Vehicle-mounted ceiling frame, protective rail assembly, fairing device and accessory mount

Abstract

A vehicle-mounted ceiling frame includes a peripheral rail system and a plurality of load bars coupled to the peripheral rail system. The peripheral rail system comprises a front rail, a rear rail, a first side rail and a second side rail. A plurality of load bars may be disposed within the interior space of the peripheral rail system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to load platforms. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to vehicle load platforms having aerodynamic features, such as ceiling mounted cargo platforms and cargo racks. Background Art

[0002] Carrying loads on the roof of a vehicle extends the load carrying capacity of the vehicle beyond the available volume of the vehicle cabin. Examples of loads that can be carried on the roof of a vehicle include luggage, containers, bicycles, kayaks, roof tents, and cargo platforms. All of these loads need to be secured to the roof of the vehicle to prevent the load from moving unnecessarily, especially when the vehicle is moving. The load is typically secured to the roof rails of the vehicle that extend longitudinally along the roof of the vehicle. The cargo platform is connected to and spans the roof rails and provides multiple mounting points for multiple roof loads. Current cargo platforms typically require complex platform accessory assembly, or have limited flexibility in moving or adjusting platform accessories, making them have limited functionality. In addition, current systems are typically not compatible with all types of roof accessories, such as larger roof boxes. There is a need for an improved accessory mounting system for a cargo platform to increase the flexibility of accessories and improve the versatility of the cargo platform to be compatible with more roof accessory products. Summary of the invention

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to provide a cargo platform with improved mounting features for guard rail and fairing accessories, and to provide an accessory load bar for mounting additional roof accessories to the cargo platform.

[0004] In some embodiments, a vehicle mounted ceiling rack includes a perimeter track system and a plurality of load bars. In some embodiments, the perimeter track system includes a front track, a rear track, a first side track, and a second side track. In some embodiments, the plurality of load bars may be coupled to the perimeter track system and disposed within an interior space of the perimeter track system.

[0005] In some embodiments, the front track includes a first cross-sectional shape along a centerline of the peripheral track system. In some embodiments, the rear track includes a second cross-sectional shape along a centerline of the peripheral track system. In some embodiments, the first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the second cross-sectional shape tapers toward a rear edge of the rear track.

[0006] In some embodiments, the perimeter track system includes a front corner component connected between the front track and one of the first side track and the second side track. In some embodiments, the front corner component includes a top angle surface and a bottom angle surface. In some embodiments, the bottom angle surface is spaced apart from and not parallel to the top angle surface. In some embodiments, a low point may be disposed on the bottom angle surface and spaced apart from the top angle surface by a first distance. In some embodiments, the front track may include a top surface and a bottom surface. In some embodiments, the bottom surface may be spaced apart from the top surface by a second distance. In some embodiments, the first distance is greater than the second distance. In some embodiments, the top angle surface of the front corner component is coplanar with the top surface of the front track.

[0007] In some embodiments, at least one of the front rail, the first side rail, and the second side rail includes a bottom surface that defines a plane extending along the bottom surface. In some embodiments, the plane may intersect the front corner component between the top corner surface and the low point.

[0008] In some embodiments, a protection track assembly for a vehicle mounted ceiling frame may include a protection track. In some embodiments, the vehicle mounted ceiling frame may include a perimeter track system having a track with a channel formed therein. In some embodiments, the protection track may include a body portion and an assembly portion extending from the body portion. In some embodiments, the assembly portion may be configured to be disposed in the channel of the track.

[0009] In some embodiments, the assembly portion of the protection rail may include a tail and an arm extending from the tail. In some embodiments, the channel may include a groove formed in a bottom surface of the channel, and an elongated recess. In some embodiments, when the protection rail is assembled in the channel, the arm of the assembly portion may be configured to be disposed in the elongated recess, and the tail may be configured to extend into the groove.

[0010] In some embodiments, a guard rail may be coupled to a first side rail of a perimeter rail system, and a second guard rail may be coupled to a second side rail of a perimeter rail system. In some embodiments, a third guard rail may be coupled to a front rail of a perimeter rail system, and a fourth guard rail may be coupled to a rear rail of a perimeter rail system.

[0011] In some embodiments, a vehicle mounted ceiling frame may include a perimeter track system, a plurality of load bars, and at least one guard track. In some embodiments, the perimeter track system may include a front track, a rear track, a first side track, and a second side track. In some embodiments, a first channel is formed in at least one of the front track, the rear track, the first side track, and the second side track. In some embodiments, a plurality of load bars may be coupled to the perimeter track system and disposed within an interior space of the perimeter track system. In some embodiments, a second channel may be formed in at least one of the plurality of load bars. In some embodiments, the guard track may include a main body portion and an assembly portion extending from the main body portion. In some embodiments, the assembly portion is configured to be disposed in the first channel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first channel may have a first depth and the second channel may have a second depth. In some embodiments, the first depth may be greater than the second depth. In some embodiments, the assembly portion may have a first height. In some embodiments, the first height may be less than the first depth and greater than the second depth such that the guard rail cannot be assembled on multiple load bars.

[0013] In some embodiments, the protection rail may include a main body portion and an assembly portion, the vehicle-mounted ceiling frame may include a peripheral rail system and a channel formed in the rail of the peripheral rail system, and a method of assembling the protection rail to the vehicle-mounted ceiling frame may include the following steps: arranging the assembly portion of the protection rail adjacent to the channel formed in the rail of the peripheral rail system; arranging the protection rail at a first angle; inserting the tail of the assembly portion of the protection rail into the channel; rotating the protection rail to a second angle so that an arm extending from the tail of the assembly portion extends into an elongated recess of the channel to connect the protection rail to the vehicle-mounted ceiling frame.

[0014] In some embodiments, a fairing for a vehicle load frame may include a coupling portion and a blade. In some embodiments, the coupling portion may be configured to couple to the vehicle load frame. In some embodiments, the blade may extend from the coupling portion at an oblique angle.

[0015] In some embodiments, the coupling portion may include a plurality of slots formed in the coupling portion for adjustably coupling the fairing to a vehicle load frame. In some embodiments, the blade may include a body and a buffer coupled to the periphery of the body. In some embodiments, a plurality of slots may be formed along the periphery of the body of the blade. In some embodiments, the buffer may include an assembly slot and an assembly tab extending into the assembly slot. In some embodiments, the assembly tab may be configured to engage a slot in the body of the blade to couple the buffer to the body of the blade.

[0016] In some embodiments, the body of the blade may be substantially flat. In some embodiments, the lower edge of the body of the blade may be concave. In some embodiments, a plurality of channels may be formed in the coupling portion and the front side of the blade and configured to reinforce the fairing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the blades may extend at a first angle relative to the coupling portion. In some embodiments, the first angle may be between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle may be about 25 degrees. In some embodiments, the fairing may be configured to rotate relative to the coupling member to adjust the first angle.

[0018] In some embodiments, an accessory mount may be configured to couple to a vehicle mounted ceiling rack. In some embodiments, the vehicle mounted ceiling rack may have a perimeter rail system and a load bar coupled to the perimeter rail system. In some embodiments, the accessory mount may include an accessory beam, a first mounting base, and a second mounting base. In some embodiments, the first mounting base may be disposed at a first end of the accessory beam. In some embodiments, the second mounting base may be disposed at a second end of the accessory beam. In some embodiments, the first mounting base and the second mounting base may be configured to couple to the load bar and lift the accessory beam above the load bar and the perimeter rail system.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first mounting base may include a connecting portion and a foot portion. In some embodiments, the connecting portion may include an end wall, and an arm extending opposite the end wall and entering a recess formed in the fitting beam. In some embodiments, the foot portion may extend from the connecting portion and be disposed between the fitting beam and the load bar.

