Vehicle canopy

Abstract

A frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: a front end panel and a rear end panel each attachable to a respective end of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably attached to respective end panels by fastenings, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels by fastenings, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto, and the fastenings between the side panels, the end panels and the at least one roof panel are disposed on the interior of the canopy when assembled such that the fastenings are hidden from outside the assembled canopy.

Description

VEHICLE CANOPYRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The content of Australian provisional patent application no. 2024901916 as filed is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The invention relates to a canopy, a kit of parts for a canopy and a method of assembling a canopy, in particular a canopy for a vehicle having a tub.BACKGROUND

[0003] Vehicle tubs are partially enclosed cargo areas or beds equipped at the rear of utility vehicles, useful for carrying (often bulky) items / loads such as gear, tools, building supplies and recreational equipment, such as tents, fridges and the like. Vehicle tubs generally have short walls defining a perimeter about an open area, and are therefore exposed to the elements, limiting the items that may be stored and transported within. Canopies, typically referred to as vehicle canopies, are coverings which can be positioned over a vehicle tub to provide shelter to the cargo area. Such canopies provide for not only increasing the storage capacity of a vehicle tub, but also for protection of items stored therewithin. However, conventional vehicle canopies have a number of shortcomings.

[0004] For extremely bulky or awkward items which cannot fit inside a vehicle tub, even one to which a vehicle canopy is attached, it is desirable to store such items atop the roof of the vehicle. For utility vehicles, the roof space is often reduced due to the inclusion of the partially enclosed cargo area. Accordingly, when a canopy is fitted to the vehicle, this canopy can provide / envelop a portion, if not the majority, of the roof space of the vehicle. Vehicle canopies are generally made from fiberglass, however, and so lack the requisite strength to support items positioned atop the roof of the canopy. Some canopies are formed from steel, and can thereby support greater roof loads in comparison, but are naturally heavy in weight, making for an otherwise undesirable canopy type at least in part due to the reduction in fuel efficiency their weight causes.

[0005] Existing vehicle canopies, when positioned atop a vehicle tub, do not provide an effective seal of the canopy and / or cargo area. This is due in part to air displaced by the vehicle when travelling creating an effective vacuum or low-pressure region which forces displaced contaminated air into the vehicle tub and canopy. This problem is especially apparent forcanopy-equipped utility vehicles travelling at high rates of speed, on dirt or gravel roads, or in otherwise off-road locations.

[0006] Utility vehicles are typically driven by tradespeople including persons with a need for storing and / or transporting tools and equipment, and by those involved with outdoor and adventure activities. Equipment used in these endeavours, and stored in utility vehicles, can be expensive and present a risk of theft. Some vehicle canopies offer locking to secure items stored within. It is advantageous for a tradesperson or the like to access the required tool / equipment through multiple windows / doors in the canopy for efficiency, so as to not require removal and replacement of numerous other items blocking the way through a single door. However, locking and unlocking multiple doors and / or windows is a time-consuming process. Tradespeople accessing tools stored in a vehicle canopy can have their hands full of said tools and equipment, hindering the locking / unlocking procedure. Further, it is easy for a vehicle canopy user to forget which doors and / or windows have already been locked / unlocked, presenting a security risk. Furthermore, doors, windows and other access points into a vehicle canopy are typically small. It is advantageous to allow for greater access to within a vehicle canopy to allow more effective storage and access, and to provide for the loading of bulkier cargo.

[0007] Finally, vehicle canopies are typically of entirely functionally driven designs and are not aesthetically pleasing. For canopy users and potential customers, improving the aesthetics of a canopy can result in an increased desire to equip that canopy to a utility vehicle, especially where the canopy provides the potential for altering the look of the vehicle such that it appears more streamlined, professional and / or legitimate (in the case of a business-use vehicle).

[0008] The present invention was conceived with the above shortcomings in mind, and aims to provide the public with an improved vehicle canopy and method for assembling such a canopy.SUMMARY

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: a front end panel and a rear end panel each attachable to a respective end of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably attached to respective end panels by fastenings, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels by fastenings, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto, and the fastenings between the sidepanels, the end panels and the at least one roof panel are disposed on the interior of the canopy when assembled such that the fastenings are hidden from outside the assembled canopy.

[0010] In some embodiments, the fastenings between side and end panels and / or between the roof panel and respective side panels and / or end panels include lapping joints which extend inwardly so that the lapping joints are hidden from outside the assembled canopy. Each lapping joint may include a flange extending inwardly from an edge portion of one panel and a flange extending inwardly from an edge portion of an adjoining panel. At least one of the flanges may be substantially L-shaped and include a first portion extending generally at an angle to the plane of the edge portion of the panel, and a second portion extending generally parallel to the edge portion of the panel. The fastenings may include stud plate fasteners each comprising two sections of plate, between which a respective lapping joint is captured. At least one of the side and end panels may include a door, and the fastening between a respective side panel and an adjacent end panel is disposed behind the door, such the attachment between the side panel and the adjacent end panel is hidden by the door. When the rear end panel includes a door, the lower sides of the rear door may include lateral extensions for directing water flow to assist in preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub when the canopy is assembled and attached thereto. The rear door may include a seal provided on an inner side of the door proximate each lateral extension for preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub when the canopy is assembled and attached thereto. The side panels may extend partially about a forward end of the vehicle tub such that, in use, the fastenings between the side panels and the front end panel are hidden by a cabin of the vehicle. Upper edges of the end and side panels may be joined to the roof panel along a join disposed at a top of the canopy which is in the plane of the roof panel such that each join between the end and side panels and the roof panel is hidden when the canopy is viewed in profile. The upper edges of the side panels and the end panels may extend partially toward one another. Two or more panels of the side panels and end panels may include a door, and each door may include a lockable latch for locking the door in a closed position. Actuating the lockable latch of one of the doors may cause each other lockable latch to lock.

