WO2011022763A1

WO2011022763A1 - Deterrent cover

Info

Publication number: WO2011022763A1
Application number: PCT/AU2010/001087
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Ian Husband; Craig Arthur Hahnel
Original assignee: Sylence Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2009-08-24
Filing date: 2010-08-24
Publication date: 2011-03-03

Abstract

A deterrent cover for a vehicle cabin comprising, a reinforcing member configured to be removably fixed to and extending between fixing points on the vehicle cabin, and a polymer skin fixed to and supported by the reinforcing member, the polymer skin configured to cover and protect a closure of the vehicle to deter vandals.

Description

DETERRENT COVER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a deterrent cover and relates particularly to a cover for use on vehicle cabins, including cabins of boats, caravans, trucks, trains and earthmoving equipment, transportable buildings, and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Vandals are known to cause damage to vehicles, buildings and equipment through the breakage of windows and damage to doors and fittings, sometimes during attempts to access the vehicle, building or the like, but often for no discernable reason other than to inflict damage. Graffiti and other forms of defacement is also a problem that faces the community and property owners in particular. Vandal damage costs owners and users of equipment, in terms of both the cost of repair and the loss of income from 'downtime' of equipment when being repaired.

Accordingly, it is common practice to attempt to isolate vehicles, particularly earthmoving equipment such as excavators, wheel loaders, back hoes, graders, bull dozers and other forms of industrial vehicles, as well as mobile structures such as caravans, boats, porta-cabins amongst others, behind fences in order to secure the property. However, vandalism still occurs as well as theft of vehicle equipment including radios, citizen band communication equipment and other items of potential value.

To minimise damage caused, it has been proposed to provide covers formed of steel, aluminium, or metal wire mesh that fit over doors and windows to protect the doors and windows and reduce the visibility to the interior of the vehicle or building. While such covers may have some deterrent effect, it is found that vandalism and other damage can still be caused by determined vandals and thieves. Previously proposed panels, such as those taught in patent US4280414, generally comprise a flat sheet of metal or mesh cut to the shape of the window to be protected. To enable the connection of the flat sheet to a cabin, a series of brackets are attached (via welding, rivets or screws) to the cover which is generally bolted directly to the cabin and therefore is not easily removed. Such covers are generally made of either steel or Aluminium and are thus difficult to form into three dimensional shapes, making it difficult to fit them to windows and doors which are curved or to accommodate protrusions, such as hinges, lugs, handles etc. Such panels are also heavy and therefore difficult to safely fit and remove, for example fitment of panels to large machines generally requires that the panels be lifted above head height, and due to the weight of steel, requires that a minimum of two people to fit to their mating surface.

Metal panels are prone to damaging the mating surface of the cabin due to their heavy weight and material characteristics. They are also prone to damage when not in use, reducing their effectiveness, affecting their fitment to a cabin and potentially causing further damage to a cabin during fitment.

Previously proposed polymer covers lack sufficient structural rigidity to maintain their shape during assembly and exhibit excessive flex which makes fitment to the cabin difficult. Due to their flexibility, previous polymer covers can be easily broken where mounted to a cabin or distorted sufficiently to remove it from its mounting features to gain access to the cabin. They are also prone to damage when not in use and due to their flexibility, previous polymer covers are lacking in 'perceived quality', with little confidence held by the operators that they are structurally sufficient for use or a substitute product to previously proposed panels. Increasing the section size of the cover may improve rigidity, though would add weight and have a negative impact on the ease of fitment of the cover.

Previous polymer covers are also prone to permanent distortion in high heat and sun loads, making them very difficult or impossible to assemble the cover to the required mating surface.

Previous polymer covers having moulded in attachment features are unable to easily adapt to suit a plurality of connection points or machines. It is desirable to provide an improved deterrent cover which at least partially addresses or ameliorates the above difficulties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a deterrent cover for a vehicle cabin, comprising: a reinforcing member configured to be removably fixed to and extending between fixing points on the vehicle cabin; and a polymer skin fixed to and supported by the reinforcing member, the polymer skin configured to cover and protect a closure of the vehicle to deter vandals.

Preferably, the cover is configured so that the reinforcing member is received against the polymer skin. Preferably, the polymer skin has strengthening ribs formed therein to transfer load applied to the cover to the reinforcing member.