[0020] In some embodiments, the accessory mount may further include an assembly bolt. In some embodiments, the assembly bolt may be configured to couple the accessory mount to the load beam. In some embodiments, the assembly bolt may extend through a first aperture formed in the accessory beam and a second aperture formed in the first mounting base. In some embodiments, a channel may be formed in the load beam along a length of the load beam. In some embodiments, the assembly bolt may couple with an anchor slidably disposed in the channel.

[0021] In some embodiments, the recess of the fitting beam may include a mounting recess and a side recess. In some embodiments, the arm of the first mounting base may include a mounting arm extending into the mounting recess and a side arm extending into the side recess. In some embodiments, the assembly bolt may extend through the mounting recess and the mounting arm.

[0022] In some embodiments, an accessory channel may be formed in the accessory beam. In some embodiments, the assembly bolt may be disposed in the accessory channel when the assembly bolt is coupled with the anchor. In some embodiments, the accessory channel may be formed in a top surface of the accessory beam and configured to receive a ceiling mounted accessory.

[0023] Implementations of any of the above techniques may include systems, methods, processes, devices, and / or apparatus. The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features will become apparent from the description and drawings and from the claims.

[0024] The further features and advantages of the present invention and the structure and operation of various embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments proposed herein are for exemplary purposes only. Based on the teachings contained herein, additional embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art (s). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings included herein and forming a part of the specification illustrate embodiments and, together with the description, also serve to explain the principles and enable those skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and use the embodiments. By describing in detail exemplary non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, the objects and advantages of the exemplary non-limiting embodiments will become more apparent.

[0026] Figure 1 A perspective view of a cargo platform mounted to a vehicle roof is shown according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 A perspective view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0028] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0029] Figure 4 A side view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0030] Figure 5 A front view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0031] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a protection rail assembled with a front rail of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a guard rail assembled with a side rail of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 8A cross-sectional view of a protection rail assembled with a rear rail of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view of a guard rail assembled with a side rail of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0035] Fig.10 A cross-sectional view showing the interference between a protection rail and a load bar of a cargo platform according to an embodiment.

[0036] Fig.11 An exploded perspective view of a protection rail coupling assembly according to an embodiment is shown.

[0037] Fig.12 A cross-sectional view of a guard rail coupling assembly coupled to a side rail of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0038] Fig.13 A rear perspective view of a fairing of a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0039] Fig.14 A schematic cross-sectional view of a fairing assembly for a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0040] Fig.15 A rear view of a fairing assembly is shown according to an embodiment.

[0041] Fig.16A A rear view of a portion of a fairing assembly is shown according to an embodiment.

[0042] Fig. 16B It shows that according to the embodiment Fig.16A Detailed view of the fairing assembly.

[0043] Fig.17 A detailed cross-sectional view of a bumper of a fairing assembly is shown according to an embodiment.

[0044] Fig.18 A front perspective view of a fairing assembly for a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0045] Fig.19 A rear perspective view of a fairing assembly for a cargo platform is shown according to an embodiment.

[0046] Fig. 20 A side view of a cargo bed with an accessory member mounted to an accessory mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0047] Fig.21 A perspective view of an accessory mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0048] Fig. 22 A perspective view of a mounting base of an accessory mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0049] Fig.23 A partial perspective view of a fitting beam of a fitting mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0050] Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of an accessory mount coupled to a load bar of a cargo platform is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0051] Fig.25 A perspective view of a mounting base of an accessory mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0052] Fig.26 A detailed perspective view of an accessory mount is shown according to an embodiment.

[0053] Fig. 27 A front view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0054] Fig.28 A side view of a cargo platform according to an embodiment is shown.

[0055] The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when combined with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify corresponding elements throughout the drawings. In the accompanying drawings, like reference numerals generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. References to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "some embodiments," etc. indicate that (a plurality of) embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not necessarily every embodiment may include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such statements do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is proposed that the feature, structure, or characteristic that affects the combination with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described, is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0057] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "below," "above," "upper," "relative to," etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as shown in the accompanying drawings. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive language used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0058] As used herein, the term "about" or "substantially" refers to a value of a given quantity that may vary based on a particular technology. Based on a particular technology, the term "about" or "substantially" may refer to a value of a given quantity that varies within, for example, 1-15% of the value (e.g., ±1%, ±2%, ±5%, ±10%, or ±15% of the value).

[0059] The following examples are exemplary of the present embodiments, but not limiting. Other suitable modifications and changes of various conditions and parameters commonly encountered in the art and other suitable modifications and changes that are obvious to those skilled in the art fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0060] Embodiment 1 of the present specification - a vehicle mounted ceiling rack, comprising a perimeter rail system including a front rail, a rear rail, a first side rail and a second side rail; and a plurality of load bars connected to the perimeter rail system and disposed within an interior space of the perimeter rail system.

[0061] Example 2 of the present specification is a vehicle-mounted roof rack of Example 1, wherein the front rail includes a first cross-sectional shape along the centerline of the peripheral rail system, and the rear rail includes a second cross-sectional shape along the centerline of the peripheral rail system, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape.

[0062] Embodiment 3 of the present specification - the vehicle-mounted roof rack of Embodiment 2, wherein the second cross-sectional shape tapers toward a rear edge of the rear rail.

[0063] Example 4 of the present specification is a vehicle-mounted ceiling rack of Example 1, wherein the peripheral rail system further includes a front corner component connected between the front rail and one of the first side rail and the second side rail, wherein the front corner component includes a top angle surface and a bottom angle surface spaced apart from and non-parallel to the top angle surface.

[0064] Example 5 of the present specification is a vehicle-mounted ceiling rack of Example 1, wherein the peripheral rail system further includes a front corner component connected between the front rail and one of the first side rail and the second side rail, wherein the front corner component includes a top angle surface, a bottom angle surface spaced apart from the top angle surface, and a low point arranged on the bottom angle surface and spaced apart from the top angle surface by a first distance.

[0065] Example 6 of the present specification is a roof rack mounted on a vehicle of Example 5, wherein the front rail includes a top surface and a bottom surface spaced apart from the top surface by a second distance, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0066] Embodiment 7 of the present specification is a roof rack mounted on a vehicle according to Embodiment 6, wherein a top angle surface of the front corner member is coplanar with a top surface of the front rail.

[0067] The vehicle-mounted roof rack of Example 8-Example 5 of the present specification, wherein at least one of the front rail, the first side rail, and the second side rail includes a bottom surface, the bottom surface defines a plane extending along the bottom surface, and wherein the plane intersects the front corner component between the top angle surface and the low point.

[0068] Embodiment 9 of the present specification - a protection rail assembly for a roof rack mounted on a vehicle, comprising a protection rail including a main body portion and an assembly portion extending from the main body portion, wherein the assembly portion is configured to be set in a channel of a rail of the roof rack mounted on the vehicle.

[0069] The protection rail assembly of Example 10 to Example 9 of the present specification, wherein the assembly portion of the protection rail includes a tail and an arm extending from the tail, wherein the channel includes a groove formed in the bottom surface of the channel, and an elongated recess, and wherein when the protection rail is assembled in the channel, the arm of the assembly portion is configured to be set in the elongated recess, and the tail is configured to extend into the groove.