[0011] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein; the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and two or more panels of the side panels and end panels include a door, and each door includes a lockablelatch for retaining the door in a closed position, and actuating one lockable latch causes each other lockable latch to lock.

[0012] In some embodiments, each lockable latch includes a latch actuator operable to lock the latch, each latch actuator being remotely operable. The / each door may extend substantially an entire height of the side or end panel. The / each door may extend substantially an entire length of the side or end panel. The / each door may be hingedly openable. The / each door may be slidably openable. The / each door may be substantially transparent. When attached to the vehicle tub, the / each door may extend to substantially abut a portion of the respective side of the vehicle tub. The at least one roof panel may include at least one elongate support extending about a length thereof. At least one elongate support may be disposed on the underside of the roof panel. The or each elongate support may include fixings for removably mounting accessories within and / or above the enclosure.

[0013] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto, and the at least one roof panel includes at least one elongate support extending along a length of the underside of the roof panel, the or each elongate support including fixings for removably mounting accessories within the enclosure.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one of the end or side panels includes at least one anchor for removably attaching the canopy to a chassis of the vehicle. The or each anchor may comprise an attachment plate, bracket, strap or clamp extending downwardly from a lower edge of the respective side or end panel for attachment to the chassis of the vehicle.

[0015] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels and including at least one elongate support extending along a length thereof, the or each elongate support including fixings for removably mounting accessories, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and wherein at least one of the end or side panels includes at least one anchor for removablyattaching the canopy to a chassis of the vehicle, the anchor comprising an attachment plate, bracket, strap or clamp extending downwardly from a lower edge of a respective side or end panel for attachment to the chassis of the vehicle.

[0016] In some embodiments, at least one of the side or end panels includes a vent having an opening through which an airflow can enter the enclosure to pressurise the enclosure. The vent may include a baffle and / or a filter disposed in the opening of the vent to restrict contaminants from entering the enclosure through the vent.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and wherein at least one of the end or side panels includes a vent having an opening through which an airflow can enter the enclosure to pressurise the enclosure, the opening of the vent including a baffle and / or a filter disposed in the opening of the vent to restrict contaminants from entering the enclosure through the vent.

[0018] In some embodiments, the vent is disposed in an upper portion of the front end panel or in the upper end of one of the side panels adjacent to the front end panel.

[0019] Also disclosed herein is a kit of parts for a vehicle canopy, comprising end panels for removable fastening to respective ends of a vehicle tub; side panels for removable fastening to extend between longitudinal edges of the respective end panels and for removable fastening to respective sides of the vehicle tub; a roof panel for removable fastening atop the end and side panels to form an enclosure; and fasteners for removably fastening the panels.

[0020] In some embodiments, each of the panels is stackable with one another in a flat packed arrangement.

[0021] Also disclosed herein is a method of assembly a vehicle canopy in accordance with any one of the aspects of the present invention. The method comprises: removably fastening side panels to longitudinal edges of respective end panels such that the side panels extend therebetween; and removably fastening a roof panel atop the tend and side panels, such that the panels together form a canopy.

[0022] It is contemplated that elements and features of one embodiment can be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further recitation.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of a vehicle canopy in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the canopy shown in Figure 1 ;Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the canopy shown in Figure 1 ;Figures 4 to 9 are projection, sectional and detail view drawings of the canopy shown in Figure 1 ;Figures 10 is a partial front perspective view drawing of the canopy shown in Figure 1 , wherein the canopy is shown partially transparent;Figure 11 is a perspective view drawing of a fastener for the canopy of the present invention;Figure 12 is a side view drawing of the canopy shown in Figure 1 ;Figure 13 is a partial perspective view drawing of the canopy shown in Figure 1 attached to a vehicle tub;Figure 14 is an exploded view drawing of a roof panel of the canopy shown in Figure 1 ;Figure 15 is a front perspective view drawing of the canopy shown in Figure 1 , wherein the canopy includes anchors;Figure 16 is a latch for a canopy door in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;Figure 17 is a sectional view drawing of the latch shown in Figure 15;Figures 18 and 19 are side view diagrams of a vent in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;Figure 20 is a rear partial view drawing of a canopy attached to a vehicle tub in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;Figure 21 is a rear partial view drawing of the rear end panel of the canopy shown in Figure 20; andFigure 22 is a flowchart illustrating a method of assembling a canopy in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings may be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

[0025] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, a limited number of the example methods and materials are described herein.

[0026] Disclosed herein is a canopy 20 for a vehicle 60 having a tub 56. The canopy 20 comprises end panels 10, 12 attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub 56; side panels 14 extending between and removably fastened to edges 10’, 12’ of the respective end panels 10, 12, the side panels 14 being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and a roof panel 18 disposed atop and removably fastened to the end 10, 12 and side 14 panels. The end, side and roof 10, 12, 14, 18 panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub 56 when attached thereto.

[0027] In this specification, the term "vehicle" is taken to refer to a car or truck having a tub, tonneau, bed or like open storage compartment, typically disposed at the rear of the vehicle, such as, for example, in the case of a utility vehicle ('ute') or pickup truck. Whilst the description will refer specifically to utility vehicles such as 'utes' and / or pickup trucks, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited to such preferments, and that the assembly may also be used with other vehicles having open storage compartments of a similar kind.

[0028] In this specification, the term "canopy" is taken to refer to a covering structure for a vehicle having an (otherwise) substantially open storage compartment as described above. It is understood that such a 'canopy' may also be referred to as a 'cap', 'topper', and / or 'cover'.

