GB2534237A

GB2534237A - System and method for securing an article to a vehicle

Info

Publication number: GB2534237A
Application number: GB1504308.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Barnett John; Nicholas Murray James
Original assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
Current assignee: Ford Global Technologies LLC
Priority date: 2015-03-13
Filing date: 2015-03-13
Publication date: 2016-07-20
Anticipated expiration: 2035-03-13
Also published as: GB201504308D0; GB2534237B

Abstract

An anti-theft system 101 for a vehicle, the anti-theft system comprising: one or more securing points 111 that are each formed integral to a body part 103 of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle; and a securing member 105 being connectable to at least one securing point (see also figure 2) and being configured to secure an article 107 to the vehicle, the anti-theft system being configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point. The article may comprise a cargo carrier or roof box, and the securing member may be used to trigger the alarm should the carrier be opened. The alarm may be triggered when the securing member is disconnected or at least partially broken, and said securing member may be integrally formed with the body part, e.g. roof rail, and be retractable into said body part. A method of activating a vehicle alarm is also disclosed.

Description

System and Method for Securing an Article to a Vehicle This disclosure relates to a system for securing an article to a vehicle, wherein the system is configured to activate an alarm of the vehicle upon removal of an article from the vehicle and in particular, but not exclusively, relates to an anti-theft system having a securing member and one or more securing points that are formed integral to a body part of the vehicle.

Introduction

A vehicle, for example a car or a van, is commonly used to transport goods or items. Some items, such as bicycles and ladders, may be too large to fit inside the vehicle and so must be mounted to the outside of the vehicle body, For example, a bicycle may be carried on a bicycle rack that is fitted to the vehicle, and a ladder may be carried on a roof rack or roof rails of the vehicle.

In other instances, it is desirable to mount a cargo box to the outside of the vehicle body so that items may be stowed and accessed without the need to open a door of the vehicle. For example, a cargo box may be fitted to the outside of the vehicle so that an individual may easily access tools or sporting equipment, such as skis.

Vehicles are often fitted with an anti-theft system, such as an alarm system, that is activated upon unauthorised access into the vehicle. As a result, any items stowed inside the vehicle are protected by the vehicle's alarm system. However, an item mounted outside of the vehicle is not protected by the vehicle's alarm system. This has led to vehicle owners locking the item to a cargo rack, for example using a chain and padlock, monitoring the vehicle whilst the vehicle is parked, or removing the items from the vehicle whilst the vehicle is parked.

Statements of Invention

According to an aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an anti-theft system for a vehicle. The anti-theft system comprises one or more securing points that are formed integral to the vehicle, for example a body part of the vehicle. The one or more securing points are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle. The anti-theft system comprises a securing member, for example a linking member, being connectable, for example removably attachable, to at least one securing point. The securing member is configured to secure an article to the vehicle. The anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm, for example set off the alarm, of the vehicle upon at:east partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.

The securing member may be electrically conductive, for example the securing member may comprise one or more electrically conductive elements. The securing member may be configured to connect, for example form an operable connection between, two or more securing points. The securing member may be configured to connect, for example form an operable connection between, the one or more securing points and the article. The securing member may be configured to complete an electric circuit of the alarm of the vehicle. The anti-theft system may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial breakage of the securing member, for example upon at least partial breakage of the electrically conductive element of the securing member.

The securing member may comprise a first end and a second end. The first end may be configured to connect to at least one securing point. The second end may be configured to connect to at least one other securing point. The first end may be configured to be fixedly attached to the body part. The second end may be configured to be fixedly attached to the article. The securing member may be formed integral to the body part of the vehicle. The securing member may be retractable into the body part of the vehicle.

The anti-theft system may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial breakage of the connection between at least one securing point and the alarm of the vehicle.

The anti-theft system may comprise a lock configured to prevent at least partial disconnection of the securing member from the securing point. The lock may be actuated by a central locking system of the vehicle. The operational state of the anti-theft system may be dependent upon the operational state of the alarm system of the vehicle, for example, the anti-theft system may be switched on when the alarm system of the vehicle is armed and the anti-theft system may be switched off when the alarm system of the vehicle is disarmed. In one example, upon setting off the alarm of the vehicle by at least partially disconnecting the securing member from the securing point, the alarm may be cancelled by restoring the connection between the securing member and the securing point.

