GB2623811A

GB2623811A - Improvements in or relating to a balcony

Info

Publication number: GB2623811A
Application number: GB2215983.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Wilmshurst Lee
Original assignee: Steel Build Ltd
Current assignee: Steel Build Ltd
Priority date: 2022-10-28
Filing date: 2022-10-28
Publication date: 2024-05-01
Also published as: GB202215983D0

Abstract

A balcony 10 for attachment to a structure, the structure having a projection 50, 51 extending therefrom, and the balcony comprising a frame 20 having a top surface 22, a bottom surface 24 and a bearing plate 30, 31, 32, 33 on at least one of the surfaces for bearing onto the projection, at least the other of the surfaces comprising an aperture 40, 41 for receiving the projection. The top surface may support a substrate for providing a balcony floor. The aperture may be an elongate channel. The frame may comprise a rear surface 26 through which the aperture also extends. The frame may comprise at least two spaced apart main beams 60, 61 connected by the bearing plate, two cross-beams 70, 71 transverse to the main beams and separated by the aperture, and at least one additional beam 80 connected to at least one main beam by at least one cross-beam. The projection may comprise a lip 54 which engages with a protrusion 56 on the frame to prevent the frame from rotating with respect to the projection in use. The balcony may comprise a levelling socket 90, 91, 92, 93 for generating separation between the bearing plate and the projection.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATING TO A BALCONY

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to improvements in or relating to a balcony and, more specifically, to a balcony for attachment to a structure.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Many balconies are formed integrally with a structure to which they are attached. This can limit and/or slow down the construction of the balcony and/or structure. Thus, in some scenarios, balconies for attachment to an existing structure are desirable.

The majority of existing balconies for attachment to an existing structure require fixing means located on the balcony to be carefully aligned with the fixing means attached to the structure. This procedure is time consuming and requires precision alignment. Moreover, this procedure requires operatives to work at height and, in some scenarios, beneath a live load, which is a risk best avoided.

GB2507365 discloses a balcony for attachment to an existing construction, the existing construction having a plurality of stubs fitted thereto, each stub having at least one first engagement portion comprising one or more projections, and the balcony having: at least one cross-beam which is substantially perpendicular to the projections; a plurality of second engagement portions comprising one or more apertures through said cross-beam, wherein the apertures are configured such that the balcony can be slid substantially horizontally onto the stubs by sliding the apertures onto the projections so as to cause the weight of the balcony to be supported by the existing construction and the balcony to be securely attached to the construction.

However, the balcony disclosed in GB2507365 is required to slide substantially horizontally onto the stubs. Therefore, the balcony cannot be installed in locations with limited access in a plane substantially parallel to the projections. Such locations may be situated near an operating boundary, such as fencing, trees, and/or a building. Moreover, some balconies are required, or desired, to be narrower at their front edge (i.e. the end distal from the existing construction) than its rear edge (i.e. the end proximal to the existing construction). This geometry does not facilitate a sliding motion. Other shortcomings are also present.

Moreover, there is also a lack of adequate means for retarding and/or extinguishing a fire that is present on an external surface of a structure. This is particularly relevant for structures comprising flammable external elements such as cladding.

It is against this background that the present invention has arisen.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention there is provided a balcony for attachment to a structure, the structure having a projection extending therefrom, and the balcony comprising: a frame having a top surface, a bottom surface and a bearing plate therebetween, wherein the bearing plate is configured to bear onto the projection, in use, and wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface comprises an aperture for receiving the projection.

In other words, the bearing plate is located between the top surface and the bottom surface of the frame. The top surface and bottom surface may be substantially parallel. The top surface may be located furthest from the ground and the bottom surface closest to the ground when the balcony is attached to a structure.

The projection may comprise a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end may be located closest to the structure. In particular, the proximal end may be attached to the structure. The distal end may be located at the opposite end of the projection to the proximal end (i.e. the end furthest from the structure). The projection may have a longitudinal axis extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The longitudinal axis of the projection may extend substantially parallel to the top and/or bottom surface of the frame. The projection may support the balcony in use. The support may be provided via the bearing plate.

In some embodiments, an aperture is located in the bottom surface of the frame. An aperture in the bottom surface allows the balcony to be lowered onto the projection. For example, the balcony may be predominantly lowered onto the projection in a direction having a substantially vertical component (i.e. in the direction of gravity). Of course, lowering the balcony may also comprise moving the balcony in a direction having a horizontal component (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity).

In some embodiments, an aperture is located in the top surface. Similarly, an aperture in the top surface of the frame allows the balcony to be predominantly raised up from beneath the projection before being positioned to bear thereon. For example, the balcony may be predominantly raised up in a direction having a substantially vertical component (i.e. opposite to the direction of gravity). The balcony may also, either simultaneously or subsequently, be moved in a direction have a horizontal component (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity) such that the bearing plate is located above or bears onto the projection. Finally, if the bearing plate is located above the projection, the balcony may further be lowered onto the projection as described above.

