Vehicle Roof Rack Assembly With Single-Point Bar Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roof bar assemblies require numerous handling operations and precise positioning, leading to increased assembly time and manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple fixing points and foldable roof bars.
Innovation Solution
A roof bar assembly that uses a single fixing point for both longitudinal and transverse positions, allowing for pivoting and translation movements through a T-screw and guide element system with a spring washer mechanism, reducing the number of fixing points and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If foldable roof bars with multiple fixing points are used to achieve both longitudinal and transverse positions, then positioning versatility is improved, but assembly time and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single fixing foot is designed to serve multiple functions: it can secure the roof bar in both longitudinal and transverse positions, and it supports both articulation and locking functions. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate fixing points for each position, thereby reducing assembly complexity and time while maintaining positioning versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple fixing points into a single fixing foot. By combining the articulation mechanism, locking mechanism, and multiple position securing capabilities into one integrated component, the system achieves the same versatility with fewer parts, directly reducing assembly time and manufacturing costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If foldable roof bars with multiple fixing points are used to achieve both longitudinal and transverse positions, then positioning versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing foot is designed as a universal component that handles both longitudinal and transverse positioning, as well as articulation and locking functions. This reduces the total number of components needed and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining full positioning versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements (articulation mechanism, locking mechanism, fixing points) are merged into a single integrated fixing foot design. This consolidation reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function, while still achieving the required positioning versatility.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning and assembly operations are required to move roof bars between positions, then positioning accuracy is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing foot incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that automatically guide the roof bar into the correct position and secure it without requiring precise manual positioning. The T-screw mechanism and cam action provide automatic positioning and locking, reducing the skill level and time required for assembly while maintaining high positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The T-screw and guide element act as intermediary mechanisms that facilitate easy transition between positions. These components guide the movement and ensure accurate positioning without requiring complex manual alignment operations, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining positioning precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration significantly reduces assembly time and manufacturing costs while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency by minimizing the number of fixing points and simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a nut (53) screwed to the free end of the threaded rod (52), the nut (53) pressing against a spring washer (54) arranged between said nut (53) and said upper wall (31), thus pressing the head (51) of the T-screw (50) against the lower wall (21)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a roof bar assembly (1) comprising: - two pairs of fixing feet (3a1, 3a2; 3b1, 3b2), and - a pair of bars (2a, 2b) capable of moving in at least two specific operating positions, respectively a longitudinal position, in which they are parallel to a longitudinal axis (X), and a transverse position, in which they are oriented perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (X), in which each of the bars (2a, 2b) can move both in rotation and in translation relative to one of the fixing feet.