NL2037777B1

NL2037777B1 - Frame assembly for in a vehicle

Info

Publication number: NL2037777B1
Application number: NL2037777A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Jacobus Van Der Weijden Eddy; Burgers Sten
Original assignee: Eddys Bloemen Import/Export B V; Sbu Holding B V
Priority date: 2024-05-24
Filing date: 2024-05-24
Publication date: 2025-12-04

Abstract

The present invention relates to a frame assembly for in a vehicle wherein the frame assembly is configured to support one or more objects, wherein the frame assembly comprises: - a frame which defines an annular shape, - at least a rear left side connector and a fonNard left side connector, and at least a rear right side connector and a forward right side connector, - one or more support devices for supporting the object, wherein the one or more support devices are connected to the frame, wherein the one or more support devices are configured to support the object below the frame, wherein the frame assembly does not have posts or floor members via which the frame rests on a cabin floor or on a lower portion of the body of the vehicle.

Description

P36745NLOO/WHA

Title: Frame assembly for in a vehicle

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a frame assembly for in a vehicle, in particular for in a van.

The frame assembly is configured to support one or more objects, such as a sports product, a hobby product, more in general an outdoor product, one or more tools, or any other object which needs to be transported in a van and which is suitable to be supported by a frame assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Frame assemblies for in a vehicle exist. An example is disclosed in US3524572A which relates to a rack for supporting fishing rods. The rack is connected to the side walls of a vehicle by screws. In the present invention it was recognized that this frame is not suitable to support other types of objects, such as a bike, a wakeboard, tools, etcetera. It was recognized that a user of a van typically may use for a variety of purposes and for transporting objects of various kinds. For such a user, a versatile frame is then a better option than a frame which is dedicated for a single purpose. In the present invention, it was further recognized that the frame of US3524572A is not very strong and cannot support heavier objects. Also, when the frame is not in use and stored outside the vehicle, a torsion force may easily deform the frame, resulting in permanent damage.

Inthe present invention it was further recognized that this frame is relatively difficult to install and remove because of the screw connections. Not all vehicles may have suitable mounting positions for these screws.

Another example of a frame is disclosed in US31552989A. This frame is mounted to the roof of a vehicle. It was recognized in the present invention that this may be a suitable solution for supporting light objects such as fishing rods, but that for heavier objects such as bikes the inner side of the roof may not be not strong enough to carry such loads. The shape of the frame is also not suitable for supporting different kinds of objects such as bikes, tools, wakeboards or other outdoor products. In particular, the shape of the frame is not suitable for all these types of products. In other words, the shape of the frame is not suitable for multipurpose use. Furthermore, not all roofs of vehicles may have suitable mounting positions for this frame.

JP2005161954A discloses a frame for supporting tools. It is not entirely clear how this frame is connected to the vehicle. The shape of the frame appears not very suitable for multipurpose use, because it is too narrow on the forward side.

Various frames with posts and floor members have also been disclosed, see for instance

US5893598A and DE10228360A1. A disadvantage of this type of frame is that it is rather large and voluminous, in particular when stored outside the vehicle. Further, the posts extend downward from an upper part of the frame and rest on the cabin floor. The posts and the floor member take up space inside the vehicle and decrease the surface area of the cabin floor which is available for storing objects and decrease the overall available volume of the storage compartment of the vehicle. The floor member also make the cabin floor uneven.

Other frames having posts have also been proposed, US6637793B2 and WO2023178037A1.

These frames are typically intended for pick-up trucks. Although these frames do not have floor members, the posts still have disadvantages in that make the frame large and voluminous and take up space inside the vehicle. Another example of a frame with posts is disclosed in FR2620665A1. The posts take up a significant portion of the cabin floor and volume of the compartment.

Frames which are designed specifically for bicycles are also known, see GB2405130B. This is a single purpose frame which is not very suitable for supporting objects other than bicycles.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

Itis a further object of the invention a frame assembly which is suitable for multipurpose use in the sense that it can support different kinds of objects.

It is an object of the invention to provide a generic frame assembly which can be used for different vehicles of different manufacturers.

It is an object of the invention to provide a frame assembly which can easily be fitted to the inside of a vehicle and can be easily removed again, when required.

