AU2010206083B2 - Apparatus and kit for securing a load to a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to securing loads to a vehicle. In one broad aspect there is provided an apparatus for securing a load to a vehicle, wherein the apparatus includes a body mountable to the vehicle; and a restraint assembly substantially housed within the 5 body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load, and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage. In another broad aspect there is provided a kit for assembling an apparatus mountable to a vehicle for securing a load thereto. The kit includes a first mountable member mountable to the vehicle; a second mountable member mountable to the vehicle; a 10 load-bearing member attachable between the first foot and the second foot to assemble a body; and a restraint assembly substantially housed within the body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load, and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage. -1/9 Ln U) (NN 0l C,(

Description

Australian Patents Act 1990 - Regulation 3.2 ORIGINAL COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention Title Apparatus and kit for securing a load to a vehicle The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us: P/00/ol 1 5102 - 1 APPARATUS AND KIT FOR SECURING A LOAD TO A VEHICLE Technical Field [001] The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and a kit for securing a load 5 to a vehicle. Background [002] In some instances when a user is required to convey a large load via a vehicle, it is necessary to place the load on the roof of the vehicle. When this technique is used, a frame, 10 generally known as a roof rack, is utilised, wherein a restraint is used to secure the object to the frame supported on the roof of the vehicle. [003] Whilst utilising a roof rack is a successful manner in which to transport the load on the surface of a vehicle, there are a number of problems associated with current roof racks. 15 In particular, the restraints used to secure the load to the roof rack are sometimes left dangling from the roof rack when no load is being secured. The dangling restraint can pose a danger, particularly when the vehicle is travelling. [004] In other forms, the one or more restraints may be remotely stored relative to the 20 roof rack, such as in a bag located in the vehicle or in a remote storage area. Whilst this technique overcomes the issue with the danger posed by a dangling restraint, it is inconvenient for a user to find the restraints stored remotely and then perform the additional step of recoupling the restraint to the roof rack for use in securing a load to the vehicle. 25 [005] Whilst ratchet-type accessories are available which can be retrofitted to an existing roof rack, thereby overcoming the above-mentioned problems, these accessories also have disadvantages such as being difficult to successfully retrofit to the roof rack, as well as being perceived by vehicle owners as aesthetically unpleasing when mounted to the roof 30 rack. Moreover, as ratchet-type accessories are a retrofitted device rather than being an integral part of the roof rack, these types of devices have not gained market acceptance.

- 2 [006] Therefore, there is a need for an apparatus for mounting a load to a vehicle which overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the above-mentioned problems or provides a useful commercial alternative. [007] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from the prior publication), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived frin the prior publication) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates. Summary [008] In one broad aspect there is provided an apparatus for securing a load to a vehicle, wherein the apparatus includes: an elongate body mountable to the vehicle: a restraint assembly substantially housed within the body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load, and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage; and a plurality of anchor elements slidable along the body to enable the restraint to be anchored at a plurality of points along the body, 1009] In one form, the body includes: a first mountable member mountable to the vehicle; a second mountable member mountable to the vehicle; and a load-bearing member extending between the first mountable member and the second mountable member. [010] In another form, the body includes a hollow defied by walls thereof, wherein the restraint assembly is substantially housed within the hollow of the body. [011] In one embodiment, the hollow extends between opposing ends of the load-bearing member, -3 [012] In another embodiment, the hollow includes a first hollow portion extending between opposing ends of the load-bearing member, and a second hollow portion defined by at least one of the first mountable member and the second mountable member, wherein 5 the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion define the hollow of the body. [013] In an optional form, the apparatus includes a restraint engagement assembly housed within the body for engaging the restraint, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is movable between: 10 a first engagement position enabling a portion of the restraint to be withdrawn from the aperture whilst restricting retraction of the restraint via the aperture; and a second engagement position enabling retraction of at least a portion of the restraint within the body whilst restricting withdrawal of the restraint, via the aperture, from the body. 15 [014] In another optional form, the apparatus includes a restraint engagement actuator operably connected to the restraint engagement assembly, wherein the restraint engagement actuator is movable between a first actuator position, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is moved to the first engagement position, and a second actuator 20 position, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is moved to the second engagement position. [015] In an optional embodiment, the restraint engagement actuator includes a locking mechanism, wherein when the locking mechanism is actuated to a locked position, the 25 restraint engagement actuator is maintained in the second actuator position, and when the locking mechanism is actuated to an unlocked position, the restraint engagement actuator is freely able to move between the first engagement position and the second engagement position.

