EP2109574A2

EP2109574A2 - Moulded or cast frame with inner and outer walls for underground chamber

Info

Publication number: EP2109574A2
Application number: EP07808677A
Authority: EP
Inventors: David Edward Hill
Original assignee: Sika Technology Ltd
Current assignee: Sika Technology Ltd
Priority date: 2006-07-11
Filing date: 2007-07-11
Publication date: 2009-10-21
Also published as: CA2663634A1; EP2109574A4; NZ548488A; WO2008007980A2; WO2008007980A3

Abstract

The invention relates to a moulded or cast frame for use with a below surface utility chamber defining an entrance to the utility chamber. The frame forms a surround for the opening. The frame also has an outer wall that depends downwardly from the surround, and an inner wall bounding the opening and depending downwardly from the surround. There is also at least one inwardly directed flange or step from the inner wall. The outer wall has a lowermost surface, and at least one of the inner wall, flange or step or extension or extensions thereof also has lowermost surface, the lowermost surfaces present to collectively form a downwardly directed bearing surfaces. Disclosed also is a method of using the frame and setting it into surrounding and supporting material as well as adjusting the relative height of the frame to the surrounding and supporting material.

Description

"IMPROVEMENTS IN/OR AND RELATING TO UTILITY CHAMBERS AND SURROUNDS AND METHODS THEREFOR"

The present invention relates to frames and surrounds for utility chambers and in particular to sub-surface or underground chambers. Utilities such as power, electricity, water, telecommunications, gas and similar are often contained within, and ducted by, utilities. In many cases it is convenient to duct these utilities under the surface of the earth or a structure, for example a road, runway, footpath, a built up area (e.g. floor of a building or structure) or similar. The nature of such utilities requires periodic access, for example for maintenance. The utility chambers are accessed via a hatch, or similar that lies flush with the surface the chamber is set into. The chambers can house junctions of the utility, or permit access thereto e.g. piped or wired utilities. As the utility chambers are located below the surface, with the access hatch flush with the surface (e.g. the surface of the road), they do not impede surface movement e.g. traffic flow. This enables the best location of the utility chamber. However, as a result the chamber, hatch and particularly the support for the hatch, must be sufficiently strong to support surface loads, e.g. traffic passing over or static loads placed thereon.

Typically the utility chamber is of concrete set into and below the surface, and a surface frame of concrete. The chamber and frame can be cast in situ or off site. In some applications there is a sub-frame of preformed steel located partially within the surface frame to locate the hatch. The frame communicates to the main cavity of the utility chamber below and the utility therein. The frame supports the hatch or cover, or any other required element. The frame and hatch lie flush with the surface. The frame is typically installed after the utility chamber has been placed.

Boxing, shutter work or similar form work is then added from the utility chamber to stand clear of the main utility chamber hole. The voids or gaps between the form work and the sides of the hole are then filled with concrete or a similar concretious material. This forms the frame. The sub-frame may be added prior to pouring of the concrete. Once the concrete has reached a particular strength, the form work can be removed and the construction of the road way or similar can be continued. An alternative to using concrete to form the utility chamber is to use a preformed chamber that locates into the main part of the hole. The chamber is made of a metal, such as aluminium. An example of such a pre-formed chamber is described in New Zealand patent NZ511057. This chamber also has a sub-frame to receive the hatch and concrete is used in situ to form the frame including the sub- frame. Such sub-frames in the past have been purely to support the hatch and require a fill material such as concrete to define the remainder of the frame.

It should be noted that in particular, in situations where the hatch and frame of the utility chamber undergo heavy loads (for example in a road way or runway) then the frame and framework must be sufficiently strong to support these loads, and the concrete must set to a point where it will support heavy loads before the loads can be applied. When a setting material such as concrete is used, there is often a significant time period required for the material to set at least to a strength at which form work and similar can be removed, so that further construction work can be carried out around the framework. This can unduly delay construction work, particularly when a network of utilities and chambers must be installed at the same time as surrounding construction is occurring.