Preferably, the polymer skin has a plurality of channel sections formed therein in which the reinforcing member is received. Preferably, the plurality of channel sections form a continuous channel. Preferably, the channel extends generally adjacent a periphery of the window.

Preferably, a width of the channel varies along its length so as to engage and fix the polymer skin to the reinforcing member at predetermined locations and provide clearance at other locations to accommodate for varying thermal expansion rates of the reinforcing member and the polymer skin. Preferably, portions of the reinforcing member are formed generally straight and the polymer skin engages the reinforcing member over these straight sections.

Preferably, the reinforcing member is disposed generally around a periphery of the cover. Preferably, the reinforcing member is shaped generally rectangular with rounded corners. Preferably, a radius of the corners is greater between approximately 10mm and approximately 90mm.

Preferably, the reinforcing member comprises a .bar extending generally across the centre of the cover. Preferably, the reinforcing member is planar. Preferably, the reinforcing member is formed of rectangular hollow section steel.

Preferably, the polymer skin further comprises raised portions formed within the channel for locating the reinforcing member during assembly of the polymer skin and the reinforcing member.

Preferably, the polymer skin is configured to conform to the profile of the cabin adjacent the window. Preferably, the polymer skin is configured to conform to a cabin having a three dimensional profile. Preferably, the polymer skin is formed as a dome extending away from the window. Preferably, a peripheral edge of the polymer skin extends toward the window and is trimmable so that the polymer skin can be configured for fitting with differently configured windows.

Preferably, the polymer skin is formed with a plurality of cavities to accommodate differently configured reinforcing members. Preferably, the deterrent cover further comprises locking means to lock the reinforcing member to the vehicle cabin. Preferably, the polymer skin comprises handles formed therein. Preferably, the polymer skin is configured to absorb impact load. ,

Preferably, the polymer skin is made from an impact resistant polymer. Preferably, the polymer skin is made of ABS plastic. Preferably, the polymer skin is formed using a vacuum moulding technique.

Preferably, the closure of the vehicle is a window or door.

There is also disclosed a Deterrent Cover comprising a polymer skin formed with a predetermined channel section housing a reinforcing member, wherein the moulded polymer skin is formed with or adhered to or contains the structural frame within a designated channel. The structural frame may contain a plurality of attachment points and anti-rotation mechanisms where applicable. The moulded polymer skin may contain a plurality of design features to improve function. The deterrent cover may comprise a panel of moulded, substantially rigid, impact resistant polymer material, the panel being vacuum-formed or otherwise moulded to a tri-planar shape, the panel having a peripheral outer edge portion adapted to closely match a peripheral surface portion defining the window and/or door structure to be covered by the panel and a plurality of surface design features on at least one surface of the panel to reinforce the panel structure from impact, to assist structural rigidity where applicable, to assist polymer distortion where applicable, to assist location and assembly of the reinforcing member, and to add attachment and anti-rotation features.

Preferably, the reinforcing member will be relatively bi-planar in design. The polymer skin will accommodate the bi-planar form of the structural frame, whilst closely mirroring the surface for which the panel is designed to cover, the panel acting as a reinforcing skin and minimising edge gaps into which tools could be inserted in an attempt to remove the panel. By moulding a polymer panel, it is possible to manufacture a cover capable of adapting to the three dimensional shape of the mating surfaces to be covered, any protrusions, such as hinges, handles, locks or other vehicle structure can be accommodated for and incorporated into the shape of the panel. The reinforcing member can be accommodated for and encompassed in, as applicable, the panel. The securing means may include brackets, lugs, projections or other structures on or adjacent the peripheral surface portion defining the window and/or door structure to be covered. With this arrangement, the panel may be formed with appropriate openings or complimentary engagement parts to engage with the projections and maintain the cover in assembled position, or more preferably the appropriate openings or complimentary engagement parts are attached to the reinforcing member. One or more appropriate locks may be provided at one corner, or along one edge of the panel, or in other selected locations to lock the panel in the assembled position.

The structural frame and/or polymer panel may be formed with features acting as anti- rotation devices to prevent removal of the installed panel via rotation. The structural frame and polymer panel may be designed and manufactured with techniques that allow easy diversification of mounting features.

