Multi-axis Roof Rack Mounting System with Pivotable Rails
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an improved roof-rack mounting system that provides a secure and versatile solution for sports utility vehicles, trucks, and other vehicles to accommodate various cargo transportation systems, such as luggage trays, cargo boxes, bike carriers, and ski racks, while ensuring ease of installation and adaptability to different vehicle models.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis roof-rack mounting system comprising a bracket member with arm members and a support member, featuring a curved portion with an elongate opening for lateral movement of a fastener, saddle members for movable engagement, and a clasp member that allows pivotable movement of rails relative to the support member, enabling secure attachment to vehicle roofs and accommodating different rail orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid and fixed roof rack system is used, then structural strength and stability are improved, but adaptability to different vehicle models and cargo configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates movable and adjustable components including saddle members that can slide along the support member, arms that can pivot at multiple axes, and quick-release mechanisms. These dynamic elements allow the rigid structure to adapt its configuration to different vehicle roof profiles and cargo rack types while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement rather than complete rigidity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed with universal compatibility features including multiple mounting configurations, adjustable arm positions, and interchangeable components that can accommodate various vehicle models (SUVs, trucks, sedans) and different cargo transportation systems (luggage trays, cargo boxes, bike carriers, ski racks), allowing a single system to perform multiple functions across different applications
2Adaptability or versatility
If a complex mounting system with multiple adjustment mechanisms is used, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity and ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into distinct modular segments including separate bracket members, support members, saddle members, and arm assemblies. Each segment can be independently adjusted or positioned, allowing complex adaptability to be achieved through simple modular components rather than a single complex integrated mechanism, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional fixed mounting systems are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ease of operation and installation speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates pre-configured features such as pre-positioned mounting holes, pre-assembled bracket members, and pre-set saddle member positions that are prepared during manufacturing. This preliminary action during fabrication allows for rapid field installation without requiring complex on-site adjustments or custom fitting, thereby improving installation speed while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized pre-prepared components
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-axis roof-rack mounting system includes a bracket member and a support member coupled to the bracket member. The bracket member includes a middle portion and two arm members connected to and extending upwardly from opposing lateral edges of the middle portion. The support member includes a curved portion having an elongate opening configured to allow lateral movement of a fastener passing through the support member, one or more saddle members moveably engaged with the support member, and a clasp member. The clasp member is coupled to the fastener and configured to be receivable within a rail. The bracket member is securable to a roof of a vehicle.