-4 [016 In another optional embodiment, the restraint engagement assembly includes a cam assembly including a plurality of cams, wherein at least some of the cams, when actuated. engage the restraint according to the position of the restraint engagement actuator [017] Optionally, when the restraint engagement assembly is in the first engagement position, at least one of the plurality of cams engages the restraint to restrict retraction of the restraint, via the aperture, within the body, and when the restraint assembly is in the second engaigexnent position, at least one of the plurality of cams engages the restraint to restrict withdrawal of the restraint, via the aperture, from the body. [018] In one form, the body is mountable to the vehicle directly or indirectly. [019] In another form, the apparatus includes a restraint actuator coupled to the body and the restraint, wherein actuation of the restraint actuator incrementally retracts at least a portion of the restraint that has been withdrawn from the body. [020] In one embodiment, the restraint actuator is a hand-operated lever. [021] In another embodiment, the restraint actuator has a profile that forms a substantially continuous line with a profile of the body when located in a storage position. [022] In an optional form, the restraint assembly is operably connected to a biasing element, wherein the restraint assembly is biased by the biasing element to retract the restraint for storage within the body. [023] in another optional form, a free end of the restraint is shaped so as to restrict the free end of the restraint from being withdrawn within the body of the apparatus.

- 5 [024] In another broad aspect there is provided a kit for assembling an apparatus mountable to a vehicle for securing a load thereto, wherein the kit includes: an elongate body; a restraint assembly substantially housed within the body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage: and a plurality of anchor elements slidable along the body to enable the restraint to be anchored at a plurality of points along the body. [025] In certain embodiments, wherein the body includes: a first foot mountable to the vehicle; a second foot mountable to the vehicle; a load-bearing member attachable between the first foot and the second foot. [026] In certain embodiments, wherein the kit includes a restraint actuator coupled to the body and the restraint, wherein actuation of the restraint actuator incrementally retracts at least a portion of the restraint that has been withdrawn from the body. [026A]In certain embodiments, wherein the apparatus includes a restraint engagement assembly housed within the body for engaging the restraint, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is movable between: a first engagement position enabling a portion of the restraint to be withdrawn from the aperture whilst restricting retraction of the restraint via the aperture; and a second engagement position enabling retraction of at least a portion of the restraint within the body whilst restricting withdrawal of the restraint, via the aperture, from the body. [027] Other embodiments of the above mentioned broad aspects will be realised throughout the description of the example embodiments. Brief Description of the Figures [028] Example embodiments should become apparent from the folowing description, which is given by way of example only, of at least one preferred but nonlimiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures.

