A securing mechanism for a ladder rack for a vehicle, a ladder rack including said securing mechanism and a method of using same

Abstract

The invention is a securing mechanism for a ladder rack, which is operable as a ladder is loaded onto the ladder rack to automatically secure it in place, and a method of using same. The securing mechanism includes a sliding member which can move back and forth along at least a portion of a guide channel. The sliding member includes a first upright to which a locking mechanism is provided. When a rung of the ladder is urged against the locking mechanism of the first upright, this releases a latch holding the sliding member in place allowing the sliding member to be advanced along the guide channel. As it does so, a second upright pivots into an upright position and advanced sufficiently until a second locking mechanism is engaged to lock the sliding mechanism in place relative to the guide channel. This effectively traps the ladder in place as the respective uprights are positioned between pairs of ladder rungs. The invention eliminates or at least reduces the risk that the ladder is not secured prior to operation of the vehicle. It is also able to be easily operated from the ground.

Description

[0001] A SECURING MECHANISM FOR A LADDER RACK FOR A VEHICLE, A LADDER RACK INCLUDING SAID SECURING MECHANISM AND A METHOD OF USING SAME

[0002] 1. RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application is based on New Zealand Patent Application No. 803701, filed on 14 September 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] 2. FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0005] The present invention relates to a securing mechanism for a ladder rack for a vehicle, a ladder rack incorporating said securing mechanism, and a method of using same. The invention has particular application to a securing mechanism and method of using said securing mechanism to secure or otherwise lock a ladder to the ladder rack.

[0006] 3. BACKGROUND TO THE TECHNOLOGY

[0007] Trades people and industrial workers, such as builders, plumbers, electricians and linesmen, painters and the like, often use ladders in the course of their work. These trades people use vehicles with equipped with ladder racks mounted to their roofs. These are specifically configured to carry the ladders which are often necessary for their work. Such ladder racks are produced by a number of companies, including Prime Design™ (www.rprimedesign.net) and Gentili™

[0008] Although ladder racks can be of varying complexities, in their simplest form, they are typically provided with uprights arranged in pairs lengthways down the roof of the vehicle, each pair supporting cross members. In use, the cross members bear the ladder being transported. To assist in the loading and unloading of the ladders, some ladder racks include rollers at their rearward end or the functionality to allow a portion of the rack to be extended to the rear or to the side of the vehicle for easier access.

[0009] For obvious safety reasons, it is important to ensure that the ladder is adequately secured to the ladder rack prior to driving the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in the damage or loss of the ladder as the vehicle moves off or while in transit. The latter scenario could be particularly hazardous for traffic if the vehicle is being driven on public roads; the ladder may fall rearwards of the vehicle under acceleration or, more commonly, forwards of the vehicle under braking.

[0010] In some instances, users may secure the ladder using tie-downs or cords. As such securing paraphernalia is often lost or easily misplaced, many ladder racks are provided with strapping. However, such methods are contingent on the user remembering to apply the securing mechanism when loading the ladder onto the ladder rack.

[0011] In other instances, users may secure the ladder using clamps or similar structures. This can be relatively time consuming to operate, and like tie-downs and cords, are prone to being lost or misplaced unless integrated with the ladder rack.

[0012] Both clamping mechanisms and tie-down arrangements often require the user to be somewhat elevated from the ground, either by standing on the running boards of the vehicle or on small steps or platforms, which can be undesirable from a health and safety perspective.

[0013] Some ladder racks include integrated locking mechanisms for securing ladders in place but such arrangements may be relatively high maintenance and complex, with attendant manufacturing and cost considerations. Furthermore, such integrated systems may also compromise the overall size of the ladder rack, which potentially places constraints on operating the vehicle in restricted spaces.

[0014] 4. OBJECT OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0015] It is an object of the technology to provide a securing mechanism for a ladder rack of a vehicle, and a method of using same.

[0016] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a securing mechanism for securing a ladder to the ladder rack of a vehicle, and a method of using same.

[0017] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide an easy-to-operate securing mechanism for securing a ladder to the ladder rack of a vehicle.

[0018] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a safe-to-operate securing mechanism for securing a ladder to the ladder rack of a vehicle.

[0019] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a securing mechanism which is operable to automatically secure a ladder to the ladder rack of a vehicle.

[0020] Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a ladder rack with said securing mechanism.