[0029] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with particular reference to Figures 1 , 2 and 3. As shown, a frameless canopy 20 forms an enclosure by the joining or fastening of front and rear end panels 10, 12, a pair of opposed side panels 14, and a roof (or top) panel 18. Example embodiments of each of these panels can be seen at Figure 3. Preferably, each panel is formed monolithic or integrally (i.e., of / from a single piece of material) such that the mechanical properties of the panel (and assembled canopy 20) are of high strength and low weight and designed for ease of assembly. Although not shown, it is contemplated that any or all of the end 10, 12, side 14, and roof 18 panels may be formed by two or more joined sub-panels or parts. The panels in the canopy 20 are removably joined (i.e., fastened together), such that the canopy 20 may be dismantled or taken apart for storage (including when not in use and / or when being transported, for example from a factory to a user, prior to installation). When the formed canopy 20, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, is installed or attached atop the tub 56 of a vehicle 60, an enclosure or storage area is formed which combines the storage area or interior defined by the vehicle tub 56 with the storage area or interior defined by the canopy 20. The storage area is enclosed on a lower side by the floor of the vehicle tub, and by the roof panel 18 of the canopy 20 on an upper side. The end and side panels 10, 12, 14 effectively act as substantially vertical extensions to the integral walls of the vehicle tub. Preferably, when the canopy 20 is installed, the canopy 20 together with the vehicle tub form a substantially enclosed storage area, being one without gaps or normally open portions.

[0030] The end panels 10, 12, side panels 14, and roof panel 18 are removably fastened together. To affect the fastening of the panels, it is contemplated that, proximate the point of attachment, each panel includes a lapping joint 48 which overlaps with a corresponding lapping joint 48 of the panel to which it is to be attached. Joints of this type provide additionally rigidity to the frameless canopy 20 by provided a double-thickness seam and through the inclusion of multiple folds in the panel which increase the torsional rigidity thereof. It is contemplated that the / each lapping joint 48 will include a reinforced seam which is generally perpendicular to the face of the canopy 20 and supports the structure in a 'backbone' fashion. The generally perpendicular shape of the joint 48 increases support where the bending moment and shear forces are greatest and therefore most critical for the canopy 20. Accordingly, the joints 48 result in a canopy 20 with increased load capacity and rigidity. The ability to join through a substantially vertical and a substantially horizontal axis also provides additional strength. The lapping joint 48not only adds strength but makes the canopy 20 easier (than existing canopies) to assemble and more (relative to existing canopies) aesthetically pleasing.

[0031] Turning now to Figures 4 to 6 and 7 to 9, examples of the joint 48 can be seen.

[0032] In Figures 4 to 6, it is understood that the joint shown is the joint between the roof panel 18 and end panels 10, 12. The lapping joint 48 is best seen in Figure 6. The lapping joint 48 occurs at adjacent edge portions 18' of the roof panel 18 and edge portions 10', 12' of either end panel 10 or 12. The edge portions 18' and 10', 12' extend toward one another before substantially abutting in an end-to-end fashion. At this point, both portions 18’ and 10’ or 12’ include inwardly extending flanges 11 , 19 which extend in a normal / perpendicular direction from the plane of the roof panel 18 (i.e., bend substantially 90 degrees to become perpendicular with the plane of the roof panel 18) while remaining in abutment. One or more of the flanges 1 1 , 19 are substantially L-shaped having a first flange portion 13 extending from and generally perpendicularly to a respective end portion 10’, 12’, 18’ as described, and a second flange portion 13’ being substantially aligned or parallel with the plane of the roof panel 18 and roof panel edge portion 18’. Each flange 1 1 ,19 remains in abutment and / or in substantial contact with the other as the second flange portions 13’ together extend in one direction parallel to the plane of the roof panel 18 and roof panel edge portion 18’.

[0033] The joint shown in Figures 7 to 9 is the joint between the roof panel 18 and the or both side panels 14. This lapping joint 48 is best seen in Figure 9. In the lapping joint 48 shown in Figure 9, flanges 11 and 19 on edge portions 18' and 14' (corresponding to the roof panel 18 and side panel 14) abut in a similar fashion to the flanges 1 1 , 19 of the lapping joint 48 shown in Figure 6. In Figure 9, the abutting flanges 1 1 and 19 are generally (rather than substantially) L- shaped and have first flange portions 13 which extend inwardly at an inclined angle of approximately 60 degrees from the plane of the roof panel 18. The flanges 11 , 19 also include second flange portions 13’ extending substantially parallel to the edge portions 18', 14' to align an axis of the lapping joint 48 with the plane of the roof panel 18, with each flange 11’, 19’ remaining in close contact with the other, and each flange end portion 13' of the lapping joint 48 remaining parallel to the other. Advantageously, providing the lapping joint 48 in either way as described and as shown in Figure 6 to 9 allows the connection of the edges of each panel 10, 12, 14, 18 to extend toward an interior of the canopy 20 such that these connections cannot be seen. The way in which the generally and / or substantially L-shaped flanges at the edges of the panels abut provides a secure connection between the two panels.

[0034] In preferred embodiments, the fastening between the joints is provided by fasteners. What is meant by fasteners is devices or components which provide mechanical fastening, such as, for example, bolts, screws or other similar fasteners. T urning now to Figures 10 and 11 , it is contemplated that stud plate fastener 42, in particular, will be used as the fasteners 42. A stud plate fastener 42 comprises two sections of plate 43, between which a lapping joint 48 is captured. A series of standard fasteners 45, in this case, bolts, are then placed through apertures in the plates 43 along its length and secured by fasteners 45 (i.e., by threading nuts onto the bolts) to sandwich the joint 48 (and corresponding panels) between the plates 43. Fastening the roof panel 18 to the side panel 14, using a stud plate fastener 42 spreads the load across the stud plate fastener 42 and adds extra clamping pressure which resists torsional twist. Preferably the stud plate fastener 42 is about 120mm in length and comprises at least three fasteners 45. Looking to Figure 10, in particular, it can be seen that a plurality of stud plate fasteners 42 are intended to be distributed across the joints 48 of each pair or group of connected panels. In particular, the fastening between the side panel 14 shown, and the end and roof panels 10, 12, 18, includes ten stud plates 42 (three stud plates 42 for each end panel 10, 11 , and four stud plates 42 for the roof panel 18.