Therefore, an aperture in at least one of the top and bottom surface of the frame enables the balcony to be installed in locations with limited access in a plane substantially parallel to the projection. For example, the balcony of the present invention may be installed near an operating boundary, which may be defined by fencing, trees, and/or a building.

The present invention also allows a balcony having a bespoke shape to be installed. For example, the balcony may comprise a narrower front surface (i.e. the surface most distal from the structure) than its rear surface (i.e. the surface most proximal to the structure). This geometry may not facilitate a sliding motion. Moreover, the present invention increases the speed and control of the installation procedure; negates the need for working at heights; and enables the balcony to be installed without the need for working below a live load (i.e. the balcony).

In some embodiments, the balcony may comprise a balustrade. The balustrade may extend from an outer edge of the top surface. The balustrade may comprise at least one opening suitable for a human to pass through. The opening may be located proximal to the structure, in use. For example, the balcony may comprise a balustrade extending from all edges of the top surface except for an edge adjacent or, in some embodiments, parallel to the structure, in use.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the balcony is a walkway. A walkway may comprise a balustrade having at least two openings suitable for a human to pass through. The openings may be located on opposing edges of the top surface. For example, this may enable a user to move between two adjacent structures connected by the balcony (or walkway).

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the balcony is a canopy. A canopy may be a shelf-like structure positioned above an opening, such as a door or window. A canopy may not have a balustrade.

In other words, a balcony may be defined as a module for attachment to an external surface of structure.

The top surface may be any shape. For example, the top surface may substantially polygonal. In some embodiments, the top surface may be substantially square, rectangular, triangular, or semi-circular in shape.

The top surface may support a substrate. The substrate may be configured to provide a balcony floor, in use. The balcony floor may be the uppermost surface of the balcony. The substrate may be sized to accommodate at least two averagely sized people. The substrate may be decking. The decking may be aluminium. The substrate may be any shape. For example, the substrate may substantially polygonal. In some embodiments, the substrate may be substantially square, rectangular, triangular, or semi-circular in shape.

The aperture may be an elongate channel. An elongate channel enables the balcony to bear onto an elongate projection, such as a universal beam. This enables a more robust connection to be made between the balcony and the projection. Moreover, supporting the balcony on an elongate projection enables the balcony to be levelled, in use. This may be achieved using a levelling socket, as described herein, and/or a packing plate between the frame or, more particularly, the bearing plate and the distal end of the projection, for example.

In some embodiments, the elongate channel may extend at least 50% of the way across the top and/or bottom surface of the balcony in a direction that is perpendicular to a rear surface of the balcony. The location of the rear surface of the balcony is described below. In other embodiments, the elongate channel may extend at least 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of the way across the top and/or bottom surface in a direction that is perpendicular to the rear surface of the balcony.

The frame may comprise a rear surface. The rear surface may extend between the top and bottom surfaces of the frame. The aperture may extend through the rear surface. The rear surface may be substantially perpendicular to the top surface and/or bottom surface. Alternatively, or in addition, the rear surface may be substantially parallel to the surface of the structure comprising the projection when the balcony is attached to the structure. The rear surface may be adjacent to the structure, in use. Therefore, the rear surface may be the surface of the frame that is located closest to the structure when the balcony is attached thereto.

Providing an aperture in the top and/or bottom surface of the frame that also extends through the rear surface of the frame enables the balcony to be slid substantially horizontally onto the projection. This provides versatility to the installation procedure as it enables a combination of vertical and horizontal movement to be used to position the balcony.

The frame may comprise at least two main beams. The two main beams may be spaced apart. The two main beams may be connected by the bearing plate. The bearing plate may be connected to a flange of each of the beams. In particular, the bearing plate may be connected to the upper flange of each beam. The upper flange of each beam may be adjacent to the top surface of the frame. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the upper flange of each beam is located on the top surface of the frame. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the bearing plate may be connected to the lower flange of each beam. The lower flange of each beam may be adjacent to the bottom surface of the frame. In some embodiments, the lower surface of the lower flange of each beam is located on the bottom surface of the frame. Also, in some embodiments, the bearing plate may be connected to the web of each beam.

Each main beam may comprise a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may run along the length of the web of the beam. At least one, or each, main beam may be an extruded member. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one, or each, main beam may comprise a plurality of connected members, such as plates and angles.

Two main beams that are spaced apart and connected by the bearing plate may have substantially parallel longitudinal axes. However, in some embodiments, the longitudinal axes of two main beams may converge. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the longitudinal axes of two main beams may diverge. Thus, some embodiments comprise a plurality of main beams having any combination of parallel, converging and/or diverging longitudinal axes.

Connecting two spaced apart main beams at their upper flange or at their web by the bearing plate provides an exposed void beneath the bearing plate and between the main beams. This exposed void may provide the aperture in the bottom surface and, where present, rear surface of the frame for receiving the projection.

The frame may comprise at least two cross-beams. The cross-beams may be transverse to the main beams. The cross-beams may be separated by the aperture. The cross-beams may be substantially perpendicular to the main beams. The cross-beams may increase the structural rigidity of the frame. For example, the frame may comprise at least four main beams. The four main beams may form two pairs of main beams. The beams within each pair of main beams may be spaced apart and connected by a bearing plate, as previously described. Additionally, the two pairs of main beams may be connected to one another by one or more cross-beams. However, any number of pairs of main beams may be used. For example, the frame may comprise one, two, three, four, five, or more than five pairs of main beams.

