A Vehicle Rooftop Rack Assembly

Abstract

A vehicle rooftop rack assembly. The rack assembly includes a platform having a plurality of releasable slats for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a frame and a plurality of slats releasably connected to the frame. 20 25 20 48 10 26 J un 2 02 5 A B S T R A C T 2 6 J u n 2 0 2 5 A v e h i c l e r o o f t o p r a c k a s s e m b l y . T h e r a c k a s s e m b l y i n c l u d e s a p l a t f o r m h a v i n g a p l u r a l i t y o f r e l e a s a b l e s l a t s f o r a v e h i c l e r o o f t o p r a c k a s s e m b l y , t h e p l a t f o r m h a v i n g a f r a m e a n d a p l u r a l i t y o f s l a t s r e l e a s a b l y c o n n e c t e d t o t h e f r a m e . 2 0 2 5 2 0 4 8 1 0 A B S T R A C T 2 6 J u n 2 0 2 5 2 0 2 5 2 0 4 8 1 0

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [1] The present invention relates to a vehicle rooftop rack assembly. BACKGROUND [2] Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form part of the common general knowledge. [3] Popularity of recreational activities continues to grow, with a corresponding growth in the need for carrying recreational equipment and cargo on vehicles. Accordingly, various equipment carriers and accessories have been developed over the years, for recreational items such as bicycles, skis, surf boards, standup paddle boards, kayaks, and the like. [4] A popular way to utilise such carriers and accessories is by rooftop racks coupled to the roof of the vehicle. [5] However, these rooftop racks may not be suitable for carrying different types of equipment and cargo on a single rack or platform. [6] These rooftop racks can also be difficult to install. [7] Rooftop racks typically include crossbars mounted to the vehicle roof, and the crossbars themselves may be of various shapes and sizes, from square to round to aerodynamic. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 [8] Different vehicle configurations, dimensions and shapes can also make it difficult to properly mount the crossbars and platform to the vehicle in a safe and stable way for transport. [9] With all this variation, rooftop rack systems must typically incorporate a myriad of components customized to fit each style of roof and rooftop feature. A need exists for a simplified system of mounting assemblies, platforms, and connection features, with a reduction in customized components. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[10] In one aspect, the invention provides a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the rack assembly comprising: a mounting assembly configured to couple to a vehicle rooftop; and a platform having a frame and a plurality of releasable slats coupled to the frame, wherein the mounting assembly and a pair of the releasable slats are configured to operably engage to releasably couple the platform to the mounting assembly.

[11] In another aspect, the invention provides a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the rack assembly comprising: a mounting assembly configured to couple to a vehicle rooftop; and a platform having a frame and a plurality of releasable slats coupled to the frame, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of releasably connected perimeter beams, 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 wherein the mounting assembly and a pair of the releasable slats are configured to operably engage to releasably couple the platform to the mounting assembly.

[12] Preferably, pairs of the perimeter beams are arranged perpendicularly and releasably connected by a corner connection assembly received within the respective perimeter beams to engage an internal surface and retain the perimeter beam in place in relation to the other perimeter beam.

[13] In another aspect, the invention provides a platform having a plurality of releasable slats for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a frame and a plurality of slats releasably connected to the frame.

[14] Preferably, the slats can be connected to the frame along opposed sides of the frame. More preferably, each slat can be connected at any point along opposed sides of the frame.

[15] Preferably, each slat of the plurality of slats comprises an elongate member configured to releasably connect to the frame. Preferably, each longitudinal end of the slat or elongate member includes a platform connection arrangement for releasably connecting each end of the slat to the platform. Preferably, the platform connection arrangement includes a slat connection plate that is connected to each end of the elongate member. Preferably, the platform connection arrangement further includes a frame connection plate that is located within a channel of the frame for each of the slat connection plates, wherein the frame connection plate and slat connection plate are configured to be fastened together with a portion of the frame located therebetween. The releasable fastening of these plates allows the slats to be moved by sliding along the length of the frame when the fasteners are loosened, and the two slat plates clamp 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 a portion of the frame when the fasteners are tightened, securely holding the slats in place.

[16] Preferably, opposed ends of the slat connection plates are inwardly tapered.

[17] Preferably, the slats have a channel formed therein for attaching items thereto. Preferably, the channel is formed in a top side of the slat. Preferably, the channel is a C-channel. Preferably, the slat includes a pair of opposed channels formed in opposite sides of the slat.

[18] Preferably, the slat connection plates include an aperture formed therein for drainage, wherein the slat connection plates are configured such that when connected to the slat, the aperture is aligned with the channel of the slat to facilitate water drainage from the channels thereby preventing water accumulation and damage.