[0035] Advantageously, the canopy 20 disclosed provides for joining / fastening of said panels which is effectively hidden, to improve the aesthetics of the vehicle canopy 20 by providing a seamless appearance. In particular, the arrangement of the panels is such that, as one is walking around the car, it is very hard to notice that the canopy 20 is in fact a canopy made from multiple panels (i.e., a 'modular' or 'flat pack' canopy), and not an integral unit. End panels 10, 12 and side panels 14 are joined to the roof panel 18 along a join disposed at the top of the canopy 20, along the plane of the roof panel 18, such that the join is effectively hidden when the canopy is viewed from profile / side during regular use (i.e., it can only be seen from above). Similarly, and turning now to Figure 12, the fastening of each side panel 14 to the end panels 10, 12 is disposed behind doors 22 such that attachment between the side 14 and end panels 10, 12 is hidden by the seam / frame of the door (retaining only a very small portion of visible join where the door / s 22 end and the join continues to the roof panel 18). Further, and seen best in Figure 13, the side panels 14 extend partially over / about the forward end of the vehicle tub such that, in use, attachment or fastening between the side panels and the front end panel 10 is hidden from view by the cabin 62 of the vehicle (which is contiguous with the front end panel 10). Each join between respective panels of the canopy 20 are further disguised from the viewer by the side 14 and end 10, 12 panels extending partially toward one another such that attachment between the side and end panels 14, 10, 12 is hidden. What is meant by this is that the side 14 and end panels 10, 12 extend, at the upper portions, partially toward the roof panel 18 and thus include curvature and / or a reduced vertical angle as they meet with the roofpanel 18. This is also shown best in Figure 3. Turning back now to Figure 6, this Figure also shows a join between the front panel 10 and roof panel 18, disposed atop the canopy 20. Again, the lapping joint 48 feature provides that this join is hidden when the canopy is viewed in profile. Similarly, Figure 9 shows a join between a side panel 14 and roof panel 18, hidden by its position atop the canopy 20. To improve the fastening of the canopy 20 panels 10, 12, 14, 18 together, respective ends of the panels to be joined are correspondingly shaped to nest into each other, as shown in Figures 4 to 9.

[0036] Figure 13 shows part of a vehicle 60 with the canopy 20 attached to a tub 56 of the vehicle 60 at the rear of a cabin 62 of the vehicle 60 (i.e., not just disposed atop it). It is contemplated that similar fastenings may be used to attach the canopy 20 to the vehicle tub 56 as is used to fasten the panels to one another (e.g., stud plate fasteners 42). Being that the shape of the vehicle tub 56 is dependent upon the manufacturer of the vehicle tub, and may not be controllable, it is contemplated that a simple bolting arrangement will be used. The exact attachment for each canopy 20 and each vehicle tub 56 is understood to be somewhat variable, therefore, but all relevant attachment methods are contemplated by the present invention. To assist in preventing gaps and to create a greater seal between the canopy 20 and the vehicle tub 56, exemplary embodiments of the vehicle canopy 20 include, disposed along a lowermost edge of each of the side panels 14 and end panels 10, 12 a deformable seal (not shown), which, when the canopy 20 is attached to the tub, deforms against the tub to seal the attachment.

[0037] To further improve the aesthetics of the canopy 20, the shape of the front end panel 10 is preferably tailored to match or correspond to the shape of the vehicle cabin 62 to which the canopy 20 is installed. Similarly, the shape of the rear end 12 and / or side panels 14 is preferably tailored to correspond to the contour of the vehicle tub 56, such that the canopy 20 matches and corresponds with the vehicle to give an overall visual impression of being united, or that the canopy 20 is part of the vehicle 60 and not an (aftermarket) addition.

[0038] As shown in Figure 14, the roof panel 18 includes elongate supports 26, for providing increased roof load capacity of the canopy 20. Three elongate supports 26 preferably extend along a longitudinal length of the canopy 20, and are mechanically coupled to the front and end panels 10, 12. Alternatively, the elongate supports 26 may consist of one or more elongate support member 26, arranged across a transverse length of, or extending angularly between, any combination of end 10, 12 and side 14 panels of the canopy 20. Said elongate supports 26 act to strengthen the roof panel 18 to prevent distortion when a load is placed thereon, by increasing the load capacity of the roof panel 18. As shown in Figure 14, the elongate supports 24 are disposed on the underside of the roof panel 18. The elongate supports 24preferably include fixings extending through the rood panel 18 for removably mounting accessories above the canopy. Thereby, roof racks or the like to secure roof loaded items, such as bulky or awkwardly shaped items, may be attached directly to the elongate supports 24, increasing a load capacity of the canopy 20. Additionally or alternatively, the / each elongate support 24 may include fixings for removably mounting accessories such as shelving or holders within the enclosure. The Applicant's testing has shown that fastening the panels in the way described above (using stud plate fasteners 42 and / or lapping joints 48), in combination with the elongate support 26, considerably increases the strength and durability of the assembled canopy 20. In particular, testing has seen the canopy 20 shaken 1 ,620,000 times between 3G to 4G and with a vertical load of 160kg, without failure. These tests have been conducted in both extremely cold temperatures (-30°C) and extremely hot temperatures (50°C) to the same effect. It is further noted that the conventional baseline testing undertaken by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs, typically large international vehicle manufacturers) is undertaken only at 2.5 G, and thus the testing undertaken by the Applicant is to a greater / higher standard than is typical.