- SA [029] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of an example of an apparatus, wherein the lever is being actuated to retract excess slack of the restraint; [030] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective top view of the apparatus of Figure 1; [031] Figure 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 1; -6 [032] Figure 4 illustrates perspective top view of a portion of the apparatus of Figure 1, wherein the restraint engagement actuator is in a first actuator position; [033] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the restraint engagement assembly in a 5 first engagement position; [034] Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the restraint engagement assembly of Figure 5 in the first engagement position; 10 [035] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the apparatus, wherein the restraint engagement actuator is in the second actuator position; [036] Figure 8 illustrates a side view of the portion of the apparatus of Figure 7, wherein the restraint engagement actuator is in the second actuator position; 15 [037] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective top view of the restraint engagement assembly in the second engagement position; [038] Figure 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the restraint engagement assembly of 20 Figure 9 in the second engagement position; [039] Figure 11 illustrates a side view of an alternate example of an apparatus for securing a load; 25 [040] Figure 12 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 11; and [041] Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a further example of the apparatus, wherein the restraint engagement actuator includes a locking mechanism. 30 Description of Embodiments -7 [042] The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments. In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures. 5 [043] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 there is shown an example of an apparatus 10 for securing a load 2000 to a vehicle (not shown). The apparatus 10 includes a body 15 mountable to the vehicle (not shown). The body 15 of the apparatus 10 can be mounted directly or indirectly to the vehicle. The apparatus 10 also includes a restraint assembly 50 10 substantially housed within the body 15. The restraint assembly 50 includes a restraint 60 that can be withdrawn from an aperture 80 of the body 15 for securing a load 2000, and retracted via the aperture 80 of the body 15 for storage. [044] Referring more specifically to Figures 1 to 3, in one embodiment the body 15 can 15 include a load-bearing member 20 which is generally able to extend across the vehicle, a first mountable member 30, and second mountable member 40 which extend from opposing ends of the load-bearing member 20. The first and second mountable members 30, 40 are able to be directly mounted to the vehicle and support the load-bearing member 20. 20 [045] Walls of the body 15 define a hollow 70 that substantially houses the restraint assembly 50. In one form, the hollow 70 can extend between opposing ends of the load bearing member 20. However, the hollow 70 can extend further within at least one of the first mountable member 30 and the second mountable member 40 via the load-bearing 25 member 20. In particular, the hollow 70 includes a first hollow portion defined by walls of the load-bearing member 20, and a second hollow member defined by walls of the first mountable member 30 and/or the second mountable member 40. An aperture 80 is located in one of the walls of the body 15. In a particular form, the aperture 80 is located in the first mountable member 30. The restraint 60 is able to be withdrawn from the restraint 30 assembly 50 via the aperture 80 for securing the load 2000 to the vehicle, and retracted via the aperture 80 for storage.

