Patent Publication Number: US-2023158962-A1

Title: Storage assembly of vehicle

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This document relates to the technical field of (and is not limited to) (A) a storage assembly for use with a load and a vehicle; and (B) a synergistic combination of a storage assembly and a vehicle for use with a load; and (C) a method for storage of a load relative to a vehicle. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Known storage systems are mounted to a vehicle&#39;s roof (such as a car, truck, van, etc.) and are configured to support a load. 
     SUMMARY 
     It will be appreciated that there exists a need to mitigate (at least in part) at least one problem associated with the known storage systems. After much study and experimentation with known storage systems, an understanding of the problem and a solution thereto have been identified as follows: 
     An apparatus is provided (in accordance with a first major aspect) to mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology. The apparatus is for use with a load and a vehicle. The vehicle has a vertical lateral side section and a vehicle roof with load-bearing portions. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a storage assembly. The storage assembly includes and is not limited to a movable assembly configured to receive and support the weight of the load. The storage assembly includes a base assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof of the vehicle. The base assembly is also configured to support the movement of the movable assembly with the load between a load-storage position and a load-access position. This movement may be done (in such a way) when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly, in use, receives and supports the weight of the load. 
     An apparatus is provided (in accordance with a second major aspect) to mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology. The apparatus is for use with a load. The apparatus includes and is not limited to (comprises) a vehicle having a vertical lateral side section and also having a vehicle roof with load-bearing portions. The apparatus also includes a storage assembly. The storage assembly includes a movable assembly configured to receive and support the weight of the load. The storage assembly includes a base assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof of the vehicle. The base assembly is also configured to support the movement of the movable assembly with the load between a load-storage position and a load-access position. This movement is done (in such a way) when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly, in use, receives and supports the weight of the load. 
     A method is provided (in accordance with a third major aspect) to mitigate, at least in part, at least one problem associated with the existing technology. The method is for storage of a load relative to a vehicle having a vertical lateral side section and also having a vehicle roof with load-bearing portions. The method includes and is not limited to (comprises) using a movable assembly to receive and support the weight of the load. The method also includes fixedly mounting a base assembly to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof of the vehicle. The method also includes using the base assembly to support the movement of the movable assembly with the load between a load-storage position and a load-access position. This movement is done (in such a way) when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly, in use, receives and supports the weight of the load. 
     Other aspects are identified in the claims. Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reviewing the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings. This summary introduces concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify potential key features or possible essential features of the disclosed subject matter and is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or implementation of the disclosed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The Figures and the description that follow more particularly exemplify illustrative embodiments. 
     Provided is an apparatus for use with a load and a vehicle having a vertical lateral side section and a vehicle roof including load-bearing portions, the apparatus including a storage assembly, including a movable assembly configured to receive the load and support the weight of the load and a base assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, the base assembly further configured to support movement of the movable assembly with the load, between a load-storage position and a load-access position, when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly, in use, receives the load and supports the weight of the load. 
     In the load-storage position, the movable assembly may be disposed proximate to, and above, the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly may be alignable in a first orientation so that the load, in use, is transportable by the vehicle. 
     In the load-access position, the movable assembly may be disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle, and the movable assembly may be alignable in a second orientation so that the load is removable from, or loadable onto, the movable assembly. 
     The apparatus may further comprise a linkage assembly configured to be pivotally connected to the movable assembly, and further configured to be pivotally linked to the base assembly. 
     The linkage assembly may be further configured to facilitate linear movement of the movable assembly horizontally along an outboard movement direction, from the load-storage position, in which the movably assembly is disposed above the vehicle roof, toward a tippable position beyond which the movable assembly is rotatable. 
     The linkage assembly may be further configured to facilitate rotational movement of the movable assembly along a rotation movement direction from the tippable position toward a non-horizontal orientation in which the movable assembly is disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle so that the load is removable from, or loadable onto, the movable assembly when the movable assembly is disposed at the non-horizontal orientation. 
     The linkage assembly may be further configured to facilitate rotational movement of the movable assembly along a counter-rotation movement direction, from a non-horizontal orientation, in which the movable assembly is disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle, toward a tippable position in which the movable assembly is positionable in horizontal alignment relative to the vehicle roof 
     The linkage assembly may be further configured to facilitate linear movement of the movable assembly horizontally along an inboard movement direction, away from the tippable position and toward the load-storage position disposed above the vehicle roof 
     The base assembly may include an inboard end section disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle, an outboard end section spaced apart from the inboard end section, the outboard end section disposed distally from the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle, and a base pivot fixedly disposed proximate to the outboard end section, the base pivot configured to interact with the linkage assembly. 
     The base assembly may further include a first elongated track configured to extend between the inboard end section and the outboard end section, the first elongated track configured to interact with the linkage assembly, and a second elongated track configured to extend between the inboard end section and the outboard end section, the second elongated track configured to interact with the linkage assembly. The first elongated track and the second elongated track may be spaced apart from each other and may be alignable, at least in part, parallel with each other. 
     The first elongated track may include a curved track section disposed proximate to the outboard end section, the curved track section configured to arch toward the movable assembly and a first elongated track section extending between the inboard end section and the curved track section, the first elongated track section disposed proximate to the outboard end section. 
     The second elongated track may include a second elongated track section extending from the inboard end section to the outboard end section. 
     The linkage assembly may include a first pin configured to be slidably movable along the first elongated track of the base assembly, a second pin configured to be slidably movable along the second elongated track of the base assembly, and a cam surface configured to slidably interact with the base pivot of the base assembly. 
     The cam surface may include a straight cam surface configured to linearly slidably interact with the base pivot of the base assembly so that the linkage assembly together with the movable assembly are linearly movable and a curved cam surface configured to rotatably slidably interact with the base pivot of the base assembly so that the linkage assembly together with the movable assembly are rotatably movable. After the tippable position is reached for the movable assembly, the movable assembly may be rotatable when the base pivot is positioned where the curved cam surface and the straight cam surface intersect with each other. 
     The apparatus may further comprise a coupler assembly configured to be pivotally mounted to an outboard end section of the base assembly, the outboard end section disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof 
     The coupler assembly may be further configured to be slide coupled to the movable assembly in such a way that the coupler assembly facilitates sliding movement of a length of the movable assembly along an inboard movement direction extending between a first lateral end section and a second lateral end section of the movable assembly. 
     The apparatus may further comprise an actuator assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the coupler assembly, the actuator assembly further configured to be drive coupled to the movable assembly. The actuator assembly may be further configured to selectively urge movement of the movable assembly, relative to the coupler assembly, along an inboard movement direction extending between a first lateral end section and a second lateral end section of the movable assembly. 