Each cross-beam may be a solid beam. A solid beam is a beam that is absent of any apertures. More specifically, a solid beam is a beam that is absent of any apertures in its web. In other words, the web of a solid beam may comprise a uniform cross-section. However, in some embodiments, a solid beam comprises a completely uniform cross-section. At least one main beam may be a solid beam. For example, each main beam may be a solid beam.

The frame may comprise at least one additional beam. At least one additional beam may be connected to at least one main beam by at least one cross-beam. Any number of additional beams may be present within the frame. For example, the frame may comprise one, two, three, four, five, or more than five additional beams. At least one additional beam may be located between two pairs of main beams. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one additional beam between may be located between a pair of main beams and a side surface of the frame. The side surface may extend between the top and bottom surface and be transverse to the rear surface. For example, the side surface may be perpendicular to the rear surface.

In some embodiments, at least one additional beam may be connected to another additional beam. The connection may be provided by at least one cross-beam. Similarly, a pair of main beams and an additional beam may be connected by at least one cross-beam. Any number of cross-beams may be used. For example, the frame may comprise one, two, three, four, five, or more than five cross-beams. Each additional beam and/or pair of main beams may be connected to an additional beam and/or pair of main beams by one or more cross-beams.

The projection may comprise a lip. The frame may comprise a protrusion. The protrusion may be configured to engage with the lip to prevent the frame from rotating with respect to the projection, in use. When the lip and the protrusions are engaged, the protrusion may be located beneath the lip. Therefore, if a front surface (i.e. a surface opposite the rear surface) of the balcony overhangs (i.e. extends beyond) the projections and is weighted such that the balcony wants to rotate about the distal end of the projection, the protrusion presses against the lip, thus preventing rotation of the balcony. As such, engagement of the protrusion and the lip, in use, generates an anti-tip bracket. The anti-tip bracket may form a temporary locking means.

Once the balcony has been positioned on the projection and the protrusion and the lip have engaged, the balcony may be secured to the projection via fixing means, such as bolts. These fixing means may provide further anti-tipping resistance.

The protrusion may be located towards the rear surface of the frame (i.e. in the half of the frame closest to the rear surface). Similarly, the lip may be located towards the proximal end of the projection (i.e in the half of the projection closest to the structure). More importantly, when the balcony bears onto the projection, each of the lip and the protrusion are located closer to the structure than the centre of mass of the balcony.

The balcony may further comprise a levelling socket. The levelling socket may be configured to generate separation between the bearing plate and the projection. As such, the levelling socket may be a part of the frame. In particular, the levelling socket may be configured to temporarily generate separation between the bearing plate and the projection. The levelling socket may comprise a bolt and a corresponding threaded hole located in the bearing plate. Rotating the bolt through the threaded hole may cause the bolt to press against the projection, thus pushing the bearing plate away from the projection. In other words, the levelling socket may be configured to adjust the separation between the bearing plate and the projection. In some embodiments, a packing element, such as a plate, may then be added between the balcony and the projection. The bolt of the levelling socket may then be removed such that the bearing plate bears onto the projection via the packing element.

The balcony may comprise a plurality of bearing plates. Each bearing plate may comprise a levelling socket. In such embodiments, each levelling socket may be adjusted separately to adjust the angle of the top surface of the frame with respect to the projection and/or structure.

At least one of the top surface and the bottom surface may comprise a plurality of apertures. For example, the top surface may comprise a plurality of projections or the bottom surface may comprise a plurality of projections. Each aperture may be configured to receive a projection. Each aperture may be as previously described. For example, the structure may comprise a plurality of projections extending therefrom. Each aperture may receive a single projection. However, in some embodiments, the, or each, aperture may receive two or more projections. A plurality of apertures may be located in the top surface. Alternatively, or in addition, a plurality of apertures may be located in the bottom surface.

In some embodiments, the structure comprises two projections and the balcony comprises two apertures. Each aperture may receive one projection. However, any number of projections and/or apertures may be used.

The frame may be a steel frame. More specifically, the frame may comprise primary members and secondary members. The primary members may comprise the main beams, cross-beams, additional beams, bearing plates and any support beams. A support beam may be configured to support another primary member, such as the bearing plate. The secondary members may comprise nuts, bolts and other suitable fasteners or connecting means, such as a weld. The primary members may be made of steel. The secondary members may also be made of steel. However, other materials may also be used for the secondary members of a steel frame. As such, the steel frame may be at least 90% steel.

In particular, the frame may be a mild steel frame. Mild steel provides greater fire resistance than materials, such as aluminium, that are typically used in other balcony constructions. Nevertheless, in some embodiments, an aluminium frame may be used for the present invention. Alternatively, a stainless steel frame may be used. In fact, any suitable material may be used for the frame, such as concrete, Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP), or Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP). A frame constructed from any of the aforementioned materials may be made from at last 90% of that material. In some embodiments, the frame may comprises any combination of the aforementioned materials, such as Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) beams and steel bearing plates, or a mixture of concrete and steel primary members. However, these are just two of a plurality of possible combinations.