-8 [046] Referring to Figures I1 and 12, there is shown an alternate example of an apparatus 10 for securing a load 2000. In particular, the apparatus 10 includes a body 15 that can be mounted to a vehicle, wherein the body is retrofitted to an existing load-bearing member 5 20 already mounted upon a vehicle. In this embodiment, the body 15 includes an attachment member 1130 that couples the body 15 to an end of the load-bearing member 20. As discussed in more detail below, the load-bearing member 20 may be an extruded member already attached to the vehicle, wherein the attachment member 1130 of the apparatus 10 may be a corresponding extrusion that is attachable to the end portion of the 10 extruded member. In one form, the apparatus 10 may be suspended via the end of the load bearing member 20. However, the body 15 may also be directly mounted to the vehicle via one or more mountable members, rather than only indirectly via the load-bearing member 20. It will be appreciated that the restraint assembly 50 may be housed within a hollow provided within the body 15 of the apparatus shown in Figures II and 12. 15 [047] As will be appreciated, a kit can be provided for assembling the apparatus 10 mountable to a vehicle for securing a load 2000. In this instance the kit includes a first mountable member 30 mountable to the vehicle, a second mountable member 40 mountable to the vehicle, a load-bearing member 20 attachable between the first foot and 20 the second foot to assemble a body 15, and a restraint assembly 50 substantially housed within the body 15. [048] It will be appreciated that whilst a substantial portion of the restraint 60 is stored within mountable member 15 whilst in a stowed state, a free end 65 of the restraint 60 may 25 protrude from the aperture 80 in order to allow the restraint 60 to be easily withdrawn. In particular, the free end 65 of the restraint 60 is shaped so as to restrict the free end 65 of the restraint 60 from being withdrawn within the body 15 of the apparatus 10. [049] Referring to Figure 3, the restraint assembly 50 can be operably connected to a 30 biasing element 55, wherein the restraint assembly 50 is biased by the biasing element 55 to retract the restraint 60 for storage within the body 15 of the apparatus 10. As shown in -9 Figure 3, the biasing element 55 may be provided in the form of a return spool 55. The return spool 55 may be located in or near one of the mountable members 30, 40 of the apparatus 10. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the return spool 55 may be located in the mountable members 40. The return spool 55 may include a windable medium 56 such as a 5 cable, wherein at the free end of the windable cable 56 the return spool 55 includes a slidable element 57, such as a ring element 57, which encircles the restraint 60. When the spool 55 is biased to a retracted position, the ring element 57 slidingly moves along the restraint 60, thereby resulting in the withdrawn portion of the restraint 60 being retracted within the body 15 of the apparatus 10. 10 [050] When a portion of the restraint 60 is withdrawn through the aperture 80, the ring element 57 coupled to the restraint 60 slides along a portion of the restraint 60 within the apparatus 10, such that the windable cable 56 is withdrawn from the return spool 55. As shown in Figure 3, an opposing end 61 of the restraint 60 is anchored at an anchor element 15 62 located at an opposite end of the load-bearing member 20. This arrangement allows for a significant length of restraint 60 to be stored within the body 15, thereby allowing for large loads 2000 to be secured upon the vehicle. [051] It will be appreciated that in a further variation, a further slidable coupling (not 20 shown) may be provided in the first mountable member 30 and that the anchor element 62 is located in the mountable member 40 or in a location intermediate of the first and second mountable member 30, 40 in order to increase the length of restraint 60 which can be withdrawn from the body 15. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the restraint 60 may extend between the first and second mountable member 30, 40 in a number of loops via a 25 plurality of coupling arrangements, such as slidable coupling elements in the form of eyelets or the like, so as to increase the length of the restraint 60 which is able to be withdrawn from the body 15. [052] Referring to Figures 1 to 4, 7, 8, and I1 to 13, the apparatus 10 includes a restraint 30 retraction assembly provided in the form of a hand-operated actuator 90 coupled to the restraint 60. The hand-operated actuator 90 is pivotally coupled to one of the mountable - 10 members 30, 40. The hand-operated actuator 90 is provided in the form of a lever which when actuated by a user, allows for excess slack of the withdrawn restraint 60 securing a load 2000 to be retracted within the body 15. The hand-operated actuator 90 has a profile which forms a continuous line with the profile of the body 15. This feature of a continuous 5 line of profile of the hand-operated actuator 90 with the body 15 provides an aesthetically desirable shape, thus avoiding a protruding lever which is hazardous. In the stored position, the lever 90 rests in a recess 91 defined in an upper surface of the body 15. [053] Referring to Figure 5, 6, 9 and 10, there is shown a restraint engagement assembly 10 500 for engaging the restraint 60 and movable between a first engagement position, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, and a second engagement position, as shown in Figures 9 and 10. [054] The restraint engagement assembly 500 in the first engagement position, as shown 15 in Figures 5 and 6, enables a portion of the restraint 60 to be withdrawn from the aperture 80 whilst restricting the restraint 60 being retracted within the body 15 of the apparatus. In the event that the apparatus 10 includes the biasing element 55, the restraint engagement assembly 500 in the first engagement position restricts the restraint 50 being retracted within the body 15 under the bias from the biasing element 55. 20 [055] The restraint engagement assembly 500 in the second position, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, restricts withdrawal of the restraint 60 from the aperture 80 whilst allowing retraction of the restraint 60 within the body 15. In particular, when the restraint engagement assembly 500 is moved to the second engagement position, the biasing 25 element 55 can retract a portion of the restraint 60 which is external to the body 15. In the event that a load is being secured, further slack may need to be retracted within the body 15. The hand-operated actuator 90 can be actuated to reduce the slack in the restraint 60, wherein the slack returned by the actuation of the hand-operated actuator 90 is retracted by the restraint assembly 50 under bias from the biasing element 55. It will be appreciated that 30 whilst this embodiment has been described utilising the biasing element 55 and hand operated actuator 90, it is possible that only a hand-operated actuator 90 or a biasing - 11 element 55 may be used to retract a portion of the restraint 60 external to the body 15. However, it is preferable that both the biasing element and the hand-operated actuator 90 is employed together in the apparatus 10 to provide sufficient securing tension in the restraint 60 as whilst providing timely actuation. 5 [056] Referring to Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10, the restraint engagement assembly 500 can be provided in the form of a cam assembly 510. Specifically, the cam assembly 510 includes a plurality of cams 520, 530, 540 for engaging various portions of the restraint 60 within the body 15 in the first and second engagement position. 