It is an object of the invention to provide a frame assembly which does not require much cabin space and does not require any surface area of the cabin floor and which can remain in place when not in use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

At least one of the objects of the invention is achieved with a frame assembly according to claim 1. The frame is versatile and can be used for many purposes. The frame does not use any cabin floor space, which is handy.

In some embodiments, the invention makes use of pre-existing holes on the inside of the body work of a vehicle. Each connector is configured to engage a pre-existing body opening in an inner wall of the body of the vehicle. In the invention, it was recognized that these holes are typically present in most vans. The purpose of these holes is not known to the applicant.

In this way, a same frame can be used for different vehicles.

In some embodiments, a plurality of connectors comprise a respective adjusting device, wherein each adjusting device allows the position of the connector to be adjusted relative to the frame. This increases the types of vehicles for which the frame is suitable.

In some embodiments, each adjusting device is configured to allow adjusting of the connector relative to the frame in an X-direction, Y-direction and Z-direction. This allows the frame to be used for many different vehicles.

In some embodiments, each adjusting device comprises a beam slider configured to slide along the left longitudinal beam or right longitudinal beam for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in a longitudinal direction called an X-direction, wherein the slider comprises a stop configured to fixate the beam slider relative to the left or right longitudinal beam. It was found that this allows a simple and effective way to adjust the frame

In some embodiments, each adjusting device comprises: — a Y-rail extending in the lateral direction and a Y-slider configured to slide along the Y-rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in the lateral direction called a Y-direction, wherein the Y-slider comprises a Y-stop for fixating the connector in a selected Y-position, and — a Z-rail extending in the vertical direction and a Z-slider configured to slide along the Z-rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in a vertical direction called a Z-direction wherein the Z-slider comprises a Z-stop for fixating the connector in a selected Z-position.

This creates a simple and sturdy construction.

The frame is configured to be mounted near the roof of the vehicle. This saves cabin space.

In some embodiments, the frame is essentially quadrilateral, in particular rectangular. In some embodiments, the frame does not have any other beams. This results in a simple frame which is cost-effective.

In some embodiments, each connector comprises a lower bearing surface configured to contact a lower ridge of the body opening. The forces may conveniently be transferred to the openings in the body of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, each connector comprises a pin configured to be inserted into the body opening and to rest on the lower ridge of the opening. A pin was found to be a simple way to let the frame be supported by the body openings.

In some embodiments, the one or more support devices extend downward from the frame and are configured to support the object below the frame. In some embodiments, at least one support device comprises a support bracket which extends downward from the frame. IN this way optimal use is made of the volume of the cabin below the frame.

In some embodiments, the distance between the left longitudinal beam and the right longitudinal beam is between 90 and 120 cm, in particular between 95 and 110cm. It was found that this allows installation in most types of vans.

In some embodiments, at least one support device is configured as a bike support device which comprises: — at least one rod which is connected to the frame and is positioned below the frame and which extends essentially longitudinally, wherein the rod comprises: o a central portion which extends substantially horizontally, o a rear free end portion which is a rear extension of the central portion and which is inclined downwards and which comprises a free end, wherein the free end is configured to receive an eye of a bike support bracket which is connected to a forward part of the bike, in particular a steer of a bike, and o a forward portion which is an extension of the central part and which when seen in side view is inclined downwards over a downward angle (a) and which when seen in top view is oriented to the right or left side over a left/right angle (B) relative to the central part.

With this embodiment the frame assembly advantageously functions as a bike support, allowing easy transportation of race bikes, mountain bikes, motorbikes, etc.. Typically, two bikes can be transported in a van with the frame. 5 In some embodiments, the downward angle (a) is between 2 and 10 degrees, in particular between 4 and 7 degrees, It was found that this allows easy engagement of the eye with the rod. In some embodiments, the left/right angle (B) is between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 10 and 15 degrees. This puts the steer in a correct orientation.

In some embodiments, each bike support device comprises a forward trolley movable connected to the forward lateral beam and a rear trolley movably connected to the rear lateral beam, wherein the rod is connected to the frame via the rear and forward trolley, allowing the rod to be moved in a lateral direction relative to the frame, wherein in particular at least one trolley comprises a trolley stop for fixating the trolleys in a chosen lateral position.

