0747] As shown, the locking anchor 920' may also include a detent arrangement 928' for locking the locking wire 930' at the locking wire opening 930 of the locking anchor 920'. Only a portion of the locking wire 930' is shown here. Fig.47aAs shown, the lock key arrangement 928' for locking the locking wire 930' can be a separate accessory that can be attached to the locking anchor 920'. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock key arrangement 928' is inserted into a gap or opening formed by at least two corresponding metal sheet portions of the locking anchor 920'. For example, the lock key arrangement 928' can be attached to the locking anchor 920' by a snap-fit ​​connection to prevent it from falling off in the unlocked state. As shown, the locking anchor 920' includes an opening through which the key 928 can enter the lock key arrangement 928' for locking and unlocking the locking wire 930' to / from the lock key arrangement 928'.

[0748] In the illustrated embodiment, when the key arrangement 928' is in the unlocked state, when the locking line 930' is not locked thereon, the key arrangement 928' is removable; and when the key arrangement 928' is in the locked state, when the locking line 930' is locked thereon, the key arrangement 928' is not removable.

[0749] like Figure 47a to Figure 47b As further depicted, the bicycle rack 1 may also include a lower cover 922' for the locking anchor 920', wherein the lower cover 922' covers the locking anchor 920' from below. The lower cover 922' may include locking tabs 9221 (such as locking tabs 9221 with a snap function) as shown, which are used to lock the cover to the bicycle rack 1 and / or the locking anchor 920'. The lower cover 922' may hide the locking anchor 920' from below. In addition or alternatively, the lower cover 922' may be used to prevent the locking anchor 920' from falling after being inserted from below.

[0750] like Figure 47b As further depicted, the bicycle rack 1 may further include a cover 922' as shown, which has similar functions as the cover 922. The cover 922' includes locking tabs 9222 (such as locking tabs 9222 with a snap function) that are used to lock the cover to the bicycle rack 1 and / or the locking anchor 920'.

[0751] refer to Fig.35 and Fig.36 , shows a load carrier 1 suitable for mounting on the rear side of a vehicle, in this case a bicycle carrier. The load carrier 1 may be, for example, Figure 1 Alternatively, the load support 1 may be similar to Fig.18 The load support 1 is shown.

[0752] The load carrier 1 has a length extension L, a width extension w and a height extension h.

[0753] The load support (1) comprises:

[0754] a housing 600 for the light-emitting and / or light-reflecting member and / or a holder 602 for the housing 600 .

[0755] The housing 600 comprises a light emitting area 604 which is at least partially directed towards a rearward direction of the load carrier 1 , which rearward direction corresponds to the length extension L and to a rearward direction of a vehicle when the load carrier 1 is mounted to the vehicle.

[0756] The housing also includes a license plate frame 800. In this case, the license plate frame 800 is similar to that shown in FIGS. Fig.26 The license plate frame shown, i.e. the license plate frame is pivotable. The license plate frame 800 has a main extension in a license plate frame plane PL. The license plate frame 800 comprises a license plate attachment side 802 extending from the license plate frame 800 in a first transverse direction relative to the license plate frame plane PL. In the embodiment shown, the license plate attachment side 802 extends along a length extension L, which corresponds to a rearward direction of the vehicle when the load carrier 1 is mounted to the vehicle.

[0757] The housing 600 and the holder 602 are positioned so that when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame 800, the luminous and / or light reflecting area 604 is prohibited from emitting and / or reflecting light onto the license plate. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 600 and the holder 602 are positioned so that the outermost portion of the luminous and / or light reflecting area 604 is located behind the license plate frame plane PL, as seen along the length extension L. The license plate frame plane PL is here the same plane as the license plate frame plane when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame 800. As shown, the outermost portion of the luminous and / or light reflecting area 604 can be located behind the license plate frame plane PL, separated by a distance d3, such as a distance of 1 cm to 10 cm, as seen along the length extension L.