[0039] Shown best in Figure 15, the strength or load capacity, and security, of the canopy 20 may be further increased by securely anchoring, with an anchor 50, the canopy 20 to the vehicle's 60 chassis or other structural component. One or all of the front or end panels 10, 12, side panels 14, and roof panel 18 may be anchored. It is contemplated that the anchors 50 may be in the form of attachment plates, brackets, straps, clamps, or similar, extending downwardly from a lower edge of a respective side or end panel. Preferably, the anchor 50 is removable from the vehicle chassis such that the canopy 20 can be removed as desired (e.g., by an end user thereof when not needed).

[0040] Preferably, the canopy 20, is substantially formed of an aluminium alloy due to the strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant material properties thereof. That is, end panels 10, 12, side panels 14, and roof panel 18 are each formed from an aluminium alloy. In particular, exemplary embodiments are formed from 2mm thick aluminium sheet. Using aluminium sheet and sheet of this thickness (being very light gauge sheet) greatly reduces the overall weight of the canopy 20, but is allowably strong and rigid due to the elongate supports 26 (described below) and due to the folding of the sheet. However, alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the canopy 20 is substantially formed from other metals including steel, plastics, or composites. To further improve the finish, wear resistance, and robustness of the canopy 20, the canopy 20 is preferably powder coated using a thermoplastic or thermoset polymer. Additionally, a colour of the powder coating may advantageously be tailored to suit the vehicle to which is canopy 20 is equipped (i.e., providing the canopy 20 as a colour-matched canopy20). The 'strategic' folds and internal bracing of the canopy's panels 10, 12, 14, 18 provide additional strength. The Applicant has undertaken a large variety of 'torture' testing on the canopy 20 (including vertical and diagonal pull testing and static weight testing) and the canopy 20 has endured the testing extremely well. While constructed from only 2mm thick alloy (aluminium alloy metal sheet), and being extremely light weight for its size (the canopy 20 in the Figures weighing only about 65kg), the canopy 20 disclosed herein utilises the precision folding and bracing described to provide rigidity and strength to its shape. Accordingly, the resultant engineered, vehicle-specific, modular, lightweight canopy 20 is provided. The canopy 20 is particularly suited for harsh weather and environmental conditions, such as those which occur in Australia. Despite the canopy 20 being lightweight, it has been engineered to achieve a very high strength-to-weight ratio to withstand a significant amount of weight and stress without breaking or failure.

[0041] Turning back now to Figures 1 and 2, the rear end panel 12 and the side panels 14 have a window or door 21 , 22, openable to provide access through an aperture in each panel. Preferably, the doors 21 , 22 are disposed upon each of the rear end 12 and side 14 panels, thereby providing access to the storage area provided by the enclosure of the canopy 20 from apertures in the panels. Alternatively, doors 22 may be disposed (only) on one or two sides (i.e., one or both of the side panels 14) of the canopy 20. In a preferred embodiment, the front end panel 10 is not equipped with an access door, because this end panel 10 is installed closely to a vehicle cabin 62, such that access via this side would not be effective. To improve the aesthetic appearance of the canopy 20, to provide for heat dispersion from the canopy, and to allow visual access to the interior of the canopy enclosure, one or more of the doors 21 , 22 may be substantially transparent. To provide for this transparency, the doors 21 , 22 may be formed substantially from strengthened glass, or from plastics such as acrylic or polycarbonate.

[0042] Preferably, access provided by the / each door 21 , 22 is as large as possible to provide for ease of loading and unloading, and to improve the aesthetic appearance of the canopy 20. As best shown in Figures 1 and 2, each door 21 , 22 extends substantially the entire height of its front or side panel 12, 14, along the 'Y' direction (being vertically when the canopy 20 is fitted to a vehicle), thereby increasing the access area length vertically / up and down. Similarly, each door 21 , 22 preferably extends substantially the entire length of its front or side panel, thereby increasingly the access area length horizontally / across the length thereof. Further, each door 21 , 22 extends to substantially abut a portion of the respective side of the vehicle tub 56 (in the case of a side foor 22) or vehicle tailgate 66 (in the case of the rear door21 ) when the canopy 20 is installed or attached to the vehicle tub 56 to maximise the access area.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment the doors 21 , 22 are hingedly openable to provide access through an aperture in the panels to the storage area. As shown, a plurality of hinges 58 are provided at the top of the doors 21 , 22, so as to permit opening of the doors 21 , 22 hingedly upwardly. Alternatively, hinges 58 may be provided on either side of the doors 21 , 22, to permit sideways opening of the doors 22 to the left or to the right, or on the bottom of the doors 21 , 22 so as to allow the doors 21 , 22 to swing downwards with respect to the vehicle 60 when opening. Where the hinges 58 are positioned as shown in Figure 12, the doors 21 , 22 may be opened upwardly to allow a user to stand proximate the panel corresponding to that door 21 , 22, and thus facilitate easier access for loading and unloading goods using that door 21 , 22. This is advantageous where the user of the canopy 20 is a tradesperson or the like, and has a requirement to repetitively access the interior of the canopy 20 (such as to access tools or materials stored therein). Alternatively, positioning the hinges 58 toward the bottom of the door 21 , 22 means that, when the door 21 , 22 is opened, it can be positioned extending substantially perpendicularly to the corresponding wall, and thus its interior side can be used as a shelf or bench. In further contemplated embodiments, the doors 21 , 22 may be slideably openable or otherwise accessible in another manner to provide for entrance / access to the storage area / interior of the canopy 20. To retain the doors 21 , 22 in a closed position, each of the rear end 12 and side 14 panels are equipped with a latch 24. As shown in Figure 3, each of the rear end 12 and side 14 panels are equipped with two latches, disposed at opposite ends of the panels individually for stability and security in closing the door 21 , 22. Alternatively, one, or three or more latches may be disposed on the doors 21 , 22 for retaining said doors 21 , 22 in a closed position, such as may be required during travel. Each latch 24 equipped to the doors 21 , 22 is in the form of a compression latch (also referred to as a 'cam latch'), which, as the latch 24 is operated, apply pressure against the door 21 , 22 to hold it in a shut or closed position. Exemplary embodiments of the invention specifically include lever style compression latches 24, such as those shown in Figures 16 and 17. Alternative embodiments are also contemplated, wherein the latch 24 or retaining means is in the form of another type of compression latch (not a lever style compression latch), or in the form of a pin, clamp, tie, or other latching mechanism or retaining means.