Advantageously, the position of the bike inside the vehicle can be adjusted to the left and to the right.

In some embodiments, the rod is connected to the frame via a bracket part which extends over a vertical distance and which is configured to allow an eye which is connected to an object, in particular a bike, to slide past it, wherein the bracket part is narrower than the rod. It was found that this is a sturdy construction which provides ease of use when putting a bike in the vehicle. A groove in the eye allows the eye to side past the bracket part while the eye stays attached to the rod. The groove is wider than the bracket part but narrower than the rod.

In some embodiments, the beams are made of steel, wherein the frame comprises four intermediate corner elements which interconnect the beams. This allows a cost-effective frame assembly and easy manufacturing of the frame assembly.

In some embodiments, each intermediate corner element comprises a bolt hole and a bolt which allows the lateral or longitudinal beam to be disconnected from the corner element, allowing the frame to be taken apart into separate parts. Many consumers have limited storage space. Even though the frame does not take up much cabin volume because it is mounted near the ceiling, there may still be times when it is handy to remove and store the frame.

In some embodiments, the frame assembly is configured to be solely connected to the inner left side wall and the inner right side wall of the vehicle and not to any other part of the vehicle, and wherein the frame is configured to be entirely supported by the connectors and does not comprise any other support means for supporting the frame in the vehicle. This saves cabin space and cabin floor space.

The present invention further relates to a frame assembly which is configured to support one or more bikes, wherein the frame assembly comprises: — a frame configured to be connected to the side walls or to the roof of the vehicle, — at least one a bike support device which comprises at least one rod which is connected to the frame and is positioned below the frame and which extends longitudinally, wherein the rod has: o a central portion which extends substantially horizontally, o arear free end portion which is inclined downwards and which comprises a free end where the free end is configured to receive an eye of a bike support bracket which is connected to a forward part of the bike, in particular a steer of a bike, o a forward part which is an extension of the central part and which when seen in side view is inclined slightly downwards and which when seen in top view is oriented to the right or left side over and angel relative to central part, wherein said angle is between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 3 and 10 degrees.

In some embodiments, the frame comprises a rear lateral beam and a forward lateral beam, wherein the frame assembly comprises a rear trolley movably connected to the rear lateral beam and a forward trolley movable connected to the forward lateral beam, wherein the rod is connected to the frame via the rear and forward trolleys, allowing the rod to be moved in a lateral direction relative to the frame. This is a simple and effective way to allow adjustment to the left and/or to the right of the bike in the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the frame assembly further comprises: — at least a left longitudinal beam and a right longitudinal beam which are interconnected with the rear and forward lateral beam and together form a frame having an annular shape, and — at least a rear left side connector and a forward left side connector which are connected to the left longitudinal beam, wherein each left side connector is configured to connect the left longitudinal beam to the inner left side wall of the vehicle, and at least a rear right side connector and a forward right side connector which are connected to the right longitudinal beam, wherein each right side connector is configured to connect the right longitudinal beam to the inner right side wall of the vehicle.

Bike support bracket

The present invention further relates to a bike support bracket configured to connect a bike to the frame assembly of any of the preceding claims, the bike support bracket comprising: — a connecting device configured to be connected to the bike, and — an eye connected to the connecting device, wherein the eye is configured to slide over the rod of the frame assembly.

Advantageously, a bike can easily be transported with the frame assembly. The word bike is intended to have a broad meaning and covers bicycles and motorbikes.

In some embodiments, the eye is open and comprises a groove configured to slide past a bracket part which extends over a vertical distance between the rod and the frame and which connects the rod to the frame, directly or indirectly via a trolley. This allows easy placement of a bike in a vehicle.

In some embodiments, the groove is located at an upper side of the eye.

In some embodiments, the eye defines a through passage which defines a passage axis, wherein when seen in top view the passage axis is inclined at a passage angle (3) relative to the connecting device. The passage angle puts the steer slightly to the left or right relative to the rod. This prevents steers from two adjacent bikes from interfering with one another and allows the bikes to be placed closer together. It also reduces the length of the bikes somewhat, allowing placement in a vehicle having a relatively short cabin.