At least one, or each, of the primary members may be an I-Beam (also known as a universal beam). Alternatively, at least one, or each, of the primary members may be a T-shaped beam; C-shaped beam; or L-shaped beam. In some embodiments, at least one, or each, of the primary members is a square-shaped channel, rectangular-shaped channel, circular-shaped channel, or triangular-shaped channel. In fact, any suitably shape may be used for at least one, or each, of the primary members.

The balcony may further comprise an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface spaced apart by the frame; and a balcony sprinkler system comprising: at least one sprinkler head configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire, and a fluid channel configured to supply the fire-retarding fluid to each sprinkler head. The fluid channel may be located, at least in part, between the uppermost surface and lowermost surface. In some embodiments, the fluid channel may be entirely located between the uppermost surface and lowermost surface.

The balcony comprising the balcony sprinkler system may be the aforementioned balcony having at least one aperture in at least one of the top and bottom surface. Thus, any combination of the aforementioned features may also be present in the balcony comprising a balcony sprinkler system.

However, the balcony comprising a balcony sprinkler system may be a different balcony from the balcony having at least one aperture in at least one of the top and bottom surface. As such, the balcony comprising a balcony sprinkler system may not have an aperture in the top and/or bottom surface. However, any of the other aforementioned features, such as a main beam, bearing plate, balustrade, rear surface etc. may still be present.

For example, according to the present invention, there is also provided a balcony for attachment to a structure, the balcony comprising: an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface spaced apart by a frame; and a balcony sprinkler system comprising: at least one sprinkler head configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire; and a fluid channel configured to supply the fire-retarding fluid to each sprinkler head, wherein the fluid channel is located, at least in part, between the uppermost surface and lowermost surface.

Locating the fluid channel between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces ensures that the fluid channel is out of reach and out of sight when the balcony is attached the structure. This maximises the usable floor area of the balcony and reduces the likelihood of damage to the fluid channel.

Moreover, at least one sprinkler head may be located between the uppermost surface and the lowermost surface. For example, at least one sprinkler head may be located in an outermost surface of the balcony that extends between the uppermost surface and lowermost surface. In other words, the balcony sprinkler system may be integrated into the balcony.

In some embodiments, the fluid channel is located, at least in part, between the top and bottom surface of the frame. Alternatively, or in addition, at least one sprinkler head may be located between the top and bottom surface. In some embodiments, the fluid channel is located, at least in part, in the aperture. Locating the fluid channel in the aperture simplifies the installation of the balcony sprinkler system within the balcony by enabling easy access to a connection assembly configured to connect the balcony sprinkler system to a source of fire-retarding fluid. The source of fire retarding fluid may be located within the structure or external to the structure.

In the event of a fire, the balcony sprinkler system may be configured to discharge, via the sprinkler head, a fire-retarding fluid onto the structure comprising the projections. Alternatively, or in addition, the balcony sprinkler system may be configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid onto another balcony located below the claimed balcony. The discharge may be a spray. As such, each sprinkler head may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid.

The balcony sprinkler system may keep an external surface of the structure cooler during a fire. This may help to prevent the spread of the fire and/or reduce the damage caused by the fire. In addition, the balcony sprinkler system may enable a fire-retarding fluid to be delivered to an area that is difficult for a fire brigade to reach. It may also reduce the need for a fire brigade to work at height and/or reduce the need for a fire brigade to use specialist equipment that may not be readily available.

The fire-retarding fluid may be water. However, any suitable fire-retarding fluid may be used. The fire may be located within the structure, on a surface of the structure, within the balcony and/or on the surface of the balcony. In some embodiments, the fire may be located within the vicinity of the structure. For example, the fire may be located within 10m of the structure and/or balcony.

At least one sprinkler head may be configured to automatically discharge the fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire. In particular, each sprinkler head may be configured to automatically discharge the fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire. Activation of the sprinkler head may be achieved using standard and well-known activation means, such as a frangible or deformable element.

Automatically activating the balcony sprinkler system increases the speed at which the fire-retarding fluid is discharged, especially in the absence of a person. This may slow down the rate at which the fire spreads; prevent the fire from spreading at all; or completely extinguish the fire.