[0021] At the very least, it is an object of the technology to at least provide the public with a useful choice. 5. SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0022] According to one aspect of the technology, there is provided a securing mechanism for a ladder rack, the securing mechanism including: a guide channel configured to receive a sliding member; a sliding member disposed within the guide channel and configured to be slidable along a portion of a length of the guide channel, the sliding member including a forward portion and a rearward portion; a forward upright configured to receive at least a portion of a first rung of a ladder, wherein said forward upright is provided to said forward portion of the sliding member; a rearward upright configured to contact at least a portion of a second rung of the ladder, wherein said rearward upright is pivotally connected to the sliding member to said rearward portion of the sliding member; and wherein the securing mechanism includes a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism, wherein: the first locking mechanism is provided to the forward upright and is operable to prevent slidable movement of the sliding member relative to the guide channel when engaged; and the second locking mechanism is provided to the guide channel and is operable to prevent slidable movement of the sliding member relative to the guide channel when engaged; wherein, when the first locking mechanism is disengaged from the guide channel, the rearward upright is able to pivotally move from a horizontal position to a vertical position as the sliding member moves in a forward direction along a portion of the length of the guide channel until the second locking mechanism is engaged, and when the second locking mechanism is disengaged, the rearward upright is able to pivotally move from a vertical position to a horizontal position as the sliding member moves in a rearward direction along a portion of the length of the guide channel until the first locking mechanism is engaged.

[0023] According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a ladder rack, the ladder rack including: a support frame configured and arranged to be mounted to a roof of a vehicle; and a securing mechanism substantially as described above.

[0024] According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a method of using a ladder rack substantially as described above, the method including the steps of: a) placing at least a portion of the ladder on the securing mechanism; and b) pushing the ladder such that the first rung is urged against the forward upright to disengage the first locking mechanism and causing the sliding member to move relative to the guiding channel in a forward direction until the second locking mechanism is engaged, thereby securing the ladder in place.

[0025] In summary, the invention is a securing mechanism for a ladder rack, which is operable as a ladder is loaded onto the ladder rack to automatically secure it in place, and a method of using same. The securing mechanism includes a sliding member which can move back and forth along at least a portion of a guide channel. The sliding member includes a first upright to which a locking mechanism is provided. When a rung of the ladder is urged against the locking mechanism of the first upright, this releases a latch holding the sliding member in place allowing the sliding member to be advanced along the guide channel. As it does so, a second upright pivots into an upright position and advanced sufficiently until a second locking mechanism is engaged to lock the sliding mechanism in place relative to the guide channel. This effectively traps the ladder in place as the respective uprights are positioned between pairs of ladder rungs. The invention eliminates or at least reduces the risk that the ladder is not secured prior to operation of the vehicle. It is also able to be easily operated from the ground.

[0026] Reference to forward and rearward throughout the present specification should be understood to mean an orientation when a ladder rack incorporating the securing mechanism is secured to a vehicle. Forward in this context means a direction or orientation facing towards the front of the vehicle and rearward means a direction or orientation facing towards the rear of the vehicle.

[0027] The ladder to be secured with the present invention will be understood to have at least a first frame assembly with a plurality of rungs. One rung will be understood to be the end rung, corresponding to either the top rung or the bottom rung of the ladder, depending on which end of the ladder is initially loaded on the ladder rack.

[0028] In some examples, the ladder to be secured may have a first frame assembly with a plurality of rungs and a second frame assembly having a plurality of rungs, wherein the second frame assembly is hingedly connected to the first frame assembly. In other examples, the ladder to be secured may be an extension ladder having a first frame assembly with a plurality of rungs and a second frame assembly having a plurality of rungs, wherein the second frame assembly is slidable relative to the first frame assembly.

[0029] The securing mechanism has a forward portion and a rearward portion, substantially corresponding with the forward end and the rearward end of the frame assembly of the ladder with which the invention is to be used. The forward end of the frame assembly of the ladder should be understood to be the end that is presented to the forward portion of the securing mechanism of the present invention. This may be the top end or the bottom end of the ladder, depending on how it is loaded onto the ladder rack. In examples, the guide channel is an elongate member including a channel running substantially the length of the member.

[0030] In examples, the guide channel has a U-shaped cross-sectional profile, the recess of the profile forming the channel. In one such example, the guide channel is an extrusion of aluminium or other suitable metal or metal alloy. However, it will be appreciated that the guide channel, and one or more of the other components of the securing mechanism may be formed from a composite material in their entirely, or as a coating over a metal skeleton.

[0031] In examples, the guide channel includes a track along which the sliding member may move.

[0032] In this example, the track of the guide channel may include a first portion of track and a second portion of track, wherein the second portion of track is declined relative to the first portion of track.

[0033] In examples, the sliding member has a cross-sectional profile substantially complementary to the channel of the guide channel. In one such example, the sliding member is an extrusion of aluminium or other suitable metal or metal alloy.

[0034] The forward upright is provided to or proximate the forward portion of the sliding member. In one such example, the forward upright is one or more extrusions of aluminium or other suitable metal or metal alloy. In another example, at least a portion of the forward upright may be integrally formed to the forward end of the sliding member.

