AU2020104330A4

AU2020104330A4 - System for Suspending Elongate Service Components

Info

Publication number: AU2020104330A4
Application number: AU2020104330A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Peter Luscombe
Original assignee: Polyplas International Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Polyplas International Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2017-11-24
Filing date: 2020-12-24
Publication date: 2021-03-18
Anticipated expiration: 2026-11-26
Also published as: AU2018271230A1; AU2020104330B4; AU2018271230B2

Abstract

: A system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. The system has a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended, two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected. Each end support includes a bracket, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket. Each bracket has a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having an abutment face that is to be in contact with the structural component when the system is installed. The system also has a plurality of ties that are to encircle the support cable and the service component, thereby suspending the service component from the support cable. In each bracket, the mounting point is spaced from the abutment face of the first portion. Each bracket is shaped such that the second portion extends transversely from the first portion, and such that a pivot is formed at an edge of the abutment face, whereby tension in the support cable creates a torque about the pivot that is resisted by the securing of the first portion to the structural component in a direction that is perpendicular to the abutment face.

Description

System for Suspending Elongate Service Components

Field of the invention The present invention relates to a system for suspending elongate service components. In one example, the present invention relates to a system for suspending service cable adjacent structural components in a building.

Background In multi-story buildings, elongate service components, such as data and electrical cables, can be suspended adjacent structural components of a building. For example, the service components may be suspended beneath a soffit, and/or adjacent a wall of a building in order for the components to traverse a space horizontally within the building.

For simplicity, in this specification, the term "components" is to be understood to include service components that are intended to transport any medium (including gas, water, sewerage, electronic data, and electrical energy) about a building, except where the context indicates otherwise.

One system for supporting components has a tray, with a bottom and side walls, that is suspended by rods fixed into the soffit of the building. The components lie within the tray, between the side walls. This type of system is effective in supporting components in a variety of conditions, including in extreme elevated temperature conditions, such as may be encountered in a building fire. However, the system has a many different component parts, and requires considerable labour and time to install, and then pull the service components into the tray.

One alternative system has a support cable that is strung between two building elements, such as internal building beams, cross braces, HVAC ducts, and the like. The service component is then attached to the support cable by cable ties. While this alternative system can be installed rapidly, the system has very limited application where either the support cable or the service component(s) may be subjected to unintended loads, or extreme elevated temperature conditions.

There is a need to address the above, and/or at least provide a useful alternative.

Summary There is provided a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, each end support including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having an abutment face that is to be in contact with the structural component when the system is installed, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket; and a plurality of ties that are to encircle the support cable and the service component, thereby suspending the service component from the support cable, wherein, in each bracket, the mounting point is spaced from the abutment face of the first portion, and wherein each bracket is shaped such that the second portion extends transversely from the first portion, and such that a pivot is formed at an edge of the abutment face, whereby tension in the support cable creates a torque about the pivot that is resisted by the securing of the first portion to the structural component in a direction that is perpendicular to the abutment face.

There is also provided a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, at least one of the end supports including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having a face that is to be oriented towards the structural component when the system is installed, and the mounting point being spaced from the face of the first portion, a fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and that secures the first portion of the bracket to the structural component, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket; and wherein the or each bracket having the first and second portions is shaped such that the second portion extends transversely from the first portion, and such that a pivot is formed on the face of the first portion, whereby tension in the support cable creates a torque about the pivot of the respective bracket that is resisted by the securing of the first portion to the structural component in a direction that is perpendicular to the face of the first portion.

Preferably, the system is configured so as to be installed with the brackets of the end supports being oriented with the pivots being located between the fasteners of the installed system.

Alternatively or additionally, there is provided a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, each end support including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having an abutment face that is to be in contact with the structural component when the system is installed, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket; and a plurality of ties that are to encircle the support cable and the service component, thereby suspending the service component from the support cable, wherein, in each bracket, the mounting point is spaced from the abutment face of the first portion, and wherein each clamping element has first and second portions that are interconnected by complementary threads, whereby tightening the connection between the first and second portions increases a clamping force that is applied laterally to the support cable.