The upper surface of the chamber is set at a certain level, i.e. that of the surface. This is a further disadvantage. If further work is carried out at a later date (e.g. road resurfacing), this can leave the upper surface of the chamber lower or higher than the rest of the road surface. This will render an otherwise smooth surface bumpy. It is difficult to adjust the position of the frame to the new surface level without significant re-construction work, and possibly the removal and repositioning of the frame, if not the chamber also. In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide improvements to sub-surface utility chambers and surrounds that at least in part overcome the disadvantages of the prior art or at least provides the public with a useful choice.

In a first aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in, a moulded or cast frame for association with a below surface utility chamber to define an entrance to said utility chamber, said frame comprising or including; a surround of an opening, said opening to allow entrance to said utility chamber below, an outer wall or skirt (hereafter "outer wall"), continuous or discontinuous depending downwardly from said surround, and an inner wall or skirt (hereafter "inner wall"), continuous or discontinuous, bounding said opening and depending downwardly from said surround, there being at least one inwardly directed flange or step from said inner wall, wherein said outer wall has a lowermost surface, and at least one of said inner wall, flange or step or extension or extensions thereof has lowermost surface, said lowermost surfaces presenting to collectively form downwardly directed bearing surfaces.

Preferably said frame also includes a plurality of vertical webs, underneath said surround running between said inner and said outer walls. Preferably said frame is formed from a metal.

Preferably said outer wall lower most surfaces and said inner wall, flange or step or extension thereof lower most surfaces and lower-most surfaces of said vertical webs present as a co-planar said downwardly directed bearing surface.

Preferably there is provision on said frame for connection with a plurality of support means to run between said frame and said utility chamber to space said frame adjustably from said utility chamber.

Preferably said support means are adjustable to vary the positioning in situ of said frame member relative to said utility chamber.

Preferably said at least one inwardly directed flange or step includes a plurality of holes passing therethrough. - A -

Preferably said plurality of holes is adapted to receive said support means in use.

Preferably said frame member is adapted to receive a hatch to at least in part close said aperture. Preferably there is a second inwardly directed flange or step from said inner- wall, upward and outwardly from said at least one inwardly directed flange or step.

Preferably the most upper surface of said surround is substantially flat.

Preferably said hatch rests on said at least one inwardly directed flange or step, said second inwardly directed flange or step or both said inwardly directed flanges or steps, with an upper surface of said hatch flush with said upper surface.

Preferably said upper surface of said frame has a surface treatment as a texture or as an applied surface finish to either, i) increase grip, or ii) change the colour or finish of said upper surface. Preferably said hatch upper surface has a similar surface treatment to said upper surface of said frame.

Preferably an upper surface of said hatch and said upper surface of said frame are recessed in the horizontal plane to form a shallow depression.

Preferably at least said shallow depressions contain or receive said surface treatment.

Preferably said downwardly directed bearing surfaces are adapted to be supported from below by a hardened filler material.

In another aspect the present invention consists in a method of providing a surface frame for a below surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) providing a utility chamber located below said surface, with a frame trench about and outward from the periphery of said utility chamber (or an extension thereof) and downward from a level of said surface, ii) locating a frame member at least in part into said frame trench and via an adjustable support connection, connecting the frame to and supporting it from said utility chamber at a predetermined height, Hi) providing a forming cavity in said frame trench, peripherally about said utility chamber between said frame trench, and said utility chamber, iv) introducing into said forming cavity a filler material at least up to the level of a downwardly presenting bearing surface of said frame member, and v) allowing said filler material to set to provide a load bearing foundation to support said frame member.

Preferably said predetermined height locates an uppermost surface of said frame member to lie flush with said surface level.

Preferably a release material is located intermediate of said frame member and said filler material.

Preferably said filler material extends past said bearing surface of said frame member.

Preferably said forming cavity is in addition formed by location of shutter work, form work, boxing or similar. Preferably prior to step iϋ) said frame member is removed and replaced after step iv).

Preferably said shutter work, form work, boxing or similar is removed after said filler material has set to a self supporting state.