[0035] In examples, the forward portion of the sliding member is configured with a plurality of recesses or receptacles such that the forward upright may be provided with options for its placement on the sliding member. In examples, a portion of the forward upright is contoured or otherwise configured to receive or otherwise contact one of the rungs of the first frame assembly of the ladder being secured to the ladder rack.

[0036] In examples, a portion of the forward upright is contoured or otherwise configured to receive or otherwise contact a portion of the second frame assembly of an extension ladder being secured to the ladder rack.

[0037] In examples, the first locking mechanism includes a flap or lever pivotally connected to a rearward face of the forward upright.

[0038] In this example, the flap or lever is operable on a latch locking the sliding member in place relative to the guiding channel.

[0039] In this example, the latch is linked to the flap or lever via a rod or arm.

[0040] The rearward upright is provided to or proximate the rearward portion of the sliding member and is mounted to same in such a way as to allow pivotal movement of the rearward upright from a vertical orientation to a horizontal orientation and back again. In one such example, the rearward upright is one or more extrusions of aluminium or other suitable metal or metal alloy.

[0041] In examples, the sliding member may be provided with a clamping mechanism to oppose the rearward upright and engage with opposing surfaces of a rung of the ladder being secured.

[0042] In this example, the clamping mechanism may include a linkage structure connecting it to the guide channel.

[0043] In examples, the second locking mechanism is mounted to an underside of the guide channel.

[0044] In this example, the second locking mechanism includes a latch that engages with a hasp provided to the sliding member.

[0045] In this example, the hasp passes through a slot provided to the underside of the guide channel.

[0046] In examples, the rearward end of the track of the guide channel and the second locking mechanism substantially defines the range of motion of the sliding member relative to the guide channel.

[0047] In examples, the sliding member includes an extension member.

[0048] In this example, the forward upright may be provided to a forward end of the extension member. In this example, the extension member may be temporarily locked in place relative to the sliding member via a locking pin.

[0049] In examples, the support frame of the ladder rack includes at least two longitudinal rails arranged in parallel.

[0050] In this example, the two longitudinal rails are connected by at least two cross-members.

[0051] In this example, a rearward cross-member of the support frame and a forward cross-member of the support frame of the ladder rack includes a mounting surface for the securing mechanism.

[0052] In examples, a forward portion of the support frame of the ladder rack includes an upright retaining structure that receives a portion of the ladder to be carried.

[0053] In examples, a rearward portion of the support frame of the ladder rack includes a horizontal roller.

[0054] Further aspects of the technology, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the technology.

[0055] 6. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] One or more embodiments of the technology will be described below byway of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0057] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a ladder rack including a securing mechanism in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 2 is a side view of the securing mechanism embodiment of Figure 1;

[0059] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the securing mechanism embodiment of Figures 1 and 2;

[0060] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the forward upright of the securing mechanism embodiment of

[0061] Figures 1 to 3;

[0062] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the forward upright of Figure 4;

[0063] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the rearward upright of the securing mechanism embodiment of

[0064] Figures 1 to 3; Figure 7 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the rearward upright of Figure 6

[0065] Figure 8 is a side view of a second embodiment of a securing mechanism in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 9 is an upper perspective view of the forward upright of the securing mechanism embodiment of Figure 8 in a first position;

[0067] Figure 10 is an upper perspective view of the forward upright of Figure 9 in a second position;

[0068] Figure 11 is a lower perspective view of the forward upright of Figure 10;

[0069] Figure 12 is an upper perspective view of the rearward upright of the securing mechanism embodiment of Figure 8;

[0070] Figure 13A is a side view of the rearward upright of Figure 12 in a first position;

[0071] Figure 13B is a side view of the rearward upright of Figure 12 in a second position;

[0072] Figure 13C is a side view of the rearward upright of Figure 12 in a third position; and

[0073] Figure 14 is a lower perspective view of the rearward upright of the second mechanism embodiment of Figure 8.

[0074] 7. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY FORMS OF THE TECHNOLOGY

[0075] 7.1. Ladder Rack

[0076] Referring to Figure 1, this shows a ladder rack, generally indicated by arrow 100, to which one embodiment of the present invention, in the form of a securing mechanism 200, has been provided.

[0077] The ladder rack includes a frame that 102 is configured and arranged to be mounted to the roof, or a portion of the roof, of a vehicle such as a van or pickup truck (not shown). The aforementioned vehicles are commonly used by trades people and industrial workers, such as, in non-limiting examples, builders, painters, roofing contractors, plumbers and electricians and linesmen. Such persons often require the use of a ladder for the course of their work, and as such transport these as and when the need arises.