     The actuator assembly may be further configured to move the movable assembly along an outboard movement direction extending from the first lateral end section toward the second lateral end section of the movable assembly and the inboard movement direction extending from the second lateral end section toward the first lateral end section of the movable assembly. 
     The apparatus may further comprise a flexible elongated drive member. The movable assembly may be configured to be affixed to the flexible elongated drive member. The actuator assembly may be further configured to be coupled to the flexible elongated drive member. The actuator assembly may be further configured to move the flexible elongated drive member to thereby move the movable assembly. 
     The movable assembly may further include a first connection terminal configured to be affixed to a first end of the flexible elongated drive member and a second connection terminal configured to be affixed to a second end of the flexible elongated drive member. 
     The movable assembly may include spaced-apart movable rails and spaced-apart brace members configured to span between the spaced-apart movable rails. 
     The apparatus may further include a coupler assembly configured to be pivotally mounted to an outboard end section of the base assembly, the outboard end section disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof and a flexible elongated drive member including an elongated chain assembly having links coupled one after another. The coupler assembly may include plates spaced apart from each other, slide engagement devices configured to slidably engage with the movable assembly, spacers configured to be positioned between the plates and further configured to maintain the plates in a spaced-apart relationship with each other, guides configured to guide movement of the flexible elongated drive member, a sprocket configured to engage with the elongated chain assembly, a rotatable axle configured to span across the plates and further configured to support the sprocket, and bearings configured to be mounted to the plates and further configured to support the rotatable axle. 
     The apparatus may further include a coupler assembly configured to be pivotally mounted to an outboard end section of the base assembly, the outboard end section disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof and a flexible elongated drive member including an elongated belt assembly. The coupler assembly may further include plates spaced apart from each other, slide engagement devices configured to slidably engage with the movable assembly, spacers configured to be positioned between the plates and further configured to maintain the plates in a spaced-apart relationship with each other, guides configured to guide movement of the flexible elongated drive member, a rotatable axle configured to span across the plates and further configured to frictionally contact the elongated belt assembly, and bearings configured to be mounted to the plates and further configured to support the rotatable axle. 
     The apparatus may further include a coupler assembly configured to be pivotally mounted to an outboard end section of the base assembly, the outboard end section disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section of the vehicle when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, an actuator assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the coupler assembly, the actuator assembly further configured to be drive coupled to the movable assembly, and the actuator assembly further configured to selectively urge movement of the movable assembly, relative to the coupler assembly, along an inboard movement direction extending between a first lateral end section and a second lateral end section of the movable assembly, a control circuit configured to interface with, and to control, the actuator assembly, a sensor assembly configured to be disposed proximate to the movable assembly and further configured to determine a position of the movable assembly, and a control switch configured to interface with, and control, the actuator assembly in such a way that the actuator assembly, in use, controls a direction of movement of the movable assembly. 
     The movable assembly may include a first movable rail and a second movable rail spaced apart from the first movable rail. An actuator assembly may be configured to selectively move the first movable rail and the second movable rail. The actuator assembly may include a motor affixed to, and supported by, the base assembly. The motor may include a rotatable motor shaft configured to rotate a gear-box assembly having an input shaft, a first output shaft and a second output shaft. The input shaft may be configured to be coupled to the rotatable motor shaft of the motor. The first output shaft may be configured to be coupled to a first flexible elongated drive member. The first flexible elongated drive member may be configured to be affixed to the first movable rail. The second output shaft may be configured to be coupled to a second flexible elongated drive member. The second flexible elongated drive member may be configured to be affixed to the second movable rail. 
     The apparatus may further include a lock device configured to selectively lock, and unlock, a second rotatable axle to a second coupler assembly. When the lock device selectively locks the second rotatable axle to the second coupler assembly, the motor may be configured to drive the first movable rail and the second movable rail, in unison. When the lock device selectively unlocks the second rotatable axle relative to the second coupler assembly, the second movable rail may be movable so that the second movable rail is alignable with the first movable rail. The lock device may be further configured to selectively lock the second rotatable axle with the second coupler assembly so that, after the second movable rail and the first movable rail are aligned with each other, the first movable rail and the second movable rail are movable in unison. 
     Provided is an apparatus for use with a load, the apparatus including a vehicle having a vertical lateral side section and a vehicle roof with load-bearing portions, and a storage assembly, including a movable assembly configured to receive the load and support the weight of the load and a base assembly configured to be fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof of the vehicle. The base assembly is further configured to support movement of the movable assembly with the load, between a load-storage position and a load-access position, when the base assembly, in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions of the vehicle roof, and the movable assembly, in use, receives the load and supports the weight of the load. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The non-limiting embodiments may be more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1    and  FIG.  2    depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  1   ), and a front view ( FIG.  2   ) of embodiments of a storage assembly; and 
         FIG.  3    and  FIG.  4    depict side views ( FIG.  3    and  FIG.  4   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  5 A  and  FIG.  5 B  depict a side view ( FIG.  5 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  5 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  4   ; and 
         FIG.  5 C  depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  4   ; and 
         FIG.  5 D  depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a base assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  4   ; and 
         FIG.  5 E  depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a movable assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  4   ; and 
         FIG.  6    and  FIG.  7    depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  6   ) and a front view ( FIG.  7   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9    depict side views ( FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9   ) of the embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  6   ; and 
         FIG.  10 A  and  FIG.  10 B  depict a side view ( FIG.  10 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  10 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  9   ; and 
         FIG.  10 C  depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  9   ; and 
         FIG.  11    and  FIG.  12    depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  11   ) and a front view (FIG.  12 ) of embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  13    and  FIG.  14    depict side views ( FIG.  13    and  FIG.  14   ) of the embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  11   ; and 
         FIG.  15 A  and  FIG.  15 B  depict a side view ( FIG.  15 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  15 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  14   ; and 
         FIG.  15 C  depicts a side view ( FIG.  15 C ) of an embodiment of a linkage assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  14   ; and 
         FIG.  16    and  FIG.  17    depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  16   ) and a front view ( FIG.  17   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  18    and  FIG.  19    depict side views ( FIG.  18    and  FIG.  19   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly of  FIG.  16   ; and 
         FIG.  20 A  depicts a side view of an embodiment of a base assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  19   ; and 
         FIG.  20 B  depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  19   ; and 
         FIG.  21    and  FIG.  22    depict an exploded front perspective view ( FIG.  21   ) and a front perspective view ( FIG.  22   ) of embodiments of a coupler assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  23    and  FIG.  24    depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  23   ) and a front view ( FIG.  24   ) of embodiments of a coupler assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  25    depicts a schematic view ( FIG.  25   ) of an embodiment of a control circuit of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   ; and 
         FIG.  26    depicts a top schematic view of an embodiment of an actuator assembly of the storage assembly of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  27    is a perspective view of a rail, in accordance with an embodiment. 
         FIGS.  28 A and  28 B  are a perspective and detailed views, respectively, of a rack and pinion drive, in accordance with an embodiment. 
     