BRIEF DETAIL OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be further described by way of non-limiting example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: ^'

Figure 1 is a side view of the cabin of an excavator to which a deterrent cover in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is typically to be secured;

Figure 2 is a side view of the above cabin of an excavator to which the invention has been secured in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

Figure 3 is a front elevation view of a deterrent cover reinforcing member in accordance with further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines A-A of Figure 5 with further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of a further embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines B-B of Figure 5 with further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 is a side elevation view of a further embodiment of the invention; and Figure 9 is a perspective cross section view of a further embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A cabin 12 of an excavator, such as that shown in Figure 1, has at least one, often two doors 14 having glass windows 16. The cabin 12 also has side rear windows 17a, boom window 17b and front and back windows 18 and 19, and sometimes a top window 15 respectively. Such a cabin is accessed by thieves or vandals by breaking one or more of the windows, and the excavator is then at risk of vandalism being damaged, graffiti, the subject of equipment theft, driven or stolen. Accordingly, it is important that some form of protection be provided to prevent or minimise the extent of vandalism and theft. In one of the embodiments illustrated, a deterrent cover 21 is provided to fit over the vulnerable door 14 and incorporated windows 16a and 16b of the cabin 12. The deterrent cover 21 comprising a reinforcing member configured to be removably fixed to and extending between fixing points on the vehicle cabin; and a polymer skin 22 fixed to and supported by the reinforcing member, the polymer skin configured to cover and protect a closure of the vehicle to deter vandals.

The polymer skin, shown in the form of an outer skin 22 is formed with a peripheral edge portion 29 that closely engages the peripheral surface surrounding the door window 16 to be protected by the cover 21. In other embodiments a deterrent cover 60 is provided to fit over the vulnerable window 17a of the cabin 12. Other similar covers are to be provided for the side, front and back windows 17b, 18 and 19. The outer skin 22 is formed of a three dimensional shape which closely follows the external shape of the surface of the cabin 12. The illustrated covers 21 and 60 comprise an outer skin 22 vacuum-formed of a relatively rigid, impact resistant, engineering grade polymer material and a reinforcing member 25,25b that are adhered together with adhesive 28.

The outer skin 22b is formed with a peripheral edge portion 29b that closely engages the peripheral surface surrounding the window 17a to be protected by the cover 60. The outer skin 22b is formed of a three dimensional shape which closely follows the external shape of the surface of the cabin 12.

The outer skin material of the covers (22 and 22b) may comprise a ABS, PC, PC/ ABS, ASA, Nylon, Acrylic, PP, HDPE, or a variant of the those mentioned. The outer skin may have a general thickness of between 1.0 and 8.0mm, more preferably in the range of 2.0 to 6.0 mm, and having a nominal thickness of between 3.0 mm and 5.0 mm. The outer skin is particularly effective when increased strength and reduced mass is achieved. This is because the overall cover weight and strength are direct factors of an enhanced design.

Preferably, the maximum thickness of the panel in the location of ribs, and around the periphery as shown in figure 4 by dimension 70, may be from 3 mm up to 90 mm, more preferably between 3 and 40 mm.

The outer skin material is capable of being manufactured and functioning under normal operating environments. It has been found that the outer skin should be made from a suitable polymer material that is an engineering grade material that has a UV stability characteristic suitable for use for all normal operation environmental conditions (-20⁰C to +50 ⁰C) for a minimum of 1 year without serious degradation of material performance. To aid the polymer materials UV stability it has been found that darker colours are preferable and black is more preferable.

It is preferable that the polymer outer skin has a flexural modulus as high as possible to aid in structural rigidity. It is also found that the higher the flexural modulus the more brittle the polymer material is. It is therefore necessary to select a material that is a suitable compromise between the 2 characteristics. It has been found that the preferred flexural modulus of the polymer outer skin, when assembly to the reinforcing member as illustrated is between 600Mpa and 3000 Mpa, and preferably between 1200Mpa and 2200Mpa.

It has also been found that UV stability can be improved via the addition of paint. Paint has not been shown in the Figures, but it is preferable to select a suitable polymer material for the outer skin that can be painted. The polymer outer skin may also be moulded using a material that is coloured or printed on. In one example, the polymer outer skin has moulded into it text or images, such as logo's, brand names, part numbers or any other marketing or informative material. It is also possible that the polymer outer skin has areas moulded into it 27 specifically designed to add text or images, such as logo's, brand names, part numbers or any other marketing or informative material later.