10 [057] In particular, the example shown in Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10 illustrate a first cam 520, a second cam 530 and a third cam 530 pivotally mounted within one of the mountable members 30, 40. The first, second and third cams 520, 530, 540 are biased via respective biasing elements 525, 535, 545. As shown in Figures 5, 6, 9 and 10, each cam can include 15 an engagement end opposite to the pivotable end, wherein the engagement end bites into restraint to allow the restraint to pass by the respective cam in a first direction, but restrict the restraint passing by the respective cam in an opposite direction. [058] As shown in Figure 6, when restraint engagement assembly 500 is placed in the 20 first engagement position, the first cam 520 engages the restraint 60 such that the first cam 520 enables the restraint 60 to be withdrawn from the aperture 80 for securing the load 2000 whilst restricting the biased restraint assembly 55 retracting the restraint within the body 15, as shown by arrows depicted on the restraint 60. The second and third cams 530, 540 in the second engagement position are disengaged from the restraint 60. This 25 configuration allows the user to easily withdraw adequate amounts of restraint 60 from the body 15 without having the biasing element 55 urging the restraint in an opposing direction. Also, this feature overcomes hazards such as the restraint being accidentally let go by the user, thereby avoiding the free end of the restraint 65 flaying around whilst being withdrawn back within the body 15. 30 - 12 [059] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, when restraint engagement assembly 500 is placed in the second engagement position, the second and third cams 530, 540 engage the restraint 60, and subsequently the first cam 520 is disengaged from the restraint 60. It will be appreciated that whilst near simultaneous engagement and disengagement of the cams 520, 5 530, 540 is possible, staggered engagement and disengagement of the cams 520, 530, 540 is also possible. [060] When the second and third cams 530, 540 engage the restraint 60, the second and third cams 530, 540 restrict the restraint 60 being withdrawn from the aperture 80, whilst 10 enabling the restraint to be withdrawn from the body 15 via actuation of the hand-operated actuator 90 and/or the biasing element 55, as indicated by the arrows depicted on the restraint 60 in Figure 10. When the load 2000 is ready to be conveyed once secured to the vehicle via use of the apparatus 10, the second and third cams 530, 540 restrict further restraint 60 being withdrawn from the body 15 due to load forces during conveyance of the 15 load. [061] The restraint engagement assembly 500 can include one or more actuators 550 which enable a user to move the restraint engagement assembly 500 between the first and second engagement positions. The one or more actuators 550 of the restraint engagement 20 assembly 500 can provided in the surface of the body 15. In particular, the one or more actuators 550 can be provided in one of the mountable members 30, 40, in order to allow the user to select the appropriate position of the restraint engagement assembly 500. [062] Referring specifically to Figures 4, 5, 7 and 8, a restraint engagement actuator 550 25 is provided in one of the mountable members 30, 40 having the hand-operated actuator located adjacently 90. The restraint engagement actuator 550 is operably connected to the cam assembly 510. The restraint engagement actuator 550 is movable between a first actuator position to a second actuator position, which results in the cam assembly moving between a first engagement position to a second engagement position respectively. 30 - 13 [063] As shown clearly in Figures 4 and 7, the restraint engagement actuator 550 can be slidingly actuated such that in the first actuator position, a portion of the restraint engagement actuator 550 protrudes from the first mounting member 30, and in the second actuator position, the restraint engagement actuator 550 is flush with the exterior surface of 5 the first mounting member 30. An aperture is located within one of the walls of the first mountable member 30 such that a user can press one of the ends of the restraint engagement actuator 550 to slidingly actuate the restraint enagegement actuator 550 of the restraint engagement assembly 500. 10 [064] Referring specifically to Figures 5 and 9, the restraint engagement actuator 550 is provided in the form of a planar member including a central aperture 551 and a notch 552, 553 located in longitudinal edges of the restraint engagement actuator 550. The central aperture 551 also includes a recessed side edge 553. As shown in Figures 5 and 9, when the restraint engagement actuator 550 is slidingly moved between the first and second 15 position, the recessed side edge 553 and notches 551, 552 cause the cams 520, 530, 540 to pivot, thereby moving the cams 520, 530, 540 into an engaged or disengaged position with the restraint 60. [065] As shown in Figure 3, the hand-operated actuator 90 includes a coupling element 20 92 which slidingly couples a portion of the restraint 60 within the body 15. As the hand operated actuator 90 is actuated and the restraint in incrementally retracted within the body 15, the coupling element 92 applies a force to the withdrawn portion of the restraint 60, thereby withdrawing the slack of the portion of the restraint 60 that has been withdrawn from the body 15 used for securing the load 2000. 25 [066] The coupling element 92 of the hand-operated actuator may be provided in the form of a pin 92 which extends across opposing sides of the hand-operated actuator 92. As the hand-operated actuator 92 is actuated, the withdrawn portion of the restraint 60 located externally to the body 15 of the apparatus 10 is incrementally returned within the 30 mountable member 30 of the body 15. During the actuation of the hand-operated actuator 90, the third cam 540 in the engaged position restricts the hand-operated actuator 90 - 14 withdrawing a portion of the restraint 60 which is contained within the body 15 of the apparatus 10 via the restraint assembly 50. [067] When the restraint engagement actuator 550 is moved from the first engagement 5 position, as shown in Figure 4, to the second engagement position, as shown in Figure 7, the biasing element 55 of the restraint assembly 50 can cause at least a portion of the restraint 60 withdrawn from the body 15 of the apparatus 10 to be automatically retracted. Once the biasing element 55 has created a particular tension in the restraint 60 which is substantially equal to the biasing force of the biasing element 55, the restraint 60 ceases 10 being retracted within the body 15 of the apparatus 10 until the user actuates the hand actuated actuator 90, wherein actuation of the hand actuated actuator 90 increases the tension in the restraint 60 which is subsequently stowed by the spindle 55 of the restraint assembly 50. 