ROOF RACK AND CARGO BOX ASSEMBLY

A system including a rack assembly and/or a cargo container assembly for a vehicle. The rack assembly has first and second side supports configured to be attached to opposite lateral sides of the vehicle. The side supports each define a channel that receives an end of one of a plurality of load bars that extend between the first and second side supports. A clamp is associated with each end of each of the plurality of load bars. A cargo container assembly has a container that defines an interior cargo space. The container includes a wall that defines an aperture. A mount is configured to be attached to the vehicle separately from the container. A coupling is configured to allow the container to be secured to the mount. The coupling includes a first portion located on the mount and a second portion located on the container. A portion of the coupling extends through or passes through the aperture when the container is secured to the mount.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to vehicle accessories. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a system having a roof rack assembly and/or a cargo container assembly.

Description of the Related Art

Roof racks and cargo containers for vehicles exist. However, a need still exists for roof racks and/or cargo containers that improve upon the existing systems, or at least provides the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY

The systems, methods and devices described herein have innovative aspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

An aspect of the present disclosure involves a rack assembly for a vehicle having a first side support configured to be attached to a first lateral side of the vehicle and a second side support configured to be attached to a second lateral side of the vehicle opposite the first side. The first side support has a first upper wall and a first lower wall defining a first channel having a first opening that faces the second side support. The second side support has a second upper wall and a second lower wall defining a second channel having a second opening that faces the first side support. A plurality of load bars extends between the first side support and the second side support. Each of the plurality of load bars has a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the plurality of load bars is received within the first channel and the second end of each of the plurality of load bars is received within the second channel. A first clamp is associated with the first end of each of the plurality of load bars. The first clamp secures the first end to the first side support. A second clamp is associated with the second end of each of the plurality of load bars. The second clamp secures the second end to the second side support.

In some configurations, each of the first end and the second end of the plurality of load bars comprises at least one channel. Each of the at least one channels is configured to receive a nut and a bolt secures a respective one of the first clamp and the second clamp relative to the load bar.

In some configurations, the at least one channel comprises a pair of channels.

In some configurations, the first clamp engages the first upper wall and the second clamp engages the second upper wall.

In some configurations, an upper surface of the first upper wall comprises a first plurality of grooves and the first clamp comprises a first plurality of teeth that engage the first plurality of grooves, and an upper surface of the second upper wall comprises a second plurality of grooves and the second clamp comprises a second plurality of teeth that engage the second plurality of grooves.

In some configurations, each of the plurality of load bars is infinitely adjustable between a first end and a second end of each of the first channel and the second channel.

In some configurations, the first side support comprises a first rail and at least one first vertical support configured to support the first rail at an elevated position relative to a corresponding surface of the vehicle, and the second side support comprises a second rail and at least one second vertical support configured to support the second rail at an elevated position relative to the corresponding surface of the vehicle.

In some configurations, the first rail defines the first channel and the second rail defines the second channel.

In some configurations, each of the first rail and the second rail is vertically symmetrical.

In some configurations, the first side support comprises a first rail that defines the first channel and the second side support comprises a second rail that defines the second channel, and each of the first side support and the second side support comprises an upward-facing channel and a downward-facing channel.

In some configurations, a container is supported by the plurality of load bars.

In some configurations, the container comprises a side opening.

In some configurations, a mounting plate is attached to one or more of the plurality of load bars, and the container is attached to the mounting plate.

In some configurations, a side wall of the container comprises an aperture and a portion of the mounting plate or an associated latch extends through the aperture.

In some configurations, a seal is located between the mounting plate and the container along a periphery of the aperture.

An aspect of the present disclosure involves a cargo container assembly for a vehicle having a container that defines an interior cargo space. The container includes a wall that defines an aperture. A mount is configured to be attached to the vehicle separately from the container. A coupling is configured to allow the container to be secured to the mount. The coupling includes a first portion located on the mount and a second portion located on the container. A portion of the coupling extends through the aperture when the container is secured to the mount.

In some configurations, the coupling comprises a latch.

In some configurations, the first portion of the latch comprises a catch and the second portion of the latch comprises an arm.

In some configurations, a seal is configured to create a seal between the mount and the container along a periphery of the aperture.

In some configurations, the seal is carried by the mount.