[0070] The protection rail assembly of Example 11-Example 9 of the present specification, wherein the protection rail is coupled to a first side rail of a perimeter rail system of a vehicle-mounted ceiling frame, and the second protection rail is coupled to a second side rail of the perimeter rail system.

[0071] The protection rail assembly of Example 12-Example 11 of the present specification further includes a third protection rail connected to the front rail of the peripheral rail system and a fourth protection rail connected to the rear rail of the peripheral rail system.

[0072] Example 13 of the present specification - a vehicle-mounted ceiling rack, comprising a peripheral rail system, which includes a front rail, a rear rail, a first side rail and a second side rail, wherein a first channel is formed in at least one of the front rail, the rear rail, the first side rail and the second side rail; a plurality of load rods, which are connected to the peripheral rail system and are arranged in the interior space of the peripheral rail system, wherein a second channel is formed in at least one of the plurality of load rods; and at least one protective rail, which includes a main body portion and an assembly portion extending from the main body portion, wherein the assembly portion is configured to be arranged in the first channel.

[0073] Example 14 of the present specification is a vehicle-mounted ceiling rack of Example 13, wherein the first channel has a first depth and the second channel has a second depth, wherein the first depth is greater than the second depth.

[0074] Example 15 of the present specification is a vehicle-mounted roof rack of Example 14, wherein the assembly portion has a first height, and the first height is smaller than the first depth and greater than the second depth, so that the protection rail cannot be assembled on multiple load bars.

[0075] Example 16 of the present specification - a method for assembling a protection rail to a vehicle-mounted ceiling frame, the protection rail comprising a main body portion and an assembly portion, the vehicle-mounted ceiling frame comprising a peripheral rail system and a channel formed in the rail of the peripheral rail system, and the method comprising the following steps: arranging the assembly portion of the protection rail to be adjacent to the channel formed in the rail of the peripheral rail system; arranging the protection rail at a first angle; inserting the tail of the assembly portion of the protection rail into the channel; rotating the protection rail to a second angle so that the arm extending from the tail of the assembly portion extends into the elongated recess of the channel to connect the protection rail to the vehicle-mounted ceiling frame.

[0076] Embodiment 17 of the present specification - a fairing for a vehicle load frame, comprising a coupling portion configured to be coupled to the vehicle load frame, and a blade extending from the coupling portion at an oblique angle.

[0077] Example 18 of the present specification - the fairing of Example 17, wherein the coupling portion includes a plurality of slots formed therein for adjustably coupling the fairing to a vehicle load frame.

[0078] In the fairing device of Example 19-Example 17 of the present specification, the blade includes a body and a buffer connected to the periphery of the body.

[0079] The fairing device of Example 20 to Example 19 of the present specification, wherein a plurality of grooves are formed along the periphery of the body of the blade, and wherein the buffer includes an assembly groove and an assembly tab extending into the assembly groove, wherein the assembly tab is configured to engage the groove in the body of the blade to connect the buffer to the body of the blade.

[0080] In the fairing device of Example 21 to Example 19 of this specification, the body of the blade is substantially flat.

[0081] In the fairing device of Example 22 to Example 19 of this specification, the lower edge of the blade body is concave.

[0082] The fairing of Example 23-Example 17 of the present specification, wherein a plurality of channels are formed in the front sides of the blades and the coupling portion and configured to reinforce the fairing.

[0083] The fairing device of Example 24 to Example 17 of the present specification, wherein the blade extends at a first angle relative to the coupling portion, wherein the first angle is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

[0084] In the rectifying device of Example 25-Example 24 of this specification, the first angle is about 25 degrees.

[0085] The fairing device of Example 26-Example 24 of this specification is configured to rotate relative to the connecting component to adjust the first angle.

[0086] Example 27 of the present specification - an accessory mount configured to be connected to a vehicle-mounted roof frame, the vehicle roof frame having a peripheral rail system and a load bar connected to the peripheral rail system, the accessory mount comprising an accessory beam; a first mounting base disposed at a first end of the accessory beam; and a second mounting base disposed at a second end of the accessory beam, wherein the first mounting base and the second mounting base are configured to be connected to the load bar and lift the accessory beam above the load bar and the peripheral rail system.

[0087] The accessory mounting member of Example 28-Example 27 of the present specification, wherein the first mounting base includes a connecting portion and a foot portion, the connecting portion includes an end wall, and an arm extending opposite to the end wall and entering a recess formed in the accessory beam, the foot portion extends from the connecting portion and is arranged between the accessory beam and the load rod.

[0088] The accessory mount of Example 29-Example 28 of the present specification further includes an assembly bolt configured to couple the accessory mount to the load beam, the assembly bolt extending through a first aperture formed in the accessory beam and a second aperture formed in the first mounting base.

[0089] Example 30 of the present specification is an accessory mount of Example 29, wherein a channel is formed in the load rod along the length of the load rod, and the assembly bolt is coupled to an anchor slidably disposed in the channel.

[0090] The vehicle-mounted roof rack of Examples 31 to 30 of the present specification, wherein the recess of the accessory beam includes a mounting recess and a side recess, wherein the arm of the first mounting base includes a mounting arm extending into the mounting recess and a side arm extending into the side recess, and wherein the assembly bolt extends through the mounting recess and the mounting arm.

[0091] Example 32 of the present specification is the accessory mount of Example 31, wherein the accessory channel is formed in the accessory beam, and when the assembly bolt is coupled with the anchor, the assembly bolt is disposed in the accessory channel.

[0092] The accessory mount of Example 33-Example 27 of the present specification, wherein the accessory channel is formed in the top surface of the accessory beam and is configured to receive a ceiling-mounted accessory.

[0093] The embodiments of the cargo platform 100 disclosed herein may be used with, for example, but not limited to, roof accessories such as bicycle carriers, fishing rod carriers, canoe carriers, and / or cargo containers. More specifically, the cargo platform 100 may be mounted on a roof and provide space for multiple roof accessories to be simultaneously mounted to the cargo platform.

[0094] As described above, for a ceiling mounted cargo platform, it is important to have improved versatility so that all types of ceiling mounted accessories can be simultaneously mounted to the vehicle roof. For example, a rigidly mounted guard rail with complex assemblies can prevent a user from easily moving the guard rail to avoid interfering with a long or wide load mounted to the cargo platform. In addition, some ceiling mounted accessories such as cargo containers or ceiling boxes are primarily designed for use with ceiling mounted poles, rather than with a cargo platform that covers a large portion of the vehicle roof. Therefore, there is a need for an accessory mount that can be easily and quickly coupled to the cargo platform so that the ceiling box or cargo carrier can be mounted to the ceiling mounted cargo platform. In addition, the ceiling mounted cargo platform can affect the air passing through the vehicle roof, causing turbulence and additional wind noise. In addition, turbulence and / or wind noise may depend on the size and shape of the vehicle roof, and therefore it is important that the fairing assembly or wind deflector coupled to the cargo platform can be adjusted to better fit the specific vehicle to which the cargo platform is attached.

[0095] Embodiments of the load carrier apparatus, systems, and methods described below may provide balancing and variable adjustment for securing a load, variable adjustment of wheel bracket positions along the load carrier, adjustable wheel securing arms, and adjustable tilt and vehicle information options for storage and operating configurations.