Preferably, end support further includes a fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and that secures the first portion of the bracket to the structural component.

Alternatively or additionally, there is also provided a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; and two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, at least one of the end supports including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having a face that is to be oriented towards the structural component when the system is installed, and the mounting point being spaced from the face of the first portion, a fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and that secures the first portion of the bracket to the structural component, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket, wherein each clamping element has first and second portions that are interconnected by complementary threads, whereby tightening the connection between the first and second portions of the clamping element increases a clamping force that is applied laterally to the support cable.

In some embodiments, the mounting point is an aperture in the second portion of the bracket, and the system is configured such that the support cable is to pass through the aperture, and the clamping element is configured to secure the cable in a desired position with the support cable extending through the aperture.

In some embodiments, the clamping element extends through the aperture in the second portion of the respective bracket, the clamping element having; a retaining member that secures the clamping element in position on the respective bracket, and a throughway through which the support cable is to extend.

The system can further comprise one or more eyelets that each have has an eye through which to pass the support cable, a shank that extends from the eye and is to be embedded within one of the structural components of the building, wherein the eyelets are to be disposed between the end supports in the installed system.

Alternatively or additionally, there is provided a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, each end support includes a mount and a brace, the mount including: an elongate bracket having a first end that is to be secured to the structural component, and a second end that provides a mounting point, wherein the system is to be installed with the first end of the elongate bracket secured to the structural component, such that the mounting point is spaced outwardly from the structural component, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket, the brace including a brace bracket that is to be secured to the structural component, and a stay member that extends between the brace bracket and the mount, wherein when the system is installed the brace provides support to limit movement of the mounting point in a direction that is away from the brace bracket of the respective end support; and a plurality of ties that are to encircle the support cable and the service component, thereby suspending the service component from the support cable, wherein each clamping element has first and second portions that are interconnected by complementary threads, whereby tightening the connection between the first and second portions increases a clamping force that is applied laterally to the support cable.

In certain embodiments, each stay member is an elongate flexible member that is secured at opposing ends to the brace bracket and the elongate bracket. Preferably, each stay member is secured to the respective elongate bracket at, or adjacent to, the mounting point.

In some embodiments, each stay member is part of a respective one of the end portions of the support cable.

Preferably, each brace includes a clamping element for clamping onto the stay member and securing the stay member to the brace bracket.

In at least some embodiments, each end support includes a first fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and each elongate bracket has a connector at the first end that interconnects with the first fastener.

Each end support can further include a second fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, wherein each brace bracket is to be secured to one of the structural components by a respective second fastener.

The system can further comprise one or more eyelets that are to be fixed to structural components of the building, and are to be disposed between the end supports. The eyelets can have a shank that is to be embedded within a structural component of the building. Each eyelet can have an expandable sleeve, and the end portion of the shank is conical to expand the sleeve, thereby causing the sleeve to bind and retain the eyelet within the structural component.

Alternatively or additionally, the system can further comprise one or more eyelets that each have has an eye through which to pass the support cable, a shank that extends from the eye and is to be embedded within one of the structural components of the building, wherein the eyelets are to be disposed between the end supports in the installed system.

In one form, the mounting point is an aperture in the second portion. Preferably, the system is configured such that the support cable is to pass through the aperture, and the clamping element is configured to secure the cable in a desired position with the support cable extending through the aperture. In one form, each bracket is L-shaped.

In some embodiments, each clamping element extends through the aperture in the second portion of the respective bracket. In such embodiments, each clamping element can have a retaining member that secures the clamping element in position on the respective bracket.

Each clamping element can have a throughway through which the support cable is to extend. Each clamping element can be configured such that tightening the connection between the first and second portions causes the first portion to displace laterally with respect to the throughway. In some alternative embodiments, each clamping element can be configured such that tightening the connection between the first and second portions moves one or more wedging members of the respective clamping element with respect to the throughway. In one form, each wedging member is a ball. Alternatively, each wedging member can be a wedge block.