In some configurations, each of the aperture and the seal is circular.

In some configurations, the mount is or comprises at least one mount plate, and the container is secured to the vehicle solely through the at least one mount plate.

In some configurations, the mount is or comprises a mount plate.

In some configurations, the mount plate includes at least one first tab at a first end and at least one second tab at a second end, and the at least one first tab is received within at least one first recess of the container and the at least one second tab is received within at least one second recess of the container.

In some configurations, the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab each extend towards the first end of the mount plate.

In some configurations, the coupling is configured to urge the container towards the second end of the mount plate when the container is secured to the mount.

In some configurations, the at least one first tab comprises a pair of first tabs spaced-apart from one another along the first end of the mount plate, and the at least one first recess comprises a pair of first recesses.

In some configurations, an outer surface of the container comprises a pair of recesses separated by a ridge, and one of the pair of first recesses is provided in each of the pair of recesses.

In some configurations, the at least one second recess is located on the ridge.

In some configurations, the aperture is defined within the ridge.

In some configurations, the container includes a plug configured to close the aperture when the container is separated from the mount.

In some configurations, the container comprises a plug receptacle configured to receive the plug when the container is secured to the mount.

In some configurations, a leash secures the plug relative to the container.

In some configurations, the container includes an access opening to the interior cargo space, and the access opening is located on a side of the container when the container is secured to the vehicle.

In some configurations, a lid closes the access opening, and the lid opens towards a top of the container.

In some configurations, the container includes a plurality of divots provided in one or more patterns configured to provide drill locations for mounting of one or more accessories to the container.

In some configurations, the cargo container is configured to be removably coupled to a wall, shelving, and/or a pallet rack.

In some configurations, the cargo container further includes one or more mounting slots.

In some configurations, the one or more mounting slots are positioned on a surface of the container opposite an access opening to the interior cargo space.

In some configurations, the one or more mounting slots are configured to receive a portion of a mounting bracket.

In some configurations, the mounting bracket includes a body and a lip portion that extends from the body.

In some configurations, the one or more mounting slots are configured to receive the lip portion of the mounting bracket.

In some configurations, the mounting bracket is configured to be coupled to a mounting surface and configured to removably couple the container to the mounting surface.

In some configurations, a first portion of the container is positioned in a channel formed by the mounting bracket and the mounting surface.

In some configurations, a second portion of the container is configured to contact the mounting surface.

In some configurations, the second portion is positioned below the one or more mounting slots when the container is coupled to the mounting surface.

In some configurations, the mounting surface includes a wall, shelving, and/or a pallet rack.

An aspect of the present disclosure involves a cargo container assembly for a vehicle including a container that defines an interior cargo space. The container includes a wall that defines at least a first aperture and a second aperture. The cargo container assembly includes a first mount and a second mount. Each of the first mount and the second mount is configured to be attached to the vehicle separately from the container. A first coupling is configured to allow the container to be secured to the first mount and a second coupling is configured to allow the container to be secured to the second mount. Each of the first coupling and the second coupling comprises a first portion located on the respective one of the first mount and the second mount and a second portion located on the container. A portion of the first coupling extends through the first aperture and a portion of the second coupling extends through the second aperture when the container is secured to the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, the first mount and the second mount are spaced from one another along a length of the container.

In some configurations, the container comprises an access opening to the interior cargo space, and wherein the access opening extends along the length of the container and is located on a side of the container when the container is secured to the vehicle.

In some configurations, a lid closes the access opening, and the lid opens towards a top of the container.

In some configurations, a first seal is configured to create a seal between the first mount and the container along a periphery of the first aperture and a second seal is configured to create a seal between the second mount and the container along a periphery of the second aperture.

In some configurations, the container is secured to the vehicle solely through the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, each of the first mount and the second mount comprises at least one first tab at a first end and at least one second tab at a second end, and the at least one first tab is received within at least one first recess of the container and the at least one second tab is received within at least one second recess of the container.

In some configurations, the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab each extends toward the first end of a respective one of the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, each of the first coupling and the second coupling is configured to urge the container towards the second end of the first mount and the second mount when the container is secured to the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, the at least one first tab comprises a pair of first tabs spaced-apart from one another along the first end of a respective one of the first mount and the second mount, and wherein the at least one first recess comprises a pair of first recesses.