[0096] Exemplary Cargo Platform System

[0097] Figure 1-5 , 27 and 28 illustrate a cargo platform 100 according to an embodiment. The cargo platform 100 may be configured to be mounted to a vehicle roof 102 and to secure a load thereto. For example, the cargo platform 100 may be configured to secure roof-mounted accessories such as a bicycle rack, a fishing rod carrier, a canoe or boat rack, a ski rack, a cargo container (e.g., Fig. 20 ), or any other suitable ceiling mounted accessories. Additionally, luggage items may also be mounted directly to cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, a user may secure multiple ceiling mounted accessories and / or luggage items to cargo platform 100. Cargo platform 100 may be used as a standalone assembly and / or in combination with embodiments of the present disclosure, such as, but not limited to, protection track assembly 200, fairing assembly 300, and accessory mounting assembly 400.

[0098] For example Figure 1-3As shown in FIG. 1 , a cargo platform 100 may be mounted to a vehicle roof 102 and include a perimeter track system 110 and a load bar 112. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , cargo platform 100 may be coupled to a roof rail of a vehicle roof 102 via a rail coupling member 104. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 4 As shown in , the cargo platform 100 can be coupled to a load beam extending across the width of the vehicle roof 102 via a load beam coupling member 106. A perimeter rail system 110 extends around the perimeter of the cargo platform 100 and forms an interior space 114 within the perimeter rail system 110. A load bar 112 is disposed in the interior space 114 and coupled to the perimeter rail system 110. Figure 1-3 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the load bar 112 extends across the width of the vehicle roof 102. In some embodiments, the load bar 112 extends along the length of the vehicle roof 102. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Fig.10 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the channel 116 is formed in the top surface of the load bar 112 and is configured to couple with a ceiling mounted accessory. In some embodiments, as will be described in further detail below, the accessory mounting assembly 400 is coupled to the load bar 112. In some embodiments, the perimeter track system 110 can be sized to be approximately the same as the vehicle roof 102. In some embodiments, the perimeter track system 110 can extend beyond the edge of the vehicle roof 102 to form an overhang. In some embodiments, the perimeter track system 110 can have a smaller footprint than the vehicle roof 102.

[0099] For example Figure 2-5As shown in , the perimeter rail system 110 may include a front rail 120, a rear rail 122, a first side rail 124, a second side rail 126, a front corner member 132, and a rear corner member 134. The front corner member 132 is coupled between the front rail 120 and each of the first side rail 124 and the second side rail 126. In some embodiments, the front corner member 132 is integrally formed with the front rail 120, the first side rail 124, and the second side rail 126. In some embodiments, the front corner member 132 is coupled to the front rail 120, the first side rail 124, and the second side rail 126 using bolts, rivets, adhesive materials, or other suitable coupling means. The rear corner member 134 is coupled between the rear rail 122 and each of the first side rail 124 and the second side rail 126. In some embodiments, the rear corner member 134 is integrally formed with the rear rail 122, the first side rail 124, and the second side rail 126. In some embodiments, the rear corner members 134 are coupled to the rear rail 122, the first side rail 124, and the second side rail 126 using bolts, rivets, adhesive materials, or other suitable coupling means. In some embodiments, the perimeter rail system 110 is symmetrical about a longitudinal centerline axis 128 extending parallel to and equidistant from the first side rail 124 and the second side rail 126.

[0100] For example Figure 2-4 As shown in , 6, 8 and 28, the perimeter track system 110 may have an aerodynamic shape as it extends from the front track 120 to the rear track 122. Figure 2-4 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG, the perimeter rail system 110 is asymmetrical about a transverse centerline axis 130 extending parallel to and equidistant from the front rail 120 and the rear rail 122. The front rail 120 includes a top surface 140, a bottom surface 142, and a rear surface 143, and has a configuration such as Figure 6 14. The rear surface 143 is formed between the top surface 140 and the bottom surface 142 and faces the interior space 114. The bottom surface 142 is spaced apart from the top surface 140 by a first distance 144. A top channel 146 is formed in the top surface 140, and a rear channel 148 is formed in the rear surface 143. The rear rail 122 includes a top surface 150, a bottom surface 152, and a rear edge 154, and has a shape such as Figure 8 . The top surface 150 and the bottom surface 152 taper toward each other as they extend toward the rear edge 154. A channel 156 is formed in the top surface 150. The first and second side rails 124, 126 include top surfaces 160, 170, bottom surfaces 162, 172, and support arms 164, 174 that extend into the interior space 114 and are configured to support and couple to the load beam 112. For example, Figure 7As shown in FIG. 1 , the first side rail 124 and the second side rail 126 have a symmetrical cross-sectional shape across the longitudinal centerline axis 128. In some embodiments, the first side rail 124 and the second side rail 126 can have an arcuate shape as they extend parallel to the longitudinal centerline axis 128, generally corresponding to the contour shape of the vehicle roof 102. A channel 166 is formed in the top surface 160, and a channel 176 is formed in the top surface 170. In some embodiments, each of the top surfaces 140, 150, 160, 170 is coplanar. Each of the plurality of channels 146, 148, 156, 166, 176 can be coplanar with, for example, Figure 6-8 13. For example, as will be described in further detail below, the plurality of channels 146, 148, 156, 166, 176 in each of the rails 120, 122, 124, 126 may be coupled to the guard rail assembly 200 and / or the fairing assembly 300. In some embodiments, each of the rails 120, 122, 124, 126 may include additional channels on the front surface, rear surface, bottom surface, or side surface to increase the versatility of a user in mounting additional accessories to the cargo platform 100 or securing a load to the cargo platform 100. For example, in Figure 4 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8 , the nameplate 199 is coupled to a channel formed in the bottom surface 152 of the rear rail 122 .

[0101] For example Figure 2-4 As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 , the rear corner member 134 includes a top corner surface 191 and a bottom corner surface 193. In some embodiments, the top corner surface 191 is substantially coplanar with the top surfaces 140, 150, 160, 170 of each of the rails 120, 122, 124, 126 to maximize the loading surface of the cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, the bottom corner surface 193 may be parallel to the bottom surface 152 and taper toward the rear edge 154 of the rear rail 122. In some embodiments, the bottom corner surface 193 and the resulting protrusion of the bottom surface 152 may make the cargo platform 100 aerodynamic. For example, Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Fig. 27 and Fig.28 As shown in , the front corner member 132 may include a top corner surface 190 and a bottom corner surface 192. In some embodiments, the top corner surface 190 is substantially coplanar with the top surface 140, 150, 160, 170 of each of the rails 120, 122, 124, 126 to maximize the loading surface of the cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, the bottom corner surface 192 is substantially parallel to the top corner surface 190. Figure 4 , 5, 27 and 28, the bottom angle surface 192 is not parallel to the top angle surface 190 and includes a low point 198. In some embodiments, the bottom angle surface 192 extends downward from the bottom surface 142 of the front rail 120 toward the low point 198. The bottom angle surface 192 then extends upward away from the low point 198 toward the bottom surface 162 of the first side rail 124 or the bottom surface 172 of the second side rail 126. In some embodiments, the resulting protrusion of the bottom angle surface 192 can make the cargo platform 100 aerodynamic. The low point 198 extends a second distance 194 away from the top angle surface 190. Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the second distance 194 is greater than the first distance 144 such that the bottom angle surface 192 of the front corner member 132 drops below the bottom surfaces 142, 162, 172 of the first rail 120 and the first and second side rails 124, 126. In some embodiments, the thicker portion of the front corner member 132 at the low point 198 can provide increased strength of the cargo platform 100 while maintaining a coplanar, flat loading surface on top of the cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 142 of the front rail 120 defines a front rail plane 129 extending along the bottom surface 142. The front rail plane 129 intersects the front corner member 132 between the top angle surface 190 and the low point 198. In some embodiments, the bottom surfaces 162, 172 of the first and second side rails 124, 126 can define a side rail plane 131 extending along the bottom surfaces 162, 172. The side rail plane 131 intersects the front corner member 132 between the top corner surface 190 and a low point 198. In some embodiments, the low point 198 of the front corner member 132 can reduce the distance between the vehicle roof 102 and the cargo platform 100.