In addition to the uppermost surface and the lowermost surface, the balcony may further comprise a rearmost surface and at least one outermost surface. The uppermost surface of the balcony may be above the top surface of the frame, in use. The uppermost surface of the balcony may be defined by the uppermost layer of the substrate configured to provide a balcony floor, in use. As such, the uppermost surface of the balcony may support other items and/or surfaces, such as a balustrade or boxing to conceal pipework or electronics. The lowermost surface of the balcony may be below the bottom surface of the frame, in use. The lowermost surface of the balcony may be defined by the lowermost layer of a substrate configured to provide a balcony soffit, in use. The uppermost and lowermost surface of the balcony may be spaced apart by the frame and any soffit and/or balcony flooring. The rearmost surface of the balcony may extend between the uppermost and lowermost surface of the balcony. The rearmost surface of the balcony may be rearward of the rear surface of the frame, in use. In other words, the rearmost surface of the balcony may be closer to the structure than the rear surface of the frame, in use. The rearmost surface of the balcony may be defined by the member or surface of the balcony closest to the structure, in use. The outermost surface of the balcony may extend between the uppermost and lowermost surface of the balcony and be transverse to the rearmost surface of the balcony. The outermost surface of the balcony may be further from the projection than the side surface of the frame, in use. Similarly, the outermost surface of the balcony may be further from the aperture than the side surface of the frame. The outermost surface of the balcony may be defined by a layer of a substrate configured to provide a balcony fascia, in use. The uppermost, lowermost, rearmost and at least one outermost surface of the balcony may be the external surfaces of the balcony. At least one, or each, of these surfaces may be added to the frame after the projection is secured within the aperture. In particular, the uppermost and/or lower lowermost surface may be added to the frame after the projection is secured within the aperture.

At least one sprinkler head may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially horizontally. In this context, horizontally means perpendicular to the direction of gravity. However, the fire-retarding fluid being discharged may spread out from the sprinkler head in a cone-like pattern. Thus, the aforementioned discharge direction may be the average or mean discharge direction. Moreover, in the context of this application, discharging the fire-retarding fluid substantially horizontally means that the average discharge direction has a larger horizontal component (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity) than its vertical component (in the direction of gravity). Therefore, the sprinkler head may be configured to discharge the fire-retarding fluid at an average angle of less than 45 degrees with respect to the plane of the bottom surface of the balcony and/or frame.

At least one sprinkler head may be located in an outermost surface of the balcony. The outermost surface of the balcony may extend between the uppermost and lowermost surface of the balcony and be transverse to the rearmost surface of the balcony, as previously described. A sprinkler head located in the outermost surface of the balcony may be configured to discharge the fire-retarding fluid substantially horizontally (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity). In particular, a sprinkler head located in the outermost surface of the balcony may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid onto the surface of the structure comprising the projection.

At least one, or each, sprinkler head configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially horizontally may be configured to discharge substantially all of the fire-retarding fluid being discharged thereby onto the structure. As such, the, or each, sprinkler head may not discharge the fire-retarding fluid onto another balcony, such as a balcony below, thus preventing the adjacent balcony from filling up with the fire retarding fluid.

At least one sprinkler head may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially downwards. In this context, downwards means in the direction of gravity. However, as previously described, the fire-retarding fluid being sprayed may spread out from the sprinkler head in a cone-like pattern. Thus, the aforementioned discharge direction may be the average or mean discharge direction. Therefore, in the context of this application, discharging a fire-retarding fluid substantially downwards means that the average discharge direction has a larger vertical component (i.e. in the direction of gravity) than its horizontal component (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity). Therefore, the sprinkler head may be configured to discharge the fire-retarding fluid at an average angle of at least 45 degrees with respect to the plane of the lowermost surface of the balcony and/or bottom surface of the frame.

At least one sprinkler head may be located in the lowermost surface of the balcony. A sprinkler head located in the lowermost surface of the balcony may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid onto a surface of the structure comprising the projection. A sprinkler head located in the lowermost surface of the balcony may be configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially downwards.

In some embodiments, the balcony comprises at least one sprinkler head located in each of the lowermost surface of the balcony and outermost surface of the balcony. The balcony may comprise any number of sprinkler heads in each aforementioned surface.

The balcony sprinkler system may comprise a connection assembly for connecting the fluid channel to an internal sprinkler system located within the structure and providing fluid communication therebetween. In particular, the connection assembly may be configured to connect the fluid channel of the balcony sprinkler system to a fluid channel of the internal sprinkler system.

Therefore, in use, each sprinkler head of the balcony sprinkler system may be in fluid communication with an internal sprinkler system located within the structure. The internal sprinkler system may provide a source of fire-retarding fluid. The connection assembly may be a valve. The fluid channel may comprise one or more conduits. The, or each, conduit may be a pipe. The, or each, conduit may be at least 10mm in diameter. More specifically, the, or each, conduit may be at least 20mm in diameter.

The balcony sprinkler system may comprise at least one detector configured to detect the presence of a fire. The detection of a fire by the detector of the balcony sprinkler system may cause the balcony sprinkler system to discharge a fire-retarding fluid.

According to the present invention, there is also provided a structure having a plurality of projections extending therefrom and a plurality of balconies as previously described, wherein each balcony bears onto at least one projection.

In other words, each balcony may be support by and/or attached to the structure by one or more projection. Each balcony may comprise a balcony sprinkler system, as previously described. In some embodiments, the plurality of balcony sprinkler systems is divided into at least two separate schemes, wherein each scheme comprises at least one balcony sprinkler system configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid onto a distinct area of the structure. Each scheme may comprise a separate source of fire-retarding fluid.

According to the present invention, there is also provided a kit of parts comprising: a balcony as previously described; and at least one projection for attachment to the structure. A kit comprising a balcony and at least one projection enables the balcony to be attached to the projection before the projection is attached to the balcony. This may further simplify the installation of the balcony.

