Rear Load Carrier Interlock for Low-Drag Vehicle Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load carrier systems for vehicles face challenges in securing attachments at high speeds, causing handling difficulties and increased air resistance, while also being costly and inflexible to adapt to different user needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular load carrier system with a base and interchangeable load carriers featuring an interlocking engagement mechanism, such as snap-fit or bayonet joints, that securely attaches to the vehicle, allowing easy exchange and adaptation for various uses without the need for multiple bases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure attachment mechanism is used to withstand high forces at speed, then attachment reliability is improved, but device complexity and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate components: a base with receiving elements and load carriers with attachment elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall reliability through modular interlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism incorporates dynamic engagement features such as snap-fit connections and bayonet joints that allow quick attachment and detachment. The receiving elements and attachment elements are designed to engage dynamically during installation, providing secure fastening without complex manual operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized load carriers are produced to meet different user needs, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to small quantities
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed as a universal platform with standardized receiving elements that can accommodate multiple types of load carriers. Different load carriers (e.g., for bicycles, surfboards, luggage) share the same attachment interface, allowing the base to serve multiple functions while being manufactured in large quantities to reduce cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the base (manufactured once in large quantities) from the load carriers (produced in smaller varieties). This segmentation allows the base to achieve economies of scale while the load carriers can be specialized for different uses without increasing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the load carrier design is customized for specific uses, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized receiving elements on the base provide a universal interface that works with all load carrier types. This universality allows highly customized load carriers (for different sports equipment, luggage configurations, etc.) to be integrated without increasing base complexity or requiring multiple base designs.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a load carrier system for a vehicle comprising a base (12) and a load carrier (10). The load carrier (10) is configured for mounting to the rear of the vehicle. The load carrier (10) is configured to improve aerodynamics of the vehicle with the mounted load carrier as compared to the vehicle without the mounted load carrier, in particular by reducing an aerodynamic drag. The system may be configured for attachment of the load carrier (10) to the base (12) with an interlocking engagement of an attachment element (66). The invention further relates to a load carrier (10) and a method for attaching a load carrier (10) to a baser (12).