Preferably said shutter work, form work, boxing or similar consists of inner shutters defining an inner periphery of said forming cavity and outer shutters defining and outer periphery of said forming cavity.

Preferably said inner shutters seal said forming cavity from the interior of said utility chamber.

Preferably said method also includes filling in of any peripheral gaps present between said frame member and said surface surrounding.

Preferably said filler material is fast setting material.

Preferably said filler material is a two part resinous material with accelerated hardening time, substantially faster than concrete.

Preferably movable parts of said support means located within said forming cavity are isolated from said filler material when located therein. In another aspect the present invention consists in a method of adjusting a frame for a sub-surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) releasing the surface connection between said frame and filler material there-under, ii) adjusting connection or support means between said frame and said utility chamber by a) adjusting the connection or support means to move said frame upwards to the new height and providing a forming cavity thereunder, or b) removing excess fill material under said frame and adjusting said connection or support means to move said frame downwards to a new height, and providing a forming cavity thereunder, and iii) filling said forming cavity under said frame with filler material to support said frame from below at said new height once said filler material is able to bear weight. In another aspect the present invention consists in a utility chamber installation comprising or including, a utility chamber that is set underground in a hole in surrounding ground and that includes side walls that extend towards a surface of said surrounding ground , a frame member that is set into said surrounding ground to define a frame about an opening of said utility chamber and is capable of receiving and supporting a hatch to close said opening, an in situ formed foundation located within a trench defined about said opening and below said frame member and by which said frame member is upwardly supported at least in part, and at least one support able to support said frame member in part from said utility chamber, said support being adjustable to allow the variable positioning of said frame member relative to the utility chamber between limits in a vertical direction.

Preferably a first of the limits is defined by said foundation. In another aspect the present invention consists in a kit of combination suitable to provide a closable frame surround for a utility chamber, said kit or combination comprising or including, a frame with an opening to define an entrance to said chamber, a plurality of supports or support assemblies (hereafter "supports") able to connect between said frame and said utility chamber to support said frame from said utility chamber, a hatch to close said opening, and optionally said utility chamber. In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a utility chamber frame able to define at least part of the entrance aperture for a sub-surface utility chamber, comprising or including, a frame member with an aperture there through, said frame member presenting an upper surface to lie flush with said ground surface when in situ, depending from said upper surface is a downwardly directed bearing surface to by supported by backfill or form work or a foundation to support said frame member in situ, said frame member having disposed about said aperture an upwardly directed bearing surface to receive in use a hatch to at least in part close said aperture. Preferably said frame member is able to be connected to and spaced from said utility chamber by support means when in situ.

Preferably said support means is/are adjustable to be adjusted to vary the positioning in situ of said frame member to said utility chamber.

Preferably said frame member includes a first downwardly directed peripheral skirt, to at least in part define said aperture, having a downwardly presenting lower surface.

Preferably there are a plurality of vertical webs depending from the underside of said upper surface of said frame, each web having a lower presenting surface.

Preferably said frame member includes a second downwardly directed peripheral skirt depending from the outside periphery of said frame member, with a second downwardly presenting lower surface. Preferably said downwardly dkected beating surface is comprised of the lower surfaces of said first and second downwardly directed peripheral skirts and said plurality of vertical webs.

Preferably said lower surfaces present in the same horizontal plane. Preferably said plurality of vertical webs, in addition, each join to both said downwardly directed peripheral skirts.

Preferably said upwardly directed bearing surface is at least one lip disposed inwardly from said first downwardly directed peripheral skirt.

Preferably said support means is at least in part a threaded connection. Preferably said at least one lip includes a plurality of holes passing through said at least one lip.

Preferably said plurality of holes are adapted to receive said support means in use.

Preferably said support means are attached to said at least one lip by a nut or nuts ("lip nut(s)").

Preferably said support means are attached to said utility chamber at a flange of said utility chamber via a nut or nuts.

Preferably there is a lip nut above and below said at least one lip of said frame member. Preferably there is a nut ("chamber nut") above and below said flange of said chamber.