[19] In another aspect, the invention provides a mounting assembly for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the mounting assembly having a pair of feet for connecting to a vehicle rooftop and an elongate mounting member extending between the feet configured to connect the feet to a platform.

[20] Preferably, the elongate member includes at least two apertures formed therein, wherein the at least two apertures receive fasteners to fasten the mounting assembly to a slat of a platform.

[21] Preferably, the mounting assembly further comprises a mounting slat configured to connect to a frame of a vehicle rooftop rack assembly platform. Preferably, the mounting slat is configured to connect the frame to the feet of the mounting assembly. Preferably, the mounting slat includes a first channel formed in a first side and a second channel formed in a second side. Preferably, the first side is opposite the second side. Preferably, the first channel and the second channel extend 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 longitudinally along the mounting slat. Preferably, the first channel and the second channel are directly opposed.

[22] Preferably, the mounting slat includes at least one aperture extending through the mounting slat and connecting the first channel to the second channel. The aperture is configured to receive a fastener. Preferably, the at least one aperture is substantially circular.

[23] Preferably, the adjustable bar includes at least one aperture formed therein to receive a fastener therethrough to fasten the adjustable bar to the mounting slat. Preferably, the at least one aperture is a transverse substantially rectangular aperture having rounded corners. Preferably, the at least one aperture extends perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.

[24] In another aspect, the invention provides a bracket assembly for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the bracket assembly having a bracket member configured to abut and / or matingly engage with a slat of a platform.

[25] Preferably, the bracket assembly further comprises a mounting adaptor, wherein the mounting adaptor is configured to be releasably fastened to the bracket member and a crossbar.

[26] Preferably, the bracket member is configured such that the bracket member and the slat matingly engage (or reciprocally engage) such that the bracket member is received within a complementary shaped receptacle formed in the slat. Preferably, the bracket member and receptacle are configured to frictionally engage.

[27] In another aspect, the invention provides a frame for a platform of a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a plurality of connected perimeter beams, wherein at least two opposed perimeter beams each have a channel formed therein. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[28] In another aspect, the invention provides a frame for a platform of a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a plurality of perimeter beams, wherein pairs of perimeter beams arranged perpendicularly are releasably interconnected by a corner connection assembly.

[29] In another aspect, the invention provides a corner connection assembly comprising a wedging member; and a corner bracket having two perpendicularly arranged connecting portions, wherein each connecting portion includes two spaced apart legs to receive the wedging member therebetween, whereby location of the wedging member in a space between the two spaced apart legs urges the spaced apart legs apart.

[30] Preferably, the corner connection assembly comprises: a corner bracket having the two perpendicularly arranged connecting portions connected by a corner portion, each connecting portion having a pair of spaced apart legs; the corner connecting assembly also includes a wedging member to be received between the legs; and a fastener configured to be inserted through the connecting portion to operably engage with the wedging member such that the tightening of the fastener causes the wedging member to be drawn toward the corner portion to expand a distance between the legs and urge the legs apart to engage an inner surface of a respective perimeter beam and thereby hold the perimeter beams in fixed relation to each other.

[31] Preferably, an outside of each leg includes a plurality of ridges to increase friction between the legs and inner surface of the perimeter beam.

[32] Preferably, the pair of spaced apart legs are tapered from an end proximal to the corner portion to a distal end.

[33] In another aspect, the invention provides a method of assembling a vehicle rooftop rack, the method including: 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 coupling a mounting assembly to a vehicle rooftop; coupling a plurality of releasable slats to a frame to form a platform, wherein the releasable slats are configured for releasable coupling to the frame; and coupling a pair of the plurality of releasable slats to the mounting assembly.

[34] Preferably, the method may further comprise coupling the plurality of releasable slats after the platform has been coupled to the mounting assembly