[0758] The load carrier 1 may further comprise a load receiving section 16'' as shown, which is configured to receive and hold a wheel of a bicycle, for example a wheel tray, wherein the housing and / or the holder is attached to the load receiving section 16''.

[0759] As shown, the light emitting and / or light reflecting area 604 may have a three-dimensional shape, such as the shapes described above.

[0760] The light-emitting and / or light-reflecting region 604 is here also made of transparent glass.

[0761] refer to Figure 37a to Figure 37b , showing a perspective view of a strap locking arrangement 350 for locking a strap 400 so as to prevent the strap from being released from a ratchet buckle 300. Fig.37c An exploded view of a strap locking arrangement 350 is shown, which is preferably provided on a bicycle support arm member, such as on Figure 1The bicycle support arm member 24 is shown. Fig.37d A perspective view of the strap locking arrangement 350 is shown when disposed on the pivotable head 354 of the bicycle support arm member 24. As shown, the stra...

Claims

1. A bicycle rack (1) adapted to be mounted on a vehicle, wherein the bicycle rack (1) extends along a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the bicycle rack (1) comprising: a platform support arrangement (10) for supporting at least one bicycle, the platform support arrangement (10) comprising at least one wheel receiving member (12, 14, 16) for receiving one or more wheels of the at least one bicycle, thereby supporting, such as laterally supporting, the bicycle; - At least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) configured to hold and secure the at least one bicycle when the at least one bicycle is being received in the at least one wheel receiving member (12, 14, 16), wherein the at least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable between a bicycle supporting state and a bicycle stowing state.

2. The bicycle stand (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) is reconfigurable by at least one of: repositioning; pivoting, such as pivoting about a pivot axis (P1, P2) substantially parallel to the length extension (L) of the bicycle stand (1); telescoping, thereby allowing the length of the reconfigurable bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) to be adjusted; translating; detaching from and / or attaching to the platform support arrangement (10); bending; and sliding.

3. The bicycle stand (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one bicycle support arm member (20, 24, 26) comprises a pivotable head (354).

4. The bicycle stand (1) according to claim 3, wherein the head (354) comprises a ratchet buckle and / or a strap for holding and fixing the bicycle.

5. The bicycle stand (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the bicycle support arm member comprises: - a ratchet buckle for receiving and retaining a strap; and a strap locking arrangement associated with the ratchet buckle, the strap locking arrangement being used to lock the strap so as to prevent the strap from being released from the ratchet buckle, The strap locking arrangement is provided on a pivotable head (354).

6. A bicycle rack (1) according to claim 5, wherein the pivotable head (354) is capable of pivoting about a pivot axis (P4), wherein the pivot axis (P4) extends in substantially the same direction as the length extension (L1) of the strap when the strap is received in the ratchet buckle.

7. A bicycle stand (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the pivotable head (354) includes a bicycle support surface, such as a solid or cushioned surface, against which the bicycle will rest when the strap has tightened the bicycle to the bicycle support arm member.

8. The bicycle rack (1) according to claim 7, wherein the bicycle supporting surface (355) faces away from the vehicle when the bicycle rack (1) is attached to the vehicle.

9. The bicycle stand (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the pivotable head (354) is substantially L-shaped or V-shaped.

10. A bicycle rack (1) according to claim 9, wherein the L-shaped pivotable head (354) at least partially surrounds the outer end portion of the bicycle support arm member (24), wherein a portion of the L-shaped pivotable head (354) extends along the length extension of the bicycle support arm member (24), and another portion of the L-shaped pivotable head (354) extends on the outer end portion and along the length extension (L) of the bicycle rack (1).

11. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the pivotable head (354) comprises a bicycle support pad, against which a bicycle will rest when the bicycle is mounted to the load rack (1), wherein the bicycle support pad can be releasably mounted to the pivotable head (354).