In some configurations, an outer surface of the container comprises a first pair of recesses separated by a first ridge and a second pair of recesses separated by a second ridge, and one of the pair of first recesses are provided in each of the pair of recesses.

In some configurations, the at least one second recess is located on each of a respective one of the first ridge and the second ridge.

In some configurations, the first aperture is defined within the first ridge and the second aperture is defined within the second ridge.

In some configurations, the container comprises a first plug configured to close the first aperture and a second plug configured to close the second aperture when the container is separated from the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, the container comprises a first plug receptacle configured to receive the first plug and a second plug receptacle configured to receive the second plug when the container is secured to the first mount and the second mount.

In some configurations, a first leash secures the first plug relative to the container and a second leash secures the second plug relative to the container.

An aspect of the present disclosure involves a system including a rack assembly, at least one mount, and at least one cargo container.

In some configurations, the cargo container includes a side opening.

In some configurations, the cargo container includes a lid that selectively closes the side opening and opens in an upward direction.

An aspect of the present disclosure involves a cargo container than includes

a side opening.

In some configurations, the cargo container is mountable to a roof rack.

In some configurations, the cargo container includes a lid that selectively closes the side opening and opens in an upward direction.

In some configurations, the cargo container is configured to be removably coupled to a wall, shelving, and/or a pallet rack.

In some configurations, the cargo container further includes one or more mounting slots.

In some configurations, the one or more mounting slots are positioned on a surface of the container opposite an access opening to the interior cargo space.

In some configurations, a cargo container assembly, wherein the one or more mounting slots are configured to receive a portion of a mounting bracket.

In some configurations, the mounting bracket includes a body and a lip portion that extends from the body.

In some configurations, the one or more mounting slots are configured to receive the lip portion of the mounting bracket.

In some configurations the mounting bracket is configured to be coupled to a mounting surface and configured to removably couple the container to the mounting surface.

In some configurations, a first portion of the container is positioned in a channel formed by the mounting bracket and the mounting surface.

In some configurations, a second portion of the container is configured to contact the mounting surface.

In some configurations, the second portion is positioned below the one or more mounting slots when the container is coupled to the mounting surface.

In some configurations, the mounting surface includes a wall, shelving, and/or a pallet rack.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of systems, components and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like or similar elements throughout. Although several embodiments, examples and illustrations are disclosed below, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the inventions described herein extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and illustrations, and can include other uses of the inventions and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner simply because it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments of the inventions. In addition, embodiments of the inventions can comprise several novel features and no single feature is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or is essential to practicing the inventions herein described.

FIGS.1and2illustrate a vehicle cargo arrangement100secured to an associated vehicle102. The vehicle cargo arrangement100is configured to be secured to the vehicle102and to facilitate the transport of cargo by the vehicle102. In the illustrated implementation, the vehicle cargo arrangement100is secured or mounted to the roof104of the vehicle102. However, in other implementations, the vehicle cargo arrangement100or portions thereof can be mounted to other locations on the vehicle102, such as to a truck bed rack of a truck or within an interior of a van, for example and without limitation. The description of the vehicle cargo arrangement100herein is in the context of a roof-mounted implementation and may be referred to as a “roof rack.” The orientation of the vehicle cargo arrangement100and portions thereof assume a roof-mounted implementation in which the vehicle102has a generally horizontal roof104. However, this description is for convenience and is not intended to be limiting because, as discussed above, the vehicle cargo arrangement100can be capable of other implementations, which may have non-horizontal orientations.

The vehicle cargo arrangement100can be secured or mounted to the vehicle102in any suitable manner. For example, the vehicle cargo arrangement100can be mounted to dedicated mounting locations on the vehicle102, such as those used to affix roof rails to the vehicle102. The vehicle cargo arrangement100could also be configured for mounting to existing roof rails of the vehicle102. The vehicle cargo arrangement100could also be configured to mount to the roof104of the vehicle102that is without dedicated mounting locations or existing roof rails. Such an arrangement could include a plurality of feet that rest on the roof104of the vehicle102and a plurality of clamps that secure the vehicle cargo arrangement100to the vehicle102. Such a mounting arrangement can be referred to as a “universal” mount, though the arrangement may not be truly universal in application.