[35] In another aspect, the invention provides a platform having a plurality of releasable slats for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a frame and a plurality of slats releasable connected to the frame, wherein: the slats have a channel formed therein for attaching items thereto; and, the frame includes a first channel configured to receive the slats and the frame includes the first channel on an inner side of the frame. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[36] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows: Figure 1 illustrates a vehicle rooftop rack assembly according to an embodiment of the invention coupled to a vehicle rooftop; Figure 2 illustrates a platform of a vehicle rooftop rack assembly; Figure 3 illustrates a perimeter beam of a platform; 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 Figure 4 illustrates a close up view of an end of the perimeter beam of Figure 3; Figure 5 illustrates an end view of the perimeter beam of Figure 3; Figures 6 illustrates a corner connection assembly for assembling a frame of a platform; Figure 7 illustrates the corner connection assembly of Figure 6 in an exploded view; Figures 8 to 11 illustrate the corner connection assembly in various stages of assembly and in use with two perpendicularly arranged perimeters beams; Figures 12 illustrates a platform slat for use with a platform; Figure 13 illustrates a close up view of an end of the platform slat of Figure 12; Figure 14 illustrates an end view of the platform slat of Figure 12; Figures 15 illustrates a mounting slat for use with a platform and for coupling the platform to a mounting assembly coupled to the vehicle rooftop; Figure 16 illustrates a close up view of an end of the mounting slat of Figure 15; Figure 17 illustrates an end view of the mounting slat of Figure 15; Figure 18 illustrates a sectional view of the mounting slat of Figure 15 showing the apertures used for coupling to the mounting assembly; Figure 19 illustrates a platform connection arrangement for coupling a slat to the frame to form a platform; Figure 20 illustrates the platform connection arrangement of Figure 19 in an exploded view; 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 Figure 21 illustrates the frame connection plate of the platform connection arrangement of Figure 19; Figure 22 illustrates the platform connection arrangement in use with a platform slat; Figure 23 illustrates the platform slat and platform connection arrangement shown in Figure 22 in an exploded view; Figure 24 illustrates the platform connection arrangement in use with a mounting slat; Figure 25 illustrates the mounting slat and platform connection arrangement shown in Figure 22 in an exploded view; Figures 26 to 29 illustrate the platform connection arrangement coupling a slat being to the frame; Figure 30 illustrates a mounting assembly for coupling the platform to the vehicle rooftop; Figure 31 illustrates an elongate mounting member of the mounting assembly that couples that platform to the feet of the mounting assembly; Figure 32 illustrates an alignment device for use with the elongate mounting member to assist with aligning the elongate mounting member with the mounting slat to couple the two together; Figure 33 illustrates the insertion of the alignment device into the elongate mounting member; 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 Figure 34 illustrates the alignment device within the elongate mounting member and the apertures of the two aligned using the projections of the alignment device; Figure 35A illustrates an exploded view of the elongate mounting member and mounting slat to be fastened together using the alignment device; Figure 35B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the elongate mounting member and mounting slat each having an additional aperture formed along the respective lengths; Figures 36 and 37 illustrate the elongate mounting member at various angles relative to the mounting slat; Figure 38 illustrates the assembled vehicle rooftop rack; Figure 39 illustrates a vehicle rooftop rack assembly according to another embodiment of the invention coupled to a vehicle rooftop; Figure 40 illustrates a mounting adaptor that forms part of a mounting assembly for coupling a platform to a crossbar or other surface; Figures 41 and 42 illustrates a mounting bracket that forms part of the mounting assembly for coupling a platform to a crossbar or other surface; Figure 43 illustrates the mounting assembly for coupling a platform to a crossbar or other surface; Figures 44 to 46 illustrate the assembly of the mounting assembly and coupling to a mounting slat; Figure 47 illustrates the mounting assembly in use with a crossbar and feet that couple to a vehicle rooftop; 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 Figure 48 illustrates an end view of the mounting assembly in use coupling the mounting slat of a platform to a crossbar; Figures 49 and 50 illustrates the mounting brackets in use with a mounting slat on a flat surface; Figure 51 illustrates a fixing tab assembly that cooperates with the channel of a perimeter beam; and Figure 52 illustrates a cover portion received within the channel of a perimeter beam. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[37] Figure 1 shows a vehicle rooftop rack assembly 1 mounted on a rooftop of a vehicle 11.

[38] The vehicle rooftop rack assembly 1 includes a platform 12 for supporting equipment and cargo and attaching said equipment and cargo thereto for transport. The vehicle rooftop rack assembly 1 also includes a mounting assembly 14 for coupling to the roof of the vehicle.

[39] In use, the platform 12 is coupled to the mounting assembly 14 which in turn couples to the roof mounts (not shown) of the vehicle 11.

[40] Figure 2 shows the platform 12. The platform 12 includes a plurality of perimeter beams 16 that form a frame 18 of the platform 12 and a plurality of slats extending between two parallel perimeter beams 16.

[41] The plurality of slats may be releasably coupled to the platform 12.

[42] At least a pair of the slats and the mounting assembly 14 are configured to operably engage to releasably couple the platform 12 to the mounting assembly 14. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[43] The slats also include channels formed therein, allowing users to attach items to the platform securely. The channel is formed in an in-use top side of the slat and is a C-channel.

[44] Each perimeter beam 16 is arranged perpendicularly relative to two other perimeter beams 16 end-to-end.