In order to enhance edge structure, reduce edge damage, and increase perceived quality, it is preferable that the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with its periphery edge 61 in close proximity to the reinforcing member 25. More preferably the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with its periphery edge 61 in close proximity to the reinforcing member 25b at potential locations of attachment lugs 62,63. More preferably the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with features that allow easy machining in required areas. More preferably the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with its periphery inside edge 61 planar to the reinforcing member 25b at predetermined locations.

The outer skin 22b is formed with a designed channel section to allow the addition of a reinforcing member 25b. It is preferable for the channel 67 to have it outer most edges as close to planar as is possible within the manufacturing method to the reinforcing member 25b. The channel 67 is manufactured with a draft angle for removal of the part from the manufacturing mould. The draft angle 0 is preferably minimised to assist in making the edges 61,68 planar to the reinforcing member. Preferably the channel draft angle 0 is between 0 and 3mm to the tool draw direction. More preferably the draft angle 0 is between 0 and 1 degrees to the tool draw direction. The outer skin 22b is formed with a designed channel section to allow the addition of a reinforcing member 25b. It is preferable for the channel 67 to have it outer most edges as close to planar is possible within the manufacturing method to the reinforcing member 25b. It is preferable for ease of manufactμre to have radius's 73 as shown in figure 4 of the outerskin 22b as large as possible. It has been found that inner radius's of the polymer outerskin encompassing the reinforcing member should be between 1 and 3mm. More preferably they should be between 1.8 - 2.2mm.

The outer skin 22b is formed with a designed channel section 67 to allow the addition of a reinforcing member 25b. It is preferable for the channel 67 to have its outer most edges as close to planar and with minimal distance as is possible within the manufacturing method to the reinforcing member 25b. It is practical for ease of assembly to have clearance between the channel 67 and the reinforcing member 25b. It has been found that some areas of the channel may be more critical than others. For example, some corners on the covers as shown in the embodiment 72 are of lesser importance for having a close tolerance of the polymer outer skin and the reinforcing members. It has been found that a reduction in the tolerance of said corners assists in the acceptance of a manufacturing tolerance in the reinforcing member. Such an example can be seen in figure 6. It has been found that the process of bending the reinforcing member in particularly prone to varying tolerances in the radius of the bend. It has been found that the smaller the radius bend the more this is so. It is preferable therefore to have an inner radius 71 notably greater than that of the members designed radius. It is also preferable to have an outer radius 72 notably lesser than that of the reinforcing members design radius.

It is found that in order to minimise material usage whilst maintaining the correct protect area of cabin 12, it is preferable to have a reinforcing member with a corner radius as large as possible. It is also found that it is preferable to have the reinforcing member's radius's as large as possible to control tolerances and for ease of manufacture. Preferably the reinforcing member's 25b inner radius is between 10mm - 90mm. More preferably the reinforcing member's inner radius is between 20 - 40mm. More preferably the reinforcing members inner radius is targeted at 30mm +/-2mm. Preferably the outerskins 22b inner corner radius71 is greater than the reinforcing members inner radius by greater than 5mm. Preferably the outerskins 22b outer corner radius 72 is lesser than the reinforcing members outer radius by greater than 5mm. Figure 6 shows the reinforcing member's inner radius to be 30mm, the outerskins inner radius is 50mm, the reinforcing members outer radius is 46mm, the outerskins outer radius is 10mm, thus providing a bend tolerance between 11 and 49mm.

The designated channel 67 is designed with draft angle, radius's and other specific design features in the form of tri-planar surfaces to aid the assembly of the reinforcing member into the polymer outer skin.

The designated channel 67 has design features in the form of tri-planar surfaces to locate the reinforcing member into the correct position within the polymer outer skin. The side walls of the channel are at a draft angle for manufacturing feasibility, drafted outwards away from the channel. The channel has real estate specifically designed to accommodate the adhesive 28. The reinforcing member 25b has a radius on its edge. It has been found that the preferred location of contact between the outer skin 22b and the reinforcing member 25b is between 0.2 and 4.0mm from the bottom surface of the outer skin within the channel; more preferably between 0.8 and 1.2mm.