12. The bicycle rack (1) according to claim 11, wherein the bicycle support pad is releasably mounted to the load rack (1) by a snap-fit ​​connection.

13. The bicycle rack (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 12, wherein the pivotable head (354) comprises a claw-like member.

14. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the pivotable head (354) is arranged to face the user when the user loads a bicycle onto the bicycle rack (1), for example, the bicycle rack (1) is arranged so that when the bicycle rack (1) is mounted to a vehicle, the pivotable head (354) faces away from the vehicle in a rearward direction.

15. The bicycle rack (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 14, wherein the pivotable head (354) is pivotable about a pivot axis (P4), wherein the pivot axis (P4) extends over a length (L) extension of the bicycle rack (1).

16. A bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bicycle rack (1) comprises a plurality of bicycle support arm members, wherein the bicycle rack is configured such that at least one single bicycle support arm member is used to hold and secure a single bicycle from a plurality of bicycles, and / or wherein at least one bicycle support arm member is configured to hold and secure more than one bicycle, such as one bicycle on each side of the at least one bicycle support arm member, as seen along a length extension (L) of the bicycle rack, wherein each of the plurality of bicycle support arm members comprises a pivotable head (354) according to any one of claims 3 to 15 for securing a bicycle to the respective bicycle support arm member.

17. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, such as the bicycle rack (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: a platform support arrangement (10) for supporting two or more bicycles; - a first bicycle support arm member (20), the first bicycle support arm member being used to hold and secure a first bicycle; - a second bicycle support arm member (22) for holding and securing a second bicycle, wherein the second bicycle support arm member (22) is arranged to be reconfigurable during use; The bicycle rack (1) is configured such that: The first bicycle can initially be loaded onto the platform support arrangement (10) and secured to the first bicycle support arm member (20), then the second bicycle support arm member (22) can be reconfigured, and then the second bicycle can be loaded onto the platform support arrangement (10) and secured to the second bicycle support arm member (22).

18. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining a strap (400), the ratchet buckle comprising: - a strap receiving section (302), - A strap engaging member (304) configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of a strap (400) to thereby retain the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302).

19. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier (1), adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, the load carrier (1) comprising: a base frame (500) having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the base frame (500) comprising a first elongated member and a second elongated member (510, 520) for carrying a load, wherein the first elongated member and the second elongated member (510, 520) are spaced apart from each other and are arranged substantially parallel to each other along the length extension (L), The base frame (500) further comprises: - A first bridge portion and a second bridge portion (530, 540) disposed between the first and second elongated members (510, 520) and coupling the first and second elongated members (510, 520) together.

20. A load carrier (1) suitable for mounting on the rear side of a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising: a housing (600) for a light-emitting and / or light-reflecting member and / or a holder (602, 602') for the housing (600), The housing (600) comprises a luminous and / or light reflecting area (604) which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load support (1), the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension (L) and to the rearward direction of the vehicle when the load support (1) is mounted to the vehicle.

21. A load carrier (1) adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising: - a base frame portion (700), a load receiving section (702) for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle, The load containing section (702) is movable relative to the base frame portion (700) such that when the load carrier (1) is mounted to a vehicle, the load containing section can be moved away from the vehicle.

22. A license plate frame (800) for a load carrier (1) of a vehicle, the license plate frame having a main extension in the license plate frame plane, the license plate frame (800) comprising: a license plate attachment side (802) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a first lateral direction relative to the plane of the license plate frame, and a load bracket attachment side (804) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a second, opposite lateral direction, The load bracket attachment side (804) includes an attachment guide rail (806) which is suitable for attaching the license plate frame (800) to the load bracket (1) and is also suitable for enabling the license plate frame (800) to be pivotally moved relative to the load bracket (1) between a stowed position and a use position when the license plate frame (800) is attached to the load bracket (1), wherein the attachment guide rail (806) is arranged on and / or in a protruding portion (808) which protrudes from the load bracket attachment side (804) in a second opposite lateral direction.

23. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack comprising: at least one strap (400) for securing a bicycle to the bicycle rack (1), wherein the bicycle rack (1) is adapted such that when the strap (400) is in the bicycle securing position (420), the strap (400) secures the bicycle to the bicycle rack (1), The bicycle rack (1) further comprises a strap stowing portion (430), which is suitable for temporarily keeping the strap (400) in a stowed position different from the bicycle fixing position.

24. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being adapted to be mounted on a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising: A bicycle stand member (900) for holding a bicycle in a standing position when the bicycle is positioned on the ground adjacent to a vehicle.

25. A bicycle rack (1) for a vehicle, the bicycle rack being adapted to be mounted on a vehicle for transporting bicycles, the bicycle rack comprising: - A locking anchor (920) for locking a bicycle to the bicycle rack (1).

26. A load carrier (1) suitable for mounting on the rear side of a vehicle, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising: a housing (600) for a light-emitting and / or light-reflecting member and / or a holder (602, 602') for the housing (600), The housing (600) comprises a light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) which is at least partially directed in a rearward direction of the load support (1), the rearward direction corresponding to the length extension (L) and to the rearward direction of the vehicle when the load support (1) is mounted on the vehicle, a license plate frame (800) having a main extension in a license plate frame plane (PL), the license plate frame (800) comprising a license plate attachment side (802) extending from the license plate frame (800) in a first transverse direction relative to the license plate frame plane, The housing and / or the holder are positioned such that when the license plate is attached to the license plate frame, the light emitting and / or light reflecting area (604) is prohibited from emitting and / or reflecting light onto the license plate frame.

27. A bicycle support arm member (24) for a bicycle rack (1), the bicycle support arm member comprising: - a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining the strap (400); and A strap locking arrangement (350) associated with the ratchet buckle (300) for locking the strap (400) so as to prevent the strap from being released from the ratchet buckle.

28. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a ratchet buckle (300) for receiving and retaining a strap (400), the ratchet buckle comprising: a strap receiving section (302), the strap receiving section (302) having a length direction (L1), a width direction (w1) and a height direction (h1), the length direction corresponding to the length direction of the strap when the strap (400) is received in the strap receiving section, a strap engaging member (304') configured to engage with at least one buckle engaging member (402) of the strap (400) to retain the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302), an actuation lever (306') for a user, the actuation lever (306') being configured to actuate the strap engagement member (304') between an open state in which the strap (400) is free to move within the strap receiving section (302) and an engaged state in which the strap engagement member (304') is configured to engage with the at least one buckle engagement member (402) of the strap (400), and —Wherein any one of the strap engaging member (304'), the actuating rod (306') and the ratchet buckle housing (308) of the ratchet buckle (300) includes a strap guiding element (3044, 3064) which is configured to prevent a portion of the strap (400) in the strap receiving section (302) from bending upward in the height direction (h1) in an open state.

29. A load carrier (1) for a vehicle, the load carrier comprising a bicycle support pad (355) against which a bicycle will rest when the bicycle is mounted to the load carrier (1), wherein the bicycle support pad (355) is releasably mountable to the load carrier (1).

30. A load carrier (1) adapted to be mounted to a vehicle for transporting a load, such as a bicycle carrier, the load carrier having a length extension (L), a width extension (w) and a height extension (h), the load carrier (1) comprising: - a base frame portion (700), a load receiving section (702) for receiving a load and securing the load to the vehicle, wherein the base frame portion (700) comprises two separate elongated members (704, 706) extending along a length extension (L), the two separate elongated members (704, 706) being offset from one another along a width extension (w), and The load carrier further comprises a holder (740) for holding auxiliary equipment, such as for holding a loading ramp arrangement for bicycles, wherein the holder for holding auxiliary equipment is releasably attached to the load carrier (1) between separate elongated members (704, 706).

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