[45] Each perimeter beam 16 is an elongate beam member having an internal passage 20 and first channel 22 formed therein. The first channel 22 extends along the length of the elongate beam member adjacent the passage 20. The passage 20 may include ridges 21 on one or more walls.

[46] The first channel 22 can receive connection arrangements for slats such that slats can be releasably coupled to the perimeter beams 16 or other fixing members or devices.

[47] In the illustrated embodiment, the first channel 22 is formed in an in-use inner side such that the first channels 22 of two opposed perimeter beams 16 are facing each other.

[48] The perimeter beam 16 also includes a second channel 24 formed in a top side that can be used for additional securing.

[49] The perimeter beam 16 is substantially D-shaped in profile or from an end view as can be seen in Figure 5.

[50] Each perimeter beam 16 includes an extrusion 17 formed within perimeter beam 16 defining a channel 19 that assists with connecting the perimeter beams 16 together end-to-end. In some embodiments, the extrusion 17 and channel 19 may be omitted.

[51] The perimeter beams 16 may be connected at respective ends by a corner connection assembly to form the frame 18 of the platform 12. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[52] Figures 6 to 11 show a corner connection assembly 26 used to connect the perimeter beams 16 perpendicularly relative to one another. The corner connection assembly 26 includes a corner bracket 28 having two perpendicularly arranged connecting portions 30 connected by a corner portion 32 in the form of a web.

[53] Pairs of the perimeter beams 16 are arranged perpendicularly and releasably connected by the corner connection assembly 26 that is received within the respective perimeter beams 16 to engage an internal surface and retain the perimeter beam 16 in place in relation to the other perimeter beam 16.

[54] The connecting portions 30 may each include a pair of spaced apart legs 34, 36.

[55] The pair of spaced apart legs 34, 36 may be, as illustrated, tapered from an end proximal to the corner portion 32 to a distal end. This tapering of each leg defines a narrowing space between the legs 34, 36 from the distal end to the proximal end.

[56] An outside of each leg 34, 36 may include ridges 38 to increase friction between the legs 34, 36 and an inner surface of the perimeter beam 16.

[57] In the illustrated embodiment, the ridges 38 on the legs 34, 36 are arranged perpendicularly to the ridges 21 of the passage 20 to increase friction between the two surfaces.

[58] The connecting portions 30 each include a tab 31 having an aperture 33 formed therein. The aperture 33 axially aligns with an extrusion 17 formed within a hollow portion of the perimeter beams 16 that defines a channel 19 such that a fastener (such as partially threaded bolt 37) can be received through the aperture 33 and into the channel 19 to provide an additional fastening mechanism between the corner bracket assembly 26 and the perimeter beams 16. In some embodiments, the tab 31 and channel 19 may be omitted. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[59] The corner connection assembly 26 also includes a wedging member 40 to be received between the spaced apart legs 34, 36, and a fastener configured to be inserted through the connecting portion 30 to operably engage with the wedging member 40.

[60] As can be seen, the fastener is received through an aperture formed in the connecting portions 30 such that the fastener is located in a space between the spaced apart legs 34, 36.

[61] The fastener takes the form of a threaded bolt 42 and a nut 44 that engages with a thread of the bolt 42 such that at least a portion of the wedging member 40 is located between a head of the bolt 42 and the nut 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the nut 44 is located within a passage of the wedging member 40.

[62] It will be appreciated that other fasteners and fastener arrangements known in the art may be suitable.

[63] The wedging member 40 may be substantially wedged shaped, frustum shaped or a trapezoidal prism. To provide the necessary wedging effect, the wedging member 40 should be tapered inversely relative to the taper of the legs 34, 36.

[64] In use, when the spaced apart legs 34, 36 of each of the connection portions 30 are located within an end of a respective perimeter beam 16, the tightening of the fastener causes the wedging member 40 to be drawn into the space between the spaced apart legs 34, 36 and towards the corner portion 32 to expand the distance between the legs 34, 36 and urge the legs 34, 36 apart. As a result, the legs 34, 36 flare and engage an inner surface 46 of the perimeter beam 16 and thereby hold the perimeter beams 16 in fixed relation to each other.

[65] The inner surface of the perimeter beams 16 that engages with the spaced apart legs 34, 36 of the corner connection assembly 26 may also, or alternatively, 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 include ridges 21 to increase friction between the legs 34, 36 and inner surface of the perimeter beam 16.

[66] A cover 48 is also provided that partially surrounds the corner bracket 28. The cover 48 may be coupled to the corner bracket 28 by a fastener 50, as illustrated, or a clip arrangement (not shown).