The illustrated vehicle cargo arrangement100generally includes a rack assembly110and one or more cargo container (or “cargo box”) assemblies120. The rack assembly110and the cargo container assembly120can be provided and used separately from one another. That is, the rack assembly110can be used on its own or with cargo carriers other than the cargo container assembly120. Similarly, the cargo container assembly120can be used with roof racks other than the rack assembly110, or with other suitable mounting structures.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, the rack assembly110is secured to the roof104of the vehicle102. The rack assembly110can extend along a large portion or a substantial entirety of the roof104of the vehicle102in a lengthwise direction and/or a widthwise or lateral direction of the vehicle102. The rack assembly110can include a pair of spaced-apart side supports130,132that extend in the lengthwise direction of the vehicle102. The rack assembly110can also include a plurality of cross bars or load bars134that extend between the side supports130,132in a lateral direction of the vehicle102.

A pair of cargo container assemblies120are attached to the rack assembly110in a side-by-side arrangement. Each of the cargo container assemblies120include a cargo container140having a container body142and a closure or lid144. The container body142defines an interior cargo space146and an opening148to the interior cargo space146. In some configurations, the opening148to the interior cargo space146is located on a side of the container body142to facilitate access to the interior cargo space146. In particular, the opening148is outward facing on the vehicle102. In some configurations, the lid144opens in an upward direction towards the top of the container body142to further facilitate access to the interior cargo space146. The illustrated cargo containers140are elongated in the lengthwise direction of the vehicle102. However, other shapes and sizes are also possible.

FIGS.3-6illustrate a configuration of the rack assembly110. As described herein, the rack assembly110includes the first side support130configured to be attached to a first lateral side of the roof104of the vehicle102and the second side support132configured to be attached to a second lateral side of the roof104of the vehicle102opposite the first side. One or more load bars134extend between the first side support130and the second side support132. In the illustrated arrangement, the rack assembly110includes a plurality of load bars134. The illustrated rack assembly110includes five load bars134. However, other numbers of load bars134could also be used, such as 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, or more load bars134.

The illustrated rack assembly110includes a front panel or deflector150that is located on a forward end of the rack assembly110and extends between the first side support130and the second side support132. The deflector150can be positioned to deflect at least some of the airflow through a space defined by the side supports130,132, the load bars134, and the roof104of the vehicle102.

In the illustrated arrangement, the first side support130includes a first rail160and at least one first vertical support in the form of a first side plate162. The first side plate162is configured to support the first rail160at an elevated position relative to a corresponding surface of the roof104of the vehicle102. Similarly, the second side support132includes a second rail164and at least one second vertical support in the form of a second side plate166. The second side plate166is configured to support the second rail164at an elevated position relative to a corresponding surface of the roof104of the vehicle102.

Each of the first side plate162and the second side plate166can be configured for attachment to the vehicle102. In particular, each of the first side plate162and the second side plate166includes one or more mounting feet170configured to be attached to the vehicle102, such as to preexisting mounting structures of the vehicle102. In the illustrated arrangement, each of the first side plate162and the second side plate166has a plurality of mounting feet170, including a front mounting foot170, a rear mounting foot170and an intermediate mounting foot170. The mounting feet170can be unitarily formed with the respective one of the first side plate162and the second side plate166.

The first rail160of the first side support130is configured to support a first end of each of the load bars134. The first rail160includes a first upper wall180and a first lower wall182that define a first channel184. The first channel184has a first opening186that faces the second side support132or the centerline of the vehicle102. The first end of each of the load bars134is received within the first channel184.

The second rail164of the second side support132is configured to support a second end of each of the load bars134. The second rail164includes a second upper wall180and a second lower wall182that define a second channel184. The second channel184has a second opening186that faces the first side support130or the centerline of the vehicle102. The second end of each of the load bars134is received within the second channel184.

In the illustrated configuration, each of the first rail160and the second rail164is vertically symmetrical. That is, each of the first rail160and the second rail164are symmetrical about a horizontal axis passing through a vertical center of the rail160,164. Such an arrangement can allow a single structure to be used as both the first rail160and the second rail164with the second rail164being rotated 180° about its longitudinal axis relative to the first rail160.

The first side plate162can be a mirror image of the second side plate166.