The channel 67 has real estate specifically designed to accommodate the adhesive 28. It has been found that the preferred location of adhesive to .bond the polymer outer skin and the channel is the lowest section of the channel as shown in fϊgure4. The channel is specifically designed to hold adhesive 28 of between 0.2 and 2.0mm in depth (assembled), more specifically between 0.6 and 1.4mm in depth (assembled). The depth of adhesive 28 controls the height of the reinforcing member in the polymer outer skin channel and thus its location.

The polymer outer skin channel closely matches the reinforcing member on between 1 and 3 sides. This is to aid location, attachment and restraint of the reinforcing member. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in figure 4 the polymer outer skin 22b is formed to encompass the reinforcing member 25b on 3 of its 4 sides.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated the polymer outer skin 22b is formed to closely match the planar edges of the reinforcing member 25b on 3 of its 4 sides. This aids in location and restraint of the member in the outer skin during operation in normal operating conditions.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated the polymer outer skin 22b is formed to surpass the reinforcing member 25b in the direction of the mating surface. It has been found that the polymer material of the outer skin is less aggressive towards the surface of the cabin 12 than the steel of the reinforcing member and attachment brackets.

In one embodiment of the design, as shown in figure 4, it can be noted how the polymer outer skin has been designed to protrude past the reinforcing member on both sides.

The protrusion is preferably between lmm and 20mm, more preferably between 2mm and 10mm. The depth of protrusion may vary along its surface to accommodate for a curved mating surface, whilst maintaining a linear reinforcing member. In one preferred embodiment of the design, as shown in figure 6, it can be noted how the polymer outer skin at 75 has been designed to protrude past the reinforcing member a greater distance than the outer edge 29b. It has been found that the radiused section of the skin is less aggressive on the cabins mating surface than the outer edge. It is therefore preferable to have this edge 75 being the leading contact edge. It is preferable that this edge is protruding between 0.5mm and 10mm past the outer edge, more preferably between lmm and 5mm. It must be noted that the inner edge is designed generically to suit a plurality of mating cabins and only the outer edge is trimmed to match the cabin; it may therefore be feasible that the outer edge protrudes past the inner edge.

It has been found that the outer edge where it protrudes past the reinforcing member is prone to critical material failure in the form of cracking. It is therefore preferable to minimise this protrusion past the reinforcing member, whilst maintaining the edges protrusion as such that it prevents contact of the reinforcing member to the cabin under all conditions of manufacturing tolerance. It is preferable that this outer edge is protruding between 0.5mm and 10mm past the outer edge, more preferably between lmm and 5mm.

In order to enhance the skins resistance to critical failure via cracking, radiuses of corners and edges external to the periphery of the reinforcing member will be increased to aid in material deflection. Preferably these radiuses will be between 2mm and 40mm, more preferably between 5mm and 30mm, more preferably between 10mm and 20mm. In order to enhance the skins flexural modus and thus impact strength to critical failure via impact, radiuses of corners and edges internal to the periphery of the reinforcing member will be decreased to aid in material deflection. Preferably these radiuses will be between 2mm and 40mm, more preferably between 5mm and 20mm, more preferably between 5mm and 10mm. Radiuses at other predetermined locations on the surface of the outer skin can be adjusted according to the predetermined requirements at that location, following the general rational as discussed above.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated in figure 6, the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with a plurality of tri-planar design surfaces to aid structural strength, location, assembly and aesthetics. It has been found that continuous lengths channels which are not suitably supported induce a weakness to bending. Features 65 have been designed into extended lengths of unsuitably unsupported channel to add a structural element perpendicular to the channel direction, and thus restrict bending. These features are referred to as 'goosenecks'65. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in figure 6, the polymer outer skin 22b is formed with a plurality of tri-planar design surfaces to aid structural strength, location, assembly and aesthetics. It has been found that parts of the polymer outer skin around the periphery are not in the immediate proximity of the reinforcing member. Is has been found therefore that design features, referred to as 'bosses' 64, are required to bring sections of the outer skin back to the reinforcing member. The bosses 64 provide an area suitable for attachment of the polymer outer skin to the reinforcing member. They provide an increased wall of channel for location of the reinforcing member in the polymer outer skin. They provide an increased wall of channel for assembly aid of the reinforcing member in the polymer outer skin.