[67] The cover 48 faces outwardly from the corners of the frame 18 and therefore can be secured and removed without interfering with the corner bracket 28 or the perimeter beams 16.

[68] The cover 48 also provides a path for water drainage to prevent pooling and stagnating water that can damage the frame and components.

[69] Referring briefly back to Figure 2, the platform 12 is shown to include a number of slats connected to and extending between opposed and parallel perimeter beams 16. The slats are releasable and adjustable slats to allow for the slats to be rearranged and configured along the frame 18 of the platform 12 as desired.

[70] In the illustrated embodiment, each slat takes the form of an elongate member configured to releasably connect to the frame 18. In particular, the elongate member is configured to releasably connect to two opposed perimeter beams 16 of the frame 18.

[71] These slats may be arranged in an east-west configuration when the platform 12 is in place on top of the vehicle 11. In this context, the east-west configuration should be interpreted where north is substantially towards the front of the vehicle and south is substantially towards the rear of the vehicle.

[72] There are two types of slats provided: a platform slat 52 (Figure 13) and a mounting slat 54 (Figure 16). 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[73] The platform slat 52 is a substantially hollow elongate member 54 having a channel 56 formed in a top side. In use, the channel 56 is located on the top side of the platform slat 52. The channel 56 extends longitudinally or along the length of the elongate member 54.

[74] The platform slat 52 is configured to connect to two opposed perimeter beams 16 at opposed ends.

[75] The platform slat 52 also includes webbing 62 within the cavity and coupling channels 64 extending from the webbing 62. These coupling channels 64 assist with coupling the platform slat 52 to the perimeter beams 16.

[76] The mounting slat 66 is an elongate member 68 that includes a first channel 70 formed in a first side 72 (a top side) and a second channel 74 formed in a second side 76 (an underside). The first channel 70 and the second channel 74 extend longitudinally or along the length of the mounting slat 66. This is distinct from a typical platform slat (described elsewhere) that only includes a single channel formed in the top side.

[77] The first side 72 is opposite the second side 76 and the first channel 70 and the second channel 74 are directly opposed.

[78] The second channel 74 is shaped inversely to a surface of a mounting member (to be described below).

[79] The mounting slat 66 includes apertures 78, 80 extending vertically through the mounting slat 66 and thus connecting the first channel 70 to the second channel 74. The apertures 78, 80 are each configured to receive a fastener therethrough.

[80] It can be seen that the mounting slat 66 includes two elongate side channels 81 formed in opposed sides which are configured to couple the platform 100 to some embodiments of a mounting assembly. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[81] The apertures 78, 80 may be substantially circular and dimensioned to have a diameter substantially equal to or less than a width of an aperture formed in the mounting member (to be described below) in the longitudinal direction of the mounting member. As a result, the diameter of the apertures 78, 80 is less than the length of the apertures formed in the mounting member in the transverse direction of the mounting member.

[82] The platform 12 preferably includes two mounting slats 66 corresponding to two mounting member of a mounting assembly and a number of platform slats 52 as required for the cargo and equipment.

[83] To facilitate releasable connection of the slat to the perimeter beams 16 as mentioned above, a platform connection arrangement is provided.

[84] Figures 19 and 20 show the platform connection arrangement 82.

[85] The platform connection arrangement 82 includes a slat connection plate 84 that is to be connected to each end of a slat.

[86] The slat connection plate 84 is rectangular and includes apertures 86 for receiving a fastener to fasten to a frame connection plate 88 and apertures 90 for receiving a fastener to fasten to a slat. It will be appreciated that the slat connection plate may be of various shapes and configurations, other than rectangular as illustrated.

[87] The slat connection plate 84 may also include a drainage aperture 92 to align with a channel in the top side of a slat.

[88] The platform connection arrangement 82 may also include the frame connection plate 88 that is to be located within a channel (such as channel 22) of the frame 18 for each of the slat connection plates 84. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[89] The frame connection plate 88 includes apertures 94 that align with the apertures 86 for receiving a fastener to fasten the frame connection plate 88 to the slat connection plate 84. The frame connection plate 88 also includes apertures 96 for receiving a fastener to fasten to a slat.

[90] To ensure a secure fit and prevent any unwanted movement, the opposed ends of the frame connection plates 88 are inwardly tapered. That is, opposed ends of the frame connection plate 88 taper or converge. In use, the tapered shape allows the frame connection plate 88 to bend slightly when the fasteners fasten the slat connection plate and the frame connection plate together causing the angled edge of the frame connection plate 88 to bite into the flanges of the frame 18 located between the slat connection plate 84 and the frame connection plate 88. This provides additional slip resistance to loads applied to the slats.