At least one projection within the kit may comprise a hook configured to engage with the structure and attach the projection thereto. For example, the balcony may be attached to one or more projections each having a hook. Each projection may then be secured to the structure via its hook. This provides a simple installation process.

Alternatively, or in addition, at least one projection may comprise a plurality of holes each configured to receive a bolt. The bolt(s) may be configured to also receive a nut in order to secure the projection to the structure. The plurality of holes may be located on the same projection as the hook. As such, the hook may be used to temporarily attach the projection to the structure whereas the holes for receiving a bolt may be used to semi-permanently attached the projection to the structure.

In the context of this application, temporarily attaching the projection to the structure by means of a hook means that the projection can be detached by a single process or step consisting of unhooking the projection. Conversely, semi-permanently attaching the projection to the structure by means of bolts requires the nut to be unscrewed before the projection is moved with respect to the bolt to detach the projection from the structure. Therefore, a temporary attachment may be undone via a single process/step, whereas a semi-permanent attachment requires more than one process/step.

In some embodiments, the balcony is attached to the structure via a plurality of projections. At least one projection may comprise a hook configured to engage with the structure and attach the projection thereto. In addition, at least one subsequent projection may comprise a plurality of holes configured to receive a bolt for attaching the projection to the structure.

According to the present invention, there is also provided a method of attaching a balcony to a structure, the method comprising: providing a balcony as previously described; attaching a projection to the structure; and attaching the balcony to the projection, wherein attaching the balcony to the projection comprises manoeuvring the balcony in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the projection such that the bearing plate bears onto the projection and the projection is located, at least in part, within the aperture.

For example, and as previously described, the balcony may be predominantly lowered onto the projection in a direction having a substantially vertical component (i.e. in the direction of gravity). However, similarly, the projection may be predominantly raised into the aperture of the balcony in a direction having a substantially vertical component (i.e. opposite to the direction of gravity). In some embodiments, attaching the balcony to the projection comprises locating the projection entirely within the aperture. Attaching the balcony to the projection may also comprise securing the balcony to the projection via at least one fastening means, such as a bolt or weld.

Of course, lowering the balcony onto the projection and/or raising the projection into the balcony may also comprise manoeuvring the balcony and/or projection in a direction having a horizontal component (i.e. perpendicular to the direction of gravity). For example, manoeuvring the balcony in a direction having a horizontal component may comprise moving and/or sliding the balcony along the longitudinal length of the projection. This provides versatility to the installation procedure as it enables a combination of vertical and horizontal movement to be used to situate the balcony with respect to the projection.

The balcony may comprise at least two bearing plates. At least one of the top surface and the bottom surface of the frame may comprise two apertures. Each aperture may be suitable for receiving a projection. The method may further comprise: attaching each projection to the structure; and attaching the balcony to each projection, wherein attaching the balcony to each projection comprises manoeuvring the balcony in a substantially vertical direction with respect to each projection such that each bearing plate bears onto a projection and each projection is located, at least in part, within an aperture Using a plurality of projections provides a more robust connection between the balcony and the structure.

The balcony may be attached to at least one projection prior to the projection being attached to the structure. In particular, the balcony may be attached to each projection prior to the projection being attached to the structure. For example, the balcony may be attached to the projection and the projection may then be attached to the structure via a hook, as previously described.

In some embodiments, the balcony is attached to the structure via a plurality of projections. At least one projection may comprise a hook configured to engage with the structure and attach the projection thereto. In addition, at least one subsequent projection may comprise a plurality of holes for receiving a bolt configured to attach the projection to the structure.

The method may further comprise: attaching a substrate to the balcony, wherein the substrate is configured to enclose each projection within the corresponding aperture. The substrate may be attached to the bottom surface of the frame. Alternatively, or in addition, the substrate may be the lowermost surface of the balcony. For example, the substrate may be a soffit board. This may be used to conceal the projection for the longevity of the member and/or decorative purposes.

The invention will now be further and more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIGURES

Figure 1 shows a balcony for attachment to a structure; Figure 2 shows the balcony shown in figure 1 when viewed from the rear; Figure 3 shows two projections for supporting the balcony shown in figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows the balcony shown in figures 1 and 2 attached to the projections shown in figure 3; Figure S shows a balcony attached to a structure; Figure 6 shows a balcony comprising a balcony sprinkler system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 shows a balcony 10 for attachment to a structure. The balcony 10 comprises a frame 20 having a top surface 22 and a bottom surface 24. The frame 20 also comprises a rear surface 26, at least one side surface 28 and a front surface 29. The rear surface 26 extends between the top surface 22 and the bottom surface 24. Similarly, each of the side surfaces 28 and front surface 29 extend between the top surface 22 and bottom surface 24. Each side surface 28 is substantially perpendicular to the rear surface 26. The front surface 29 is opposite the rear surface 26. The balcony 10 is configured such that the rear surface 26 is adjacent and substantially parallel to the structure, in use.