In some embodiments, at least one of the fasteners is a concrete anchor with a shank that is to be embedded within a structural component of the building. The concrete anchor can have an expandable sleeve, and the end portion of the shank is conical to expand the sleeve, thereby causing the sleeve to bind and retain the concrete anchor within the structural component. Alternatively, the shank can be provided with external threads. In some forms, the fasteners can be configured for chemical anchoring within a hole formed in the structural component.

The system can further comprise at least one fairlead that is to be secured to one of the structural components of the building, wherein in the installed system the support cable passes through or around the fairlead, such that the fairlead laterally supports two adjacent and non-parallel lengths of the support cable between the end supports.

In certain embodiments, the fairlead includes a ring or hook portion, and a fairlead bracket to which the ring or hook portion is connected, and wherein in the installed system the fairlead bracket is to be secured to one of the structural components of the building.

Preferably, the ring or hook portion is connected to the fairlead bracket in a manner that permits rotation of the ring or hook portion relative to the fairlead bracket.

In some embodiments, each component part of the system is made of steel. Alternatively or additionally, at least some component parts of the system can be made from: 316 grade stainless steel, 304 grade stainless steel, and/or assorted carbon steels.

Brief description of the drawings In order that the invention may be more easily understood, an embodiment will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1: is a first schematic side elevation view of a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system being in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2: is a second schematic side elevation view of the system of Figure 1, showing the system installed beneath a soffit of a building; Figure 3: is an enlarged view of Region III in Figure 2; Figure 4: is a perspective view of a clamping element for use in a system according to a second embodiment, for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building; Figure 5: is a schematic bottom view of a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system being in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6: is a perspective view of the fairlead of the system of Figure 5; Figure 7: is a bottom view of the fairlead of Figure 6; Figure 8: is a first schematic side elevation view of a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system being in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9: is a second schematic side elevation view of the system of Figure 8, showing the system installed beneath a soffit of a building; and Figure 10: is a schematic side elevation view of a system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system being in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description Figures 1 to 3 show a system 10 for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. It will be understood to the person skilled in the art that this type of system is also known as a "catenary". In Figures 1 to 3, the structural component is a soffit S. However, it will be appreciated that the structural component can be a wall, column, beam, or similar, and/or any combination of structural components.

The system 10 has a support cable 12 from which the service components are to be suspended, two end supports 14 to which opposing end portions of the support cable 12 are to be connected. In the example shown in Figure 2, the service component is a multi-core electrical cable E. However, it will be appreciated that other service component(s) may be suspended from the system 10.

As indicated in Figure 2, once the system 10 is installed, ties 16 can be used to encircle both the support cable 12 and the cable E, thereby suspending the cable E below the support cable 12. In the illustrated embodiment, each tie 16 has a tongue, and a self-closing clasp. The tongue can be looped, and then passed through the clasp to form a closed loop.

Each end support 14 has a fastener 18, a bracket 20, and a clamping element 22. The fasteners 18 are configured to be fixed to a structural component of the building. In this particular example, the fasteners 18 are concrete anchors, that can be installed in a pre-drilled hole made in the concrete of the soffit S.

The brackets 20 each have a first portion 24 that is to be secured to the structural component by the respective fastener 18, and a second portion 26 with a mounting point 30. The first portion 24 has an abutment face 28 that is to be in contact with the structural component of the building, when the system 10 is installed. As will be evident from the Figures, the mounting point 30 is spaced from the abutment face 28. Consequently, in the installed system 10, the support cable 12 is spaced from the structural component(s) of the building; such as the soffit S, in the example of Figure 2.

In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the first portion 24 of each bracket 20 has an aperture (not shown) through which a shank of the concrete anchor extends. A nut is tightened onto the shank to secure the bracket 20 to the soffit S, with the abutment face 28 against the surface of the concrete.