The body part of the vehicle may comprise a body panel of the vehicle; a chassis of the vehicle; a light cluster of the vehicle; a cargo rack of the vehicle; or a sunroof surround of the vehicle.

The securing point may be recessed into an opening in the body part cf the vehicle. The securing point may be movable with respect to the body part, for example the securing point may be movably and/or slidably coupled to the body part. The securing point may comprise a cover configured to cover the opening in the body part. The cover may be removably attachable to the body part.

The securing member may be configured to secure rigidly the article to the vehicle, for example so that the article is unable to move during transit. The securing member may comprise a resilient portion configured to be stretched, for example around and/or through the article, to apply a securing load to the article. The securing member may comprise a connector configured to connect the securing member to another securing member. The connector may be configured to be connectable to the securing point. The securing member may comprise a connector disposed towards one end of the securing member. The securing member may comprise an eyelet disposed towards another end of the securing member. The securing member may be configured such that the connector is able to pass through the eyelet to couple the securing member to the article in order to secure the article to the vehicle.

The article may comprise one or more securing points. The securing point may be formed integral to the article. The securing member may be connectable to at least one securing point of the article. The anti-theft system may be configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point of the article.

The anti-theft system may comprise a controller configured to detect whether the securing member is connected to the securing point. The controller may be configured to control the operation of the alarm depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and the securing point. For example, the controller may be configured to over-ride the operation, for example the arming, of the anti-theft system if it is determined that there is not a securing member connected to the securing point, for example upon arming the alarm of the vehicle. In this manner, the alarm of the vehicle is not set off when the vehicle alarm is armed and there is not a securing member connected to the securing point.

The connection between the securing member and the securing point may be a plug and socket type connection.

A vehicle may comprise one or more of the above mentioned anti-theft systems.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a cargo carrier for a vehicle. The cargo carrier is configured to be secured to the vehicle by at least one securing member. The securing member is connectable, for example removably attached, to at least one securing point. The securing point is formed integral to a body part of the vehicle. The securing point is connected to an alarm of the vehicle. The connection between the securing member and the securing point is operable to activate the alarm, for example set off, of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.

The securing member may be formed integral to the cargo carrier. The cargo carrier may comprise at least one further securing point formed integral to the cargo carrier. The securing member may be connectable to the securing point that is formed integral to the cargo carrier.

The securing member may be configured to complete an electric circuit between the cargo carrier and the alarm of the vehicle. The cargo carrier may comprise a controller connected to the alarm of the vehicle by virtue of the securing member. The controller may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and at least one securing point of the body part and/or of the cargo carrier. The controller may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle if a cover, for example a lid or a door, of the cargo carrier is at least partially opened.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a securing member for an anti-theft system for a vehicle. The securing member is configured to secure an article to one or more body parts the vehicle. The securing member is configured to be connected to one or more securing points that are each formed integral to the body part of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle. The securing member is configured to form an operable connection between the securing point and the alarm of the vehicle such that the alarm of the vehicle is activated, for example set off, upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point of the vehicle. The securing member may be configured to couple to, for example removably attach to, to a cargo carrier for the vehicle and/or the vehicle.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method of activating, for example setting off, an alarm of vehicle. The method uses an anti-theft system comprising one or more securing points that are each integrally formed in a body part of the vehicle and a securing member being connectable to at least one securing point. The one or more securing points are each connected to the alarm of the vehicle. The securing member is configured to secure an article to the vehicle. The anti-theft system is configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point. The method comprises connecting, for example operably connecting, the securing member to the securing point to secure the article to the vehicle. The method comprises determining the state of the connection between the securing member and the one or more securing points. The anti-theft system may comprise a controller configured to determine the state of the connection between the securing member and the one or more securing points. The method comprises activating, for example setting off, the alarm of the vehicle upon determining at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.

The method may comprise a step of over-riding the operation, for example the arming, of anti-theft system if it is determined that there is not a securing member connected to the securing point, for example upon arming the alarm of the vehicle.