In other embodiments, not illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the at least one side surface and/or the at least one front surface may be a single surface. As such, the top surface 22 and/or bottom surface 24 of the frame 20 may be triangular-shaped and or semi-circular-shaped. Similarly, any number of side surfaces 28 may be present. In other words, the frame 20 may be any shape.

The frame comprises at least one aperture 40, 41, which is more clearly shown in figure 2. The aperture 40, 41 is located in the bottom surface 24. In other words, the aperture 40, 41 is accessible via the bottom surface 24. The aperture 40, 41 creates an exposed void within the frame 20. The exposed void is sized and/or shaped to receive a projection SO, 51. In particular, the aperture 40, 41 is an elongate channel that extends through the rear surface 26. In other words, the aperture 40, 41 is accessible via the rear surface 26. The exposed void created by the aperture 40, 41 therefore has at least two transverse exposed surfaces. A first exposed surface of the aperture extends through the bottom surface 24 of the frame 20 and a second exposed surface of the aperture extends through the rear surface 26 of the frame 20.

The frame 20 comprises at least two main beams 60, 61 that are spaced apart and connected by at least one bearing plate 30, 31. The frame 20 also comprises at least two cross-beams 70, 71 that are transverse to the main beams 60, 61 and separated by the aperture 40. In addition, the frame 20 comprises at least one additional beam 80 connected to at least one main beam 61 by at least one cross-beam 71.

More specifically, and as shown in figures 1 and 4, the frame 20 comprises four bearing plate 30, 31, 32, 33. Two bearing plates 30, 31 are configured to bear onto a first projection 50, in use, and two bearing plates 32, 33 are configured to bear onto a second projection 51, in use. This arrangement is best shown in figure 4, which is described below. Accordingly, the frame 20 comprises two pairs of main beams. A first pair of main beams 60, 61 is connected by a first bearing plate 30 and second bearing plate 31, and a second pair of main beams 62, 63 are connected by a third bearing plate 32 and fourth bearing plate 33.

Figure 2 shows the balcony shown in figure 1 when viewed from the rear. As previously described, the bottom surface 24 comprises at least one aperture 40, 41 for receiving the projection 50, 51. In particular, the bottom surface 24 comprises a first aperture 40 for receiving a first projection 50 and a second aperture 41 for receiving a second projection 51. Figure 2 also shows a first cross-beam 70 and second cross-beam 71 separated by the aperture 40. Figure 2 also shows the second cross-beam 71 and a third cross-beam 72 separated by the aperture 41.

Figure 3 shows two projections 50, 51 for supporting the balcony 10 shown in figures 1 and 2. The projections 50, 51 extend from a structure 100. The first and second bearing plates 30, 31 are configured to bear onto the first projection 50, in use, whilst the third and fourth bearing plates 32, 33 are configured to bear onto the second projection 51, in use. Each projection 50, 51 is secured to the structure 100 via a plurality of bolts or via at least one hook.

In particular, the structure 100 comprises at least one stub 110. Each projection 50, 51 is secured to a stub 110. The stub 110 provide separation between a structural frame 120 of the structure 100 and the balcony 10, which may be required to receive the façade of the structure, such as a wall or cladding, for example. However, a stub 110 is not essential. For example, the stub 110 may be removed and each projection 50, 51 may be secured directly to the structural frame 120.

Each projection 50, 51 comprises a lip 54. Each lip 54 is configured to engage with a corresponding protrusion 56 on the frame 20. Engagement of the lip 54 and protrusion 56 prevents the frame 20 from rotating with respect to the projection 50, 51, in use. Engagement of each lip 54 and each protrusion 56 is more clearly shown in figure 4 Figure 4 shows the balcony 10 shown in figures 1 and 2 attached to the projections shown in figure 3. In particular, the first and second bearing plates 30,31 are bearing onto the first projection 50 and the third and fourth bearing plates 32, 33 are bearing onto the second projection 51. As such, the balcony 10 is supported by the projections 50, 51. The balcony 10 is also secured to each projection 50, 51 via fastening means, such as bolts or a weld (not shown).

Figure 4 also shows at least one levelling socket 90, 91, 92, 93. Each levelling socket is configured to generate separation between the bearing plate 30, 31, 32, 33, and the projection 50, 51, in use. Each levelling socket 90, 91, 92, 93 comprises a bolt and a corresponding threaded hole. The threaded hole is located in the bearing plate 30, 31, 32, 33. Rotating the bolt through the threaded hole causes the bolt to exert a force against the projection 50, 51, thus pushing the bearing plate 30, 31, 32, 33 away from the projection 50, 51. As will be appreciated, adjusting the levelling sockets 91, 93 located at the second and fourth bearing plates 31, 33, respectively, can be used to raise or lower the foremost surface of the balcony with respect to the rearmost surface of the balcony. This can be used to level the uppermost surface of the balcony. The same can be achieved in a side-to-side direction using the levelling sockets 90, 91 located at the first bearing plate 30 and second bearing plate 31, respectively, or the levelling sockets 92, 93 located third bearing plate 32 and fourth bearing plate 33, respectively.

Figure 5 shows a balcony 10 attached to a structure100. The balcony 10 comprises a balustrade 25.