    
    
     The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated at least in part by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations, and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common and well-understood elements useful in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 
               
               
                 USED IN THE DRAWINGS 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 storage assembly 100 
                 wear-resistant surface 320 
               
               
                 movable assembly 200 
                 linear movement direction 322 
               
               
                 first lateral end section 201 
                 rotational movement direction 324 
               
               
                 second lateral end section 202 
                 pin movement direction 326 
               
               
                 spaced-apart movable rails 
                 curved track section 328 
               
               
                 (203A, 203B) 
               
               
                 spaced-apart brace members 
                 first elongated track 
               
               
                 (206A, 206B) 
                 section 331 
               
               
                 first connection terminal 211 
                 second elongated track 
               
               
                   
                 section 332 
               
               
                 second connection terminal 212 
                 coupler assembly 400 
               
               
                 elongated tubular member 214 
                 coupler pivot 401 
               
               
                 flat top surface 216 
                 plates (403A, 403B) 
               
               
                 flat side surface 218 
                 slide engagement devices 
               
               
                   
                 (402A, 402B) 
               
               
                 flat bottom surface 220 
                 spacers (404A, 404B) 
               
               
                 beam member 222 
                 roller guides (406A, 406B) 
               
               
                 elongated sidetrack 224 
                 bearings (412A, 412B) 
               
               
                 linear movement direction 226 
                 sprocket 408 
               
               
                 base assembly 300 
                 first drive guide 410A 
               
               
                 spaced-apart base rails 
                 second drive guide 410B 
               
               
                 (303A, 303B) 
               
               
                 inboard end section 302 
                 rotatable axle 411 
               
               
                 outboard end section 304 
                 actuator assembly 500 
               
               
                 first elongated track 311 
                 movement axis 502 
               
               
                 second elongated track 312 
                 outboard movement direction 504 
               
               
                 base pivot 314 
                 inboard movement direction 506 
               
               
                 base stop 316 
                 elongated drive members 
               
               
                   
                 (510A, 510B) 
               
               
                 stop surface 317 
                 motor 512 
               
               
                 connector hole 318 
                 rotatable motor shaft 514 
               
               
                 rotation direction 515 
                 first pin 611 
               
               
                 couplers (516A, 516B, 516C, 
                 second pin 612 
               
               
                 516D, 516E) 
               