The clamping elements 22 are configured to clamp onto the support cable 12, and secure the support cable 12 at the mounting point 30 of the bracket. In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the mounting point 30 is an aperture (not shown) formed in the second portion 26 of the bracket 20. Further, in this particular embodiment, the clamping element 22 is configured such that in the installed system 10 the support cable 12 passes through the aperture. In addition, each clamping element 22 also extends through the aperture in the respective bracket 20.

Each bracket 20 is shaped such that the second portion 26 extends transversely from the first portion 24. In this example, the brackets 20 are substantially L-shaped. The shape of each bracket 20 forms a pivot 32 along an edge of the abutment face 28. The pivots 32 extend along a lateral edge of the abutment face 28 and along the line of intersection between the first and second portions 24, 26. Tension in the support cable 12 creates a torque in each bracket 20, about the respective pivot 32. Such torque loads are resisted by the fasteners 18 in a direction perpendicular to the abutment face 28. Consequently, tensile loads in the support cable 12 create a force against the fasteners 18 that act in a direction substantially perpendicularly to the abutment face 28; subject to correct installation of the fasteners 18, this force is also parallel with the longitudinal axis of the fasteners 18. This has the benefit of aligning the forces applied by the system 10 through the fasteners 18 with the strength of the material in which the fasteners are embedded.

As is evident from Figure 2, the system 10 is configured so as to be installed with the brackets 20 oriented such that the pivots 32 are located between the fasteners 18.

As is shown particularly in Figure 3, each clamping element 22 has first and second portions that are interconnected by complementary threads. In this embodiment, the first portion is a body portion 34 of the clamping element, and the second portion is a locking screw 36. The clamping element 22 has a throughway (not shown) that is aligned with the longitudinal axis, and through which the support cable 12 is to extend. Internally of body portion 34 of each clamping element 22 is an internal thread that mates with an external thread on the respective locking screw 36. The locking screw 36 also has a throughway (also not shown) so that the support cable 12 is able to extend through the locking screw 36. Internally of the body portion 34 is a set of steel balls (not shown), and the throughway and/or locking screw 36 are shaped with a complimentary cup and cone arrangement. Tightening the threaded connection between the body portion 34 and locking screw 36 drives the steel balls inwardly with respect to the throughway. When the support cable 12 extends through the throughway of the clamping element 22, the tightening action increases a clamping force that is applied laterally to the support cable 12.

The support cable 12 can be a wire rope that is made of multiple twisted wire strands. This type of wire rope, when used with the clamping element 22 described above, has the advantage that the steel balls and wire strands form an interference fit, that inhibits the wire rope sliding through the throughway.

At the opposing end of the body portion 34 to the locking screw 36 is an externally threaded hollow shank 38. As shown in Figure 3, the shank 38 passes through the aperture in the second portion 26 of the respective bracket 20. A flange nut 42 with an internal thread mates with the shank 38, and secures the clamping element 22 in position on the bracket 20.

The system 10 further has eyelets 40 that are also fixed to the soffit S of the building, between the end supports 14. Each eyelet 40 has an eye, a shank that extends from the eye and is to be embedded within a structural component of the building, and an expandable sleeve that surrounds the shank. The end portion of the shank is conical to expand the sleeve during installation of the eyelet 40 into concrete, thereby causing the expandable sleeve to bind against the surrounding material, thereby retaining the eyelet 40 within the soffit S.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support cable 12 is passed through the eyes of the eyelets 40, so as to limit the drop of the support cable 12 between the end supports 14.

In some instances, the support cable 12 is supported by eyelets 40 at intervals of less than 1,500 mm. More preferably, the support cable 12 is supported by eyelets 40 at intervals in the range of 800 mm to 1,250 mm. Even more preferably, the support cable 12 is supported by eyelets 40 at intervals of approximately 1,000 mm. As will be appreciated, the number of eyelets 40 that are used in an installed system 10 will be dependent on a number of factors, including the length of the support cable 12, the unit mass of the support cable 12, and the load rating of the system 10. It will be understood that the load rating is related to the unit mass of the service components that are supported by the system 10.