15 [068] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the body 15 can include an attachment member 1130 in the form of a tongue 1130, wherein the tongue 1130 is tight-fittingly received within a respective cavity (not shown) at the end of the load-bearing member 20. The load bearing member 20 can be provided in the form of an extruded member, such as an aluminium extrusion. When the tongue is tight-fittingly received within a respective end of 20 the load-bearing member, the external profile of the body 15 forms a substantially continuous line with the external profile of the load-bearing member 20, as shown in Figures 4, 7, 8, 11 and 12. [069] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the free end of the restraint 65 can include a securing 25 element which is larger than the aperture 80 so as to restrict the free end of the restraint 65 from being withdrawn within the body 15 of the apparatus 10. The securing element extending from the free end of the restraint is able to secure to one of a plurality of anchor elements 21, 22 provided by the load-bearing member 20 in order to enable a more secure anchor point to secure the restraint 60 to the load-bearing member 20. In some forms, the 30 anchor elements 21, 22 may be provided in the form of eyelet bolts, pins, holes, sliding hooks and/or the like. In some forms, the restraint 60 may include multiple securing - 15 elements 65 which can be secured to a selected position of the withdrawn portion of the restraint in order to assist in securing the restraint 65 at multiple points along the load bearing member 20. However, it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary and that the restraint 60 may simply be coupled to an anchor element 21, 22, such as being threaded 5 therethrough, in order to secure the restraint 60 at multiple positions along the length of the load-bearing member 20. [070] In the preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 1 and 6, the one or more anchor elements 21, 22 are slidably coupled to the load-bearing member 20, wherein the anchor 10 elements 21, 22 are able to be slidably moved along the length of the load-bearing member 20 and secured at a selected position along the length of the load-bearing member 20 in order to secure the load 2000 via the restraint 60 at one or more selected points along the length of the load-bearing member 20. 15 [071] In a preferred embodiment, the load-bearing member 20 includes a soft protection strip to minimise damage to the load 2000 secured thereto. The load-bearing member 20 can be made from strong scratch resistant materials such as steel, aluminium, alloys, rubbers, foams, polymers, glass or fibre reinforced plastics and/or resins. 20 [072] In a preferred embodiment, the restraint 60 is made of strong cut resistant flexible materials which in some instances can be woven to provide additional strength. This feature deters theft and allows the restraint 60 to remain stored within the body 15 thereby minimising wear and corrosion due to the weather and driving conditions. Preferred TM materials for the restraint 60 can include polyester webbing, Kevlar , spectra, metal wire 25 and/or banding. [073] In a preferred embodiment, the return spool 55 includes strong, durable, and minimally wearing materials. Suitable materials may include high tensile steel, spring steel, aluminium, alloys, polymers, glass or fibre reinforced plastics, and/ or resins. 30 - 16 [074] Due to the restraint assembly 50 and restraint 60 being housed within the body 15 of the apparatus 10, the apparatus 10 allows the addition of accessories such as specialised sporting harness's or trades persons equipment harness'. 5 [075] Referring to Figure 13, the restraint engagement actuator 550 can include a locking mechanism 555. When the locking mechanism 555 is actuated to be placed in a locked position, the restraint engagement actuator 550 is maintained in the second actuator position such that withdrawal of the restraint 60 from the body 15 is restricted. When the locking mechanism 555 is actuated to be placed in an unlocked position, the restraint 10 engagement actuator 550 is freely able to move between the second actuator position to the first actuator position, thus allowing selection of the retraction and withdrawal of the restraint 60 from the body 15. The locking mechanism 555 can be a key operated compression latch, wherein actuation of the locking mechanism to move between the locked and unlocked positions is via a key. The key operated compression latch includes a 15 key barrel that has a plate operably connected thereto. When the key is inserted into the key barrel and turned, the plate pivots within the body 15 such that the plate rests against the inner wall of the body 15, thereby restricting the restraint engagement actuator 550 from slidingly protruding from the mounting member 30. 20 [076] In an additional or alternate embodiment, a locking mechanism 66 may be provided at the securing element 65 of the restraint 60 in order to further secure the load 2000 to the vehicle in order to deter theft of the load 2000. [077] In some embodiments, the mountable members 30, 40 can be mounted directly to 25 the roof of a vehicle, however it will be appreciated that other alternate surfaces of the vehicle may also be used for mounting and supporting the apparatus 10. The mountable members 30, 40 may be mounted to the vehicle using coupling means. The first foot 30 and second foot 40 can include universal feet for attachment to shoes which are mountable to the vehicle surface. Referring to Figure 8 there is shown a first form of a mounting 30 means 800 which clamps about a support member 810 attached to the vehicle (not shown). However, as shown in Figure 11 and 12, there is shown a second form of a mounting - 17 means 1150 which includes a tongue 1160 which is cooperatively received within a groove of the support member 810 for mounting the feet 30, 40 to the vehicle. [078] The mountable members 30, 40 can be made of sturdy materials, for example, steel, 5 alloys, polymers, glass or fibre reinforced plastics, and or resins. Furthermore, the universal shoes enable attachment to multiple makes and models of vehicles. This feature enables protection of the vehicle from damage due to large or heavy loads 2000 and additionally this feature allows for ease of mounting and dismounting the apparatus 10 to and from the vehicle. The shoes can be made of stable, shock absorbing material such as 10 rubber, natural and synthetic foam or gel. [079] In preferred embodiments, the body 15 of the apparatus 10 is constructed of or coated in corrosion proof and scratch resistant finish such as powder coating, anodising, polymers, rubbers, and the like. 15 [080] In certain embodiments, the restraint 60 may comprise cut or abrasion resistant materials, (e.g. strapping or belting) comprising synthetic fibres (e.g. poly (p phenyleneterephtalamide) derivatives (e.g. KEVLAR, Dupont chemical Co., Wilmington, Del.), extended chain polyethylene fibres (e.g. SPECTRA, Honeywell, (35) Corp 20 Morristown, N.J), or suitable wires and bands. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may comprise of shock absorbing and cushioning materials (e.g. high density polyurethane foams, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) of various densities, neoprene rubbers, high viscosity gels (e.g. silicone gels), and the like). 25 [081] Whilst generally the load-bearing member 20 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, it will be appreciated that the load-bearing member 20 can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle or in other orientations. [082] It will be appreciated that the second mountable member 40 of the apparatus 20 can 30 include a substantially similar profile to that of the first mountable member 30 except that -18 the second mountable member 40 does not necessarily include an aperture 80 or a hand operated actuator 90. [083] Whilst it has been described herein that the restraint retraction assembly can 5 include a hand-operated actuator 90, it will be appreciated that a motorised actuator can additionally or alternatively be utilised in the apparatus, wherein the motorised actuator is operably coupled to the restraint 60 in order to assist in retraction of the restraint 60. [084] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing 10 from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (20)