               
                 chain assembly 518 
                 pin shaft 612A 
               
               
                 belt assembly 520 
                 curved cam surface 614 
               
               
                 gear-box assembly 521 
                 straight cam surface 615 
               
               
                 output shafts (522A, 522B) 
                 linear movement direction 616 
               
               
                 input shaft 523 
                 rotational movement direction 618 
               
               
                 first drivable shaft 524A 
                 control circuit 700 
               
               
                 second drivable shaft 524B 
                 sensor assembly 702 
               
               
                 lock device 526 
                 control switch 704 
               
               
                 lock movement direction 527 
                 load 800 
               
               
                 shaft rotation direction 528 
                 vehicle 900 
               
               
                 lock movement direction 530 
                 vehicle roof 902 
               
               
                 movement direction 532 
                 load-bearing portions 904 
               
               
                 linkage assembly 600 
                 vertical lateral side section 906 
               
               
                 linkage pivot 601 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S) 
     The following detailed description is merely exemplary and does not limit the described embodiments or the application and uses. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The claims define the scope of the disclosure. For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary, or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects, and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not considered limiting unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a.” The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments, and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. The disclosure is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims. The disclosure is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described. It will be appreciated that the scope of the meaning of a device configured to be coupled to an item (that is, to be connected to, to interact with the item, etc.) is to be interpreted as the device being configured to be coupled to the item, either directly or indirectly. Therefore, “configured to” may include the meaning “either directly or indirectly” unless expressly stated otherwise. 
       FIG.  1    and  FIG.  2    (SHEET  1  of  12  SHEETS) depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  1   ) and a front view ( FIG.  2   ) of embodiments of a storage assembly  100 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  1    and  FIG.  2   , the storage assembly  100  includes a movable assembly  200  and a base assembly  300 . The base assembly  300  is fixedly mounted to a vehicle roof  902  of a vehicle  900 . In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the base assembly  300  is mounted to mounting feet (not depicted) that are fixedly attached to the roof of the vehicle  900 . An embodiment of the mounting feet includes the SAVANA mounting feet Part Number GMMBK2W, manufactured by the Adrian Steel Company headquartered in the U.S.A. The movable assembly  200  is movable (selectively movable) relative to the base assembly  300 . The movable assembly  200  is configured to receive and support a load  800 . The base assembly  300  is configured to support the movable assembly  200  with the load  800 . The movable assembly  200  (with the load  800 ) is selectively movable between a position disposed proximate to to (near) the vehicle roof  902  (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ) and a loading position disposed proximate to (near) a vertical lateral side section  906  of a vehicle  900  (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ). The loading position is where the load  800  is placed onto the movable assembly  200  or is removed from the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  1   , the movable assembly  200  includes spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B), or at least two or more movable rails. The movable assembly  200  also includes spaced-apart brace members ( 206 A,  206 B) spanning between the spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B). The foregoing components advantageously provide improved structural support for the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  1   , in accordance with a preferred embodiment, the base assembly  300  includes spaced-apart base rails ( 303 A,  303 B): a first base rail  303 A and a second base rail  303 B, or at least two or more spaced-apart base rails. The actuator assembly  500  is affixed to (and supported by) the base assembly  300  (either directly or indirectly). As depicted in  FIG.  1   , the actuator assembly  500  is, preferably, affixed to the second base rail  303 B, but may be mounted where convenient. The actuator assembly  500  is coupled to a drivable shaft  524  configured to move (reciprocate) the movable assembly  200  along a movement axis  502 . 
       FIG.  3    and  FIG.  4    (SHEET  2  of  12  SHEETS) depict side views ( FIG.  3    and  FIG.  4   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3    and  FIG.  4   , the movable assembly  200  is placed (positioned) in a storage position disposed over the vehicle roof  902 . A closer view of the components of the storage assembly  100  is provided. 
       FIG.  5 A  and  FIG.  5 B  (SHEET  2  of  12  SHEETS) depict a side view ( FIG.  5 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  5 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly  300  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  5 A  and  FIG.  5 B , the components of the base assembly  300  and the linkage assembly  600  are depicted and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  5 C  (SHEET  2  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly  600  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  5 C , various components of the linkage assembly  600  and their relationships are depicted and described in greater detail below. The linkage assembly  600  may be called an arm assembly. The linkage assembly  600  is configured to permit the movable assembly  200  to move relative to the base assembly  300  in a controlled manner. 
       FIG.  5 D  (SHEET  3  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a base assembly  300  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  5 D , various components of the base assembly  300  and their relationships are depicted and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  5 E  (SHEET  3  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a perspective view of an embodiment of a movable assembly  200  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  5 E , various components of the movable assembly  200  and their relationships are depicted and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  6    and  FIG.  7    (SHEET  4  of  12  SHEETS) depict a front perspective view ( FIG.  6   ) and a front view ( FIG.  7   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  6    and  FIG.  7   , the movable assembly  200  is moved (selectively moved) relative to the base assembly  300  from the storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ) toward a tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ). In the tippable position, the movable assembly  200  is in a horizontal orientation and is ready for tipping (the start of rotation). A length or portion of the movable assembly  200  extends beyond the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 . Advantageously, the tippable position helps reduce the amount of torque output required by the actuator assembly  500  (as depicted in  FIG.  26    or  FIG.  1   ) to move the movable assembly  200  toward a loading position (unloading position) as indicated in  FIG.  17   . 
       FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9    (SHEET  5  of  12  SHEETS) depict side views ( FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9   ) of the embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  6   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  8    and  FIG.  9   , the movable assembly  200  is placed in a tippable position. A closer view of the components of the storage assembly  100  is depicted. 
       FIG.  10 A  and  FIG.  10 B  (SHEET  5  of  12  SHEETS) depict a side view ( FIG.  10 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  10 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly  300  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  9   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  10 A  and  FIG.  10 B , various components of the base assembly  300  are depicted, and are described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  10 C  (SHEET  5  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly  600  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  9   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  10 C , various components of the linkage assembly  600  are depicted, and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  11    and  FIG.  12    (SHEET  6  of  12  SHEETS) depict a front perspective view (FIG. 
       11 ) and a front view ( FIG.  12   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  11    and  FIG.  12   , the movable assembly  200  is moved (selectively moved) relative to the base assembly  300  from the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ) toward a tipped position or tipping position (as depicted in  FIG.  12   ). In  FIG.  7   , if the movable assembly  200  is laterally moved further to the right side of the drawing sheet, the movable assembly  200  may begin to tip (rotate). In  FIG.  12   , the movable assembly  200  has been moved further to the right side of the drawing sheet, where the movable assembly  200  has tipped. In the tipping position, the movable assembly  200  has been tipped (rotated) to a certain extent. A length or portion of the movable assembly  200  extends beyond the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 . 
       FIG.  13    and  FIG.  14    (SHEET  7  of  12  SHEETS) depict side views ( FIG.  13    and FIG. 
       14 ) of the embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  11   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  13    and  FIG.  14   , the movable assembly  200  is placed in the tipped position. There is provided a closer view of the components of the storage assembly  100 . 
       FIG.  15 A  and  FIG.  15 B  (SHEET  7  of  12  SHEETS) depict a side view ( FIG.  15 A ) and a top view ( FIG.  15 B ) of embodiments of a base assembly  300  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  14   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  15 A  and  FIG.  15 B , various components of the base assembly  300  are depicted, and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  15 C  (SHEET  7  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a side view ( FIG.  15 C ) of an embodiment of a linkage assembly  600  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  14   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  15 C , various components of the linkage assembly  600  are depicted, and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  16    and  FIG.  17    (SHEET  8  of  12  SHEETS) depict a front perspective view (FIG. 