The invention also provides software, such as a computer program or a computer program product for carrying out any of the methods described herein, and a computer readable medium having stored thereon a program for carrying out any of the methods described herein. A computer program embodying the invention may be stored on a computer-readable medium, or it could, for example, be in the form of a signal such as a downloadable data signal provided from an Internet website, or it could be in any other form.

To avoid unnecessary duplication of effort and repetition of text in the specification, certain features are described in relation to only one or several aspects or embodiments of the disclosure. However, it is to be understood that, where it is technically possible, features described in relation to any aspect or embodiment of the disclosure may also be used with any other aspect or embodiment of the disclosure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the present disclosure, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a roof of a vehicle showing a ladder secured to a roof rail of the vehicle by a securing member; Figure 2 is a partial cross section of the roof rail showing a securing point formed integral to the roof rail; and Figure 3 is a diagrammatic representation of a method for activation an alarm of the vehicle.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows an example of an anti-theft system 101 for a vehicle according to the present disclosure. The anti-theft system 101 comprises a securing member 105 configured to secure an article 107 to the vehicle. In the example shown in Figure 1, the vehicle is a van and the securing member 105 is configured to secure a ladder to a body part 103 of the vehicle. However, in another example, the vehicle may be another type of vehicle, such as a car, a truck, a motor cycle, a marine vehicle, or an aircraft, and the article 107 may be any appropriate type of item suitable for transportation on the vehicle, for example a bicycle or a cargo carrier, e.g. a roof box.

The anti-theft system 101 comprises one or more securing points 111 that are formed integral to the body part 103 of the vehicle, for example the one or more securing points 111 may each be unitary to the body part 103 of the vehicle. In the example shown in Figure 1, the body part 103 is a roof rail. However, in another example, the body part 103 of the vehicle may comprise a body panel of the vehicle, a cargo rack of the vehicle, a light cluster of the vehicle, a sunroof surround of the vehicle, or any other appropriate part of the vehicle.

In one example, the securing point 111 may be recessed into a surface of the body part 103 of the vehicle, so that the securing point 111 does not protrude from the body part 103. In another example the securing point may comprise a cover configured to cover an opening in the body part 103 of the vehicle, for example the cover may be configured to prevent an ingress of pollutants, for example dust and/or water, into the securing point 111. In this manner, the provision of the securing point 111 in the body part of the vehicle may not be so apparent as to alter the vehicle's styling and/or the affect the function of the body part 103.

The securing point 111 is connected to an alarm of the vehicle, for example the securing point 111 may be connected electrically to the alarm of the vehicle. In another example, the securing point 111 may be connected wirelessly to the alarm of the vehicle, for example by virtue of a Bluetooth (RTM) connection, or any appropriate wireless connection. in this manner, there is an operable connection between the securing point 111 formed integral to the body part 103 and the alarm of the vehicle. The securing point 111 may use an existing electrical connection of the body part 103 to an electrical system of the vehicle, such as an electrical connection configured to power and/or control the lights of a light cluster. Thus, a separate electrical connection need not be provided to the securing point 111. The alarm of the vehicle may be a factory fitted primary alarm of the vehicle or may be an after market alarm fitted to the vehicle.

The securing member 105 is configured to secure the article 107 to the vehicle. In the context of the present disclosure, the term secured may be interpreted as attached, so that the article cannot be removed from the vehicle. In one example, the securing member 105 may loosely attach the article 107 to the vehicle and prevent removal of the article 107 away from the vehicle, i.e. the securing member 105 may be physically slack in an installed configuration. However, in another example the securing member may provide a rigid connection between the article 107 and the vehicle, for example the securing member 105 may be configured to prevent the article 107 from moving relative to the vehicle during transit of the vehicle. The securing member 105 may be elongate, for example a cable or a chain. The securing member 105 may be flexible, allowing the securing member 105 to be wrapped around and/or through the article 107. In one example, the securing member 105 may comprise a resilient portion configured to be stretched around the article 107 to apply a securing load to the article 107, for example the securing member 105 may be a bungee cord or a similar stretchable member. In another example, the securing member may comprise a strap, for example a ratchet strap, which may be tightened around and/or through the article 107 for the purpose of securing, i.e. rigidly fastening, the article 107 to the vehicle.