The ties 16 that encircle the support cable 12 and the cable E, and thus suspend the cable E from the support cable 12, are separated by intervals of less than 500 mm. More preferably, the ties 16 are separated by intervals in the range of 100 mm to 400 mm. Even more preferably, the ties 16 are separated by intervals of approximately 200 mm.

Installation of the system 10 involves: 1. forming blind holes in the soffit S that are to receive the fasteners 18;

2. installing the two end supports 14 in the blind holes formed in the soffit S; 3. securing the support cable 12 to the first of the end supports 22 by clamping the respective clamping element 22 onto the support cable 12; 4. tensioning the support cable 12 to a desired tension; and 5. securing the support cable 12 to the second of the end supports 22 by clamping the respective clamping element 22 onto the support cable 12.

Once the system 10 has been installed according to at least the above procedure, installation of the service component may involve positioning the service component in approximately the desired position adjacent the support cable 12, and then encircling and securing the ties 16 about the support cable 12 and service component. In the case of a flexible service component, such as electrical cable E, the service component can be progressively positioned in the desired position, and the ties 16 secured sequentially and progressively along the length of the support cable 12.

Where the particular installation of the system 10 also requires the inclusion of eyelets 40, the installation of the system may additionally involve: - forming blind holes in the soffit S that are to receive the eyelets 40; - installing eyelets 40 in the respective blind holes formed in the soffit S; and - prior to securing the support cable 12 to the second end support 14, locating the support cable 12 in the eyes of the eyelets 40.

Locating the support cable 12 in the eye of one of the eyelets 40 may involve "threading" the support cable 12 through that eye. Alternatively, this step may involve passing the support cable 12 laterally (with respect to the longitudinal direction of the support cable 12) through a gap of the eyelet 40 that opens into eye of the eyelet 40, so as to rest in a hook portion that forms the eye of the eyelet 40.

Where the component parts of the system 10 are formed from 316 grade stainless steel, 304 grade stainless steel, and/or assorted carbon steels, the system 10 can withstand harsh conditions, such as exposure to high temperatures for significant periods of time, and other mechanical performance criteria, as specified in AS/NZ 3013:2005. For example, a test of a system in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 passed a "fire rating" test performed in accordance with AS/NZ 3013:2005. Alternatively or additionally, a system that is in accordance with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 and that is installed as described, with appropriate selection of support cable diameter, and size and placement of fasteners and eyelets, can also satisfy the "safe working load" requirements specified in AS/NZ 3013:2005. Consequently, the system 10 can be relied on to support service components, such as a length of electrical cable, in harsh conditions.

Figures 1 to 3 illustrate schematically an example in which the system 10 is installed beneath a soffit S. Thus, the end supports 14 and eyelets 40 are secured to the soffit S. As noted above, embodiments of the system can be installed on one or more other structural components. By way of example, the system, or at least a part thereof, can be installed against a wall. In such instances, the support cable can extend horizontally, vertically, or in oblique directions.

Figure 4 shows a clamping element 100 that may be used in a system according to second embodiment for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. For the sake of brevity, only a portion of the system of the second embodiment is illustrated. It will be understood that the other non-illustrated parts of the system may be as described above.

In this second embodiment, the bracket (which is not shown in its entirety in Figure 4) may have at least one aperture 130 formed in its mounting point. In such an embodiment, securing the support cable 112 to the respective end support involves passing the support cable 112 through the aperture, and forming a bight 102 in the support cable 112. The bight 102 passes around part of the second portion 126 of the bracket.