In some embodiments, the eye extends upward from the connecting device. This creates extra height which makes it relatively easy to connect the bike to the rod. It also leaves room for other devices which may be mounted on the steer.

In some embodiments, the connecting device comprises a central bracket part and two extension parts which extend to the rear of the central bracket part. It was found that this is an easy to install connector.

The present invention further relates to a kit-of-parts of a frame assembly and a bike support bracket.

It will be understood that a specific embodiment may not achieve all the stated objectives/advantages.

These and other aspects of the invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts.

LIST OF FIGURES

Figures 1 and 2 show isometric views of the frame assembly according to the present invention in a van.

Figures 3 through 7 show respectively a top view, an isometric view, a bottom view, a rear view and a side view of the frame assembly.

Figs. 8 - 10 show isometric views of a connector.

Fig. 11 shows a rear view of the connector.

Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of the frame assembly.

Fig. 13 shows details of the trolley.

Figs. 14 - 16 show the loading of a bicycle in a van.

Figs. 17A and 17B show isometric views of a bike support bracket according to the invention mounted on a bicycle.

Figs. 18 - 20 show respectively an isometric view, a side view and a front view of the bike support bracket.

Figs. 21 - 22 show respectively a top view and a bottom view of another embodiment of the bike support bracket according to the invention.

Fig. 23 shows a schematic top view of an embodiment of the frame assembly with overhang portions in the longitudinal beams.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

With reference to figures 1 through 7, a frame assembly 10 for in a vehicle 12 is shown. The vehicle may in particular be a van. The frame assembly 10 is configured to support one or more objects 14 such as a sports product, a hobby product, an outdoor product such as a bicycle or wakeboard, a motorbike, one or more tools, or a different kind of object that needs to be transported. The frame assembly 10 comprises: — a frame 18 comprising:

o a left longitudinal beam 18 which forms a left side 22 of the frame, the left longitudinal beam configured to extend along a inner left wall 23 of a body of the vehicle, o aright longitudinal beam 19 which forms a right side 24 of the frame, the right longitudinal beam configured to extend along an inner right wall 25 of a body of the vehicle, o a forward lateral beam 20 which extends laterally between the left longitudinal beam and the right longitudinal beam on a forward side 26 of the frame, and o a rear lateral beam 21 which extends between the left longitudinal beam and the right longitudinal beam on a rear side 28 of the frame.

The left and right longitudinal beam and the forward and rear lateral beam are interconnected, directly or via intermediate elements 32 which form a junction 40. The beams 18,19,20,21 and define an annular shape 30, indicated by dashed lines. The beams 18,19,20,21 are made of steel.

The intermediate elements 32 may be corner elements. Each intermediate element 32 may comprises a bolt hole and a bolt which allows the lateral or longitudinal beam to be disconnected from the corner element, allowing the frame to be taken apart into separate parts. This results in relatively little required storage space.

The distance between the left longitudinal beam 18 and the right longitudinal beam 19 is between 90 and 120 cm, in particular between 95 and 110 cm. This allows installation in most vans.

The frame assembly comprises at least one rear left side connector 36 and a forward left side connector 37, each of which is connected to the left longitudinal beam 18 or to a junction 40 of the left longitudinal beam and one of the lateral beams. The junction may be formed by an intermediate element 32. Each left side connector 36, 37 is configured to connect the left longitudinal beam to an upper portion of an inner left side wall 23 of a body 11 of the vehicle.

The frame assembly further comprises at least one rear right side connector 38 and a forward right side connector 39, each of which is connected to the right longitudinal beam 19 or, alternatively, to a junction 40 of the right longitudinal beam and one of the lateral beams, the junction being formed by an intermediate element 32. Each right side connector 38, 39 is configured to connect the right longitudinal beam to an upper portion of a right side wall of the body 11 of the vehicle 12.

The frame assembly further comprises one or more support devices 42 for supporting the object 14, wherein the one or more support devices are connected to the frame. The one or more support devices are configured to support the object below the frame. The support devices may be connected to the frame by a releasable connector. In this way one support device may be exchanged for a support device of another type and for another kind of object.

