Roof Rack Connector Sliding Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof rack connector assemblies for vehicles with grooves or tracks require tools and are time-consuming to remove, especially when fasteners are used for installation.
Innovation Solution
A roof rack assembly featuring a body and base with a sliding locking pin mechanism actuated by an arm, allowing quick and tool-free engagement and disengagement of the roof bar from the vehicle roof.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fasteners such as bolts or screws are used to affix the connector assembly to the roof track, then the roof rack can be securely connected to the roof, but the removal process becomes time-consuming and requires specific tools
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate components: a base affixed to the roof track, a body attached to the roof bar, and a locking pin that can slide independently between locked and unlocked positions. This segmentation allows the locking mechanism to be operated separately from the base mounting, enabling quick removal without tool intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin is designed to be slidable along an axis, transitioning dynamically between a locked position (engaging both base and body) and an unlocked position (engaging only one component). This dynamic mechanism allows rapid state changes from secured to released, eliminating the need for manual fastener removal while maintaining secure connection when locked.
2Ease of operation
If traditional clamp mechanisms with rotatable handles are used, then the roof rack can be easily removed without tools, but vehicles without rails or with groove/track systems cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is designed with a base that can be affixed to groove/track systems using fasteners, while the body and locking pin mechanism provides tool-free operation similar to rail-mounted clamps. This multi-functional design allows the same assembly to work with different roof configurations (groove/track systems and rail systems), achieving both adaptability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin acts as an intermediary between the base (affixed to roof) and the body (attached to roof bar). It mediates the connection by providing a sliding engagement mechanism that translates simple linear motion into secure locking, enabling tool-free operation while accommodating groove/track mounting systems.
3Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to secure the connector assembly to the roof track, then the connection is reliable, but the installation and removal process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into permanent mounting (base affixed to roof with fasteners) and removable locking (locking pin sliding mechanism). This segmentation separates the complex fastener installation from the simple locking operation, maintaining connection reliability through secure base mounting while simplifying the locking/unlocking process to a single sliding action.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for releasably connecting a roof bar to a roof of a vehicle. The assembly includes a body which is affixed to the roof bar, a base which is affixed to the roof and has a receiving portion for receiving a portion of the body, a locking pin slidably engaged with the body and the base, and slidable along an axis between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the locking in engages the body and the base. In the unlocked position, the locking pin engages the body or the base. The assembly also has an actuator movable along the axis to slide the locking pin between the locked position and the unlocked position, thereby selectively engaging the body with the base.