Figure 2 shows a partial cross section of the roof rail, and illustrates an example of the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111. In the example shown in Figure 2, the securing member comprises a plug 113 and the securing point 111 comprises a socket 115 configured to receive a plug 113 of the securing member 105. In an alternative example, the securing point 111 may comprise a plug 113 and the securing member 105 may comprise a socket 115. However, the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111 is not limited to the example of a plug 113 and socket 115 as shown in Figure 2. For example, the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111 may be any appropriate type of coupling, for example a clasp, a bayonet-type coupling, and/or a magnetic-type coupling. The connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111 may comprise one or more electrical connectors configured to couple operatively the securing member 105 tc the securing point 111.

In the example shown in Figure 2, the plug 113 and socket 115 connection, comprises retaining elements 117 configured to help prevent the accidental disconnection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111. The retaining elements 117 may comprise one or more projections from the plug 113 which are receivable in one or more openings in the socket 115. The anti-theft system 101 may comprise a lock configured to prevent disconnection of the securing member 105 from the securing point 111. In such an example, the lock may be actuated by a central locking system of the vehicle, such that when a driver of the vehicle locks the vehicle doors the lock of the anti-theft system 111 is actuated as well.

The anti-theft system 101 is configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle depending upon the state of the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111. The anti-theft system 101 may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member 105 from at least one securing point 111. In this manner, since any attempt to remove the article 107 from the vehicle without the permission of the driver requires the securing member 105 to be disconnected from the securing point 111, which causes a change in the operational state of the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111, the alarm of the vehicle is activated, for example set off, upon an unauthorised removal of the article 107 from the vehicle.

The anti-theft system 101 comprises a securing member 105 that is connectable, for example removably attachable, to at least one securing point 111. In the example shown in Figure 1, the anti-theft system 101 comprises a single securing point 111 formed integral to the roof rail of the vehicle. However, in another example, the anti-theft system 101 may comprise a plurality of securing points 111. In one example, the securing member 105 may comprise an elongate securing member 105 having a first end configured to engage a first securing point 111 and a second end configured to engage a second securing point 111.

The first and second securing points 111 may be located in the same body part 103 of the vehicle. In an alternative example, the first and second securing points 111 may be located in different body parts 103 of the vehicle, for example the first securing point 111 may be located in the roof rail of the vehicle and the second securing point 111 may be located in another body part of the vehicle, for example another roof rail, a roof panel of the vehicle, a light cluster of the vehicle, a sunroof surround of the vehicle, or any other appropriate body part 103 of the vehicle.

The securing member 105 may comprise a connector disposed towards one end of the securing member 105 and a loop disposed towards the other end of the securing member 105. The securing member 105 may be configured such that a connector at the first end of the securing member 105 is able to pass through the loop and couple the securing member to the article 107. The connector at the end of the securing member 105 may be configured to engage the securing point 111. In an alternative example, the securing member 105 may comprise a connector disposed towards a first end of the securing member 105 and an attachment element disposed towards another end of the securing member 105.

In such an example, the attachment element may be configured to be fixedly attached, for example by virtue of one or more fasteners, to the article 107. The attachment element of the securing member 105 may be configured to fixedly attach to an anchor point provided on the article 107.

The securing member 105 may be electrically conductive, for example the securing member may comprise one or more conductive elements extending at least partially along the length of the securing member 105. The electrically conductive securing member 105 may be configured to connect operably two or more securing points 111, for example the electrically conductive securing member 105 may be configured to complete an electric circuit between two or more securing points 111. In one example, the electrically conductive securing member 105 may be configured to complete an electric circuit of the alarm of the vehicle. The anti-theft system 101 may be configured, therefore, to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial breakage of the electric circuit which is completed by the electrically conductive securing member 105. In one example, the anti-theft system 101 may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon breaking the connection, for example an electrical connection or a wireless connection, between at least one of the securing points 111 and the alarm of the vehicle. In this manner, the anti-theft system 101 may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon tampering with at least one securing point on the body part 103 of the vehicle.