[0102] Exemplary Guard Rail Assemblies

[0103] Figure 2-12 A protection track assembly 200 according to an embodiment is shown for use with a cargo platform 100. The protection track assembly 200 may be coupled to the perimeter track system 110 of the cargo platform 100 and is configured to secure items loaded on the cargo platform 100 within the perimeter of the cargo platform 100. Although the protection track assembly 200 may be a stand-alone accessory mounted to the cargo platform 100, the protection track assembly 200 may also be used with the fairing assembly 300 and / or the accessory mounting assembly 400.

[0104] For example Figure 2 and 6 As shown in FIG. 8 , the protection track assembly 200 may be coupled to the channels 146 , 156 , 166 , 176 of the tracks 120 , 122 , 124 , 126 . Figure 2In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the protection track assembly 200 includes four protection rails 210 coupled to the front track 120, the rear track 122, and the first and second side tracks 124, 126. In some embodiments, the protection track assembly 200 may include two protection rails assembled only to the first and second side tracks 124, 126. In some embodiments, the protection track assembly 200 may include two protection rails 210 assembled only to the front track 120 and the rear track 122. In some embodiments, the protection track assembly 200 may include only a protection rail 210 assembled to one of the tracks 120, 122, 124, 126. In some embodiments, the protection rails 210 may vary in length, such that the protection rails 210 assembled to the first and second side tracks 124, 126 are longer than the protection rails 210 assembled to the front track 120 and the rear track 122.

[0105] For example Figure 6-10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the protection rail 210 includes a main body portion 220 and an assembly portion 230. The main body portion 220 extends above the respectively coupled rails 120, 122, 124, 126 and includes a first end 222, a second end 224, an inner wall 226, and an outer wall 228. Figure 6-10 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the inner wall 226 faces the interior space 114 and is substantially vertical. In some embodiments, the inner wall 226 may include a channel formed in the inner wall 226 so that accessories for carrying items can be coupled to the protection track 210. In some embodiments, the inner wall 226 is substantially flush with the corresponding inwardly facing surface of the corresponding track 120, 122, 124, 126 to which the protection track 210 is coupled. The outer wall 228 faces away from the interior space 114. In Figure 6-10 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the outer wall 228 can be angled such that the coupling end of the protection rail 210 is wider than the distal end of the protection rail 210. In some embodiments, the outer wall 228 can have a first angled section and a second angled section.

[0106] The assembly portion 230 extends away from the main body portion 220 and is disposed in a corresponding channel 146, 156, 166, 176 of the corresponding track 120, 122, 124, 126 to which the protection track 210 is coupled. Each of the channels 146, 156, 166, 176 has a similar shape and includes a groove 180 formed in the bottom surface of the channel, and a notch 182 extending from the channel (e.g., vertically) and below the corresponding top surface 140, 150, 160, 170. Thus, each channel 146, 156, 166, 176 has a "T" shape below the top surface of the track. In some embodiments, the groove 180 and the notch 182 extend the entire length of the channel 146, 156, 166, 176. In some embodiments, the groove 180 and the notch 182 extend a portion of the length of the channel 146, 156, 166, 176. The groove 180 has a first depth 186 from the top surface 140 , 150 , 160 , 170 .

[0107] For example Figure 6-8 As shown in , the assembly portion 230 extends into the channels 146, 156, 166, 176 and includes a tail 232 and an arm 234. The tail 232 extends away from the body portion 220 and extends into the groove 180. The arm 234 extends outwardly away from the tail 232 approximately halfway along the height of the tail 232. The arm 234 extends into the recess 182. In some embodiments, the arm 234 extends vertically away from the tail 232. The tail 232 can have a tail height 240. Figure 6-8 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , tail height 240 is less than first depth 186 such that the distal end of tail 232 is spaced apart from the bottom of recess 180 . In some embodiments, tail height 240 is greater than the depth of other channels formed in components surrounding cargo platform 100 to prevent guard rail 210 from being assembled in some locations. For example, in Fig.10 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the load beam 112 has a channel 116 having a second depth 196 that is less than a tail height 240 of the tail 232. Therefore, the tail 232 interferes with the channel 116, and the guard rail 210 may not be assembled to the load beam 112.

[0108] The assembly portion 230 is shaped so that the protection rail 210 can be assembled into the channels 146, 156, 166, 176 by rotating the protection rail 210. Figure 6-10In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the tail portion 232 may have a substantially vertical side 242 and a tapered side 244 such that the tail portion 232 extends to a point at a distal end 248. To assemble the protection rail 210 into the channel 146, 156, 166, 176, the distal end 248 of the assembly portion 230 may be disposed adjacent to the opening of the corresponding channel 146, 156, 166, 176, and the protection rail 210 may be rotated at a first angle relative to the top surface 140, 150, 160, 170 such that the tapered side 244 is substantially perpendicular to the top surface 140, 150, 160, 170. The distal end 248 of the tail portion 232 may then be inserted into the channel 146, 156, 166, 176. As the outer wall 228 approaches the top surface 140, 150, 160, 170, the protection track 210 can be rotated so that the arm 234 extends into the notch 182 and the distal end 248 of the tail 232 extends into the groove 180. In some embodiments, the arm 234 extends toward the outer wall 228 and the protection track 210 rotates to the position described above. In some embodiments, when the inner wall 226 approaches the top surface 140, 150, 160, 170, the arm 234 extends toward the inner wall 226 and the protection track 210 rotates.

[0109] In some embodiments, for example, Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown in , the protection rail 210 can be fixedly coupled to the corresponding rails 120, 122, 124, 126 via bolts 262 and anchors 264. The assembly portion 230 is spaced apart from the first end 222 and the second end 224 of the main body portion 220 to form coupling shoulders 266 at both ends. Each coupling shoulder 266 includes a slot 268 extending from the first end 222 or the second end 224. The bolt 262 is disposed in the slot 268 so that the head of the bolt 262 is located in the main body portion 220, and the threaded portion of the bolt 262 extends through the coupling shoulder 266 and the slot 268 and into the channel 146, 156, 166, 176. The anchors 264 are slidably assembled in the channels 146, 156, 166, 176, extend into the recesses 182, and couple with the bolts 262 to secure the guard rail 210 to the rails 120, 122, 124, 126 of the perimeter rail system 110. The end caps 260 are insertable into the first and second ends 222, 224 to cover the bolts 262 and provide a smooth surface finish to the guard rail 210.

[0110] In some embodiments, the channels 146, 156, 166, 176 and / or the protection rail 210 may include additional features to ensure that the protection rail 210 is assembled with the inner wall 226 facing the interior space 114. Fig. 9In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the channel 250 includes the notch 182 and the narrow notch 280 so that the arm 234 can extend into the notch 182 but interfere with the narrow notch 280. In some embodiments, the assembly portion 230 of the protection rail 210 is positioned closer to the inner wall 226 than to the outer wall 228, and the channels 146, 156, 166, 176 are positioned closer to the interior space so that when the protection rail 210 is properly assembled, the inner wall 226 is substantially flush with the corresponding inner-facing surface of the corresponding rail 120, 122, 124, 126. When the protection rail 210 is improperly assembled, the outer wall 228 overhangs the inner-facing surface of the corresponding rail 120, 122, 124, 126.