[91] To facilitate drainage and prevent water accumulation, the frame connection plate 88 includes drainage apertures 98 that, in assembly, align with the drainage apertures 92 of the slat connection plate 84 and channels of the slats, ensuring efficient water drainage and minimizing potential damage caused by standing or stagnant water. In use, only one of the drainage apertures 98 will be aligned with the drainage aperture 92 of the slat connection plate 84.

[92] The frame connection plate 88 and corresponding slat connection plate 84 are configured to be fastened together with a portion of the frame 18 located therebetween so that the slat is coupled to the frame 18. An example of this can be seen in Figures 26 to 29.

[93] The releasable fastening of these plates allows the slats to slide along the length of the frame when the fasteners are loosened. The slat connection plate 84 and 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 the frame connection plate 88 clamp a portion of the frame 18 in between when the fasteners are tightened, securely holding the slats in place.

[94] The slats can also be removed, or additional slats added to the platform 12 to accommodate different requirements. For example, the positioning of the slats along the length of the frame 18 can be adjusted to suit different leg mounting positions to the vehicle roof or tub, or to accommodate different spacings to clear vehicle features such as sunroofs or antennas.

[95] Thus, the adjustable slats provide versatility in accommodating different types and sizes of cargo, enabling users to secure their items effectively.

[96] Figures 22 to 25 show the platform connection arrangement in assembly with and connected to a platform slat 52 and a mounting slat 66.

[97] In Figures 30, a mounting assembly 14 is shown. The mounting assembly 14 includes a mounting member in the form of an elongate mounting member 100 connected to feet 102 configured to couple to the roof mounts of a vehicle.

[98] The elongate mounting member 100, shown in Figure 31, is a substantially C-shaped member.

[99] The elongate mounting member 100 includes at least two apertures 104 formed therein at or adjacent each end of the elongate mounting member 100. Put another way, there are at least two pairs of apertures 104 formed at, or adjacent, each end of the elongate mounting member 100.

[100] The apertures 104 are spaced apart along the length of the elongate mounting member 100 to enable the elongate mounting member 100 to couple the platform to the feet.

[101] Each aperture 104 is a transverse substantially rounded rectangle aperture 104. The apertures 104 extend perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the elongate 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 mounting member 100. In use, each aperture 104 at one end receives a fastener therethrough to fasten and thereby couple the elongate mounting member 100 to a slat of a platform and a foot 102 of the mounting assembly 14. Similarly, each aperture 104 at the opposite end receives a fastener therethrough to fasten and thereby couple the elongate mounting member 100 to the slat and a second foot 102 on an opposite side of the vehicle 11.

[102] Figure 32 shows an alignment device 110 that can be used in conjunction with the elongate mounting member 100 to align the apertures of the elongate mounting member 100 with the apertures of the mounting slat 66 to more easily couple the two together using fasteners.

[103] The alignment device 110 is elongate member 112 having spaced apart apertures 114 surrounded by projections 116. The spaced apart apertures 114 are internally threaded and are spaced equally according to the spacing between two adjacent apertures 104 in the elongate mounting member 100 such that the projections 116 can be received within two adjacent apertures 104. In embodiments using the alignment device 110, the alignment device 110 is located within the channel of the elongate mounting member 100 such that the projections 116 are received within the apertures 104 of the elongate mounting member 100. This is illustrated in Figures 33, 34 and 35A which illustrates an elongate mounting member 100 having two apertures 104.

[104] Threaded bolts 67 (or similar threaded fasteners) can then be inserted through the aligned apertures of the mounting slat 66 and elongate mounting member 100 and into the spaced apart apertures 114 of the alignment device 110 to thereby secure the mounting slat 66 and the elongate mounting member 100 together without the use of a nut to hold the bolt 67 in place. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[105] Figure 35B shows another embodiment of the elongate mounting member 100 having an additional aperture 104 coupled to a slat of a platform. In the illustration, the slat takes the form of the mounting slat 66 described elsewhere also having an additional aperture 78. This accommodates different vehicle configurations and arrangements of the mounting feet such that the elongate mounting member and mounting slat can still be easily installed.

[106] As described above, the apertures of the mounting slat 66 are, preferably, substantially circular and dimensioned to have a diameter substantially equal to a width of an aperture 104 formed in the elongate mounting member 100 in the longitudinal direction of the elongate mounting member 100. As a result, the diameter of the apertures in the mounting slat 66 is less than the length of the apertures 104 formed in the elongate mounting member 100 in the transverse direction of the elongate mounting member 100.

