Patent ID: 10071693

Abstract:
A coupling assembly for connecting a rooftop cargo carrying system to a vehicle may include a coupler body. The coupler body may include a crossbar clamp configured to be coupled to a crossbar, the crossbar oriented transverse to a direction of vehicle travel. The coupling assembly may include a base connected to the coupler body configured to sit on a flush rail of a vehicle roof. The flush rail may be oriented generally parallel to the direction of vehicle travel. The coupling assembly may include a clip retention and adjustment mechanism connected to the coupler body with the clip retention and adjustment mechanism having an adjustment member. The clip retention and adjustment mechanism may be configured to interchangeably receive an inner clip and interchangeably receive an outer clip. The clip retention and adjustment mechanism may be further configured to rotate the received inner and outer clips with respect to the coupler body in order to grip inner and outer sides, respectively, of the flush rail by actuating the adjustment member.