[0111] Exemplary fairing assembly

[0112] Figure 13-19 A fairing assembly 300 is shown for use with a cargo platform 100 according to an embodiment. The fairing assembly 300 may be configured to extend into a space between the cargo platform 100 and a vehicle roof 102 to which the cargo platform 100 is mounted. The fairing assembly 300 may be configured to reduce wind noise traveling on the vehicle roof 102. Although the fairing assembly 300 may be a separate accessory mounted to the cargo platform 100, the fairing assembly 300 may also be used with the guard rail assembly 200 and the accessory mounting assembly 400.

[0113] The fairing assembly 300 may be coupled to the perimeter track system 110 and configured to deflect or redirect air traveling over the vehicle roof 102 and between the vehicle roof 102 and the cargo platform 100. Figure 2 and Fig.13 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the fairing assembly 300 can be slidably coupled to the rear surface 143 of the front rail 120. In some embodiments, the fairing assembly can be coupled to the rear rail 122, the first side rail 124, and / or the second side rail 126. For example, Figure 13-15 As shown in FIG. 1 , the fairing assembly 300 may include a coupling portion 310 and blades 320. The coupling portion 310 may include a plurality of slots 312 formed along the width of the coupling portion 310 and extending vertically through the coupling portion 310. Fig.13In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the assembly bolt 318 extends through the slot 312 and is secured, for example, with an anchor (not shown) disposed in the rear channel 148 of the front rail 120. The fairing assembly 300 can be adjustably coupled to the front rail 120 so that the distance the fairing assembly 300 extends into the space between the cargo platform 100 and the vehicle roof 102 can be adjusted by sliding the coupling portion 310 along the slot 312. In some embodiments, the slot 312 can have a length between about 10 mm and about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 310 can have a first height 314 between about 20 mm and about 60 mm. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 310 can have a first height 314 between about 35 mm and about 50 mm. In some embodiments, the coupling portion 310 can have a first height 314 of about 43.8 mm. In some embodiments, the fairing assembly 300 can have an overall height 316 between about 80 mm and about 150 mm. In some embodiments, the fairing assembly 300 can have an overall height 316 between about 95 mm and about 115 mm. In some embodiments, the fairing assembly 300 can have an overall height 316 of about 105 mm. In some embodiments, the slot 312 can be a round aperture such that the fairing assembly 300 cannot be adjustably coupled to the perimeter track system 110.

[0114] exist Fig.13 and Fig.14 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the blade 320 extends away from the coupling portion 310 and rearward at a first angle 321. In some embodiments, the first angle 321 may be about 25 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle 321 may be between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the first angle 321 may be adjustable so that the blade 320 can be tilted relative to the coupling portion 310 to best fit the vehicle roof 102 to which the cargo platform 100 is mounted. In some embodiments, the blade 320 may extend substantially parallel to the coupling portion in a vertical orientation. In some embodiments, the blade 320 may extend forward of the coupling portion 310.

[0115] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 13-17 As shown in FIG. 1 , the blade 320 extends away from the coupling portion 310 toward the vehicle roof 102 and includes a body 322 and a buffer 324. Fig.16A and Fig. 16BAs shown in , the body 322 may include a plurality of grooves 340 formed in the body 322 and extending along a peripheral edge 344 of the body 322. The plurality of grooves 340 may be configured to be assembled with the buffer 324. The body 322 may have a concave lower edge 342 to correspond to the contour of the vehicle roof 102. In some embodiments, the concave lower edge 342 may help maintain an approximately constant gap between the lower edge 342 of the fairing assembly 300 and the vehicle roof 102. In some embodiments, the concave lower edge 342 may remain in contact with the vehicle roof 102 along all or most of the length of the lower edge 342. In some embodiments, the lower edge 342 may have different shapes, such as straight, convex, or wavy. In Figure 13-1 In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , the body 322 is a substantially flat plate and is made of metal.

[0116] In some embodiments, the cushion 324 can be coupled to the peripheral edge 344 of the body 322 and configured to protect a user or the vehicle roof 102 from any sharp edges of the body 322. In some embodiments, the cushion 324 can be integrally formed and / or extruded with the body 322. In some embodiments, the cushion 324 is a soft, deformable material such as rubber, polymer, foam, or other similar material. Fig.17 As shown in the exemplary embodiment shown in , the buffer 324 may include an assembly slot 350 formed in the buffer 324 and configured to receive the peripheral edge 344 of the body 322. The buffer 324 may include a plurality of assembly tabs 354 extending into the assembly slot 350 and away from the opening 352 of the slot 350. The assembly tabs 354 may be configured to extend into and couple with a plurality of slots 340 formed in the peripheral edge 344 of the body 322. The assembly tabs 354 may extend a discontinuous distance along the length of the buffer 324 that corresponds to the length of the corresponding slot 312 in the body 322.

[0117] exist Fig.18 and Fig.19In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the fairing assembly 300 may include a plurality of channels 360 formed along the width of the fairing assembly 300 and extending vertically downward from the coupling portion 310 to the blades 320. The plurality of channels 360 may be configured to increase the stiffness of the fairing assembly 300 so that the fairing assembly 300 may resist deflection of air traveling over the vehicle roof 102. The plurality of channels 360 may be formed in a front surface 362 of the fairing assembly 300 and extend rearward to form a stepped profile along the width of the fairing assembly 300. The plurality of channels 360 may form a protrusion 368 on a rear surface 364 of the fairing assembly 300. The fairing assembly 300 may include a peripheral lip 366 extending away from the front surface 362 to form an open pocket 367 in the rear surface 364. The peripheral lip 366 may be formed with a large radius to remove a sharp edge from the peripheral edge of the body 322. In some embodiments, the bumper 324 may be coupled to the peripheral lip 366 .

[0118] Exemplary Accessory Mounting Assembly

[0119] Figure 20-26 An accessory mounting assembly 400 for use with a cargo platform 100 is shown according to an embodiment. The accessory mounting assembly 400 may be configured to mount to a load bar 112 of the cargo platform 100 and provide an elevated mounting surface above the cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, the accessory mounting assembly 400 may be configured to receive a ceiling mounted accessory 500 such that the ceiling mounted accessory 500 is spaced apart from the cargo platform 100. Although the accessory mounting assembly 400 may be a stand-alone accessory mounted to the cargo platform 100, the accessory mounting assembly 400 may also be used with the guard rail assembly 200 and the fairing assembly 300.

[0120] For example Figure 20-24As shown in FIG. 1 , the accessory mounting assembly 400 may be mounted to the load bar 112 and include, for example, an accessory beam 410, a first mounting base 412, a second mounting base 414, and an accessory bolt 416. The first mounting base 412 and the second mounting base 414 may be configured to support the accessory beam 410 in an elevated position above the cargo platform 100. In some embodiments, the accessory mounting assembly 400 may be configured to position a ceiling mounted accessory 500 in an elevated position above the cargo platform 100 and above the protection rail assembly 200. The accessory beam 410 may include a first end 420, a second end 422 opposite the first end 420, and a top surface 424 spanning between the first end 420 and the second end 422. An accessory channel 426 may be formed in the top surface 424 between the first end 420 and the second end 422 and configured to receive and couple with the ceiling mounted accessory 500. In some embodiments, the accessory channel 426 may be substantially similar to the channel 116 formed in the load bar 112. A first aperture 430 may be formed in a bottom surface of the fitting channel 426 and disposed at the first end 420 and the second end 422 of the fitting beam 410. In some embodiments, a bolt head opening 432 may be formed through the top surface 424 and into the fitting channel 426 and disposed at the first end 420 and the second end 422 of the fitting beam 410. The first aperture 430 and the bolt head opening 432 may be configured to receive the fitting bolt 416 such that when the fitting bolt 416 is inserted through the first aperture 430, the bolt head of the fitting bolt 416 is disposed within the fitting channel 426.