Preferably the cover 21b will contain a handle 41b for ease of operator fitment, removal and moving for storage. The outer skin 22b will have predetermined design features 41c to allow integration or attachment of the handle 41b. The outer skin 22b will have predetermined design features to assist location of the handles 41b during assembly.

The three tri-planer shape of the cover 21b provides substantial resistance to impact that may be applied thereto in an endeavour to break into the cabin 12. In the illustrated embodiment the preferred geometry ^"of the outer skin internal of the reinforcing member periphery is a domed profile 66, extending away in the centre from the object to be protected. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the polymer outer skin 22b is formed and the openings for attachment points 62, 63 are trimmed to suit the relevant structural frame 25b. The preferable process of post mould machining (ideally CNC) allows the repositioning of mounting lugs 62, 63 to suit varying design of mating cabin 12 without alterations to the mould tool.

In the preferred embodiment illustrated the reinforcing member 25 of the cover 21 is formed with openings to receive the heads of a plurality of locking lugs 31, 32 extending from the cabin 12. In one example, the reinforcing member 25 comprises locking means to lock the cover 21 to the cabin of the vehicle. In one example, the reinforcing member 25 locks a door of the vehicle so that even if the outer skin were to be removed, access to the door may still be prevented. A deterrent cover could attach to its mating surface by either the reinforcing member 25 or directly from the polymer outer skin 22 to the features such as the cabin lugs 31, 32 shown in the illustration. The reinforcing member 25 is formed to a three dimensional shape which closely follows the designed channel of the outer skin 22. More preferably the reinforcing member 25 is formed with a peripheral edge portion 29 that closely engages the peripheral surface surrounding the door window 16 to be protected by the cover 21. Preferably the reinforcing member is contained to a bi-planar profile design for manufacturing ease, and the outer skin is moulded to suit it.

It has been found that the perceived quality and perceived structural strength of the cover are enhanced when the polymer outer skin is united with a reinforcing member. It has been found that the perceived quality and perceived structural strength of the cover are enhanced when the polymer outer skin is united with a metal reinforcing member. It has been found that the perceived quality and perceived structural strength of the cover are enhanced when the polymer outer skin is united with a metal attachment lugs and mounting brackets.

The illustrated reinforcing member 25 is formed via bending and welding a standard 1.6mm gauge 16mm x 16mm RHS (ERW) mild steel box section. The reinforcing member 25 also illustrates steel attachment points 31b, 32b, 33 and 34 welded on it. It has also been found that resistance to rusting can be improved via the addition of paint or powdercoating. Paint has not been shown on the references, but it is preferable to select a suitable steel material for the reinforcing member that can be powdercoated. It has been found that dark colours have a greater resistance to UV damage; more preferably black. It is therefore preferable to powdercoat the reinforcing member in a dark colour, more preferably black.

The illustrated reinforcing member 25 is formed .by bending and joining a standard 1.6mm gauge 16mm x 16mm RHS (ERW) steel box section to form a 1 -piece reinforcing member. It is possible within the scope of the invention to have a plurality of reinforcing members that are not joined. It is preferable to have the reinforcing member as 1 -piece, thus aiding structural rigidity, ease of assemble, and location.

The illustrated reinforcing member 25 is formed by bending and joining a standard

1.6mm gauge 16mm x 16mm RHS (ERW) steel box section. The reinforcing member or 'structural frame' 25 also illustrates steel attachment points 31b, 32b welded on it.

Preferably, the size of the box section is from 10 mm up to 80 mm, more preferably between 10 and 22 mm. Preferably, the gauge of the box section be from 0.5 and 4.0mm, more preferably between 1.0 and 2.0mm.