The clamping element 100 has a body portion 104 that defines two throughways 106a, 106b. When installed, two portion of the support cable 112 on either side of the bight 102 extend through the throughways 106a, 106b. The body portion 104 has internally threaded apertures that intersect one of the throughways 106a, 106b. In this particular embodiment, the body portion 104 has four internally threaded apertures, with two intersecting each throughway. Externally threaded fasteners, such as screws 108, locate in the threaded apertures. Tightening the connection between the body portion 104 and each one of the screws 108 causes the respective screw 108 to displace with respect to the body portion 104, and also laterally with respect to the respective throughway 106a, 106b. In this way, when the support cable 112 extends through the throughways 106a, 106b of the clamping element 100, the tightening actions increases the clamping forces that are applied laterally to the support cable 112. Thus, the clamping elements 100 are clamped onto the support cable 112.

Figure 5 shows a system 210 for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. In Figure 5, the structural component is a soffit S (which extends parallel to the plane of the view in Figure 5), and the soffit is supported on a structural wall W of the building. The wall W is shown in cross section in Figure 5.

The system 210 is similar to the system 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Accordingly, in Figure 5 parts of the system 210 that are similar to parts of the system 10 have the same reference numeral with the prefix "2". For clarity, ties and eyelets of the system 210 have been omitted from Figure 5, and a service component, as would be suspended from the support cable 212, has not been shown.

As shown in Figure 5, the wall W includes an outward corner C. The system 210 is arranged such that the support cable 212 has two adjacent and non-parallel lengths

212a, 212b between the end supports 214. In other words, the support cable 212 in this embodiment does not follow a "straight" run between the end supports 214. In this way, the support cable 212 "follows" the wall W around the corner C.

The system 210 includes a fairlead 244 that is secured to the soffit S, outwardly of the wall W. In this particular embodiment, the fairlead 244 includes a ring portion 245, and a fairlead bracket 246 to which the ring portion 245 is connected. In the installed system 210, the fairlead bracket 246 is secured to the structural component of the building. The fairlead 244 is shown in further detail in Figures 6 and 7.

The support cable 212 passes through the ring portion 245 of the fairlead 244, such that the fairlead 244 laterally supports the two adjacent and non-parallel lengths 212a, 212b of the support cable 212 between the end supports 214.

As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the fairlead bracket 246 has a first portion 247 that is to be secured to the structural component by a fastener 218b, and a second portion 248 to which the ring portion 245 is connected.

The fairlead bracket 246 is substantially L-shaped, so as to form a pivot 249 along the line of intersection between the first and second portions 247, 248. In a similar manner to the brackets 220 of the end supports 214, tension in the support cable 212 creates a torque in the fairlead bracket 246. In the installed system 210, the fairlead 244 is to be positioned with the pivot 249 horizontally between the fastener that secures the fairlead 244 to the soffit S and the support cable 212. Accordingly, the torque loads in the fairlead bracket 246 are resisted by the corresponding fastener.

Figure 5 illustrates a system 210 in which the fairlead 244 is used at the intersection of two adjacent and non-parallel lengths 212a, 212b of the support cable 210 that are both generally horizontal. Accordingly, service component(s) carried by the example system 210 would extend generally horizontally. In some instances, a fairlead in accordance with an embodiment may be used at the intersection of two adjacent and non-parallel lengths of the support cable, where one or both of the lengths extends at least partly vertically.

Figures 8 and 9 show a system 310 for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. In this example, the structural component is a soffit S of the building.

The system 310 is similar to the system 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Accordingly, in Figures 8 and 9 those parts of the system 310 that are similar to parts of the system 10 have the same reference numeral with the prefix "3".

In this embodiment, each end support 314 includes a mount 350 and a brace 380. The mount 350 has an elongate bracket 352 with a first end 354 that is to be secured to the structural component, in this embodiment by a first fastener 318, and a second end 356 that provides a mounting point 330. The elongate bracket 352 includes a connector 358 at the first end 354. When the system 310 is installed, the first end 354 of the elongate bracket 352 is secured to the structural component, by interconnection of the connector 358 to the first fastener 318. When connected in this way, the mounting point 330 is spaced outwardly from the soffit S. As with the systems 10, 210, clamping elements 322 clamp onto the support cable 312, and secure the support cable 312 to the elongate bracket at the mounting point 330.