Each of the first rail160and the second rail164can include a mounting channel190that allows the rail160,164to be mounted to the respective side plate162,166. In the illustrated arrangement ofFIGS.3and4, the mounting channel190defines an opening192that faces in the opposite direction of the opening186or away from a centerline of the vehicle102.

A mechanical fastener arrangement can attach the first rail160to the first side plate162and the second rail164to the second side plate166. In the illustrated arrangement, the fastener arrangement includes a plurality of mechanical fasteners194, each including a bolt196(FIG.3) and a T-nut198(FIG.4). The T-nut198is received within the mounting channel190of the first rail160and the second rail164. Each of the bolts196passes through an opening in the first side plate162or the second side plate166and engages the T-nut198to secure the rail160,164to the respective side plate162,166. Other suitable fasteners, fastening structures, or fastening methods can be used to attach the rail160,164to the side plate162,166.

As previously described, the opposing ends of each of the load bars134are received within the channels184of the respective ones of the first rail160and the second rail164. In some configurations, the load bars134can be infinitely adjustable along a portion or an entirety of a length of the first rail160and the second rail164. Such an arrangement can allow flexibility in the positioning of the load bars134relative to the associated vehicle102. Such flexibility can allow the load bars134to be positioned to avoid interference with structures of the associated vehicle102, such as a sunroof, moonroof, or antenna, for example.

The load bars134can be secured in a desired adjusted position relative to the first rail160and the second rail164. In the illustrated arrangement, a first clamp200is associated with the first end of each of the plurality of load bars134and secures the first end to the first rail160of the first side support130. A second clamp200is associated with the second end of each of the plurality of load bars134and secures the second end to the second rail164of the second side support132. In the illustrated arrangement, the first clamp200and the second clamp200are identical to one another. Furthermore, the clamps200of each load bar134are identical. Accordingly, only one clamp200is described herein. In other arrangements, the clamps on each end of a single load bar134or between load bars134can vary from one another.

The clamp200includes a clamp body202. The clamp body202is secured to the load bar134and engages the corresponding rail160,164. In particular, the clamp body202engages the upper wall180of the corresponding rail160,164. In the illustrated arrangement, the upper wall180of each rail160,164includes a plurality of undulations that define a plurality of grooves204that extend along the length of the upper wall180. The portion of the clamp body202that engages the rail160,164includes a plurality of teeth206that are configured to mate with the plurality of grooves204.

The clamp body202can be secured to the load bar134by any suitable arrangement. In the illustrated arrangement, each of the load bars134includes at least one channel210that extends in a lengthwise direction of the load bar134or in a widthwise direction of the vehicle102. Accordingly, the at least one channel210is perpendicular to or substantially perpendicular to each of the first rail160and the second rail164. In the illustrated arrangement, each load bar134includes a pair of channels210. In the illustrated arrangement, the at least one channel210extends the entire length of the load bar134. However, in alternative arrangements, at least one channel could be provided on each end of each load bar134.

In the illustrated arrangement, the clamp body202is secured to the load bar134by one or more fasteners212. Each fastener212includes a bolt214and a nut216. In the illustrated arrangement, a fastener212is associated with each of the channels210on each end of the load bar134. Thus, each clamp body202is secured to the load bar134with a pair of fasteners212. Each of the channels210is configured to receive one of the nuts216. One of the bolts214is engaged with one of the nuts216to secure the clamp body202relative to the load bar134.

FIG.6illustrates a side support132that is an alternative version of the side support132ofFIG.4. The side support132ofFIG.6can provide the function of the rail164or of both the rail164and the side plate166. The side support132ofFIG.6includes the channel184configured to receive the load bar134. The side support132ofFIG.6also includes a first mounting channel220and a second mounting channel222. Each of the mounting channels220,222is similar to or substantially the same as the mounting channel190of the rail164ofFIG.4. The first mounting channel220can be an upward-facing channel and the second mounting channel222can be a downward-facing channel. One or both of the first mounting channel220and the second mounting channel222can be utilized to attach the side support132ofFIG.6directly or indirectly to the vehicle102.