[0078] The illustrated ladder rack 100 is intended to be directly mounted to the top of a canopy cover (not shown) that is often used to cover and enclose the cargo deck of a utility vehicle. In this example, the ladder rack has a length of approximately three metres, such that the forward portion extends forward of the canopy, above the passenger cab.

[0079] In other examples not shown here, the frame 102 may be mounted to uprights which in turn are mounted to the roof of the vehicle.

[0080] The frame 102 of the ladder rack 100 is composed of a pair of parallel longitudinal rails 104, connected at regular intervals via cross members 106. In the illustrated example, the rails include apertures 108 along their length through which strapping may pass; this strapping may be used to supplement the securing mechanism 200 or may be helpful when transporting other loads that are unable to be used with the securing mechanism 200.

[0081] The ladder rack 100 should be understood to have a forward end F; in use, this is orientated to favour the front end of the vehicle to which the ladder rack is mounted. The ladder rack also has a rearward end R; in use this is orientated to favour the rear end of the vehicle (not shown) to which the ladder rack is mounted. As such the ladder rack has a length dimension that is substantially orientated in line with the length dimension of the vehicle.

[0082] In use, the ladder (not shown) is loaded from the rear end R. The ladder rack 100 is provided with a roller 110 that helps facilitate the loading, and uploading, of the ladder. To help confine / restrain the ladders when being carried, a retaining structure 112 is affixed to the forward end of the frame 102.

[0083] The ladder rack 100 is dimensioned to carry at least two ladders, although only one securing mechanism 200 is shown in place. The configuration of the securing mechanism will become more apparent from the ensuring discussion of same.

[0084] 7.2. One embodiment of the Securing Mechanism

[0085] Turning to Figures 2 and 3, this shows the securing mechanism 200 of Figure 1 separately from the ladder rack. As can be seen, the securing mechanism includes a forward end F and a rearward end R which correspond to the frame of Figure 1.

[0086] The securing mechanism 200 includes a guide channel 202 and, disposed within the guide channel, an elongate sliding member 204 (visible in Figure 3). These may be respectively formed from extrusions of aluminium or similar durable metal or metal alloy readily recognised by a skilled addressee as being suitable for use in the present invention. In some instances, composite materials may be used for their construction. The guide channel 202 has a substantially U-shaped cross-section, defining the channel in which the sliding member 204 is received. It will be understood that the sliding member is able to be advanced back and forth along at least a portion of the length of the guide channel. In some instances not shown here, the respective contact surfaces between the sliding member and the guide channel may be provided with a non-stick coating to better facilitate movement. In further examples not shown here, either alternatively or additionally, the sliding member may be provided with rollers or similar structures that engage with a track provided to the guide member.

[0087] The respective ends F, R of the guide channel 202 are provided with flanges 206 that are mounted to the appropriate cross member of the frame (not shown). These flanges may be fixed in place with fasteners such as nuts and bolts (not visible) in order to mount the securing mechanism 200 to the frame of the ladder rack (not shown in Figures 2 and 3).

[0088] Provided at or proximate the respective ends of the sliding member 204 are the forward 208 and rearward uprights 210. It will be understood that these have respective forward 208F, 210F and rearward faces 208R, 210R.

[0089] In use, the forward upright 208 and rearward upright 210 will contact and bear against the rungs of the ladder (not shown) to be secured and locked in place to the ladder rack (not shown) with which the securing mechanism 200 is to be used.

[0090] In this instance, the rearward face 208R of the forward upright 208 contacts one of the rungs of the ladder (not shown), often the end rung, while the forward face 210F of the rear upright 210 contacts another of the rungs of the ladder. This may or may not be the other end rung of the ladder. Effectively, the respective uprights clamp, i.e. secure the ladder between them.

[0091] The respective uprights 208, 210 are provided with flanges 212, 214 at their upper ends; the relative height of the uprights (which will be recognised as corresponding substantially to or exceeding the depth of the rungs of the ladder) and the depth of the flanges (which will be recognised as corresponding to the height of the rungs of the ladder) are such that they are suitable for use with most commercially available ladders. As will be appreciated, the flanges are intended to at least partially wrap around the rungs of the ladder when in place.

[0092] The configuration of the forward upright 208 shall be better understood from Figures 4 and 5, showing the forward end F of the securing mechanism 200. The forward upright is an upstanding structure formed from aluminium or another suitable metal or metal alloy (it may alternative be configured from composite material, either fully or partially) which is secured at or proximate the forward end of the sliding member 204. The sliding member may be configured with multiple options for placement of the forward upright; this can provide the user with the flexibility to adjust the relative position of the forward upright relative to the rearward upright. It will be appreciated that this may be necessary to allow for differing ladder sizes.

