Tool-Free Roof Bar Attachment Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing motor vehicle roof bar fixing devices are often not removable, require specific tools for assembly and disassembly, and do not effectively prevent theft, with recent developments in double arrangement configurations still suffering from these drawbacks.

Innovation Solution

A device featuring C-shaped bar ends with a locking member and anchoring foot system, allowing for easy, tool-free assembly and disassembly, and compatible with various configurations, including longitudinal and transverse arrangements, using a push button mechanism and latch system for secure engagement with bases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional roof bar fixing devices are used, then the bars can be fixed to the vehicle, but they require specific tools and delicate assembly/disassembly operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly and disassembly operationVSAvoidfixing device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking member with push button mechanism, an anchoring foot, and a latch system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling tool-free operation while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The push button mechanism transforms the static locking mechanism into a dynamic one. When the push button is actuated, it triggers the latch system to move between locked and unlocked states, enabling easy tool-free assembly and disassembly while maintaining security when locked.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If non-removable roof bar fixing devices are used, then the bars are securely fixed, but they cannot be removed or repositioned

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveremovabilityVSAvoidfixing security

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The latch system is pre-configured in a locked position that automatically engages with the anchoring conformation when the locking member is inserted. This preliminary locked state provides immediate security upon installation, while the push button mechanism remains ready to release it when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing device is designed to be self-locking through the latch system that automatically engages with the anchoring conformation without requiring additional tools or actions. The user simply needs to insert the locking member, and the system self-secures itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If traditional fixing devices are used, then the bars can be attached to bases, but they do not prevent theft

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetheft preventionVSAvoidassembly simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking member features a push button mechanism that, when actuated, triggers the latch system to securely engage with the anchoring conformation. This mechanism provides robust theft prevention through positive mechanical engagement while maintaining user-friendly operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

4Adaptability or versatility

If recent double arrangement devices are used, then longitudinal and transverse configurations are enabled, but they still require specific tools and do not prevent theft

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconfiguration flexibilityVSAvoidassembly operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking member with push button mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables tool-free assembly, provides secure locking to prevent theft, and works across different configurations (longitudinal and transverse arrangements). This universal design eliminates the need for configuration-specific tools or procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2760703B1Device for attaching a motor vehicle roof bar and arrangement of roof bars which have been assembled in various configurations using such a device

Publication Date: 2015.07.29 RENAULT SA

Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~8

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for attaching a motor vehicle roof (4) bar (1) to two mounts (3), characterized in that each end (2) of the bar (1) defines a housing (8) in which a corresponding locking member (6) is housed, this member being extended on the outside of the housing by an anchoring leg (10) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) of the bar (1) and passing through a slot (11) formed in a lower longitudinal wall of the bar (1), the locking member (6) comprising a push-button (12) that can be moved in a translational movement between, on the one hand, a locked position that brings about the deployment of a catch system (17, 18) borne by the anchoring leg (10), so that it engages with anchoring shapes (13) made in a passage (5) of a corresponding mount (3) into which the locking member (6) is plugged, and, on the other hand, an unlocked position that brings about the retraction of the catch system (17, 18) so as to effect disengagement from the shapes (13), the push-button (12) in the locked position entering an orifice (14, 15) of mating shape formed in the wall of the bar (1). The invention also relates to an arrangement of roof bars that can support various configurations using one same type of attachment device.