1. An apparatus for securing a load to a vehicle, wherein the apparatus includes: an elongate body mountable to the vehicle; a restraint assembly substantially housed within the body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load, and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage; and a plurality of anchor elements slidable along the body to enable the restraint to be anchored at a plurality of points along the body.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the body includes: a first mountable member mountable to the vehicle; a second mountable member mountable to the vehicle; and a load-bearing member extending between the first mountable member and the second mountable member.

3, The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the body includes a hollow defined by walls thereof, wherein the restraint assembly is substantially housed within the hollow of the body.

4, The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the hollow extends between opposing ends of the load-bearing member.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the hollow includes a first hollow portion extending between opposing ends of the load-bearing member, and a second hollow portion defined by at least one of the first mountable member and the second mountable member, wherein the first hollow portion and the second hollow portion define the hollow of the body.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims I to 5, wherein the apparatus includes a restraint engagement assembly housed within the body for engaging the restraint, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is movable between: a first engagement position enabling a portion of the restraint to be withdrawn from the aperture whilst restricting retraction of the restraint vi.a the aperture and -20 a second engagement position enabling retraction of at least a portion of the restraint within the body whilst restricting withdrawal of the restraint, via the aperture, from the body.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the apparatus includes a restraint engagement actuator operably connected to the restraint engagement assembly, wherein the restraint engagement actuator is movable between a first actuator position, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is moved to the first engagement position, and a second actuator position, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is noved to the second engagement position.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the restraint engagement actuator includes a locking mechanism, wherein when the locking mechanism is actuated to a locked position, the restraint engagement actuator is maintained in the second actuator position, and when the locking mechanism is actuated to an unlocked position, the restraint engagement actuator is freely able to move between the first engagement position and the second engagement position.