[0093] It will be seen that the rearward face 208R of the forward upright 208 is in the form of a flap or lever that is pivotally mounted at its lower ends to the main body 216 of the upright. The flange 212 is integrally formed to the main body although it will be appreciated that in one example not shown here, it may be a separate part that is secured in place using a fastener or similar. Additionally, in some examples also not shown here, the main body of the upright may be integrally formed with the sliding member rather than a separate structure that is secured to same through welding or other fastening techniques.

[0094] This flap 208R is part of the first locking mechanism 218 of the invention. Referring specifically to Figure 5, it will be seen at the lower end of the flap, a rod 220 or similar structure extends along a portion of the sliding member. At regular intervals along the length of the rod, hooks 222 or latches are provided. These engage with slots (not visible) provided to the underside of the guide channel 202.

[0095] As best shown in Figure 5, the flap 208R is declined to the rear; in this configuration the first locking mechanism 218 is engaged, with the hooks 222 engaged with the slots (not visible), such that the sliding member 204 is unable to be moved relative to the guide channel 202. However, during use, when the ladder (not shown) is being loaded onto the ladder rack (not shown) for transport, the end or uppermost rung (assuming the ladder is being loaded upper end first) contacts and bears against the flap.

[0096] This action urges the flap 208R into an upright position, such that it bears against the main body 216 of the forward upright 208, which in turn advances the rod 220 slightly. The hooks 222 are disengaged from the slots (not visible), such that the sliding member 204 can be advanced forwards as the first locking mechanism 218 is no longer operative on the sliding member. The forward movement of the sliding member may be achieved by the user continuing to push the ladder forward, along the length of the ladder rack (not shown), with the uppermost rung of the ladder continuing to bear against the rearward face, i.e. the flap, of the forward upright.

[0097] Referring to Figure 6 which shows the rearward upright 210 and the rear end R of the securing mechanism 200, this shows a lengthways slot 224 provided to the underside of the guiding channel 202. As can be seen, the sliding member (not visible) is provided with a hasp 226 that depends downwards and keys into the slot. This hasp interacts with a latching mechanism 228, mounted to the underside of the guide channel, to lock the sliding member in place relative to the guide channel. It should be understood that this latching mechanism 228 is the second locking mechanism of the invention and when engaged, prevents forward and rearward movement of the sliding member (not visible in Figure 6). The invention 200 is configured such that when one or the other of the locking mechanisms is engaged, i.e. locking the sliding member to the guide channel, the other of the locking mechanisms is disengaged.

[0098] As the sliding member (not visible in Figure 6) is advanced forward, this hasp 226 meets and engages with the latch 230 of the latching mechanism 228. Note that the latching mechanism defines the forward end of the range of motion possible by the sliding member, i.e. halts any forward movement of the sliding member, which is locked in place once the second locking mechanism is engaged.

[0099] As will be appreciated, once the second locking mechanism, i.e. latching mechanism 228 has been engaged, the rearward upright 208 is in a substantially vertical position between adjacent rungs of the ladder. This means that any rearward momentum that may be created as the vehicle (not shown), to which the ladder rack (not shown) incorporating the present securing mechanism is mounted, moves. This urges the rung in front of the rearward upright backwards, against the forward face 210F of the rearward upright. It is held in place and unlikely to fall off the vehicle unless there is a material failure of the upright. Similarly, any forward momentum that may be created as the vehicle slows under braking, urges the rung behind the forward upright against its rearward face. It too is held in place.

[0100] It will be seen that the latching mechanism 228 includes an arm 232 extending to one side of the guide channel 202. In use, a strap or length of cable (not shown) may be connected to this arm. When the user wishes to disengage the latching mechanism, i.e. the second locking mechanism, which is required when unloading the ladder, they may pull on the strap. This retracts the latching mechanism allowing the sliding member (not visible) to be advanced rearwards. If necessary, the user may grab the rearward upright 210, using it as a grip to move the sliding member to the rear until it reaches its rearward end of the range of motion possible by the sliding member. This operation is able to be easily performed without the user needing to stand on a platform or running boards of the vehicle.

[0101] Figure 7 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the rearward upright 210, better showing how it is able to be pivoted from an upright position to a horizontal position.

[0102] As can be seen, the rearward upright 210 is substantially an L-shaped member, the short arm 234 being provided with rollers 236, 238 or guide pins at either end of its length; these are the forward and rear rollers respectively. These may move along the first portion 240A of the track 242 defined by the interior of the guide channel 202. The axle 244 of the forward roller provides the connection point that links the sliding member 204 and the rearward upright.