In this way the frame assembly is reconfigurable according to varying requirements. One day the frame may be used to transport a bicycle, and the next day the same frame may be used to transport a wakeboard, a golf cart, a tool or something else.

The frame assembly 10 does not have posts or floor members via which the frame 16 rests on a cabin floor or on a lower portion of the body of the vehicle.

The left and right longitudinal beam 18, 18 may have an overhang portion on one or both ends, in the sense that the forward and rear lateral beams do not meet the left and right longitudinal beam at their extreme ends but meet at a distance from the extreme ends of the left and right longitudinal beams. In such a configuration, the frame still defines an annular shape but the annular shape would not comprise the entire frame and in particular not comprise the overhang portions.

The frame 16 may be essentially quadrilateral, in particular rectangular. Essentially quadrilateral in this context is intended to be interpreted broadly. A skilled person will understand that the frame may have rounded corners or chamfered corners. The chamfered corners may be formed by relatively small intermediate beams, resulting in a more or less octagonal shape, but in which a quadrilateral shape may still be recognized. Also, the frame may comprise an extra longitudinal beam, for instance as a central beam, or an extra lateral beam for more rigidity. These variations may be combined, i.e. the frame may have chamfered corners and an extra lateral and longitudinal beam, but still have a recognizable quadrilateral shape. All these shapes are intended to fall under the meaning of essentially quadrilateral.

In a preferred embodiment, the frame does not have any other beams.

The frame assembly 10 may be configured to be solely connected to the inner left side wall and the inner right side wall of the vehicle and not to any other part of the vehicle. The frame may be configured to be entirely supported by the connectors. In this embodiment the frame assembly does not comprise any other support means for supporting the frame in the vehicle.

The one or more support devices 42 may be of various design and purpose. They may support a bicycle, a wakeboard or other sports products, tools or other equipment or another object. In this respect the frame assembly may be versatile. The one or more support devices extend downward from the frame and are configured to support one or more objects below the frame. At least one support device comprises a support bracket which extends downward from the frame.

Turning to figures 8 through 11, each connector 36, 37, 38, 39 is configured to engage a pre- existing body opening 50 on the inner wall 51 of the body 11 of the vehicle. In the present invention it was recognized that most vans have such body openings and that these can be used to support a frame.

A plurality of the connectors 36, 37, 38, 39 and typically all connectors comprise a respective adjusting device 60. Each adjusting device 60 allows the position of the connector to be adjusted relative to the frame 16. This makes it possible to install the frame regardless of the position of the openings 50. It was found that the position of these openings 50 may vary between different brands and models of vehicles. The adjustability allows the frame assembly 10 to be installed in most vehicles.

Each adjusting device 60 is configured to allow adjusting of the connector relative to the frame in an X-direction, Y-direction and Z-direction.

Each adjusting device 60 comprises a beam slider 62 configured to slide along the left longitudinal beam 18 or right longitudinal beam 19 for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame 16 in a longitudinal direction called an X-direction, wherein the slider comprises a stop 64 configured to fixate the beam slider relative to the left or right longitudinal beam. The stop is operable by a user.

Each adjusting device 60 comprises: — a Y-rail 66 extending in the lateral direction and a Y-slider 67 configured to slide along the Y-rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in the lateral direction called a Y-direction, wherein the Y-slider comprises a Y- stop 68 for fixating the connector in a selected Y-position, and — a Z-rail 70 extending in the vertical direction and a Z-slider 71 configured to slide along the Z-rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in a vertical direction called a Z-direction wherein the Z-slider comprises a Z- stop 72 for fixating the connector in a selected Z-position.

The Y-stop and Z-stop are operable by a user.

Each connector comprises a pin 80 configured to be inserted into the body opening 50 and to rest on the lower ridge 53 of the opening 50. The pin may have a tapering form or a tapering section which interconnects an outer section having a relatively small diameter and an inner section having a relatively large diameter. The pin may have a length of about 10-20mm, but other sizes may also be possible. In an embodiment, the pin is not constructed to transfer an axial load in the direction of the pin. For instance the pin may not have thread. The pin is only intended to transfer a vertical force onto the inner wall 51 of the body of the vehicle.