In one example, the securing member 105 may be formed integral to the body part 103 of the vehicle, for example the securing member 105 may comprise a first end which is formed integral to the body part 103 of the vehicle and a second end configured to engage a securing point 111 on the body part 103 of the vehicle or on a different body part 103 of the vehicle. In this manner, the integrally formed securing member 105 is configured to secure the article 107 to the vehicle, for example by passing through and/or around the article 107.

In another example, the securing member 105 may be retractable into the body pad 103 of the venicle in such an example, the anti-theft system 101 may comprise a reel from which a length of securing member 105 may be unwound, and extended around and/or through the article 107, and subsequently connected to the securing point 111. In such an example, the securing member 105 may be biased towards the body part 103 of the vehicle, such that upon disconnection of the securing member 105 from the securing point 111, the securing member 105 automatically retracts into the body part 103 of the vehicle and/or is wound onto the reel.

In another example, the securing member 105 comprises a connector configured to connect the securing member 105 to another securing member 105. For example, a first securing member 105 may be configured to connect a first securing point 111 to a second securing point 111, the first securing member 105 comprising a connector provided in between first and second ends of the first securing member 105. The connector of the first securing member 105 may be configured to connect the first securing member 105 to a second securing member 105, which may be connected to one or more further securing points 111.

The anti-theft system 101 may be configured such that one or more securing points 111 are located on the article 107. For example, the article 107 may be a cargo carrier, or roof box, for the vehicle. The cargo carrier may comprise one or more securing points 111 formed integral to the cargo carrier. The securing member 105 may be configured to connect to at least one securing point 111 located on the body part 103 of the vehicle and at least one securing point 111 located on the article 107. The anti-theft system 101 may be configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member 105 from at least one securing point 111 of the article 107. In one example, the article 107 may comprise a first securing point 111 and a second securing point 111 that are connected, for example operably connected. The first securing point of the article 107 may be configured to connect to a first securing member 105, and the second securing point 111 of the article 107 may be configured to connect to a second securing member 105. The operable connection between first and second securing points 111 the article 107 may form at least a portion of an electric circuit of the alarm of the vehicle. In this manner, at least partial breakage of the operable connection between the securing points 111 of the article 107 may cause the alarm of the vehicle to be activated.

The anti-theft system 101 may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm of the vehicle upon the opening of and/or the removal of a cover, for example a door or a lid, of the cargo carrier. In one example, a body of cargo carrier may be fastened to the vehicle, and the securing member 105 may be configured to connect to the cover of the cargo carrier so that the opening of and/or removal of the cover causes at least partial disconnection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111 located on the body part 103 of the vehicle. In this mariner, the anti-theft system 101 provides protection against unauthorised access to the cargo carrier, The anti-theft system 101 may comprise a controller configured to detect the state of the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111. The controller may be configured to activate, for example set off, the alarm upon determining that the securing member 105 has at least been partially disconnected from one or more securing points 111 of the vehicle and/or from one or more securing points 111 of the article 107. In one example, the controller may be a separate controller installed to the vehicle or the controller may form a portion of the alarm of the vehicle.

In another example of the anti-theft system 101 according to the present disclosure there is provided a cargo carrier for a vehicle. The cargo carrier is configured to be secured to the vehicle by one or more securing members 105, wherein the securing members 105 are connectable to one or more securing points 111 formed integral to the cargo carrier and/or one or more securing points formed integral to a body part of the vehicle. The connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111 is operable to activate an alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member 105 from the securing point 111.

In one example, one or more securing members 105 may be formed integral to the cargo carrier, for example the securing member 105 may comprise a first end which is formed integral to the cargo carrier and a second end configured to engage a securing point 111 on the body part 103 of the vehicle. The cargo carrier may comprise a controller configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle depending on the state of the connection between the securing member 105 and the securing point 111.