FIGS.7-16further illustrate the cargo container assembly120, which includes a cargo container140and one or more mounts230configured to secure the cargo container140to another object, such as the vehicle102. In particular, the one or more mounts230can be configured for attachment to the rack assembly110described herein, to another rack assembly, or to crossbars or other structures of a vehicle. In some configurations, a single cargo container140can be secured to the rack assembly110by a single mount230. In some configurations, a single cargo container140can be secured to the rack assembly110by multiple mounts230. For example, a single cargo container140can be secured to the rack assembly110by a pair of mounts230spaced along the length (e.g., at a front portion and a rear portion) of the cargo container140or by three mounts230spaced along the length (e.g., at a front portion, an intermediate portion, and a rear portion) of the cargo container140. In some configurations, the cargo container140is attached to the vehicle102or another object solely by the one or more mounts230. In some configurations, each mount230is identical to the others. Accordingly, a single mount230is described in detail herein.

In some configurations, the mount230includes a mount body in the form of a mounting plate232. The mounting plate232is elongated in a widthwise direction of the cargo container140when the mounting plate232is attached to the cargo container140. The illustrated mounting plate232includes a strengthening flange234extending along each elongated side. The strengthening flanges234are upturned or extend towards the cargo container140in the illustrated arrangement. The strengthening flanges234are perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the central plate portion of the mounting plate232.

The illustrated mounting plate232includes a plurality of mounting holes236and a plurality of slots238. The mounting holes236can be configured to allow the passage of fasteners used to attach the mounting plate232to the rack assembly110or another structure. The slots238can be provided to reduce a weight of the mounting plate232but could also be used to allow for the passage of fasteners. The mounting plate232can be attached to the rack assembly110separately from the cargo container140. That is, mounting plate232can be attached to the rack assembly110and the cargo container140can be conveniently attached to and removed from the mounting plate232while the mounting plate232remains attached to the vehicle102via the rack assembly110or another suitable mounting arrangement.

The mounting plate232is configured to engage with the cargo container140. The mounting plate232can include one or more engagement portions configured to engage with corresponding engagement regions of the cargo container140. In the illustrated arrangement, the mounting plate232includes one or more first tabs240at a first end and one or more second tabs242at a second end of the mounting plate232. In particular, the illustrated mounting plate232includes a pair of first tabs240spaced apart from one another along the first end and a single, centrally located second tab242on the second end of the mounting plate232.

Each of the first tabs240and the second tab242can be unitarily formed with main plate portion of the mounting plate232such that the tabs240,242are formed as a single piece with the main plate portion of the mounting plate232. Each tab240,242includes an upright portion244that extends upwardly in a perpendicular or substantially perpendicular direction from the main plate portion of the mounting plate232. Each tab240,242also includes a return portion or an angled end portion246that is angled relative to the upright portion244. The angled end portion246can be oriented at an oblique angle relative to the upright portion244and/or to the main plate portion of the mounting plate232. In other configurations, the angled end portion246could be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the upright portion244or parallel to or substantially parallel to the main plate portion of the mounting plate232. In the illustrated configuration, the first tabs240and the second tab242each extend in a direction from the second end towards the first end of the mounting plate232. In particular, the angled end portions246each extend in a direction from the second end towards the first end of the mounting plate232.

The cargo container140can include receptacle structures configured to engage each of the one or more mounts230to which the cargo container140is configured to be attached. Each set of receptacle structures can be identical to one another. Accordingly, one set of receptacle structures associated with a single mount230is disclosed in detail herein. Accordingly, the one or more set of receptacle structures of the cargo container140can receive the first tabs240and the second tab242. In the illustrated arrangement, the cargo container140includes one or more first recesses250configured to receive the one or more first tabs240and one or more second recesses252configured to receive the one or more second tabs242. In particular, the illustrated cargo container140includes a pair of first recesses250and a single second recess252centrally located between the pair of first recesses. The pair of first recesses250are configured to receive the pair of first tabs240and the single second recess252are configured to receive the single second tab242.