Each connector comprises a lower bearing surface 52 configured to contact the lower ridge 53 of the body opening 50. The lower bearing surface 52 may be the underside of the pin 80.

Turning to figure 12, one of the possible uses of the frame assembly is to carry a wakeboard.

The frame assembly 10 may have a number of support device 42 in the form of support brackets which can be releasably coupled to the frame 16. Various types of support brackets may be used depending on the object to carry.

Turning to figures 13-15, one of the possible applications of the frame assembly 10 is transporting one or more bicycles 132 in the vehicle. To this end, the frame assembly may comprise one or more support devices 42 in the form of a bike support device 100 which comprises: — at least one rod 102 which is connected to the frame and is positioned below the frame and which extends essentially longitudinally, wherein the rod comprises: o a central portion 103 which extends substantially horizontally, o a rear free end portion 104 which is a rear extension of the central portion and which is inclined downwards over a downward angle a and which comprises a free end 105, wherein the free end is configured to receive an eye 130 of a bike support bracket 150 which is connected to a forward part of the bicycle, in particular a steer 114 of a bicycle, and o a forward portion 106 which is an extension of the central part and which when seen in side view is inclined downwards over a downward angle B and which when seen in top view is oriented to the right or left side over a left/right angle y relative to the central part.

In the shown embodiment there are two bike support devices 100. The forward portion may have a stop 108.

The terms ‘rear’ and ‘forward’ are used with respect to the forward and rear side of the vehicle.

The downward angle a and B may be between 2 and 10 degrees, in particular between 4 and 7 degrees. The left/right angle y may be between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 10 and 15 degrees.

Each bike support device 100 may comprise a forward trolley 120 movably connected to the forward lateral beam 20 and a rear trolley 121 movably connected to the rear lateral beam 21. wherein the rod 102 is connected to the frame via the rear and forward trolley 120,121, allowing the rod to be moved in a lateral direction relative to the frame 16. In particular at least one trolley may comprise a trolley stop (not shown in the figures) for fixating the trolleys in a chosen lateral position.

The rod 102 is connected to the frame via a bracket part 111 which extends over a vertical distance in an upward direction from the rod 102 and which is configured to allow an eye 130 which is connected to an object, in particular a bicycle 132, to slide past it.

In the sequence of figures 14-16 it can be seen that the eye 130 is slid over the rear end portion 104 of the rod 102 and the bicycle is subsequently moved into the van.

Turning to figures 17A through 22, the present invention further relates to a bike support bracket 150 configured to connect a bicycle 132 to the frame assembly 10, the bike support bracket comprising: — a connecting device 152 configured to be connected to the bicycle 132, and — the eye 130 connected to the connecting device 152, wherein the eye is configured to slide over the rod 102 of any of claims 14-17 or any of claims 21- 26.

The eye extends upward from the connecting device. The eye 130 defines a through passage 154 which defines a passage axis 155. The eye 130 is open and comprises a groove 156 configured to slide past a bracket part 111 which extends over a vertical distance between the rod and the frame and which connects the rod 102 to the frame, directly or indirectly via a trolley. The groove 156 is located at an upper side of the eye.

When seen in top view the passage axis 155 is inclined at a passage angle 0 relative to the connecting device. In this way the steer will be oriented slightly to the left or to the right relative to a main direction of the rod 102. This results in better usage of the available space.

Turning to figures 18-22, the connecting device comprises a central bracket part 160 and two or more extension parts 162 which extend to the rear of the central bracket part. The extension parts 162 are configured to connect the bike support bracket to the steer or steering column of the bicycle.

Turning to figure 23, a schematic view of a frame assembly with overhang portions 190 in the longitudinal beams is shown. The connectors 36, 37, 38, 39 are connected to the overhang portions 190 of the longitudinal beams 187 19. An annular shape 30 is defined, indicated by dashed lines.

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention.

The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms including and/or having, as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language, not excluding other elements or steps). Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention.