[0103] The long arm 246 of the L-shaped member of the rearward upright 210 essentially forms the main portion of the upright, against which the rungs of the ladder (not shown) bear in use. Note that although the rearward upright is formed from a plate of aluminium or similar metal that is extruded as a plate and then bent into the desired profile such that in examples not shown here, it may be a frame- or lattice-type member, i.e. with cutouts, to reduce the amount of materials used. Similar considerations may be given to forming the guide channel and sliding member. It may alternatively be formed from a composite material, either fully or partially.

[0104] The guide channel 202 includes a plate 248 depending downwards, the plate including a slot 250 that receives the rearmost roller 236 in a cam-like arrangement. This slot forms a second portion 240B of the track which is declined relative to the first portion 240A of the track.

[0105] It will be appreciated that rearward movement of the sliding member 204 causes the rearward upright 210 to pivot from a vertical position, as shown in Figure 7, to a horizontal position, once the rear roller 236 reaches the slot 250 of the downwardly depending plate 248 of the guide channel 202. The slot provides the necessary space for the rear roller to move into, thereby translating the rearward movement of the sliding member into downwards / rotational movement of the rear roller (until it reaches the end of the slot).

[0106] This pivotal action, of the rearward upright 210 moving from a vertical orientation into a horizontal orientation, effectively disengages the rearward upright from the ladder (not shown) being secured. As such, the user to able to remove the ladder from the ladder rack. Conversely, the operation of the invention 200 takes advantage of the forward momentum that is created by the ladder (not shown) as it is loaded on the ladder rack (not shown) from the rear of the vehicle (not shown) to operate the second locking mechanism once the sliding member has reached the limit of its forward range of movement.

[0107] To make the operation of the invention 200 easier when loading the ladder, some spring assistance may be provided to the securing mechanism. For example, the housing portion of a gas strut (not shown) may be mounted to the flange (206 in Figure 7) provided to the rear of the guide channel 202 while the piston (not shown) may be connected to the rear face 210R (or an adjacent surface) 210A of the rearward upright 210. This will assist the user as they apply a pushing force as they load the ladder, urging the rearward upright from a horizontal position to a vertical position as the sliding member moves forward. As discussed in respect of Figure 6, the range of motion possible by the sliding member 204 is determined by the position of the second locking mechanism 228 and the end of the slot (250 in Figure 7) of the downwardly depending plate (248 in Figure 7) of the guide channel 202. In some instances, this in turn may determine the size of the ladder that may be safely transported by the ladder rack.

[0108] It should be noted that in the illustrated example of the present invention as shown in Figure 4, the sliding member 204 is actually a two-part structure, comprising an inner extension member 204A and an outer member 204B. In this example, the forward upright 208 is integrated or otherwise formed as part of the inner member.

[0109] A pin 252 locks the inner member 204A in place relative to the outer member 204B; this pin can be disengaged such that the inner member is able to be advanced forward relative to the outer member. When this feature is present, this increases the functionality of the invention 200 by allowing it to be used with larger extension ladders if necessary. In these scenarios, the extra length of such ladders may be accommodated through the use of the inner extension member being advanced forward relative to the outer member.

[0110] 7.3. A further embodiment of the Securing Mechanism

[0111] Referring to Figure 8, a second embodiment 300 of the securing mechanism of the present invention is shown. It should be noted that like numerals are used to identify like features of the previous embodiment described.

[0112] As with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 8, the securing mechanism 300 includes a guide channel 202 having a forward end F and a rearward end R. Within the guide channel is disposed an elongate sliding member (not fully visible but identified as 204 in other figures), is disposed. This is extendable if desired using the inner extension member 204A, which is received within the sliding member. The sliding member is provided with a forward upright 208, mounted to the outer member (not fully visible but identified as 204B in other figures) of the sliding member and rearward upright 210. In principle, the operation of this embodiment of the securing mechanism is much the same as previously described in respect of the arrangement of Figures 1 to 8, although there are some differences between the two as will become apparent.

[0113] The forward upright 208 of this embodiment of the securing mechanism 300 is shown in Figure 9. As can be seen, in contrast to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 8, the forward upright is positioned towards, but not at, the very end of the sliding member 204. The architecture of the forward upright also differs with the rearward face 208R being more contoured to receive the rung of the ladder (not shown) in use, although this is still pivotable relative to the flange 212 and main body 216. As the ladder rung is urged against this rearward face, a latch (not visible) is disengaged from the underside thereby allowing the sliding member to be advanced relative to the guide channel 202.

[0114] An additional feature of the forward upright 208 is the presence of a pivotal 'tail' 302, essentially an extension member, that pivots from a horizontal position, as shown in Figure 9 to a vertical position, as shown in Figure 10. In the upright position, this extension member substantially closes off the area or enclosure A, defined by the extension member, the flange 212 and the main body 216, which in use receives the ladder rung (not shown). This acts to limit any minor back and forth movement of the ladder that may occur while the vehicle is moving. In some examples, not shown here, the interior surfaces defining the area or enclosure may be coated with a rubber material or similar for noise reduction purposes.