The frame may be made from a number of materials for example steel, aluminium or polymers. The frame can be made from a number of sections for example box section, RHS, tube, extruded profiles, or specific designed polymer inserts. The frame is particularly effective when increased strength and reduced mass is used. This is because the overall cover weight and strength are direct factors of an enhanced design. It has also been found that resistance to rusting can be improved via the addition of paint or powder coating or some other treatment process. Paint has not been shown on the references, but it is preferable to select a suitable steel material for the reinforcing member that can be powder coated. It has been found that dark colours have a greater resistance to UV damage; more preferably black. It is therefore preferable to powder coat the reinforcing member in a dark colour, more preferably black. It is possible within the scope of the invention that the reinforcing member is constructed with an aluminium material in which case one such treatment process may be anodizing amongst others. It is found that in order to minimise material useage whilst maintaining the correct protect area of cabin 12, it is preferable to have a reinforcing members corner radius as small as possible. It is also found that it is preferable to have the reinforcing members radius's as large as possible to control tolerances and for ease of manufacture. Preferably the reinforcing member's inner radius is between 10mm - 90mm. More preferably the reinforcing member's radius is between 20 - 40mm. More preferably the reinforcing member's inner radius is targeted at 30mm +/-2mm.

Another form of the embodiment is to have the reinforcing member 25 in close proximity, preferably planar, and preferably just below of a door latch striker 43 extending from the cabin 12. The member section thus assists location of the cover around the Z-axis when assembled, thus aligning location attachment points 31b, 32b. In the preferred embodiment shown the reinforcing member has a feature cut-out 42 to encompass the latch striker on 4 sides, and thus prevent rotation. It is preferable that the reinforcing member has a frame element that is suitable to attach a plurality of attachment brackets or mounting lugs in a plurality of locations. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the polymer outer skin 22 is formed and the openings for attachment points 31b, 32b are trimmed to suit the relevant structural frame 25. The preferable process of post mould machining (ideally CNC) allows the repositioning of mounting lugs 31b, 32b to suit varying design of mating cabin 12 without alterations to the mould tool.

The illustrated cover 21 also comprises a reinforcing member 25 adhered into the designated channel on the rear of the polymer. The illustrated reinforcing member 25 is adhered to the outer skin 22 with adhesive resin 28. The illustrated reinforcing member 25 is additionally attached to the outer skin 22 with rivets. The adhesive resin 28 is considered the primary attachment method of the reinforcing member 25 to the outer skin 22. The additional attachment method with rivets provides an alternative method of attachment. The additional attachment method with rivets is found to be primarily required in cases of continued high heat. Preferably the adhesive resin 28 is suitable for all normal operation environmental conditions (-20⁰C to +50 ⁰C). Assessment of the invention has found that continued high heat (e.g. above 40deg for excess of 4hours) may lead to failure of the adhesive in high stress areas. These stresses have been associated with the variability of expansion coefficients between the polymer outer skin and the metal frame. Methods designed into the cover 21 include the addition of rivets to maintain attachment during these operating conditions, and the specific design tolerances of the outer skin channel in predetermined locations to allow expansion where feasible without detachment, and prevention of in others.

It has been found that it is preferable to maintain the profile of the reinforcing member primarily at the attachment points. Subsequently the tolerances of the outer skin channel have been maintained as tight as possible within manufacturing limitations in these areas. Other areas have seen decreased tolerances. Figure 6 shows one such area of the embodiment where the tolerance of the channel 67 has been relieved in the corner 74 to allow for expansion and contract in an area considered less critical to the function of the part than the attachment points. Figure 6 shows the channel with increased tolerance to the reinforcing member

Other forms of securement may also be provided between the cover 21 and the cabin

12, including but not limited to, features that attached to other lugs attached to the cabin 39. In the preferred embodiment illustrated the reinforcing member 25 of the cover 21 is formed with an opening 42 to receive the heads of a door latch striker 43 extending from the cabin 12. The illustrated opening thus prevents rotation of the cover around the Z-axis when attached at points 31, 32 and thus prevents lifting of the cover form hinge attachment points 33,34. In this position, the peripheral edge portion 29 closely engages the surface of the cabin around the door thereby minimising the likelihood of a tool being inserted there between whilst allowing for a bi-planer reinforcing member 25. Another form of the embodiment is to have the reinforcing member 25 in close proximity, preferably planar, and preferably just below of a door latch striker 43 extending from the cabin 12. The member section thus prevents rotation of the cover around the Z-axis when attached at points 31, 32 and thus prevents lifting of the cover form hinge attachment points 33, 34.