Claims

CONCLUSIONS

1. A frame assembly (10) for a vehicle (12), in particular for a van, the frame assembly (10) being configured to support one or more objects (14), such as a sporting product, a hobby product, an outdoor product such as a bicycle, or one or more tools, the frame assembly comprising: — a frame (18) comprising: o a left side member (18) forming a left side of the frame, the left side member being configured to extend along a left wall of a body of the vehicle, o a right side member (19) forming a right side of the frame, the right side member being configured to extend along a right wall of a body of the vehicle, o a front cross member (20) extending laterally at the front of the frame between the left side member and the right side member, and o a rear cross member (21) extending laterally at a rear of the frame between the left side member and the right side member, the left and right side members and the front and rear cross members being connected to each other directly or through intermediate elements (32) to form an annular shape (30), — at least a left rear connector (36) and a left front connector (37), each connected to the left side member or to a connection between the left side member and one of the cross members, the connection being formed by an intermediate element, each left connector (36, 37) being configured to connect the left side member to an upper portion of the left inner wall of a body of the vehicle, and at least a right rear connector (38) and a right front connector (39), each connected to the right side member or to a connection between the right side member and one of the cross members, the connection being formed by an intermediate element, each right connector (38, 39) being configured to connect the right side member to an upper portion of the right inner side wall of a body of the vehicle, — one or more support devices (42) for supporting the object, the one or more support devices being connected to the frame, the one or more support devices being configured to support the object beneath the frame, the frame assembly having no uprights or floor members through which the frame rests on a cab floor or a lower portion of the vehicle body.

The frame assembly of claim 1, wherein each connector is configured to engage a pre-existing body opening (50) in an interior wall of the vehicle body.

Frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the frame is essentially four-sided, in particular rectangular.

Frame assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame has no other beams.

5. A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a plurality of connectors have a respective adjustment system (80), each adjustment system allowing adjustment of the position of the connector relative to the frame.

6. The frame assembly of the preceding claim, wherein each adjustment system is configured to enable adjustment of the connector relative to the frame in an X direction, Y direction and Z direction.

A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each adjustment system includes a beam slide (62) configured to slide along the left or right side member to adjust the position of the connector relative to the remainder of the frame in a longitudinal direction, referred to as an X-direction, the beam slide including a stop (64) configured to lock the beam slide relative to the left or right side member.

A frame assembly according to any one of the three preceding claims, wherein each adjustment system comprises: — a Y-rail (66) extending in the transverse direction and a Y-slider (67) configured to slide along the Y-rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the remainder of the frame in the transverse direction, referred to as a Y-direction, the Y-slider including a Y-stop (68) for fixing the connector in a selected Y position, and

— a Z rail (70) extending in a vertical direction and a Z slide (71) configured to slide along the Z rail, for adjusting the position of the connector relative to the rest of the frame in a vertical direction, called the Z direction, the Z slider including a Z stop (72) for locking the connector in a selected Z position.

The frame assembly of any of claims 2 and further, wherein each connector has a lower bearing surface (52) that contacts a lower edge (53) of the body opening (50).

10. The frame assembly of the preceding claim, wherein each connector has a pin (80) insertable into the body opening and resting on the lower edge (53) of the opening (50).

A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the one or more support members (42) extend downwardly from the frame and are configured to support the object beneath the frame.

12. A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least one support element comprises a support bracket extending downwardly from the frame.

Frame assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the distance between the left side member and the right side member is between 90 and 120 cm, in particular between 95 and 110 cm.

A frame assembly (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one support device is configured as a bicycle support device (100) comprising: — at least one rod (102) connected to the frame and disposed beneath the frame and extending substantially longitudinally, the rod comprising: o a central portion (103) extending substantially horizontally, o a rear free end portion (104) being a rearward extension of the central portion and being inclined downwards and having a free end, the free end being configured to receive an eyelet (130) of a bicycle support (150) connected to a front part of the bicycle, in particular a handlebar (114) of a bicycle, and o a front portion (106) extending from the central portion and being inclined downwards through a downward angle (α) in side view and being oriented to the right or to the left relative to it in top view through a left/right angle (β), of the central part.

15. Frame assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein the downward angle (α) is between 2 and 10 degrees, in particular between 4 and 7 degrees,

18. Frame assembly according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the left/right angle (B) is between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 10 and 15 degrees.