[0044] To provide for safety and security of items stored within the enclosure of the canopy 20, each door 21 , 22 is configured to be lockable. A door 21 , 22 on a panel of the canopy 20 may be locked / unlocked by the inclusion of lockable latches 24 (being a latch 24 which can be locked to prevent operation thereof). For example, as shown in Figure 16, the / each lockable latch 24 may be locked / unlocked by inserting a key into a keyhole of the lever portion 25 disposed on the latch 24, and turning the key to actuate a lock of the latch 24. In exemplaryembodiments, the canopy 20 is equipped with central locking, whereby locking / unlocking of a single door 21 , 22 or a single latch 24 actuates equivalent locking / unlocking of each and every other door 22 or latch 24, thereby providing a secure / locked, or accessible / unlocked canopy 20 with a single action. In such an embodiment, it is contemplated that each of the lockable latches24 may include a keyhole and lever portion 25 as described, or may include only a lever portion25 (i.e., a lever portion without a keyhole). In this embodiments, the latches 24 are remotely operable, such as by a fob / keyfob, remote control, or other electronic means. By operating a button on a (key)fob or similar means, the user of the canopy 20 may unlock or lock each door 22 or latch 24 of the canopy 20 simultaneously.

[0045] To effect the locking action of the lockable latch 24, each lockable latch 24 includes a latch actuator 44 operable to lock the latch. The actuator 44 is preferably electrically operable, to allow for the central locking functionality described above. Shown best in Figure 17, when operated (or "fired"), the latch actuator 44 moves an actuator pin 46 thereof axially toward the lever portion 60 of the latch 24, pushing into the lever portion 25 of the compression latch 24, and forcing displacement of the lever portion 25 into a held or locked position, thus preventing the latch 24 from levering open or closed, and thus from operating. Accordingly, when actuated, the actuator 44 overrides a locking or unlocking position determined by the keyed latch 24, and ensures that the / each door 21 , 22 cannot be opened.

[0046] Turning now to Figures 18 and 19, the canopy 20 includes a vent 30 having an opening 28 through which (an) airflow can enter the canopy 20 and enclosure thereof to pressurise the enclosure preventing (other / more) contaminated air from entering the enclosure. During travel, airflow into the vent 30 creates an environment of positive pressure within the enclosure of the canopy 20. This positive pressure prevents contaminated air, including air laden with dust or particles, from being forced into the enclosure through gaps therein, such as screw holes or joins in the panels. The vent 30 includes an inlet 31 in the form of an aperture or hole. The inlet 31 provides access into the opening 28 of the vent 30, in use drawing or guiding air into the opening 28. Once airflow enters the opening 28, via the inlet 31 , the airflow is directed toward a baffle 32. The baffle 32 is for impeding larger dust particles or other particles which enter the vent 30 through airflow from passing through the vent 30 and thus entering into the interior of the canopy 20. The baffle 32 is positioned as a plate inside the vent 30 which provides a partial blockage of the vent 30 passage, such that, when contaminated airflow enters the vent 30, a majority of the airflow impacts the baffle 32, causing contaminants to fall down and out of the opening 28 of the vent 30 and through an outlet 33 at a lower portion thereof. In this way, the outlet 33 acts as a drain for contaminants captured by the vent 30. While contaminants exit the vent 30 via the outlet 33, the airflow can navigate around the baffle 32, after contacting it,and progress into the canopy 20. The vent 30 also includes a filter 34 for preventing the intake of finer dust or other particles into the enclosure though the vent 30. It is contemplated that the filter 34 is provided as a foam or other like porous or fibrous material. The filter 34 is preferably positioned behind that baffle 32, such that any contaminants that inadvertently proceed through / past the baffle 32 are forced through the filter 34 and captured thereby.

[0047] Preferably, the vent 30 is disposed in an upper portion of the front end panel 10 (adjacent the vehicle cabin 62 when the canopy 20 is installed), or in an upper end portion of one of the side panels 14 adjacent to the front end panel 10. As a canopy 20 equipped vehicle 60 is travelling, when the vent 30 is disposed about an upper portion of the front end panel 10 (or adjacent side panel 14) proximate to a forward end of the vehicle tub 56, contaminated air including dust and other particles flows across the top of the vehicle cabin 62 and / or partially downward toward a gap between the forward end of the vehicle canopy, and into the vent 30 via the inlet 31 . Figure 18 shows airflow travelling into the vent 30 removed of dust by the baffle 32 and filter 34.

[0048] During periods of inclement weather, water is prevented from accessing the storage area of the canopy 20 through the inlet 31 of the vent 30 by the sloped or inclined angle of the vent 30 chamber and inlet 31. As shown in Figure 19, water flow, once entered into the vent 30 chamber, is gravitationally pulled towards the bottom of the opening 28 down the sloped chamber provided thereby, and out the exit aperture or outlet 33 (and onto the ground along the outside of the canopy panel 10 and / or vehicle cabin 62) thereby preventing ingress of water to the enclosure of the canopy 20. Alternatively, however, it is contemplated that the vent 30 may be disposed at another position about the canopy 20, such as, for example, on the side panels 14. In alternative embodiments, the canopy 20 may include multiple vents 30, and each vent 30 may be disposed about / on a different panel of the canopy 20. Preferably, the vent 30 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the panel to which it is mounted / comprised, such as is shown best in Figures 18 and 19. Positioning the vent 30 flush as described improves the visual appearance of the canopy 20.