Each brace 380 includes a brace bracket 382 that is to be secured to the soffit S, and a stay member 384 that extends between the brace bracket and the mount 350. When the system 310 is installed, the brace 380 provides support to limit movement of the mounting point 330 in a direction that is away from the brace bracket 382 of the respective end support 314.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, each stay member 384 is an elongate flexible member that is secured at opposing ends to the brace bracket 382 and the elongate bracket 352. Further, each stay member 384 is secured to the respective elongate bracket 352 at, or adjacent to, the mounting point 330.

In some embodiments, each stay member 384 is part of a respective one of the end portions of the support cable 312. To this end, the clamping elements 322 of the end portions 314 are constructed so that the support cable 312 passes through the throughway in each clamping element 322. Each brace 350 includes a clamping element 386 that clamps onto the respective stay member 384 and secures that stay member 384 to the brace bracket 382.

Each end support 314 further includes a second fastener 388 that is to be fixed to soffit S. The respective brace bracket 382 is to be secured to the soffit S by the respective second fastener 388.

As will be observed by comparing the system 10 of Figures 1 to 3 with the system 310 of Figures 8 and 9, the elongate brackets 352 are configured to space the support cable 312 further from the soffit S than the brackets 20. Similarly, with regard to the eyelets 40, 340 of the two systems 10, 310. The configuration of the system 310 provides for a catenary that can be installed with non-structural building components or service equipment against the soffit S. By way of example, insulation materials, and/or air conditioning ducts may be provided within the building and against the soffit S; the system 310 is configured to suspend the support cable 312 (and thus also the suspended service component) beneath the insulation materials / ducts.

In addition to the steps for installation of the system 10 described above, installation of the system 310 further involve: 1. forming additional blind holes in the soffit S that are to receive the fasteners 318b; 2. installing the brace brackets 352 of the two end supports 14 in the additional blind holes formed in the soffit S;

3. securing the stay members 384 of the support cable 312 to the brace brackets 352 by clamping the respective clamping element 386 onto the stay member 352; and 4. tensioning the stay members 384 to a desired tension.

The brace brackets 352 may be positioned such that each stay member 384 is at least at an acute angle to the net force that acts upon the corresponding mount 350 at the mounting point 330, when the system 310 is in service. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the net force acting on each mount 350 at the respective mounting point 330 will include tensile forces applied by the support cable 312 and gravity. In the illustrated example, in which the system 310 is installed on a soffit S, the gravity component of the net force acts in a direction that is generally parallel to the elongate direction of the elongate brackets 352. Thus, the stay members 384 are generally coplanar with net force, as is the support cable 312.

In instances in which the system 310 is installed on a vertical wall of a building, with the support cable 312 extending generally horizontally away from each elongate bracket 352, the gravity component of the net force acts in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the elongate direction of the elongate brackets 352. Thus, in these instances, the system 310 is to be installed with each stay member 384 being oblique to a vertical plane that includes the elongate bracket 352 of the corresponding end support 314.

Figure 10 shows a system 410 for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building. In this example, the structural component is a soffit S of the building.

The system 410 is similar to the system 310 shown in Figures 8 and 9. Accordingly, in Figure 10 those parts of the system 410 that are similar to parts of the system 310 have the same reference numeral with the prefix "4" replacing the prefix "3".

The primary difference between the system 410 and the system 310 is in the structure of the brace bracket 482. In particular, the brace bracket 482 is shaped to facilitate aligning the stay member 484 to be substantially free of any bends at the juncture with the clamping element 486.

In some embodiments of the system the component parts can be made from: 316 grade stainless steel, 304 grade stainless steel, and/or assorted carbon steels. This has the advantage of providing a system that is capable of supporting a length of electrical cable, and that meets the performance requirements of AS/NZ 3013:2005.