A frame assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein each bicycle support device comprises a front trolley (120) movably connected to the front cross member (20) and a rear trolley (121) movably connected to the rear cross member (21), the bar (102) being connected to the frame via the rear and front trolleys so that the bar can be moved laterally relative to the frame, at least one trolley including a trolley stop for securing the trolleys in a selected lateral position.

Frame assembly according to any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the bar is connected to the frame via a bracket portion (111) extending a vertical distance and configured to allow an eye (130) connected to an object, in particular a bicycle, to slide past it, the bracket portion being narrower than the bar (102).

A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the beams are steel and the frame includes four intermediate corner elements (32) connecting the beams together.

20. A frame assembly as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each intermediate corner member includes a bolt hole and a bolt to permit the cross member or longitudinal member to be released from the corner member so that the frame can be taken out in separate sections.

A frame as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frame is configured to be connected only to the left inner side wall (23) and the right inner side wall (25) of the vehicle and not to any other part of the vehicle, and wherein the frame is configured to be supported entirely by the connectors and includes no other support means for supporting the frame within the vehicle.

22. A frame assembly (10) configured for mounting in a van, the frame assembly being configured to support one or more bicycles, the frame assembly comprising: — a frame (16) configured to be connected to the side walls or roof of the vehicle, — at least one bicycle support (100) comprising at least one rod (102) connected to the frame and disposed below the frame and extending longitudinally, the rod comprising: o a central portion (103) extending substantially horizontally, o a rear free end portion (104) inclined downwards and having a free end, the free end configured to receive an eyelet (130) of a bicycle support (150) connected to a front portion of the bicycle, in particular a handlebar (114) of a bicycle, o a front portion extending from the central portion and inclined slightly downwards in side view and extending over the front portion in top view, an angle to the right or to the left is oriented with respect to the central part, the angle being between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 3 and 10 degrees.

A frame assembly as claimed in the preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises a rear cross member and a front cross member, the frame assembly having a rear trolley movably connected to the rear cross member and a front trolley movably connected to the front cross member, the rod (102) being connected to the frame via the rear and front trolleys so that the rod can be moved laterally relative to the frame.

24. Frame according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the downward angle (α) is between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 3 and 10 degrees,

25. Frame according to any of the three preceding claims, wherein the left/right angle (B) is between 2 and 20 degrees, in particular between 3 and 10 degrees.

26. A frame assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the bar is connected to the frame via a bracket portion (111) extending over a vertical distance, the bracket portion being configured to allow an eye (130) connected to an object, in particular a bicycle, to slide past it.

27. The frame assembly of any of claims 22 to 24, further comprising: — at least one left side member and one right side member interconnected with the rear and front cross members and together forming a frame having an annular shape, and — at least one rear left connector and one front left connector connected to the left side member, each left connector configured to connect the left side member to the inner left sidewall of the vehicle, and at least one rear right connector and one front right connector connected to the right side member, each right connector configured to connect the right side member to the inner right sidewall of the vehicle.

28. Frame according to any of claims 22 to 27, wherein the frame has no upright or floor element with which the frame rests on the cabin floor.

A bicycle support (150) configured to connect a bicycle to the frame assembly of any preceding claim, the bicycle support comprising: — a connecting device (152) configured to be attached to the bicycle, and — an eye (102) connected to the connecting system, the eye configured to slide over the bar of any of claims 14-21 or any of claims 22-28.

30. Bicycle support bracket according to the preceding claim, wherein the eye is open and includes a groove adapted to slide over a bracket member extending a vertical distance between the bar and the frame and connecting the bar to the frame directly or indirectly via a trolley.

31. Bicycle support bracket according to any of claims 29-30, wherein the groove is located at the top of the eye.

32. Bicycle support bracket according to any of claims 29 to 31, wherein the eye defines a passage defining a passage axis, the passage axis being at a passage angle (δ) relative to the connecting device in top view.

33. Bicycle support according to any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the eye extends upwards from the connecting device.

34. Bicycle support according to any of claims 29 to 32, wherein the connecting device comprises a central bracket portion and two extensions extending from the rear of the central bracket portion.

35. Set of parts of a frame assembly according to any of claims 1-21 or any of claims 22-28 and a bicycle support according to any of claims 29-34.