[0049] To further assist in preventing water ingress, some embodiments of the canopy 20 which include a rear door 21 additionally include lower lateral extensions 36 in that door 21 , as shown in Figure 20. The lateral extensions are for directing water flow to assist in preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub 56 when the canopy 20 is assembled and fitted thereto. Each lateral extension 36 is provided at a respective side of the rear door 21 and comprises an extension of the material of the rear door 21 in a direction toward the sides of the vehicle tub 56 at a lowermost portion of the rear door 21 where the door 21 and rear end panel 12 meet thevehicle tub 56. In particular, as can be seen in Figure 20, the extensions 36 serve to extend the rear door 21 , at this portion, over a gap 64 in the vehicle tub 56 where a tailgate 66 of the vehicle tub 56 meets the rear quarter panels / remainder of the rear section of the vehicle tub 56. Preferably, the extensions 36 are provided in a stepped arrangement so as to not interfere with the remaining (upper) shape or sizing of the rear door 21 and rear end panel 12. The extensions 36 are provided such that water running down the rear end panel 12 and rear door 21 is directed away from the gap 64 and thus from entering into the vehicle tub 56. Accordingly, where extensions 36 are included in the canopy 20, water runoff from the canopy 20 is directed down the rear end panel 12 and door 21 , onto the extensions 36 and down onto the exterior of the vehicle tub 56 and down to the ground.

[0050] Turning now to Figure 21 , the rear door 21 may also include a rear end panel seal 23. Preferably, a seal 23 is provided on the under / rear / inner side of the rear door 21 proximate each extension 36, and is attached thereto. The seal is for preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub when the canopy is assembled and attached thereto. The seal 23 preferably matches or at least adheres generally to the form or shape of the extension 36. It is contemplated that the seal 23 is in the form of a foam, rubber or similarly compliant material pad such that, when the rear door 21 is closed, the seal 23 deforms to assist in sealing the door 21 . Inclusion of the seal 23 therefore prevents water ingress about the upper side of the extension 36 and allows the extension 36 to operate effectively as described above.

[0051] The canopy 20 may also include an integrated brake light 54, being integrated into the rear panel 12. An example of such a light is shown best in Figure 1 . The brake light 54 is preferably positioned on the rear panel 12 above the rear door 21 hinges, so that the brake light 54 is not obscured by the rear door 21 being ajar, which is desirable for improving safety when transporting bulky or awkwardly shaped items which require one or more doors to be slightly opened to accommodate the items. Also shown in Figure 1 , the rear panel 12, and / or any doors 21 , 22 of the canopy 20, may optionally include a handle 52 in the form of a handsized cavity. This handle 52 arrangement is preferable to a protruding handle, because it lends the canopy 20 a more integrated appearance, and is more durable. Furthermore, it ensures the panel is substantially flush. What is meant by this is that inclusion of a handle 52 in the form a cavity ensures that, while loading cargo or passing other objects through the panel 12 / door 22 - the handle does not catch, break, or otherwise interfere with the cargo / objects.

[0052] Turning back again to Figure 3, it is contemplated that the canopy 20 may be provided in a kit 40, for self- or shop (e.g., retail or fitter) assembly. What is meant by this is that the canopy, rather than being supplied installed onto a vehicle, or assembled and not on avehicle, may be supplied as separate panels (and fasteners 42). The kit 40, therefore, includes end panels 10, 12 for removable fastening to respective ends of a vehicle tub; side panels 14 for removable fastening to extend between longitudinal edges of the respective end panels 10, 12 and for removable fastening to respective sides of the vehicle tub; a roof panel 18 for removable fastening atop the end and side panels to form an enclosure (the storage area); and fasteners 42 for removably fastening the panels 10, 12, 14, 18. It is contemplated that the kit 40 can be available for purchase by the end user, or to dealerships, fitters, and the like. Preferably, the panels 10, 12, 14, 18 are correspondingly shaped to be stackable with one another in a 'flat packed' arrangement. In this way, each of the panels can be stacked atop one another, thus decreasing the ultimate size of the kit 40, and thereby reducing cost and increasing ease of transportation.

[0053] A method 100 of assembling the canopy 20 (and installing that canopy onto a vehicle tub) will now be described with reference to Figure 22.

[0054] In a 'side and end panels fastening step' step 110, panels 10, 12, 14, 18 are provided. As detailed, the panels may be provided as part of a kit 40, and be provided in a flat- packed / stacked arrangement. Respective side panels 14 of these panels are removably fastened to longitudinal edges of the respective end panels 10, 12 such that the side panels 14 extend therebetween (i.e., each side panel 14 is attached between an edge of each end panel 10, 12 such that the end panels are parallel one another and spaced about thereby, and such that the side panel 14 is substantially perpendicular to both end panels 10, 12). In a next 'roof panel fastening step' step 120, the roof panel 18 is removably fastened atop the end 10, 12 and side panels 14 to form a vehicle canopy 20.

[0055] In exemplary embodiments, the method 100 may further comprise an 'end panel to vehicle tub attaching step' 130 and 'side panel to vehicle tub attaching step' 140, whereby canopy 20 formed in steps 110 and 120 is attaching to a vehicle tub. In step 130, the end panels 10, 12 are removably attached to respective ends of a vehicle tub. Following this step, step 140 dictates that the side panels are removably attached to respective sides of the vehicle tub. After completion of the steps 130, 140, it is understood that the canopy 20 is effectively installed atop the vehicle tub, and therefore forms an enclosure thereatop.

[0056] Summarily, it is to be understood that the canopy 20 as described herein provides several performance advantages and installation improvements over typical, existing canopies. For example, the canopy disclosed herein includes multiple panels which together are fastenable to form an enclosure. In addition, the panels are each aluminium so provide therequisite strength, are corrosion resistant, and are light weight. To connect the panels, the canopy comprises lapping joints and stud / fastener plates between each connected panel and elongate supports along the roof panel. These features together result in both a stronger and more easily assembled canopy. Additionally, the arrangement of the joins and the use of the lapping joints allows the majority of the joins between the panels to be hidden from view, providing the assembly canopy of seamless and sleek appearance. Furthermore, the canopy includes doors in at least one of the panes which are lockable by inclusion of a compression latch and a latch actuator. The latch actuator provides central locking functionality to the canopy. The disclosed canopy also includes a vent which prevents dirty or contaminated air from entering the canopy.