The present disclosure provides a method of activating the alarm of the vehicle. The method may use the anti-theft system 101 as described above. Figure 3 illustrates the method for activation an alarm of the vehicle. The method comprises a step 300 of connecting the securing member 105 to at least one securing point 111, for example a securing point 111 on the body part 103 of the vehicle or a securing point 111 provided on the article, in order to secure the article 107 to the vehicle. The method comprises a step 310 of determining the state of the connection between the securing member 105 and the one or more securing points 111. The state of the connection may be determined by a controller that is provided on the vehicle and/or on the article 107. The method comprises a step 320 of activating the alarm of the vehicle upon determining at least partial disconnection of the securing member 105 from at least one securing point 111.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although the disclosure has been described by way of example with reference to one or more examples, it is not limited to the disclosed examples and that alternative examples could be constructed without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims 1. An anti-theft system for a vehicle, the anti-theft system comprising: one or more securing points that are each formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle; and a securing member being connectable to at least one securing point and being configured to secure an article to the vehicle, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.
2. An anti-theft system according to claim 1, wherein the securing member is configured to connect operably two or more securing points.
3. An anti-theft system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the securing member is configured to connect operably at least one securing point and the article.
4. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial breakage of the securing member.
5. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is electrically conductive.
6. An anti-theft system according to claim 5, wherein the securing member is configured to complete an electric circuit of the alarm of the vehicle.
7. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon breaking the connection between at least one securing point and the alarm of the vehicle.
8. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises one end configured to conned to at least one securing point, and another end configured to connect to at least one other securing point.
9. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises one end configured to connect to at least one securing point, and another end configured to be fixedly attached to the article.
10. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is formed integral to the body part of the vehicle.
11. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is retractable into the body part of the vehicle.
12. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system comprises a lock configured to prevent disconnection of the securing member from the securing point.
13. An anti-theft system according claim 12, wherein the lock is actuated by a central locking system of the vehicle.
14. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the body part comprises a body panel of the vehicle; a light cluster of the vehicle; a cargo rack of the vehicle; or a sunroof surround of the vehicle.
15. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing point is recessed into an opening in the body part of the vehicle.
16. An anti-theft system according to claim 15, wherein the securing point comprises a cover configured to cover the opening.
17. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is configured to secure rigidly the article to the vehicle.
18. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a resilient portion configured to be stretched to apply a securing load to the article.
19. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a connector configured to connect the securing member to another securing member.
20. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a connector disposed towards one end of the securing member and an eyelet disposed towards another end of the securing member; wherein the securing member is configured such that the connector is able to pass through the eyelet to couple the securing member to the article 21. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the article comprises one or more securing points that are formed integral to the article.22. An anti-theft system according to claim 21, wherein the securing member is connectable to at least one securing point of the article.23. An anti-theft system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the anti-theft system is further configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point of the article.24. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, the anti-theft system further comprising a controller configured to detect whether the securing member is connected to the securing point and control the operation of the alarm depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and the securing point.25. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connection between the securing member and the securing point is a plug and socket type connection.26. A vehicle comprising one or more anti-theft systems of claims 1 to 25.27. A cargo carrier for a vehicle, the cargo carrier being configured to be secured to the vehicle by at least one securing member, the securing member being connectable to at least one securing point that is formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and is connected to an alarm of the vehicle, wherein the connection between the securing member and the securing point is operable to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.28. A cargo carrier according to claim 27, wherein the securing member is formed integral to the cargo carrier.29. A cargo carrier according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the cargo carrier comprises at least one further securing point formed integral to the cargo carrier.30. A cargo carrier according to claim 29, wherein the securing member is connectable to the securing point that is formed integral to the cargo carrier.31. A cargo carrier according to any of claims 27 to 30, wherein the securing member is configured to complete an electric circuit between the cargo carrier and the alarm of the vehicle.32. A cargo carrier according to any of claims 27 to 31, wherein the cargo carrier comprises a controller connected to the alarm of the vehicle by virtue of the securing member, the controller being configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and at least one securing point of the body part of the vehicle.33. A method of activating an alarm of vehicle, the method using an anti-theft system comprising: one or more securing points that are each formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle; and a securing member being connectable to at least one securing point and being configured to secure an article to the vehicle, the anti-theft system being configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point, the method comprising: connecting the securing member to at least one securing point to secure the article to the vehicle; determining the state