One or more or each of the recesses250,252includes surfaces shaped complementary to the corresponding one of the tabs240,242. In particular, one or more or each of the recesses250,252includes an oblique surface configured to interact with the angled end surface246of the tabs240,242as a wedge arrangement. The cooperating surfaces can be referred to herein as wedge surfaces. The cargo container140is configured to slide onto the tabs240,242of the one or more mounting plates232in a direction from the first end to the second end of the mounting plate232.FIG.9illustrates the direction of engagement between the mounting plate232and the cargo container140from the perspective of the mounting plate232moving towards the cargo container140. However, in use, the mounting plate232will usually be stationary and the cargo container140will move in the opposite direction towards the mounting plate232. As illustrated inFIG.10, the wedge arrangement interaction between the tabs240,242and the recesses250,252results in a tight and secure engagement of the cargo container140onto the mounting plate(s)232with the cargo container140fully engaged with the mounting plate(s)232.

The cargo container assembly120includes one or more couplings or other securement structures to secure the cargo container140in the fully engaged position on the mounting plate(s)232. In the illustrated arrangement, the coupling is a latch assembly or latch260. Furthermore, in the illustrated arrangement, a single coupling or latch260secures the cargo container140in the engaged position relative to each of the one or more mounting plates232. The single latch260is used in combination with the tabs240,242and recesses250,252. However, in other arrangements, more than one coupling or latch260could be used, alone or in combination with the tabs240,242and recesses250,252. The latch260can be configured to urge the cargo container140towards or to the fully engaged position relative to the mounting plate232. In particular, the direction of action of the latch260can tend to move the cargo container140towards or to the fully engaged position relative to the mounting plate232.

In some configurations, at least a portion of the latch260is located within the interior space146of the cargo container140. In the illustrated arrangement, a first portion262of the latch260is located on the mount230or mounting plate232and a second portion264of the latch260is located on or otherwise carried by the cargo container140. A wall (e.g., a bottom wall) of the cargo container140defines an aperture270through which a portion of the latch260extends or can pass when the cargo container140is secured to the mounting plate232. In the illustrated arrangement, the first portion262of the latch260is or comprises a catch and the second portion264of the latch260is or comprises a remainder of the latch260.

The mounting plate232includes the catch262, at least a portion of which passes from outside the cargo container140to the interior space146through the aperture270when the cargo container140is attached to the mounting plate232. In the illustrated arrangement, the catch262is located on a raised portion272of the mounting plate232, which is raised relative to a surrounding portion of the mounting plate232and/or a main plate portion of the mounting plate232. The illustrated raised portion272is circular but other shapes could be provided. The raised portion272is received within a complementary (e.g., circular) recess274of the cargo container140that surrounds the aperture270. However, in other arrangements, an entirety of the raised portion272could engage or extend through the aperture270.

A seal276surrounds the catch262and covers a portion or an entirety of the raised portion272. The seal276is configured to engage a surface of the recess274of the cargo container140that surrounds the aperture270. With such an arrangement, the seal276creates at least a partial seal or a substantially complete seal between the mounting plate232of the mount230and the cargo container140around a periphery of the aperture270to inhibit or prevent the passage of liquid or other undesired substances into (or out of) the interior space146of the cargo container140through the aperture270. In other arrangements, the seal276could be carried by the cargo container140instead of the mounting plate232. Or, a seal could be provided on each of the mounting plate232and the container140.

As described above, the first portion262of the latch260is or comprises the catch262and the second portion264of the latch260is or comprises a remainder of the latch260. The remainder of the latch260can be a draw latch, toggle latch, or similar type latch that includes a latch arm280having an engagement portion282(e.g., a claw or hook) that selectively engages the catch262to secure the first portion262to the second portion264. The latch arm280can be attached in an over-center manner to an anchor plate284by a lever286. The lever286is configured to actuate the latch arm280. Other suitable types of latches could also be used.

In the illustrated arrangement, an outer surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the cargo container140comprises a pair of elongated recessed portions or recesses290that extend in a widthwise direction of the cargo container140. The pair of recesses290are separated by a ridge292. A surface of the ridge292, which contains the aperture270, can lie within a plane with the bottom surface of the cargo container140. The pair of recesses290and the ridge292are associated with each location configured to interact with the mounting plate232of the mount230. The ridge292contains the second recess252. The recesses290have open ends located adjacent the second recess252and closed ends that contain the first recesses250.