[107] The differently dimensioned apertures of the elongate mounting member 100 and the mounting slat 66 and the inversely shaped elongate mounting member 100 and second channel 74 of the mounting slat 66 allow the position and pitch of the elongate mounting member 100 relative to the mounting slat 66 to be readily varied. In particular, the pitch (angle) of the elongate mounting member 100 relative to the mounting slat 66 can be adjusted to allow for different angles for the feet 102 to be secured to the vehicle 11 (see Figures 36 and 37). The angle of the elongate mounting member 100 can be measured as an offset angle 0 between centreline of the elongate mounting member 100 defined by a longitudinal axis (indicated by line A in Figures 36 and 37) of the elongate mounting member 100 and a centreline of the mounting slat 66 defined by a longitudinal axis (indicated by line B in Figures 36 and 37) of the mounting slat 66. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[108] Advantageously, the elongate mounting member 100 allows for the feet 102 and elongate mounting member 100 to be secured to the top of the vehicle prior to the platform 12 being installed. This modular installation allows for the various feet mounting variations to be easily installed and aligned on the vehicle prior to the platform installation.

[109] As noted above, an embodiment of the elongate mounting member 100 having an additional aperture 104 is shown in Figure 35B. Embodiments having more than two apertures allows for the position of the roof rack feet to be adjustable along the length of the elongate mounting member (i.e., the width of the platform) to suit varying vehicle mounting positions.

[110] In use, an embodiment of the mounting slat 66 is located on top of the elongate mounting member 100 such that the elongate mounting member 100 is located within the second channel 74 of the mounting slat 66. The respective apertures of the mounting slat 66 and elongate mounting member 100 are aligned and the mounting slat 66 is then coupled or fastened to the elongate mounting member 100 by fasteners 108 received through the aligned apertures. This may or may not include using the alignment device 110. In some embodiments, the fasteners may include threaded bolts and nuts whereby the bolt extends through the apertures and into the second channel 74 of the elongate mounting member with the nut threaded onto the bolt to hold the bolt in place and thus fix the elongate mounting member 100 relative to the mounting slat 66.

[111] Figure 39 shows a vehicle rooftop rack assembly 2 mounted on a rooftop of a vehicle 11 according to another embodiment.

[112] The vehicle rooftop rack assembly 2 includes the platform 12 (as described above) for supporting equipment and cargo and attaching said equipment and cargo 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 thereto for transport. The vehicle rooftop rack assembly 2 also includes a mounting assembly 118 for coupling to the roof of the vehicle 11.

[113] In use, the platform 100 is coupled to the mounting assembly 118 which in turn couples to the roof mounts of the vehicle 11.

[114] Returning briefly to Figure 16, it can be seen that the mounting slat 66 includes two elongate side channels 81 formed in opposed sides which are configured to couple the platform 100 to the mounting assembly 20.

[115] Figure 40 shows a mounting adaptor 140 that forms part of a mounting adaptor assembly 120 of the mounting assembly 118.

[116] The mounting adaptor assembly 120 acts as an intermediate adaptor between the feet 102 and standard crossbar 156, and the platform 12 and, in particular, the mounting slat 66.

[117] The mounting adaptor 140 includes a rectangular base 142 having a planar surface and an arcuate portion 144 connected thereto. The mounting adaptor 140 also includes a central aperture 146 extending through the rectangular base 142 and the arcuate portion 144.

[118] There are also apertures 147 located at opposed ends of the rectangular base 142 to allow for brackets (to be described below) to be fastened thereto.

[119] Turning now to Figures 41 and 42, there is shown a mounting bracket 148 having a base 150 and a formation 152 extending therefrom that is complementary and inverse to the shape of the elongate side channels 81 of the mounting slat 66 such that the formation 152 operably engages with the elongate side channel 81 when the formation 152 is inserted therein to hold the mounting slat 66 in fixed relation to the mounting bracket 148.

[120] An aperture 154 is formed in the base 150 for receiving fasteners therethrough. 2025204810   22 Sep 2025

[121] The mounting bracket 148 provides an alternative means to fasten a platform to various crossbars or other mounting systems. The mounting bracket 148 is designed to easily insert into the mounting slat side channel 81 and rotate in and provide a close (friction) fit when installed.

[122] In Figure 43, there is shown the mounting adaptor assembly 120 including the mounting bracket 148 and the mounting adaptor 140. The mounting bracket 148 is shown coupled to a mounting slat 66. Figures 44 to 46 show the mounting assembly 20 being assembled.