of the connection between the securing member and the one or more securing points; and activating the alarm of the vehicle upon determining at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.34. An anti-theft system or a cargo carrier as described herein, with reference to, and as shown in the accompanying drawings.35. A method as described herein, with reference to, and as shown in the accompanying drawings.Amendments to the Claims have been filed as follows:-Claims 1. An anti-theft system for a vehicle, the anti-theft system comprising: one or more securing points that are each formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle; and a securing member being connectable to at least one securing point and being configured to secure an article to the vehicle, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.2. An anti-theft system according to claim 1, wherein the securing member is configured to connect operably two or more securing points.3. An anti-theft system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the securing member is configured to connect operably at least one securing point and the article. cr) 4. C\Inn (3)C\I 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial breakage of the securing member.An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is electrically conductive.An anti-theft system according to claim 5, wherein the securing member is configured to complete an electric circuit of the alarm of the vehicle.An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system is configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon breaking the connection between at least one securing point and the alarm of the vehicle.An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises one end configured to connect to at least one securing point, and another end configured to connect to at least one other securing point.An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises one end configured to connect to at least one securing point, and another end configured to be fixedly attached to the article.10. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is formed integral to the body part of the vehicle.11. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is retractable into the body part of the vehicle.12. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the anti-theft system comprises a lock configured to prevent disconnection of the securing member from the securing point.13. An anti-theft system according claim 12, wherein the lock is actuated by a central locking system of the vehicle.14. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the body part comprises a body panel of the vehicle; a light cluster of the vehicle; a cargo rack of cr) the vehicle; or a sunroof surround of the vehicle.15. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing C\I20 point is recessed into an opening in the body part of the vehicle.CD16. An anti-theft system according to claim 15, wherein the securing point comprises a C\I cover configured to cover the opening.17. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member is configured to secure rigidly the article to the vehicle.18. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a resilient portion configured to be stretched to apply a securing load to the article.19. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a connector configured to connect the securing member to another securing member.20. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the securing member comprises a connector disposed towards one end of the securing member and an eyelet disposed towards another end of the securing member, wherein the securing member is configured such that the connector is able to pass through the eyelet to couple the securing member to the article.
21. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the article comprises one or more securing points that are formed integral to the article.
22. An anti-theft system according to claim 21, wherein the securing member is connectable to at least one securing point of the article.
23. An anti-theft system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the anti-theft system is further configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point of the article.
24. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, the anti-theft system further comprising a controller configured to detect whether the securing member is connected to the securing point and control the operation of the alarm depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and the securing point.
25. An anti-theft system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connection N20 between the securing member and the securing point is a plug and socket type O connection.0)
26. A vehicle comprising one or more anti-theft systems of claims 1 to 25. C\I27. A cargo carrier for a vehicle, the cargo carrier being configured to be secured to the vehicle by at least one securing member, the securing member being connectable to at least one securing point that is formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and that is connected to an alarm of the vehicle, the securing member being formed integral to the cargo carrier and/or being connectable to a further securing point that is formed integral to a body of the cargo carrier and that is connected to the alarm of the vehicle, wherein the connection between the securing member and at least one of the securing points is operable to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point.28. A cargo carrier according to claim 27, wherein the securing member is connectable to the securing point that is formed integral to the cargo carrier.29. A cargo carrier according to any of claims 27 or 28, wherein the securing member is configured to complete an electric circuit between the cargo carrier and the alarm of the vehicle.30. A cargo carrier according to any of claims 27 to 29, wherein the cargo carrier comprises a controller connected to the alarm of the vehicle by virtue of the securing member, the controller being configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle depending on the state of the connection between the securing member and at least one securing point of the body part of the vehicle.31. A method of activating an alarm of vehicle, the method using an anti-theft system comprising: one or more securing points that are each formed integral to a body part of the vehicle and that are each connected to an alarm of the vehicle; and a securing member being connectable to at least one securing point and being configured to secure an article to the vehicle; the anti-theft system being configured to activate the alarm of the vehicle upon at least partial disconnection cr) of the securing member from at least one securing point, the method comprising: connecting the securing member to at least one securing point to secure the C\120 article to the vehicle; determining the state of the connection between the securing member and the one or more securing points; and C\I activating the alarm of the vehicle upon determining at least partial disconnection of the securing member from at least one securing point. 25 32. An anti-theft system or a cargo carrier as described herein, with reference to, and as shown in the accompanying drawings.33. A method as described herein, with reference to, and as shown in the accompanying drawings.