The illustrated embodiments show systems secured to concrete structural components. In some instances, the system (or even subset of the system components) can be secured to structural components made of other materials. For instance, at least some component parts of the system can be secured to metal purlins of a building.

In addition, the illustrated embodiments show systems in which an externally threaded concrete anchor is used for the various fasteners. In some instances, other fasteners and/or fastener systems may be used for securing the system (or component parts of the system) to a concrete structural component of a building. By way of examples, the system may be secured to concrete structural components using, internally threaded "drop-in" type anchors, screw-in type anchors, alternative expanding sleeve type anchors, and/or threaded rod that is cast in place or set into a hole formed in the concrete structure.

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.

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.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; and two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, at least one of the end supports including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having a face that is to be oriented towards the structural component when the system is installed, the mounting point being spaced from the abutment face of the first portion, a fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and that secures the first portion of the bracket to the structural component, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket; wherein the or each bracket having the first and second portions is shaped such that the second portion extends transversely from the first portion, and such that a pivot is formed on the face of the first portion, whereby tension in the support cable creates a torque about the pivot of the respective bracket that is resisted by the securing of the first portion to the structural component in a direction that is perpendicular to the face of the first portion.

2. A system for suspending an elongate service component adjacent structural components in a building, the system comprising: a support cable from which the service components are to be suspended; and two end supports to which opposing end portions of the support cable are to be connected, at least one of the end supports including: a bracket with a first portion that is to be secured to the structural component and a second portion that provides a mounting point, the first portion having a face that is to be oriented towards the structural component when the system is installed, the mounting point being spaced from the face of the first portion, a fastener that is to be fixed to a structural component of the building, and that secures the first portion of the bracket to the structural component, and a clamping element for clamping onto the support cable and securing the support cable at the mounting point of the bracket; wherein each clamping element has first and second portions that are interconnected by complementary threads, whereby tightening the connection between the first and second portions of the clamping element increases a clamping force that is applied laterally to the support cable.

3. A system according to either claim 1 or 2, wherein the mounting point is an aperture in the second portion of the respective bracket, and wherein the system is configured such that the support cable is to pass through the aperture, and the clamping element is configured to secure the cable in a desired position with the support cable extending through the aperture.

4. A system according to claim 3, wherein the clamping element extends through the aperture in the second portion of the respective bracket, the clamping element having: a retaining member that secures the clamping element in position on the respective bracket, and a throughway through which the support cable is to extend.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising one or more eyelets that each have has an eye through which to pass the support cable, a shank that extends from the eye and is to be embedded within one of the structural components of the building, wherein the eyelets are to be disposed between the end supports in the installed system.

32

28 ?1/9?

28

14 40 12 14

S 40 40 10 16 16 16 16 Figure 1

S

III ?2/9?

14 16 12 16 16 16 16 16 14

E 40 40 40

10

Figure 2

?3/9? 24 Dec 2020 2020104330

18

32

S

30 34 36 28 12

18 24

38 12

26 22 42

20

Figure 3

?4/9? 24 Dec 2020

102 2020104330

130 108

106b 104

108

126

112 106a

108

100

112 108

Figure 4

214 218

S W 222 ?5/9?

C 220 244

212 222 218

214 Figure 5 218b

?6/9? 24 Dec 2020

244 249 246 2020104330

245

247

248

Figure 6

247

246 244

248

245

Figure 7

388 318 350 350 318 S 388

354 358 358 382 354

382 386 ?7/9?

386 384 384 380 352

380 352 356 356 330 310 322 312 316 322 316 340 340 330 Figure 8

S 352

352 350

350 ?8/9?

380 384 380 384

322 316 322 316 314 E 314 340 312 340 310 Figure 9

488 418 418 S 488

454 458 458 482 454

482 486 ?9/9?

486 484 484 480 450

480 450 456 456

430 440 422 410 430 440 422 412 Figure 10