Figure 6 shows a balcony 10 comprising a balcony sprinkler system. The balcony sprinkler system comprises at least one sprinkler head 210 configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid 250 in the event of a fire. At least one sprinkler head 210 is located in the outermost surface 228 of the balcony. The balcony sprinkler system also comprises a fluid channel 220 configured to supply the fire-retarding fluid 250 to each sprinkler head 210. The fluid channel 220 is located between the uppermost surface 222 of the balcony and the lowermost surface 224 of the balcony. More specifically, the fluid channel 220 is located between the top surface 22 of the frame and the bottom surface 24 of the frame.

The balcony sprinkler system comprises a connection assembly 245 for connecting the fluid channel 220 to an internal sprinkler system located within the structure. The connection assembly is configured to provide fluid communication between the balcony sprinkler system and the internal sprinkler system, in use. More specifically, the connection assembly 245 is configured to connect the fluid channel 220 of the balcony sprinkler system to a fluid channel 221 of an internal sprinkler system located within the structure. The internal sprinkler system comprises a source of fire-retarding fluid 250.

Various further aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure. "and/or" where used herein is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example, "A and/or B" is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

Unless context dictates otherwise, the descriptions and definitions of the features set out above are not limited to any particular aspect or embodiment of the invention and apply equally to all aspects and embodiments that are described. It will further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although the invention has been described by way of example with reference to several embodiments, it is not limited to the disclosed embodiments and that alternative embodiments could be constructed without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A balcony for attachment to a structure, the structure having a projection extending therefrom, and the balcony comprising: a frame having a top surface, a bottom surface and a bearing plate therebetween, wherein the bearing plate is configured to bear onto the projection, in use, and wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface comprises an aperture for receiving the projection.
2. The balcony according to claim 1, wherein the top surface supports a substrate configured to provide a balcony floor, in use.
3. The balcony according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the aperture is an elongate channel.
4 The balcony according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises a rear surface extending between the top and bottom surface of the frame, and wherein the aperture extends through the rear surface.
5. The balcony according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame comprises at least two main beams that are spaced apart and connected by the bearing plate.
6. The balcony according to claim 5, wherein the frame comprises at least two cross-beams that are transverse to the main beams and separated by the aperture.
7. The balcony according to claim 6, wherein the frame comprises at least one additional beam connected to at least one main beam by at least one cross-beam.
8 The balcony according to any preceding claim, wherein the projection comprises a lip and wherein the frame comprises a protrusion configured to engage with the lip to prevent the frame from rotating with respect to the projection, in use.
9. The balcony according to any preceding claim, further comprising a levelling socket configured to generate separation between the bearing plate and the projection.
10. The balcony according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface comprises a plurality of apertures.
11. The balcony according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame is a steel frame.
12. The balcony according to any preceding claim, further comprising an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface spaced apart by the frame; and a balcony sprinkler system having at least one sprinkler head configured to discharge a fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire, and a fluid channel configured to supply the fire-retarding fluid to each sprinkler head, wherein the fluid channel is located, at least in part, between the uppermost surface and the lowermost surface.
13. The balcony according to claim 12, wherein at least one sprinkler head is configured to automatically discharge the fire-retarding fluid in the event of a fire.
14. The balcony according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein at least one sprinkler head is configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially horizontally.
15. The balcony according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein at least one sprinkler head is configured to spray the fire-retarding fluid substantially downwards.
16. The balcony according to any of claims 12 to 15, wherein at least one sprinkler head is located in an outermost surface of the balcony that extends between the uppermost surface and lowermost surface.
17. The balcony according to any of claims 12 to 16, further comprising a connection assembly for connecting the fluid channel to an internal sprinkler system located within the structure and providing fluid communication therebetween.
18. A structure having a plurality of projections extending therefrom and a plurality of balconies according to any of claims 1 to 17, wherein each balcony bears onto at least one projection.
19. A kit of parts comprising: a balcony according to any of claims 1 to 17; and at least one projection for attachment to the structure.
20. The kit according to claim 19, wherein at least one projection comprises a hook configured to engage with the structure and attach the projection thereto.
21. A method of attaching a balcony to a structure, the method comprising: providing the balcony according to any of claims 1 to 17; attaching a projection to the structure; and attaching the balcony to the projection, wherein attaching the balcony to the projection comprises manoeuvring the balcony in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the projection such that the bearing plate bears onto the projection and the projection is located, at least in part, within the aperture.
22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the balcony comprises at least two bearing plates and wherein at least one of the top surface and the bottom surface of the frame comprises two apertures that are each suitable for receiving a projection, and wherein the method comprises: attaching each projection to the structure; and attaching the balcony to each projection, wherein attaching the balcony to each projection comprises manoeuvring the balcony in a substantially vertical direction with respect to each projection such that each bearing plate bears onto a projection and each projection is located, at least in part, within an aperture.
23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the balcony is attached to at least one projection prior to the projection being attached to the structure.
24. The method according to any of claims 21 to 23, further comprising: attaching a substrate to the balcony, wherein the substrate is configured to enclose each projection within the corresponding aperture.