       16 ) and a front view ( FIG.  17   ) of embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  16    and  FIG.  17   , the movable assembly  200  (with the load  800 ) is selectively movable between the tipped position (as depicted in  FIG.  12   ) and the loading position disposed proximate to (near) a vertical lateral side section  906  of a vehicle  900  (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ). The loading position (unloading position) is where the load  800  is placed onto the movable assembly  200  or is removed from the movable assembly  200 , etc. 
       FIG.  18    and  FIG.  19    (SHEET  9  of  12  SHEETS) depict side views ( FIG.  18    and FIG. 
       19 ) of embodiments of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  16   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  18    and  FIG.  19   , the movable assembly  200  is placed in the loading position. There is provided a closer view of the components of the storage assembly  100 . 
       FIG.  20 A  (SHEET  9  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of a base assembly  300  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  19   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  20 A , various components of the base assembly  300  are depicted and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  20 B  (SHEET  9  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of a linkage assembly  600  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  19   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  20 B , various components of the linkage assembly  600  are depicted and described in greater detail below. 
       FIG.  21    and  FIG.  22    (SHEET  10  of  12  SHEETS) depict an exploded front perspective view ( FIG.  21   ) and a front perspective view ( FIG.  22   ) of embodiments of a coupler assembly  400  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  21    and  FIG.  22   , a coupler assembly  400  is configured to be rotatably mounted (pivotally mounted or connected) to the base assembly  300 . The coupler assembly  400  is also configured to be slidably mounted to the movable assembly  200 . The coupler assembly  400  is configured to permit rotation (tipping) of the movable assembly  200  relative to the base assembly  300  when the movable assembly  200  is moved between the tippable position (as indicated in  FIG.  7   ) and the loading position (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ). The first roller guide  406 A and the second roller guide  406 B define the first drive guide  410 A and the second drive guide  410 B, respectively. The first drive guide  410 A and the second drive guide  410 B are configured to retain and guide relative movement between the flexible elongated drive member  510  and the coupler assembly  400 . 
       FIG.  23    and  FIG.  24    (SHEET  11  of  12  SHEETS) depict a front perspective view (FIG. 
       23 ) and a front view ( FIG.  24   ) of embodiments of a coupler assembly  400  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  23    and  FIG.  24   , an alternative embodiment of the coupler assembly  400  is provided. 
       FIG.  25    (SHEET  11  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a schematic view ( FIG.  25   ) of an embodiment of a control circuit  700  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  25   , the control circuit  700  is configured to control the movements of the movable assembly  200  and is described with further details below. 
       FIG.  26    (SHEET  12  of  12  SHEETS) depicts a top schematic view of an embodiment of an actuator assembly  500  of the storage assembly  100  of  FIG.  1   . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the actuator assembly  500  is configured to selectively actuate movements of the movable assembly  200  and is described with further details below. 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  1   ,  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  12   , and  FIG.  17   , an apparatus is for use with a load  800  and is also for use with a vehicle  900 . The vehicle  900  has a vertical lateral side section  906  and a vehicle roof  902  with load-bearing portions  904 . The apparatus includes a storage assembly  100 . The storage assembly  100  includes a movable assembly  200  configured to receive and support the weight of the load  800  (as depicted in  FIG.  2    and  FIG.  17   ). The storage assembly  100  includes a base assembly  300  configured to be fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions  904  of the vehicle roof  902  of the vehicle  900 . The base assembly  300  is also configured to support the movement of the movable assembly  200  with the load  800  between a load-storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ) and a load-access position (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ). This movement is done when the base assembly  300 , in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions  904  of the vehicle roof  902 , and the movable assembly  200 , in use, receives and supports the weight of the load  800 . A technical advantage for the apparatus is that the load  800  can be safely removed from the vehicle  900  by reducing inadvertent shifting of the weight of the load  800  when using the components of the storage assembly  100 , thereby reducing the possibility of user injury. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  2    and  FIG.  17   , the load-storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ) is disposed proximate to and over the vehicle roof  902 . The movable assembly  200  is alignable in a first orientation (a horizontal orientation) so that the load  800 , in use, is transportable by the vehicle  900 . In the load-storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ), the movable assembly  200  is positioned over the vehicle roof  902  and is oriented in the first orientation. The load-access position (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ) is disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 . The movable assembly  200  is alignable in a second orientation (a non-horizontal orientation) so that the load  800  may be removed from or loaded onto the movable assembly  200 . In the load-access position (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ), the movable assembly  200  is positioned at the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900  and is oriented in the non-horizontal orientation. An advantage provided by the load-storage position is that the load  800  can be safely stored over the vehicle  900  by reducing inadvertent shifting of the weight of the load  800 , thereby reducing the possibility of user injury. An advantage of the load-access position is that the load  800  can be safely removed by reducing inadvertent shifting of the weight of the load  800 , thereby reducing the possibility of user injury. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  12   , and  FIG.  13   , there is provided a linkage assembly  600  configured to be pivotally connected (via a linkage pivot  601 ) to the movable assembly  200 . The linkage assembly  600  is also configured to be pivotally linked via a first pin  611  and a second pin  612  to a first elongated track  311  and a second elongated track  312  (respectively) of the base assembly  300 . The linkage assembly  600  advantageously provides desirable directional movements for the movable assembly  200 , reducing the possibility of inadvertent user injury. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the linkage assembly  600  advantageously facilitates a combination of linear translation and pivotal translation. It is preferred that the linkage assembly  600  is configured to facilitate pivotal movement (translation) when a majority of the movable assembly  200  reaches past the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 , and this action assists in providing improved efficient travel down the side (the vertical lateral side section  906 ) of the vehicle  900  (as depicted in  FIG.  12    and  FIG.  13   ). The linkage assembly  600  advantageously provides the combined movement of linear translation and pivotal tipping and takes advantage of the weight of the movable assembly  200  (with the load  800  when unloading) that extends past the vertical lateral side section  906  to facilitate efficient pivotal movement of the movable assembly  200 . The center of gravity of the combination of the movable assembly  200  (with the load  800  when unloading) is moved (with guiding assistance from the linkage assembly  600 ) past the vertical lateral side section  906 , and then the movable assembly  200  may be pivotally translated. The linkage assembly  600  (also called a pivot arm) is pinned high on the movable assembly  200  to steady the movable assembly  200  when placed at the side of the vehicle  900 . This arrangement may allow maximum travel while providing a strong brace against the moment (rotational force) created when the load is placed on the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   , the base assembly  300  includes a base stop  316  configured to selectively abut against the second pin  612  of the linkage assembly  600 . The second connection terminal  212  is configured to attach one end of the flexible elongated drive member  510  to a bottom portion of the movable assembly  200  (proximate to the outboard end section  304 ). 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  4   , the first connection terminal  211  is configured to attach one end of the flexible elongated drive member  510  to a bottom portion of the movable assembly  200  (proximate to the inboard end section  302 ). 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  13   , and  FIG.  19   , the linkage assembly  600  is also configured to facilitate linear movement of the movable assembly  200  horizontally along the outboard movement direction  504 . Linear movement extends from the load-storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   , disposed above the vehicle roof  902 ) toward a tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ). After the position as depicted in  FIG.  7   , the movable assembly  200  is rotated without inadvertently imparting damage to the vehicle  900 . The linkage assembly  600  advantageously facilitates linear movement of the movable assembly  200  and/or reduces the possibility of inadvertent vehicle damage. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  12   ,  FIG.  13   , and  FIG.  19   , the linkage assembly  600  is also configured to facilitate rotational movement of the movable assembly  200  along a rotation movement direction  603  (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ) from the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ) toward the non-horizontal orientation (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ). In the non-horizontal orientation, the movable assembly  200  is positionable proximate to the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900  so that the load  800  can be removed from, or loaded onto, the movable assembly  200  when the movable assembly  200  is positioned at the non-horizontal orientation. The linkage assembly  600  advantageously facilitates rotational movement of the movable assembly  200  and reduces the possibility of inadvertent vehicle damage. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  17   ,  FIG.  19   , the linkage assembly  600  is also configured to facilitate rotational movement of the movable assembly  200  along a counter-rotation movement direction  605  (as depicted in  FIG.  19   ), from the non-horizontal orientation (as depicted in  FIG.  17   ), disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 , toward the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ). In the tippable position, the movable assembly  200  is positionable in horizontal alignment relative to the vehicle roof  902 . The linkage assembly  600  advantageously permits rotational movement of the movable assembly  200 , reducing the possibility of inadvertent vehicle damage. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  17   ,  FIG.  19   , the linkage assembly  600  is also configured to facilitate linear movement of the movable assembly  200  horizontally along the inboard movement direction  506 , away from the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ) and toward the load-storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ) disposed above the vehicle roof  902 . The linkage assembly  600  advantageously permits further linear movement of the movable assembly  200 , reducing the possibility of inadvertent vehicle damage. 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  2   ,  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  17   ,  FIG.  19   , the base assembly  300  includes an inboard end section  302  disposed distally from the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 . The base assembly  300  includes an outboard end section  304  spaced apart from the inboard end section  302 . The outboard end section  304  is disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900 . A base pivot  314  is fixedly positioned proximate to the outboard end section  304 . The base pivot  314  is configured to interact with the linkage assembly  600 . The base assembly  300  (with the base pivot  314 ) advantageously provides a relatively stationary reference for the pivotal movement action of the linkage assembly  600 , while the linkage assembly  600  facilitates controlled movement of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  4   , and  FIG.  5   , a first elongated track  311  extends between (spans) the inboard end section  302  and the outboard end section  304 . The first elongated track  311  is configured to interact with the linkage assembly  600 . A second elongated track  312  extends between (spans) the inboard end section  302  and the outboard end section  304 . The second elongated track  312  is configured to interact with the linkage assembly  600 . The first elongated track  311  and the second elongated track  312  are spaced apart from each other. The first elongated track  311  and the second elongated track  312  are alignable, at least in part, to be parallel (relative to each other). The base assembly  300  advantageously provides an additional degree of relative stationary reference for further pivotal movement action of the linkage assembly  600  while the linkage assembly  600  facilitates controlled movement of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  4   , and  FIG.  5   , the first elongated track  311  includes a curved track section  328  positioned proximate to the outboard end section  304 . The curved track section  328  is configured to arch toward the movable assembly  200 . The first elongated track  311  also includes a first elongated track section  331  (linear track section) configured to extend between the inboard end section  302  and the curved track section  328 , with the curved track section  328  positioned proximate to the outboard end section  304 . The curved track section  328  and the first elongated track section  331  of the first elongated track  311  advantageously facilitate (with cooperation from the first pin  611  of the linkage assembly  600 ) improved controlled rotation of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  4   , and  FIG.  5   , the second elongated track  312  includes a second elongated track section  332  extending from the inboard end section  302 . The second elongated track section  332  extends and passes by the curved track section  328  toward the outboard end section  304 . The second elongated track section  332  of the second elongated track  312  advantageously facilitates (with cooperation from the second pin  612  of the linkage assembly  600 ) improved controlled linear translation of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  4   , and  FIG.  5   , the linkage assembly  600  includes a first pin  611  configured to be slidably movable along the first elongated track  311  of the base assembly  300 . A second pin  612  is configured to be slidably movable, at least in part, along the second elongated track  312  of the base assembly  300 . A curved cam surface  614  is configured to slidably interact with the base pivot  314  of the base assembly  300 . The linkage assembly  600  advantageously provides three stable points of reference with the base assembly, thereby improving the stability of movement action of the linkage assembly  600  while the linkage assembly  600  facilitates controlled movement of the movable assembly  200 . Although  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  4   , and  FIG.  5    depict the curved cam surface  614  as disposed interior to the storage assembly  100 , it is to be appreciated that, in an embodiment, the curved cam surface  614  is disposed externally to the storage assembly  100 , e.g., disposed in front of the linkage assembly  600  in  FIG.  4    as though represented by non-dotted lines in  FIG.  4   . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  7    and  FIG.  10   , the linkage assembly  600  includes a straight cam surface  615  (a linear cam portion) leading into a curved cam surface  614 . The straight cam surface  615  is configured to linearly slidably interact with the base pivot  314  of the base assembly  300 , and the linkage assembly  600  together with the movable assembly  200  are linearly movable. The curved cam surface  614  (cam curved portion) is configured to rotatably slidably interact with the base pivot  314  of the base assembly  300 , thereby permitting the linkage assembly  600  (together with the movable assembly  200 ) to be rotatable. When the base pivot  314  is positioned where the straight cam surface  615  and the curved cam surface  614  intersect with each other (meet), the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7    and  FIG.  10   ) is reached for the movable assembly  200 . Further movement past the tippable position (as depicted in  FIG.  7   ), causes rotation of the movable assembly  200  (preferably without inadvertently damaging the vehicle  900 ). The curved cam surface  614  and the straight cam surface  615  advantageously facilitate consistent (repeatable) positioning of the movable assembly  200  for rotation motion. 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   , a coupler assembly  400  is configured to be pivotally mounted (via the coupler pivot  401 ) to an outboard end section  304  of the base assembly  300 . The outboard end section  304  is disposed proximate to the vertical lateral side section  906  of the vehicle  900  when (after) the base assembly  300 , in use, is fixedly mounted to the load-bearing portions  904  of the vehicle roof  902 . The coupler assembly  400  advantageously facilitates cooperative rotational movement of the movable assembly  200  (in synergistic cooperation with the linkage assembly  600 ) relative to the base assembly  300 . The base assembly  300  is relatively stationary when (after) the base assembly  300  is mounted to the load-bearing portions  904  of the vehicle roof  902 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  3   ,  FIG.  8   ,  FIG.  13   , and  FIG.  18   , the coupler assembly  400  is also configured to be slide coupled to the movable assembly  200 . This coupling is done in such a way that the coupler assembly  400  facilitates (permits) sliding (reciprocal) movement of a length of the movable assembly  200  along an inboard movement direction  506  extending between a first lateral end section  201  and a second lateral end section  202  (as depicted in  FIG.  8   ) of the movable assembly  200 . The coupler assembly  400  advantageously facilitates cooperative rotational movement and linear movement of the movable assembly  200 , in synergistic cooperation with the linkage assembly  600 , relative to the base assembly  300  that is relatively stationary when the base assembly  300  is mounted to the load-bearing portions  904  of the vehicle roof  902 . 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  8   , an actuator assembly  500  is configured to be fixedly mounted to the coupler assembly  400 . The actuator assembly  500  is also configured to be drive coupled to the movable assembly  200 . The actuator assembly  500  is also configured to selectively urge movement of the movable assembly  200  (relative to the coupler assembly  400 ) along an inboard movement direction  506  extending between a first lateral end section  201  (as depicted in  FIG.  8   ) and a second lateral end section  202  (as depicted in  FIG.  8   ) of the movable assembly  200 . The actuator assembly  500  advantageously facilitates the controlled movement of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  8   , the actuator assembly  500  is also configured to move the movable assembly  200  along: (A) an outboard movement direction  504  aligned (extended) from the first lateral end section  201  toward the second lateral end section  202  of the movable assembly  200 ; or (B) an inboard movement direction  506  aligned (extended) from the second lateral end section  202  toward the first lateral end section  201  of the movable assembly  200 . The actuator assembly  500  advantageously facilitates movement of the movable assembly  200  with the load  800  without further direct hand-on manipulation from the user of the apparatus. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  8   , a flexible elongated drive member  510  is provided. The flexible elongated drive member  510  may include an elongated chain assembly  518  (as depicted in  FIG.  21   ) or an elongated belt assembly  520  (as depicted in  FIG.  23   ). As shown at  FIGS.  28 A and  28 B , the flexible elongated drive member  510  may include a rack and pinion drive  2800 . The rack and pinion drive  2800  includes a rack or linear gear  2802 for interfacing at slots  2804  with teeth  2806  of a pinion or circular gear  2808 . The rack  2802  and pinion  2808  may be implemented as one or more sprockets interfacing with one or more belts. The movable assembly  200  is configured to be affixed to the flexible elongated drive member  510 . The actuator assembly  500  is also configured to be coupled to the flexible elongated drive member  510 . The actuator assembly  500  is also configured to move the flexible elongated drive member  510  to move the movable assembly  200 . The flexible elongated drive member  510  advantageously prevents the direct connection between the movable assembly  200  with the load  800  and the actuator assembly  500 . For the case where the combined weight of the movable assembly  200  with the load  800  is too great, the flexible elongated drive member  510  may decouple from the actuator assembly  500 , thereby avoiding inadvertent damage to the actuator assembly  500 . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  8   , the movable assembly  200  includes a first connection terminal  211  configured to be affixed to a first end of the flexible elongated drive member  510 . A second connection terminal  212  is configured to be affixed to a second end of the flexible elongated drive member  510 . The movable assembly  200  advantageously provides connection points, thereby simplifying the design. 