[0121] In some embodiments, for example, Fig.23 As shown in , the accessory rail 410 can be extruded and form a recess 428 through the accessory rail 410. The recess 428 can be configured to receive a corresponding arm 458 in the first mounting base 412 and the second mounting base 414. Fig.23 and Fig.24 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the recess 428 may include a mounting recess 440 and a side recess 442. The mounting recess 440 may be positioned below the accessory passages 426 such that the first aperture 430 may extend between the accessory passages 426 and into the mounting recess 440, and the accessory bolt 416 may extend through the mounting recess 440. The side recess 442 may be positioned adjacent to the mounting recess 440 on the front and rear portions of the accessory rail 410. Fig.24 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , bolt head openings 432 may be formed through the top and bottom surfaces of the accessory channel 426 such that the head of the accessory bolt 416 may be disposed in the mounting recess 440 when the accessory mounting accessory 400 is coupled to the cargo platform 100 .

[0122] The first mounting base 412 can be coupled to the first end 420 of the fitting rail 410. The second mounting base 414 can be coupled to the second end 422 of the fitting rail 410 and can be substantially similar to the first mounting base 412. Fig. 22 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first mounting base 412 may include a connecting portion 450 and a foot portion 452. The connecting portion 450 may be configured to be inserted into the recess 428 and coupled to the first end 420 of the accessory rail 410. The connecting portion 450 may include an end wall 456 and an arm 458 extending away from the end wall 456. In some embodiments, for example, Fig.21 As shown in , the end wall 456 has an outer surface that is substantially flat and flush with the outer wall of the foot portion 452. Fig. 22 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the arm 458 includes a mounting arm 460 and a side arm 462. The mounting arm 460 may be configured to be inserted into the mounting recess 440, and the side arm 462 may be configured to be inserted into the corresponding side recess 442. In some embodiments, the mounting arm 460 may include a protrusion 464 extending from the bottom surface of the mounting arm 460, and the mounting recess 440 may include a notch 444 formed in the bottom surface of the mounting recess 440 corresponding to the protrusion 464. The foot portion 452 may be disposed between the accessory beam 410 and the load bar 112, and is configured to support and lift the accessory beam 410 above the load bar 112. In some embodiments, the foot portion 452 may have a foot height 454 between about 10 mm and about 80 mm. The foot portion 452 may be integrally formed with the connecting portion 450 so that the first mounting base is a single member. The foot portion 452 may have an approximately rectangular cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the foot portion 452 may be hollow and include a plurality of support members to provide rigidity. A second aperture 455 is formed through the mounting arm 460 and the foot portion 452 and is configured to receive the accessory bolt 416 .

[0123] In some embodiments, the accessory mounting assembly 400 includes three components and two assembly bolts to couple with the load bar 112 and provide an elevated loading surface for a ceiling mounted accessory 500 mounted above the cargo platform 100. The reduced number of components allows for simple assembly by a user and less packaging for shipping. To assemble the accessory mounting assembly 400 to the load bar 112, the arms 458 of the first mounting base 412 and the second mounting base 414 are inserted into corresponding recesses 428 in the first end 420 and the second end 422 of the accessory beam 410. The first mounting base and the second mounting base may be arranged at user desired locations on the load bar 112. Anchors 470 may be slidably disposed in the channel 116 of the load bar 112 and aligned with the first mounting base 412 and the second mounting base 414. The accessory bolt 416 may then be inserted through the first aperture 430 and mounting recess 440 in the accessory beam 410 , and through the second aperture 455 in the first mounting base 412 , and engage the anchor 470 to couple the accessory mounting assembly 400 to the load bar 112 of the cargo platform 100 .

[0124] In some embodiments, for example, Fig.25 and Fig.26 As shown in , the accessory mounting assembly 400 may include a first mounting base 412a coupled to the first end 420 of the accessory beam 410. The first mounting base 412a may include a connecting portion 450a and a foot portion 452a. Fig.25 and Fig.26 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the connecting portion 450a and the foot portion 452a are separate components. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 450a can be coupled to the accessory rail 410 and other accessory components mounted to the vehicle roof 102. The connecting portion 450a can be configured to be inserted into the recess 428 and coupled to the first end 420 of the accessory rail 410. The connecting portion 450a can include an end cap 456a, an arm 458a, and a coupling member 457a, which extends away from the end cap 456a and is configured to couple to the bottom surface 425 of the accessory rail 410. In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 and Fig.26 As shown in FIG. 4 , the end cap 456a has a convex shape and depends from the outer wall of the foot portion 452a. Fig.25 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , arm 458a includes mounting wall 460a and side arm 462a. Mounting wall 460a can be configured to be inserted into mounting recess 440, and side arm 462a can be configured to be inserted into corresponding side recess 442.

[0125] In some embodiments, the coupling member 457a is a cantilever beam and extends away from the end cap 456a and through the assembly aperture 27 formed in the bottom surface 425 of the accessory beam 410. In some embodiments, the coupling member 457a is substantially flush with the bottom surface 425. In some embodiments, the engagement arm 429 is coupled to the bottom surface 425 and extends into the assembly aperture 427. For example, Fig.26 As shown, the engagement arm 429 may be coupled with an engagement recess 459a formed in the coupling member 457a. The coupling member 457a may be configured to deflect or bend outwardly away from the bottom surface 425 of the accessory rail 410 so that the engagement recess 459a of the coupling member 457a is disengaged and disengaged from the engagement arm 429. Fig.26 In the exemplary embodiment shown in , the first end 431 of the assembly aperture 427 is spaced apart from the free end 461a of the coupling member 457a to form a finger space 433 between the free end 461a and the first end 431. The finger space 433 is sized to allow a user to insert his or her finger into the finger space 433 and pull the coupling member 457a away from the bottom surface 425 of the accessory rail 410 to disengage the coupling member 457a from the engagement arm 429.

[0126] The foot portion 452a can be disposed between the accessory beam 410 and the load bar 112 and is configured to support the accessory beam 410 and elevate the accessory beam above the load bar 112. The foot portion 452 can be separated from the connecting portion 450a so that the foot portion can be positioned further inboard of the first end 420. In some embodiments, the first aperture 430 can be a slot so that the foot portion can be coupled at multiple locations along the length of the accessory beam 410. For example, Fig.25 and 26As shown in FIG. 4 , the foot portion 452a may include a first side 490a, a second side 491a, a positioning arm 494a, and an assembly recess 492a formed in each of the first side 490a and the second side 491a. The assembly recess 492a extends inwardly into the first side 490a and the second side 491a of the foot portion 452a. The assembly recess 492a may be formed in both the first side 490a and the second side 491a so that the foot portion 452a can be installed adjacent to the first side 490a of the first end 420 or adjacent to the second side 491a of the first end 420. A second aperture 455a is formed through the foot portion 452a between the assembly recesses 492a and is configured to receive the accessory bolt 416. The assembly recess 492a is sized to be substantially flush with the assembly aperture 427 of the accessory beam 410 so that access to the finger space 433 is maintained when the accessory beam 410 is coupled to the foot portion 452a. In some embodiments, the assembly recess 492a may advantageously allow the foot portion 452a to be positioned closer to the first end 420 of the accessory beam 410 while maintaining access to the finger space 433. The locating arm 494a extends away from the bottom surface 496a of the foot portion 452a and is configured to extend into the channel 116 of the load beam 112 to position and align the aperture 455a adjacent to the channel 116 so that the accessory bolt 416 may be more easily positioned in the channel 116 during assembly.