[123] As set out above, the mounting bracket 148 includes a formation 152 that is complementary and inverse to the shape of the elongate side channels 81 of the mounting slat 66. In use, a formation 152 of a mounting bracket 148 is located within each elongate side channel 81. Apertures 154 formed in the base 150 of the mounting bracket 148 are then aligned with corresponding apertures in the mounting adaptor 140 and the mounting bracket 148 and mounting adaptor 140 are fastened together. The fastener takes the form of a threaded bolt and nut but any suitable fastener may be used.

[124] Figures 47 and 48 show the mounting assembly 118 including the mounting adaptor assembly 120 in use with a standard crossbar 156 having a curved profile that substantially matches the profile of the arcuate portion 144 of the mounting adaptor 140. The mounting adaptor 140 can therefore rest atop the and be fastened thereto.

[125] The crossbar 156 is coupled to a pair of feet 102 that couple to the vehicle rooftop.

[126] In Figures 49 and 50, another embodiment of a mounting assembly 158 is shown. In this embodiment, the mounting assembly 158 includes only the mounting 2025204810   22 Sep 2025 bracket 148 and the mounting slat 66 coupled to a flat surface 160 by fasteners extending through the mounting bracket 148 and flat surface 160.

[127] In Figure 51, a fixing tab assembly is shown. The fixing tab assembly includes a fixing tab 164 having a base 166 and an apertured tab projection 168. The base 166 fastens to a channel member 170 located in the first channel 22 of the perimeter beam 16 such that a portion of the perimeter beam 16 is located therebetween to secure the fixing tab 164 in place.

[128] In Figure 52, a cover 172 is shown. The cover 172 is configured with grooves shaped inversely to flanges of the perimeter beam 16 defining the first channel 22 such that the cover 172 can be connected to the perimeter beam 16. This allows electrical cabling, for example, to be securely located within the first channel 22.

[129] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term “comprises” and its variations, such as “comprising” and “comprised of” is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features.

[130] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

[131] The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A platform having a plurality of releasable slats for a vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the platform having a frame and a plurality of slats releasably connected to the frame, wherein:the slats have a channel formed therein for attaching items thereto;the frame includes a first channel configured to receive the slats and the frame includes the first channel on an inner side of the frame;each slat of the plurality of slats comprises an elongate member configured to releasably connect to the frame;each longitudinal end of the slat or elongate member includes a platform connection arrangement for releasably connecting each end of the slat to the platform; and,the platform connection arrangement includes a slat connection plate that is connected to each end of the elongate member.

2. The platform of claim 1, wherein the slats can be connected to the frame along opposed sides of the frame.

3. The platform of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each slat can be connected at any point along opposed sides of the frame.

4. The platform of claim 1, wherein the platform connection arrangement further includes a frame connection plate that is located within a channel of the frame for each of the slat connection plates, wherein the frame connection plate and slat connection plate are configured to be fastened together with a portion of the frame located therebetween.2025204810   22 Jun 20265. The platform of claim 4, wherein opposed ends of the slat connection plates are inwardly tapered.

6. The platform of claim 5, wherein the channel is formed in a top side of the slat.

7. The platform of claim 6, wherein the channel is a C-channel.

8. The platform of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the slat includes a pair of opposed channels formed in opposite sides of the slat.

9. The platform of claim 1, wherein the slat connection plates include an aperture formed therein for drainage, wherein the slat connection plates are configured such that when connected to the slat, the aperture is aligned with the channel of the slat to facilitate water drainage from the channels thereby preventing water accumulation and damage.

10. The platform of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the platform includes a mounting assembly for the vehicle rooftop rack assembly.

11. The platform of claim 10, wherein the mounting assembly includes a pair of feet for connecting to a vehicle rooftop and an elongate mounting member extending between the feet configured to connect the feet to a platform.

12. The platform of claim 11, wherein the elongate mounting member includes at least two apertures formed therein, wherein the at least two apertures receive fasteners to fasten the mounting assembly to a slat of a platform.

13. The platform according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the platform includes a bracket assembly for the vehicle rooftop rack assembly, the bracket assembly including a bracket member configured to abut and / or matingly engage with a slat of a platform.2025204810   22 Jun 202614. The platform according to claim 13, wherein the bracket assembly includes a mounting adaptor, wherein the mounting adaptor is configured to be releasably fastened to the bracket member and a crossbar.

15. The platform according to claim 14, wherein the bracket member is configured such that the bracket member and the slat matingly or reciprocally engage such that the bracket member is received within a complementary shaped receptacle formed in the slat.

16. The platform according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the frame includes a plurality of perimeter beams, wherein pairs of perimeter beams arranged perpendicularly are releasably interconnected by a corner connection assembly.

17. The platform according to claim 16, wherein the corner connection assembly includes a wedging member and a corner bracket having two perpendicularly arranged connecting portions.

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