     Referring to the embodiments as depicted in  FIG.  5 A  (side view),  FIG.  5 B  (top view), and  FIG.  5 C  (partial side view), the second pin  612  is spaced apart from the base pivot  314  when the movable assembly  200  is positioned in the storage position (as depicted in  FIG.  2   ). The base pivot  314  is affixed to the base stop  316 . The base pivot  314  extends laterally from the base stop  316 . The linkage assembly  600  includes a straight cam surface  615  leading into a curved cam surface  614 . The base pivot  314  is configured to be initially received in the straight cam surface  615  when the linkage assembly  600  is moved along the linear movement direction  616 . Further movement of the linkage assembly  600  along the linear movement direction  616  results in the base pivot  314  abutting the curved cam surface  614 . In response, the linkage assembly  600  may tip (rotate) when the base pivot  314  moves along (within) the curved cam surface  614 , and the linkage assembly  600  may then tip (rotate). 
     Referring to the embodiment as depicted in  FIG.  5 D  and  FIG.  3   , the base stop  316  includes a stop surface  317 . The base stop  316  includes a connector hole  318 . A connector (not depicted) affixes the base stop  316  to the base assembly  300  (within the second elongated track  312 , at the outboard end section  304 , as depicted in  FIG.  3   ). The second elongated track  312  includes at least one wear-resistant surface  320  configured to interact with the second pin  612  of the linkage assembly  600 . The second pin  612  is configured to be movable along the linear movement direction  322 . The second pin  612  is configured to be rotatable along a rotational movement direction  324 . The pin shaft  612 A extends from the lateral side of the second pin  612 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  5 E , the coupler assembly  400  includes spaced-apart slide engagement devices ( 402 A,  402 B) or slide guides. The movable assembly  200  includes an elongated tubular member  214 , having a flat top surface  216 , a flat side surface  218 , and a flat bottom surface  220 . A beam member  222  is affixed to and extends from the flat top surface  216 . Between the top section of the beam member  222  and the flat top surface  216 , an elongated sidetrack  224  (groove) is defined. The movable assembly  200  is configured to slide along a linear movement direction  226 . A first roller guide  406 A is mounted to the coupler assembly  400 . The first roller guide  406 A is configured to guide the movement of the flexible elongated drive member  510 . A first drive guide  410 A is formed in the roller guide  406 A (also depicted in  FIG.  21    and  FIG.  22   ). The first drive guide  410 A is configured to guide the movement of the flexible elongated drive member  510  (depicted in  FIG.  4   ). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  10 A  (side view) and  FIG.  10 B  (top view), in the tippable position, the second pin  612  makes contact with the base stop  316  (the stop surface  317  of the base stop  316 ). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  10 C  (partial side view), the base pivot  314  is received into the straight cam surface  615  and reaches the point where the straight cam surface  615  merges or leads into the curved cam surface  614 . The linkage assembly  600  is ready for tipping along the rotational movement direction  618 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  15 A  (side view) and  FIG.  15 B  (top view), in the tipping position, the second pin  612  continues to contact the base stop  316  (the stop surface  317  of the base stop  316 ). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  15 C  (partial side view), the base pivot  314  travels from the straight cam surface  615  and into (along) the curved cam surface  614 , past where the straight cam surface  615  merges or leads into the curved cam surface  614 . The linkage assembly  600  continues to tip or rotate along the rotational movement direction  618 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  20 A  (side view), in the storage position, the second pin  612  continues to contact the base stop  316  (the stop surface  317  of the base stop  316 ). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  20 B  (partial side view), in the storage position, the base pivot  314  continues to travel along the pin movement direction  326 . The base pivot  314  reaches the extent of travel into the curved cam surface  614 . The linkage assembly  600  stops tipping or rotating along the rotational movement direction  618 . It will be appreciated that the process is reversible back from  FIG.  20 B  to  FIG.  5 A . 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  21    and  FIG.  22   , the flexible elongated drive member  510  includes an elongated chain assembly  518  (and any equivalent thereof, such as rack and pinion or sprocket and belt approaches previously discussed with reference to  FIGS.  28 A and  28 B ) having links coupled one after another. The coupler assembly  400  includes plates ( 403 A,  403 B) spaced apart from each other. Slide engagement devices ( 402 A,  402 B) are configured to slidably engage with (an elongated length of) the movable assembly  200 . Spacers ( 404 A,  404 B) are configured to be positioned between the plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The spacers ( 404 A,  404 B) are also configured to maintain the plates ( 403 A,  403 B) in a spaced-apart relationship with each other. Roller guides ( 406 A,  406 B) are configured to guide the movement of the flexible elongated drive member  510 . A sprocket  408  is configured to engage with the elongated chain assembly  518 . A rotatable axle  411  is configured to span across the plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The rotatable axle  411  is also configured to support the sprocket  408 . Bearings ( 412 A,  412 B) are configured to be mounted to the plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The bearings ( 412 A,  412 B) are also configured to support the rotatable axle  411 . It will be appreciated that equivalents of the elongated chain assembly  518  may include a timing belt, a lead screw (not depicted), a hydraulic motor (not depicted), a pinion ( FIGS.  28 A,  28 B ), a belt for interfacing with a sprocket (not depicted), etc. 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  23    and  FIG.  24   , the flexible elongated drive member  510  includes an elongated belt assembly  520 . The coupler assembly  400  includes the plates ( 403 A,  403 B) spaced apart from each other. The slide engagement devices ( 402 A,  402 B) are configured to slidably engage with the movable assembly  200 . The spacers ( 404 A,  404 B) are configured to be positioned between the plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The spacers ( 404 A,  404 B) are also configured to maintain the plates ( 403 A,  403 B) in a spaced-apart relationship with each other. The guides ( 406 A,  406 B) are configured to guide the movement of the flexible elongated drive member  510 . The rotatable axle  411  is configured to span across the spaced-apart plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The rotatable axle  411  is also configured to frictionally contact the elongated belt assembly  520 . The bearings ( 412 A,  412 B) are configured to be mounted to the plates ( 403 A,  403 B). The bearings ( 412 A,  412 B) are also configured to support the rotatable axle  411 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  25   , a control circuit  700  is configured to interface with (and control actuation of) the actuator assembly  500 . A sensor assembly  702  (such as a proximity sensor, etc.) is configured to be positioned proximate to the movable assembly  200 . The sensor assembly  702  is also configured to determine the position of the movable assembly  200 . A control switch  704  (up/down control) is configured to interface with (and control) the actuator assembly  500 . This interfacing is done in such a way that the actuator assembly  500 , in use, controls the direction of movement of the movable assembly  200 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the movable assembly  200  includes at least two spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B). It will be appreciated that the movable assembly  200  may include any suitable number of spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B). The actuator assembly  500  is configured to selectively move the spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B) of the movable assembly  200 , between the positions depicted in  FIG.  2    (storage position) and  FIG.  17    (loading position). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26    and  FIG.  1   , the actuator assembly  500  includes at least one motor  512 , such as an electric motor. The motor  512  is affixed to (and supported by) the base assembly  300  (either directly or indirectly). In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the base assembly  300  includes spaced-apart base rails ( 303 A,  303 B): a first base rail  303 A and a second base rail  303 B, depicted in  FIG.  1   . The actuator assembly  500  is affixed to (and supported by) the base assembly  300  (either directly or indirectly). As depicted in  FIG.  1   , the actuator assembly  500  is affixed to the second base rail  303 B. 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the motor  512  may be powered by a vehicle battery (not depicted) installed to the vehicle  900  (depicted in  FIG.  1   ) or to an auxiliary battery, which may receive charging from the vehicle  900  while the vehicle  900  is turned on, etc. The motor  512  includes a rotatable motor shaft  514  configured to rotate along a rotation direction  515 . 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the movable assembly  200  includes a first movable rail  203 A and a second movable rail  203 B spaced apart from the first movable rail  203 A. The actuator assembly  500  is configured to selectively move the first movable rail  203 A and the second movable rail  203 B. The actuator assembly  500  includes a motor  512  affixed to (and supported by) the base assembly  300 . The motor  512  includes a rotatable motor shaft  514  configured to rotate a gear-box assembly  521 . The gear-box assembly  521  has an input shaft  523 , a first output shaft  522 A, and a second output shaft  522 B. The input shaft  523  is coupled to the rotatable motor shaft  514  of the motor  512 . The first output shaft  522 A (of the gear-box assembly  521 ) is coupled to a first flexible elongated drive member  510 A. The first flexible elongated drive member  510 A is affixed to the first movable rail  203 A at spaced-apart connection terminals ( 211 A,  212 A). The second output shaft  522 B (of the gear-box assembly  521 ) is coupled to a second flexible elongated drive member  510 B. The second flexible elongated drive member  510 B is affixed to the second movable rail  203 B at spaced-apart connection terminals ( 211 B,  212 B). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the actuator assembly  500  further includes at least one gear-box assembly  521 . The gear-box assembly  521  has an input shaft  523  and a pair of output shafts ( 522 A,  522 B). The gear-box assembly  521  may include a right angle gear reducer (30:1 reduction), Model Number NWM-50B-30-56C (or any equivalent thereof) manufactured by SHIMPO-KUMA: NIDEC-SHIMPO America Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan-based NIDEC-SHIMPO Corporation. The input shaft  523  (of the gear-box assembly  521 ) is coupled (by a first coupler  516 A) to the rotatable motor shaft  514  (of the motor  512 ). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the first output shaft  522 A (of the gear-box assembly  521 ) is coupled (by a second coupler  516 B) to a first drivable shaft  524 A. The first drivable shaft  524 A is coupled (by a third coupler  516 C) to the first rotatable axle  411 A (of a first coupler assembly  400 A). A first coupler pivot  401 A (of the first coupler assembly  400 A) is configured to be pivotally connected to the first base rail  303 A (depicted in FIG. 1 ) of the base assembly  300 . In accordance with a preferred embodiment, a first sprocket  408 A is mounted (affixed) to the first rotatable axle  411 A. The first sprocket  408 A is configured to interact with the first flexible elongated drive member  510 A. The first flexible elongated drive member  510 A is affixed to the first movable rail  203 A at spaced-apart connection terminals ( 211 A,  212 A). When the motor  512  is energized, the rotatable motor shaft  514  (of the motor  512 ) rotates the first drivable shaft  524 A and the first sprocket  408 A, along a shaft rotation direction  528 . In response to rotation of the first sprocket  408 A, the first sprocket  408 A urges selective linear movement of the first movable rail  203 A, back and forth along a movement direction  532  (in a reciprocating manner). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the second output shaft  522 B (of the gear-box assembly  521 ) is coupled (by a fourth coupler  516 D) to a second drivable shaft  524 B. The second drivable shaft  524 B is coupled (by a fifth coupler  516 E) to the second rotatable axle  411 B (of a second coupler assembly  400 B). A second coupler pivot  401 B (of the second coupler assembly  400 B) is configured to be pivotally connected to the second base rail  303 B (depicted in  FIG.  1   ) of the base assembly  300 . In accordance with a preferred embodiment, a second sprocket  408 B is mounted (affixed) to the second rotatable axle  411 B. The second sprocket  408 B is configured to interact with the second flexible elongated drive member  510 B. The second flexible elongated drive member  510 B is affixed to the second movable rail  203 B at spaced-apart connection terminals ( 211 B,  212 B).. When the motor  512  is energized, the rotatable motor shaft  514  (of the motor  512 ) rotates the second drivable shaft  524 B and the second sprocket  408 B, along a shaft rotation direction  528 . In response to rotation of the second sprocket  408 B, the second sprocket  408 B urges selective linear movement of the second movable rail  203 B, back and forth along a movement direction  532  (in a reciprocating manner). 
     Referring to the embodiments depicted in  FIG.  26    and  FIG.  1   , the second drivable shaft  524 B is longer in  FIG.  26    than the second drivable shaft  524 B would be when the motor  512  is mounted to the second movable rail  203 B. Similarly, the first drivable shaft  524 A is longer in  FIG.  26    than the first drivable shaft  524 A would be when the motor  512  is mounted to the first movable rail  203 A. 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the actuator assembly  500  further includes at least one lock device  526 . The lock device  526  may include a taper lock device, a taper lock bush, a taper bush, a taper-fit bush, or any equivalent thereof. The outside of the lock device  526  may be tapered to match the component bore that is to be disposed on the shaft (not depicted). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , the lock device  526  is configured to selectively lock and unlock the position of the second rotatable axle  411 B to (from) the second coupler assembly  400 B. The lock device  526  is movable along a lock movement direction  527 . It will be appreciated that the lock device  526  may be configured to selectively lock and unlock the position of the first rotatable axle  411 A to the first coupler assembly  400 A. 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , when the lock device  526  selectively locks the position of the second rotatable axle  411 B to the second coupler assembly  400 B, the motor  512  is configured to drive the first and second spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B), in unison, by rotation of the first and second sprockets ( 408 A,  408 B). 
     Referring to the embodiment depicted in  FIG.  26   , when the lock device  526  selectively unlocks the position of the second rotatable axle  411 B to the second coupler assembly  400 B, the motor  512  is not used (powered off). The first movable rail  203 A remains unmoved. The second spaced-apart movable rail  203 B can be moved; the movement is done in such a way that the second movable rail  203 B is lined-up (aligned) with the first movable rail  203 A. Initially, the second movable rail  203 B is lined-up (aligned) with the first movable rail  203 A. The lock device  526  is installed and selectively locks the position of the second rotatable axle  411 B to the second coupler assembly  400 B. The motor  512  is energized to drive the first and second spaced-apart movable rails ( 203 A,  203 B), in unison, by rotation of the first sprocket  408 A and the second sprocket  408 B. 
     It will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that the actuator assembly  500  (including the motor  512 ) and/or the gear-box assembly  521  may be disposed on either movable rail  203 A or movable rail  203 B. It will further be appreciated by one of skill in the art that the actuator assembly  500  may be disposed on neither of the movable rails  203 A and  203 B, for example as depicted in  FIG.  26   . 
     It will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that the storage assembly  100  may have one or more movable rails  203 , for example one movable rail  203 , two movable rails  203 A and  203 B as depicted in the Figures, or still further movable rails  203 . The movable rails  203  may be identical except for the presence of the actuator assembly  500  (including the motor  512 ) and/or the gear-box assembly  521  on a single movable rail  203 . Where the actuator assembly  500  (including the motor  512 ) and/or the gear-box assembly  521  is disposed on a single movable rail  203 , such movable rail  203  may be in a master-slave relationship with all other movable rails  203 , the single movable rail  203  having disposed thereon the actuator assembly  500  (including the motor  512 ) and/or the gear-box assembly  521  being the master rail. Where the actuator assembly  500  (including the motor  512 ) and/or the gear-box assembly  521  are disposed on none of the movable rails  203  as depicted in  FIG.  26   , all the movable rails  203  may be identical. Because of the relationship between the identical movable rails  203 , the movable rails  203  may advantageously move at the same rate no matter how a load  800  is placed thereon. For example, even if a load  800  is placed entirely on a single movable rail  203  of the storage assembly  100 , whether or not a master rail, advantageously operation of the storage assembly  100  may not be affected. 
     Although the present application has been discussed and embodiments thereof presented in the context of loading and storage with respect to vehicles and roofs thereof, it will be readily appreciated by one of skill in the art that the present invention and embodiments thereof have myriad potential uses and applications, many of which may not relate to vehicles and roofs thereof. For example and without limitation, the present invention has applicability in the field of conveyor belt loading, storage, and unloading with respect to factories and manufacturers. The present invention may have still further applications. Nothing in the present application is to be in any way understood as restricting the scope of the present application to any one or more embodiments presented herein. The present application explicitly contemplates and describes embodiments in which no vehicle or vehicle roof is present. 
       FIG.  27    illustrates a rail  2700 , in accordance with an embodiment. The rail  2700  may be similar to the rail of  FIG.  26    (i.e., the lefthand large vertical element, or the righthand one), with motor, gearbox, etc. References used in  FIG.  27    refer to elements as described with reference to  FIG.  26    above. 
     The following is offered as further description of the embodiments, in which any one or more of any technical feature (described in the detailed description, the summary, and the claims) may be combinable with any other one or more of any technical feature (described in the detailed description, the summary, and the claims). It is understood that each claim in the claims section is an open-ended claim unless stated otherwise. Unless otherwise specified, relational terms used in these specifications should be construed to include specific tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality. By way of example, the term perpendicular is not necessarily limited to 90.0 degrees and may include a variation thereof that the person skilled in the art would recognize as providing equivalent functionality for the purposes described for the relevant member or element. Terms such as “about” and “substantially” relate generally to disposition, location, or configuration that are either exact or sufficiently close to the location, disposition, or configuration of the relevant element to preserve operability of the element within the disclosure that does not materially modify the disclosure. Similarly, unless specifically made clear from its context, numerical values should be construed to include certain tolerances that the person skilled in the art would recognize as having negligible importance as they do not materially change the operability of the disclosure. It will be appreciated that the description and/or drawings identify and describe embodiments of the apparatus (either explicitly or inherently). The apparatus may include any suitable combination and/or permutation of the technical features as identified in the detailed description, as may be required and/or desired to suit a particular technical purpose and/or technical function. It will be appreciated that, where possible and suitable, any one or more of the technical features of the apparatus may be combined with any other one or more of the technical features of the apparatus (in any combination and/or permutation). It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that the technical features of each embodiment may be deployed (where possible) in other embodiments even if not expressly stated as such above. It will be appreciated that persons skilled in the art would know that other options may be possible for the configuration of the components of the apparatus to adjust to manufacturing requirements and still remain within the scope as described in at least one or more of the claims. This written description provides embodiments, including the best mode, and also enables the person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The patentable scope may be defined by the claims. The written description and/or drawings may help to understand the scope of the claims. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood, for this document, that the word “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising” in that both words are used to signify an open-ended listing of assemblies, components, parts, etc. The term “comprising”, which is synonymous with the terms “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. Comprising (comprised of) is an “open” phrase and allows coverage of technologies that employ additional, unrecited elements. When used in a claim, the word “comprising” is the transitory verb (transitional term) that separates the preamble of the claim from the technical features of the disclosure. The foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.