9, The apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the restraint engagement assembly includes a cam assembly including a plurality of cams, wherein at least some of the cams, when actuated, engage the restraint according to the position of the restraint engagement actuator.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein when the restraint engagement assembly is in the first engagement position, at least one of the plurality of cams engages the restraint to restrict retraction of the restraint, via the aperture, within the body, and when the restraint assembly is in the second engagement position, at least one of the plurality of cams engages the restraint to restrict withdrawal of the restraint, via the aperture, f-om the body.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims I to 10, wherein the body is montable to the vehicle directly or indirectly,

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims I to 11, wherein the apparatus includes a restraint actuator coupled to the body and the restraint, wherein actuation of the restraint -2" actuator incrementally retracts at least a, portion of the restraint that has been withdrawn from the body

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the restraint actuator is a hand-operated lever

14. The apparatus according to claims 12 or 13, wherein the restraint actuator has a profile that forms a substantially continuous line with a profile of the body when located in a storage position.

15, The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the restraint assembly is operably connected to a biasing element, wherein the restraint assembly is biased by the biasing element to retract the restraint ior storage within the body,

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein a flee end. of the restraint is shaped so as to restrict the free end of the restraint from being withdrawn within the body of the apparatus,

17. A kit for assembling an apparatus mountable to a vehicle for securing a load thereto, wherein the kit includes: an elongate body mountable to the vehicle; a restraint assembly substantially housed within the body, the restraint assembly including a restraint which is able to be withdrawn from an aperture in the body for securing a load, and retracted via the aperture within the body for storage; and a plurality of anchor elements slidable along the body to enable the restraint to be anchored at a plurality of points along the body

18. The kit of claim 17, wherein the body includes: a first foot mountable to the vehicle: a second foot mountable to the vehicle; a load-bearing member attachable between the first foot and the second foot. 22

19. The kit according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the kit includes a restraint actuator coupled to the body and the restraint, wherein actuation of the restraint actuator incrementally retracts at least a portion of the restraint that has been withdrawn from the body.

20. The kit according to claim to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the apparatus includes a restraint engagement assembly housed within the body for engaging the restraint, wherein the restraint engagement assembly is movable between: a first engagement position enabling a. portion of the restraint to be withdrawn from the aperture whilst restricting retraction of the restraint via the aperture; and a second engagement position enabling retraction of at least a portion of the restraint within the body whilst restricting withdrawal of the restraintvia the aperture, from the body.