Roof Rack Coupler With Pivoting Quick-Release Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable camping awnings and other roof rack-mounted accessories are difficult to remove and reattach, often remaining undesirably on vehicles after use, and require disassembly when the vehicle is used elsewhere.
Innovation Solution
A roof rack coupler with a roof rack member, accessory member, and securing means, allowing for quick and secure attachment and detachment of accessories like awnings or storage tubes, featuring a pivoting mechanism, pin member, and optional lock for rapid assembly and disassembly, enabling the accessory to remain erected when the vehicle moves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing retractable camping awnings are attached to roof racks, then the awnings can be mounted on vehicles, but they become difficult to remove and reattach, often remaining undesirably on vehicles after use
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is divided into separate components: a roof rack member that attaches to the vehicle roof rack, and an accessory member that attaches to the awning. These segments can be independently attached and detached, allowing rapid assembly and disassembly without complex multi-step procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler incorporates a pivoting mechanism that allows the accessory member to pivot relative to the roof rack member. This dynamic feature enables quick engagement and disengagement through simple lifting and pivoting motions, dramatically reducing the time and effort required for attachment and detachment operations.
2Reliability
If accessories are securely attached to the roof rack, then they remain firmly in place during vehicle travel, but they require complex securing mechanisms that make removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting mechanism provides both security and simplicity. When engaged, the pivot creates a firm mechanical connection that reliably secures the accessory during travel. The same pivoting action, combined with a simple lifting motion, enables easy release without complex tools or procedures, thus achieving both reliability and low complexity simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The pin member acts as an intermediary element that simplifies the securing process. It provides a straightforward insertion and locking mechanism that ensures reliable attachment while maintaining operational simplicity. The pin can be quickly inserted or removed without complex procedures, bridging the gap between secure attachment and ease of removal.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the accessory member is substantially received within the roof rack member, then a streamlined coupler is provided for minimal drag, but access to securing components may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The securing components, particularly the pin member, are positioned at the base of the members where they are substantially received within each other. This spatial arrangement in a different dimension (at the base rather than along the length) provides access to securing components while maintaining the streamlined profile along the aerodynamic surface, thus reducing drag without compromising accessibility.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a roof rack coupler for coupling an accessory to a roof rack. The coupler includes a roof rack member for fastening to the generic roof rack bracket. The coupler further includes an accessory member, typically releasably fastenable to the accessory, for engaging with the roof rack member. Securing means is provided for securing the accessory member to the roof rack member. Preferably, the accessory member may be dropped within and lifted out of the roof rack member to facilitate rapid assembly and disassembly.