[0115] As will be seen, the extension member 302 has an upper portion 302A that extends to a height that is greater than the forward upright 208. This is deliberate and is intended for use with extension ladders (not shown).

[0116] It will be understood that extension ladders (not shown) are formed from two (or more) frame assemblies, one being slideable relative to the other to increase the height of the ladder in use. When the securing mechanism 300 is used with extension ladders, it will be understood that the ladder is effectively two layers; a first layer formed by one frame assembly and a second layer formed by the other frame. In use, the rung of the first layer (or lower layer when the ladder is in a horizontal condition) of the extension ladder is received in area A of the forward upright 208. The second layer (or upper layer) is caught by the upper portion 302A of the extension member 302.

[0117] The entire forward upright 208 is provided as a removable assembly to allow the user to optimise its placement, relative to the sliding member 204, depending on the overall length of the ladder that is to be secured using the securing mechanism 300. Referring to Figure 11, showing an underside view of the guide channel 202 with the sliding member 204 in place, it will be seen that the forward upright 208 is located in a region demarcated by opening 304A and loops 304B. A second opening 306A and loops 306B demarcates a second region in which the forward upright may be positioned and secured with bolt and nut combination 308 if desired (for example, when transporting a smaller ladder).

[0118] The rearward upright 210 of the securing mechanism 300 is shown in Figure 12. Mounted substantially at the rearward end of the sliding member 204 which is disposed within the guide channel 202, its general architecture is much the same as previously described, including a front facing side 210F, a rearward facing side 210R, and a flange 214.

[0119] However, this embodiment 300 includes a clamping mechanism 310 which is intended to clamp or otherwise bear down a rung of the ladder (not shown) to secure it in the region B between the clamping mechanism and the rearward upright 210. This assists in securing the ladder and potentially minimise vibrations of same during transport.

[0120] Turning now to Figure 13A, this shows a side view of the rearward upright 210 in its unlocked configuration, i.e. prior to the loading of the ladder (not shown) to be secured. As such, it is orientated substantially horizontally, with the flange 214 and the forward facing side substantially flush with or below the upper surface of the guide channel 202 in profile. Similarly, the clamping mechanism is orientated substantially horizontally such that it is substantially flush with the upper surface of the guide channel in profile.

[0121] In Figure 13B, the rearward upright 210 is shown as it would be as the ladder (not shown) is being loaded and is partway through the range of motion caused as the sliding member (not visible) moves relative to the guide channel 202. As the sliding member (not visible) moves, this urges the clamping mechanism 310 into an upright position, with its rearward facing side 310R opposing the forward facing side 310F of the rearward upright.

[0122] Figure 13C shows the rearward upright 210 and clamping mechanism 310 in their substantially vertical orientation, in which it is locked in place, thereby securing the ladder in place. At the location of the rearward upright and clamping mechanism, it will be understood that the rung of the ladder (not shown) trapped therebetween is held on both sides. This provides greater security for the ladder during transportation.

[0123] Returning to Figure 12, it will be appreciated that a linkage structure 312 connects the clamping mechanism 310 to the guide channel 202. However, the clamping mechanism itself is pivotally mounted to the sliding member 204. Hence, as the sliding member is advanced forward through the pressure of the ladder (not shown) against the forward upright (not shown), this urges the clamping mechanism into its substantially vertical position. However, in some examples not shown here, the clamping mechanism may be linked to the rearward upright in such a way that as the rearward upright moves into a substantially vertical position, the clamping mechanism correspondingly moves into a substantially upright position as well. Referring to Figure 14, this shows a view of the underside of the securing mechanism 300 of Figure 8. In this view, it will be seen that the track 242 provided to the guide channel 202 still has a distinct first portion 240A and second portion 240B which is declined or otherwise orientated substantially vertically relative to the first portion. However, it will also be seen that the plate 248 defines more of the first portion of the track than the arrangement of Figure 7.

[0124] In addition, the second portion 240B of the track 242 has a more arcuate path for the rearmost roller 236 to move into the slot 250 than that shown in Figure 7. This may provide for a more smooth movement as the rearward upright 210 and clamping mechanism 310 transitions between a vertical orientation, as shown here, to a horizontal orientation, in which the rearward upright and clamping mechanism is disengaged from the ladder, allowing its removal from the ladder rack (not shown).