In some configurations, the cargo container140includes a plug300configured to close the aperture270when the cargo container140is separated from the mount230. The illustrated plug300is of the same shape (e.g., circular) as the aperture270. The cargo container140can include a plug receptacle302configured to receive the plug300when the cargo container140is secured to the mount230and the plug300is not needed to close the aperture270. In the illustrated arrangement, a leash304secures the plug300relative to the cargo container140. The leash304has an end that is secured to the cargo container140, such as with an interference fit in a boss306of the cargo container140. The illustrated leash304has a serpentine shape, which allows the leash304to be elongated from its formed serpentine shape.

In some configurations, the cargo container140includes a plurality of divots310provided in one or more patterns configured to provide drill locations for mounting of one or more accessories to the cargo container140.FIGS.13and14illustrate the divots310.FIGS.15and16illustrate accessories mounted to the tops of the cargo containers140using mounts secured to the cargo container140through holes drilled at the locations of one or more divots310. The divots310can be provided in patterns suitable for the mounting arrangements or mounts for common or desired accessories, such as traction boards (FIG.15) or fluid (e.g., water or fuel) containers (FIG.16).

FIGS.17-21further illustrate the cargo container140and mounting brackets400. As shown inFIG.17, the container body142can include mounting slots143. The mounting slots143can include a recess in the container body142configured to receive the mounting brackets400. The mounting slots143can be positioned on a back of the container body142opposite the opening148. In some configurations, the container body142can include one (1) mounting slot143, two (2) mounting slots143, three (3) mounting slots143, or four (4) mounting slots143. In some configurations, the container body can include more than four (4) mounting slots143.

As shown inFIG.18, each of the mounting bracket400includes a body402and a lip portion404. The body402includes one or more holes401configured to receive a fastener403. The mounting bracket400can be positioned so the body402contacts a mounting surface450and one or more fasteners403can be inserted through the one or more holes401to couple the mounting bracket400to the mounting surface450. The mounting bracket400can be coupled to the mounting surface450so the mounting bracket400aligns with an associated one of the mounting slots143of the container body142. The mounting surface450can include a wall, shelving, a pallet rack, or a surface of any other structure. Typically, the mounting surface450is vertically-oriented. However, it is possible for the mounting surface450to be angled or horizontal.

The lip portion404can include a first portion404A and a second portion404B. The lip portion404of the mounting bracket400extends from a top end402A and/or a bottom end402B of the body402. A first end of the first portion404A of the lip portion404is coupled to the body402. The first portion404A can extend from the body402such that when the mounting bracket400is coupled to the mounting surface450, the first portion404A extends away from the mounting surface450. The second portion404B extends from a second end of the first portion404A opposite the first end of the first portion404A. The second portion404B can extend from the second end of the first portion404A so the second portion404B extends away from the body402in a direction parallel to or substantially parallel to the mounting surface450. Accordingly, the lip portion404and/or the mounting surface450form a channel406.

As shown inFIGS.19and20, the lip portion404of the mounting bracket400is configured to be inserted into the mounting slots143of the container body142. When the mounting bracket400is coupled to the mounting surface450, the cargo container140can be positioned above the mounting brackets400so the lip portion404aligns with the mounting slots143, as shown inFIG.19. The cargo container140can be lowered so the lip portion404of the mounting brackets400are inserted into the mounting slots143. Accordingly, a portion142A of the container body142may be positioned in the channel406formed by the lip portion404and/or the mounting surface450to secure the container140to the mounting bracket400and/or the mounting surface450. In some configurations, a second portion142B of the container body142located below the mounting slots143can contact the mounting surface450to prevent or inhibit rotation of the container140around an axis along the length of the container140.

CONCLUSION

It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications may be made to the herein-described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims. Moreover, any of the steps described herein can be performed simultaneously or in an order different from the steps as ordered herein. Moreover, as should be apparent, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and thus should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also interpreted to include all of the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. As an illustration, a numerical range of “about 1 to 5” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 1 to about 5, but should also be interpreted to also include individual values and sub-ranges within the indicated range. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4 and sub-ranges such as “about 1 to about 3,” “about 2 to about 4” and “about 3 to about 5,” “1 to 3,” “2 to 4,” “3 to 5,” etc. This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (e.g., “greater than about 1”) and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristics being described. A plurality of items may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms “and” and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are to be interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items may be used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term “alternatively” refers to selection of one of two or more alternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection to only those listed alternatives or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.