In a preferred form, the cover shape is derived using advanced CAD techniques to develop a mould for Vacuum forming the outer skin 22. By using three-dimensional advanced CAD techniques the external three-dimensional shape of the door window 16 to be protected by the cover 21 is substantially modelled and reproduced in a production mould tool, with appropriate allowances made for any necessary clearances. The outer skin, however, will take account of the location of any hinges 23 projecting outwardly from the surface of the cabin 12 as well as any other projecting parts, such as handles 23b, locks 35 or the like. The outer skin 22 will take account of the required reinforcing member 25 and associated mounting features 23, 31b, 32b. In a preferred form, the cover shape is derived using advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) techniques to develop a mould and reinforcing member that it optimised for function. Preferably the FEA techniques will optimise the skin profile to maximise structural rigidity, resistance to impact, and resistance to critical material failure during bending at the required locations.

Preferably the FEA techniques will optimise the relationship between the outer skin and the reinforcing member to optimise function. FEA techniques can be used to assess and design the preferred structural rigidity into the cover assembly. Once the mould is prepared using the three-dimensional advanced CAD/CAM techniques, the outer skin 22 can be formed using the appropriate polymer material.

It has been found that it is preferable for the cover to be minimised in weight. It is more preferable that the cover can be safely lifted overhead and located in its correct position on the cabin 12 by one person. It has been found that the preferred maximum weight of any one cover is 12Kg.

Similar covers may be provided for the front, side and back windows, 17b, 18 and 19 of the cabin 12 as well as any top windows 15 that may be present and any other door structures that may present a potential entry point to the cabin. All such covers are produced by techniques and with design characteristics as described in the present invention embodiment. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Whilst the invention has been described in relation to vehicle cabins, it is not limited to any particular structure and it has broad application over a wide range of potential industrial, domestic and commercial use. Nevertheless, for ease of understanding, the invention will be described with particular reference to its use in relation to industrial equipment such as earthmoving equipment, it being understood that the invention is not limited thereto.

Claims

I . A deterrent cover for a vehicle cabin, comprising:

a reinforcing member configured to be removably fixed to and extending between fixing points on the vehicle cabin; and

a polymer skin fixed to and supported by the reinforcing member, the polymer skin configured to cover and protect a closure of the vehicle to deter vandals.

2. A deterrent cover according to claim 1, wherein the cover is configured so that the reinforcing member is received against the polymer skin.

3. A deterrent cover according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the polymer skin has strengthening ribs formed therein to transfer load applied to the cover to the reinforcing member.

4. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin has a plurality of channel sections formed therein in which the reinforcing member is received.

5. A deterrent cover according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of channel sections form a continuous channel.

6. A deterrent cover according to claim 5, wherein the channel extends generally adjacent a periphery of the window.

7. A deterrent cover according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein a width of the channel varies along its length so as to engage and fix the polymer skin to the reinforcing member at predetermined locations and provide clearance at other locations to accommodate for varying thermal expansion rates of the reinforcing member and the polymer skin.

8. A deterrent cover according to claim 7, wherein portions of the reinforcing member are formed generally straight and the polymer skin engages the reinforcing member over these straight sections.

9. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing member is disposed generally around a periphery of the cover.

10. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing member is shaped generally rectangular with rounded corners.

I I. A deterrent cover according to claim 7, wherein a radius of the corners is between approximately 10mm and approximately 90mm. 20

27. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure of the vehicle is a window or door.

19

12. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing member comprises a bar extending generally across the centre of the cover.

13. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing member is planar.

14 A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reinforcing member is formed of rectangular hollow section steel. 15. A deterrent cover according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the polymer skin further comprises raised portions formed within the channel for locating the reinforcing member during assembly of the polymer skin and the reinforcing member.

16. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is configured to conform to the profile of the cabin adjacent the window.

17. A deterrent cover according to claim 16, wherein the polymer skin is configured to conform to a cabin having a three dimensional profile.

18. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is formed as a dome extending away from the window.

19. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a peripheral edge of the polymer skin extends toward the window and is trimmable so that the polymer skin can be configured for fitting with differently configured windows.

20. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is formed with a plurality of cavities to accommodate differently configured reinforcing members.

21. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising locking means to lock the reinforcing member to the vehicle cabin.

22. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin comprises handles formed therein.

23. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is configured to absorb impact load.

24. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is made from an impact resistant polymer.

25. A deterrent cover according to claim 24, wherein the polymer skin is made of ABS plastic or blends thereof.

26. A deterrent cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the polymer skin is formed using a vacuum moulding technique.