[0127] It should be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, rather than the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all embodiments of load carrier systems and apparatuses, and thus are not intended to limit the present embodiments and the appended claims.

[0128] The present disclosure has been described above by means of functional building blocks showing embodiments of specific functions and their relationships. For ease of description, the boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein. As long as the specified functions and their relationships are properly performed, alternative boundaries may be defined.

[0129] The foregoing description of specific embodiments will fully reveal the general nature of the present disclosure, so that others can easily modify and / or change the various applications of such specific embodiments by applying knowledge within the technical scope of the art, without excessive experimentation, and without departing from the overall concept of the present disclosure. Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance presented herein, such changes and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terms herein are for the purpose of description rather than limitation, so that the terms or terms of this specification will be interpreted by the technician according to teaching and guidance.

[0130] The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A roof rack mounted on a vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle-mounted roof frame comprises: a perimeter track system comprising a front track, a rear track, a first side track, and a second side track; and A plurality of load bars are coupled to the perimeter rail system and disposed within the interior space of the perimeter rail system.

2. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The front rail includes a first cross-sectional shape along a centerline of the perimeter rail system, and the rear rail includes a second cross-sectional shape along a centerline of the perimeter rail system, wherein the first cross-sectional shape is different from the second cross-sectional shape.

3. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second cross-sectional shape tapers toward a rear edge of the rear rail.

4. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The perimeter rail system further includes a front corner member coupled between the front rail and one of the first side rail and the second side rail, The front angle component includes a top angle surface and a bottom angle surface which is spaced apart from and not parallel to the top angle surface.

5. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 1, characterized in that: The perimeter rail system further includes a front corner member coupled between the front rail and one of the first side rail and the second side rail, The front angle component includes a top angle surface, a bottom angle surface spaced apart from the top angle surface, and a low point disposed on the bottom angle surface and spaced apart from the top angle surface by a first distance.

6. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 5, characterized in that The front rail includes a top surface and a bottom surface spaced a second distance from the top surface, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

7. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 6, characterized in that The top angle surface of the front corner piece is coplanar with the top surface of the front rail.

8. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 5, characterized in that: At least one of the front rail, the first side rail, and the second side rail includes a bottom surface defining a plane extending along the bottom surface, and wherein the plane intersects the front corner piece between the top angle surface and the low point.

9. A protective rail assembly for a roof rack mounted on a vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle mounted ceiling frame includes a perimeter rail system having a track having a channel formed therein, the protective rail assembly including: A protection rail comprising a main body portion and an assembly portion extending from the main body portion, The assembly portion is configured to be disposed in a channel of the track.

10. The protection rail assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that The assembly portion of the protection rail includes a tail portion and an arm extending from the tail portion, wherein the channel comprises a groove formed in a bottom surface of the channel, and an elongated notch, and Wherein when the protection rail is assembled in the channel, the arm of the assembly portion is configured to be disposed in the elongated recess, and the tail portion is configured to extend into the groove.

11. The protection rail assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that: The guard rail is coupled to a first side rail of the perimeter rail system, and a second guard rail is coupled to a second side rail of the perimeter rail system.

12. The protection rail assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that The protection rail assembly further includes a third protection rail coupled to the front rail of the perimeter rail system and a fourth protection rail coupled to the rear rail of the perimeter rail system.

13. A roof rack mounted on a vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle-mounted roof frame comprises: a perimeter track system comprising a front track, a rear track, a first side track, and a second side track, wherein a first channel is formed in at least one of the front track, the rear track, the first side track, and the second side track; a plurality of load bars coupled to the perimeter rail system and disposed within an interior space of the perimeter rail system, wherein a second channel is formed in at least one of the plurality of load bars; and at least one protection rail comprising a main body portion and an assembly portion extending from the main body portion, Wherein the assembly portion is configured to be disposed in the first channel.

14. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 13, characterized in that The first channel has a first depth and the second channel has a second depth, wherein the first depth is greater than the second depth.

15. The vehicle-mounted ceiling rack according to claim 14, characterized in that The assembly portion has a first height, and the first height is smaller than the first depth and larger than the second depth, so that the protection rail cannot be assembled on the plurality of load bars.

16. A rectifier for a vehicle load frame, characterized in that: The rectifying device comprises: a coupling portion configured to couple to the vehicle load frame; and A blade extends from the coupling portion at an oblique angle.

17. The rectifying device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The coupling portion includes a plurality of slots formed therein for adjustably coupling the fairing to the vehicle load frame.

18. The rectifying device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The blade includes a body and a buffer coupled to a periphery of the body.

19. The rectifying device according to claim 18, characterized in that: A plurality of grooves are formed along the periphery of the body of the blade, and The dampener includes an assembly slot and an assembly tab extending into the assembly slot, wherein the assembly tab is configured to engage a slot in a body of the blade to couple the dampener to the body of the blade.

20. The rectifying device according to claim 18, characterized in that: The body of the blade is flat.

21. The rectifying device according to claim 18, characterized in that: The lower edge of the body of the blade is concave.

22. The rectifying device according to claim 16, characterized in that: A plurality of channels are formed in the front sides of the blades and the coupling portion and are configured to reinforce the fairing.

23. The rectifying device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The blade extends at a first angle relative to the coupling portion, wherein the first angle is between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees.

24. The rectifying device according to claim 23, characterized in that: The first angle is about 25 degrees.

25. The rectifying device according to claim 23, characterized in that: The fairing is configured to rotate relative to the coupling member to adjust the first angle.

26. An accessory mount configured to be coupled to a vehicle mounted roof rack having a perimeter rail system and a load bar coupled to the perimeter rail system, wherein: The accessory mounting member comprises: Accessory beams; a first mounting base disposed at a first end of the fitting beam; and a second mounting base disposed at a second end of the accessory beam, Wherein the first mounting base and the second mounting base are configured to couple to the load bar and elevate the accessory beam above the load bar and the perimeter rail system.

27. The accessory mount of claim 26, wherein: The first mounting base includes a connecting portion including an end wall and an arm extending opposite the end wall and entering a recess formed in the accessory beam, and a foot portion extending from the connecting portion and disposed between the accessory beam and the load beam.

28. The accessory mount of claim 27, wherein: The accessory mount further includes an assembly bolt configured to couple the accessory mount to the load beam, the assembly bolt extending through a first aperture formed in the accessory beam and a second aperture formed in the first mounting base.

29. The accessory mount of claim 28, wherein: A channel is formed in the load beam along a length of the load beam, and the assembly bolt is coupled with an anchor slidably disposed in the channel.

30. The accessory mount of claim 29, wherein: The recessed portion of the accessory beam includes a mounting recessed portion and a side recessed portion. wherein the arm of the first mounting base includes a mounting arm extending into the mounting recess and a side arm extending into the side recess, and Wherein the assembly bolt extends through the mounting recess and the mounting arm.

31. The accessory mount of claim 30, wherein: A fitting passage is formed in the fitting beam, and when the assembly bolt is coupled with the anchor, the assembly bolt is disposed in the fitting passage.

32. The accessory mount of claim 26, wherein: An accessory channel is formed in a top surface of the accessory beam and is configured to receive a ceiling-mounted accessory.

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