[0057] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.

[0058] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[0059] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word ‘comprise’, and variations such as ‘comprises’ and ‘comprising’, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.LIST OF REFERENCES

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:1 . A frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: a front end panel and a rear end panel each attachable to a respective end of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably attached to respective end panels by fastenings, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels by fastenings, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto, and the fastenings between the side panels, the end panels and the at least one roof panel are disposed on the interior of the canopy when assembled such that the fastenings are hidden from outside the assembled canopy.

2. The canopy according to claim 1 , wherein the fastenings between side and end panels and / or between the roof panel and respective side panels and / or end panels include lapping joints which extend inwardly so that the lapping joints are hidden from outside the assembled canopy.

3. The canopy according to claim 2, wherein each lapping joint includes a flange extending inwardly from an edge portion of one panel and a flange extending inwardly from an edge portion of an adjoining panel.

4. The canopy according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the flanges is substantially L- shaped and includes a first portion extending generally at an angle to the plane of the edge portion of the panel, and a second portion extending generally parallel to the edge portion of the panel.

5. The canopy according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the fastenings include stud plate fasteners each comprising two sections of plate, between which a respective lapping joint is captured.

6. The canopy according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the side and end panels includes a door, and the fastening between a respective side panel and an adjacent end panel is disposed behind the door, such the attachment between the side panel and the adjacent end panel is hidden by the door.

7. The canopy according to claim 6, wherein, when the rear end panel includes a door, lower sides of the door include lateral extensions for directing water flow to assist in preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub when the canopy is assembled and attached thereto.

8. The canopy according to claim 7, wherein the rear end panel door includes a seal provided on an inner side of the door proximate each lateral extension for preventing water ingress into the vehicle tub when the canopy is assembled and attached thereto.

9. The canopy according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the side panels extend partially about a forward end of the vehicle tub such that, in use, the fastenings between the side panels and the front end panel are hidden by a cabin of the vehicle.

10. The canopy according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein upper edges of the end and side panels are joined to the roof panel along a join disposed at a top of the canopy which is in the plane of the roof panel such that each join between the end and side panels and the roof panel is hidden when the canopy is viewed in profile.11 . The canopy according to claim 10, wherein the upper edges of the side panels and the end panels extend partially toward one another.

12. The canopy according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein two or more panels of the side panels and end panels include a door, and each door includes a lockable latch for locking the door in a closed position.

13. The canopy according to claim 12, wherein actuating the lockable latch of one of the doors causes each other lockable latch to lock.

14. A canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein; the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and two or more panels of the side panels and end panels include a door, and each door includes a lockable latch for retaining the door in a closed position, and actuating one lockable latch causes each other lockable latch to lock.

15. The canopy according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein each lockable latch includes a latch actuator operable to lock the latch, each latch actuator being remotely operable.

16. The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the / each door extends substantially an entire height of the side or end panel.

17. The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the / each door extends substantially an entire length of the side or end panel.

18. The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the / each door is hingedly openable.

19. The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the / each door is slidably openable.

20. The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the / each door is substantially transparent.21 . The canopy according to claim 6 or any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein, when attached to the vehicle tub, the / each door extends to substantially abut a portion of the respective side of the vehicle tub.

22. The canopy according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one roof panel includes at least one elongate support extending about a length thereof.

23. The canopy according to claim 22, wherein the at least one elongate support is disposed on the underside of the roof panel.

24. The canopy according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the or each elongate support includes fixings for removably mounting accessories within and / or above the enclosure.

25. A frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto, and the at least one roof panel includes at least one elongate support extending along a length of the underside of the roof panel, the or each elongate support including fixings for removably mounting accessories within the enclosure.

26. The canopy according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the end or side panels includes at least one anchor for removably attaching the canopy to a chassis of the vehicle.

27. The canopy according to claim 26, wherein the or each anchor comprises an attachment plate, bracket, strap or clamp extending downwardly from a lower edge of the respective side or end panel for attachment to the chassis of the vehicle.

28. A frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels and including at least one elongate support extending along a length thereof, the or each elongate support including fixings for removably mounting accessories, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and wherein at least one of the end or side panels includes at least one anchor for removably attaching the canopy to a chassis of the vehicle, the anchor comprising an attachment plate, bracket, strap or clamp extending downwardly from a lower edge of a respective side or end panel for attachment to the chassis of the vehicle.

29. The canopy according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the side or end panels includes a vent having an opening through which an airflow can enter the enclosure to pressurise the enclosure.

30. The canopy according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the vent includes a baffle and / or a filter disposed in the opening of the vent to restrict contaminants from entering the enclosure through the vent.31 . A frameless canopy for a vehicle having a tub, comprising: front and rear end panels attachable to respective ends of the vehicle tub; side panels extending between and removably fastened to respective end panels, the side panels being attachable to respective sides of the vehicle tub; and at least one roof panel disposed atop and removably fastened to the end and side panels, wherein: the end, side and roof panels together form an enclosure atop the vehicle tub when attached thereto; and wherein at least one of the end or side panels includes a vent having an opening through which an airflow can enter the enclosure to pressurise the enclosure, the opening of the vent including a baffle and / or a filter disposed in the opening of the vent to restrict contaminants from entering the enclosure through the vent.

32. The canopy according to any one of claims 29 to 31 , wherein the vent is disposed in an upper portion of the front end panel or in the upper end of one of the side panels adjacent to the front end panel.

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