[0125] Also shown in Figure 14 is the arm 323 of the latching mechanism 228 extending through the side of the guide channel 202. This is operative via the cable 314; to release the latching mechanism and thereby unlock the rearward upright 210 and clamping mechanism 310, the user pulls on the cable. The sliding member is then free to be moved rearwards, by the user grasping a portion of the rearward upright or another element that is connected to the sliding member (not visible), urging the rearward upright and clamping mechanism from the substantially vertical orientation into a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0126] From the preceding, it will be understood that the present invention offers a reliable securing mechanism that locks a ladder to a ladder rack for transport by vehicle. Adaptable for use with ladders of differing sizes, it is easy and intuitive to operate.

[0127] 7.4. Other Remarks

[0128] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

[0129] The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above and below, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

[0130] Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world. The technology may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

[0131] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0132] It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technology and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present technology.

Claims

8. CLAIMS1. A securing mechanism for a ladder rack, the securing mechanism including: a guide channel configured to receive a sliding member; a sliding member disposed within the guide channel and configured to be slidable along a portion of a length of the guide channel, the sliding member including a forward portion and a rearward portion; a forward upright configured to receive at least a portion of a first rung of a ladder, wherein said forward upright is provided to said forward portion of the sliding member; a rearward upright configured to contact at least a portion of a second rung of the ladder, wherein said rearward upright is pivotally connected to said rearward portion of the sliding member; and wherein the securing mechanism includes a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism, wherein: the first locking mechanism is provided to the forward upright and is operable to prevent slidable movement of the sliding member relative to the guide channel when engaged; and the second locking mechanism is provided to the guide channel and is operable to prevent slidable movement of the sliding member relative to the guide channel when engaged; wherein, when the first locking mechanism is disengaged from the guide channel, the rearward upright is able to pivotally move from a horizontal position to a vertical position as the sliding member moves in a forward direction along a portion of the length of the guide channel until the second locking mechanism is engaged, and when the second locking mechanism is disengaged, the rearward upright is able to pivotally move from a vertical position to a horizontal position as the sliding member moves in a rearward direction along a portion of the length of the guide channel until the first locking mechanism is engaged.

2. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guide channel is an elongate member including a channel running substantially the length of the member.

3. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 2, wherein the guide channel has a U-shaped cross- sectional profile, the recess of the profile forming the channel.

4. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the sliding member is disposed within the channel.

5. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 4, wherein the sliding member has a cross-sectional profile substantially complementary to the channel of the guide channel6. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first locking mechanism includes a flap or lever pivotally connected to a rearward face of the forward upright.

7. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 6, wherein the flap or lever is operable on a latch locking the sliding member in place relative to the guiding channel.

8. The securing mechanism as claimed in either claim 6 or claim 7 , wherein the forward upright is configured with an extension member arranged to be pivotally movable between a horizontal position to a substantially vertical position when the flap or level pivots.

9. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second locking mechanism is mounted to an underside of the guide channel.

10. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 9, wherein the second locking mechanism includes a latch that engages with a hasp provided to the sliding member.

11. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 10, wherein the hasp passes through a slot provided to the underside of the guide channel.

12. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one claims 1 to 11, wherein the second locking mechanism is configured with a release mechanism.

13. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the guide channel includes a track having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion is declined relative to the first portion.

14. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 13, wherein the sliding member is configured to move along the first portion of the track and the second portion of the track.

15. The securing mechanism as claimed in either claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the rearward end of the track of the guide channel and the second locking mechanism substantially defines the range of motion of the sliding member relative to the guide channel.

16. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the sliding member includes an extension member.

17. The securing mechanism as claimed in claim 16, wherein the forward upright is provided to a forward portion of the extension member.

18. The securing mechanism as claimed in either claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the extension member is temporarily locked in place relative to the sliding member via a locking pin.

19. The securing mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the rearward upright is provided with a clamping mechanism to engage with at least a portion of a rung of the ladder being secured.

20. A ladder rack, the ladder rack including: a support frame configured and arranged to be mounted to a roof of a vehicle; and a securing mechanism as claimed in claim 1.

21. The ladder rack as claimed in claim 20, wherein the support frame includes at least two longitudinal rails arranged in parallel and connected by a rearward cross member and a forward cross member.

22. The ladder rack as claimed in claim 21, wherein the rearward cross member and forward cross member includes mounting surfaces for the securing mechanism.

23. The ladder rack as claimed in any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein a rearward portion of the support frame includes a horizontal roller.

24. A method of using a ladder rack as claimed in claim 20, the method including the steps of: a) placing at least a portion of a ladder having a first rung on the securing mechanism; and b) pushing the ladder such that the first rung is urged against the forward upright to disengage the first locking mechanism and causing the sliding member to move relative to the guiding channel in a forward direction until the second locking mechanism is engaged, thereby securing the ladder in place.

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