Preferably about each of said fastening means is a sleeve to extend from said flange to beyond the level of backfill when present, to isolate said fastening means from said back fill. Preferably said frame member is adapted to receive a hatch to at least in part close said aperture.

Preferably there is a second upward lip outward and upward from said at least one lip.

Preferably said hatch rests on said at least one lip, said second upward lip or both said lips, with the upper surface of said hatch flush with said upper surface in use. Preferably there are four of said holes, located in corresponding positions, two on each of the longer sides of said frame.

Preferably said frame is recessed in the vertical plane in the region of said holes. Preferably said webs create compartments when viewed from below, when joined to said downwardly directed skirts.

Preferably said webs are located on said frame so that at least the greater number of said compartments is rectangular.

Preferably said frame and said aperture are rectangular, four of said webs located to run from the corners of said aperture to the corners of said frame.

Preferably said at least one lip is notched in the region of said holes.

Preferably the location of each of said holes corresponds to the location of the inner end of a web.

Preferably said upper surface of said hatch and said upper surface of said frame are recessed in the horizontal plane to form a shallow depression.

Preferably said backfill (filler material) is a fast curing material such as an epoxy or similar.

In another aspect, the present invention consists in a frame for forming the upper part of a sub-surface utility chamber, said frame comprising or including; a substantially flat upper surface which includes a central aperture that passes through said upper surface, said aperture to allow communication with said utility chamber below, a substantially continuous outer wall passing around the outer edge of said upper surface, a substantially continuous inner wall passing around the inner edge of said upper surface, bounding said central aperture, said inner wall having an upwardly directed lip at or close to the lower edge of said inner wall, said inner and outer walls presenting a downwardly directed bearing surface.

Preferably said frame also includes a plurality of vertical webs running between said inner and said outer walls. Preferably there is a plurality of fastening means running between said frame and said utility chamber to space said frame adjustably from said utility chamber.

Preferably said at least one Hp includes a plurality of holes passing through said at least one lip. Preferably said plurality of holes is adapted to receive said support means in use.

Preferably said support means are attached to said at least one lip by a nut or nuts ("Up nut(s)").

Preferably there is a lip nut above and below said at least one lip of said frame member.

Preferably there is a nut ("chamber nut") above and below said flange of said chamber. Preferably about each of said fastening means is a sleeve to extend from said flange to beyond the level of backfill when present, to isolate said fastening means from said back fill.

Preferably said frame member is adapted to receive a hatch to at least in part close said aperture. Preferably there is a second upward lip outward and upward from said at least one lip.

Preferably said hatch rests on said at least one lip, said second upward lip or both said lips, with the upper surface of said hatch flush with said upper surface in use. Preferably said frame is rectangular, the height of said side walls being in the region of 100mm, with the longer sides of said frame having a length in the region of 1800mm and the shorter sides of said frame having a width of 1200mm, said central aperture having a width of approximately 660mm and a length of approximately 1330mm, said at least one lip having a width of approximately 50mm. Alternatively the height of said side walls is in the region of 65mm, with said longer sides of said frame having a length in the region of 1440mm, and a width of approximately 770mm, said central aperture having a width of approximately 610mm and a length of approximately 1270mm, said at least one lip having a width of approximately 25mm.

Preferably there are four of said holes, located in corresponding positions, two on each of the longer sides of said frame.

Preferably said frame is recessed in the vertical plane in the region of said holes.

Preferably said webs create compartments when viewed from below, when joined to said downwardly directed skirts. Preferably said webs are located on said frame so that at least the greater number of said compartments is rectangular.

Preferably the width of said compartments is in the region of 270mm. Alternatively the width of said compartments is in the region of between 180-

220mm.

Preferably said at least one lip is notched in the region of said holes.

Preferably the location of each of said holes corresponds to the location of the inner end of a web. Preferably said upper surface of said hatch and said upper surface of said frame are recessed in the horizontal plane to form a shallow depression.

In a further aspect the present invention consists in a method of providing a frame for a sub-surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) providing a utility chamber located below the surface, with a frame trench about the periphery of and outward from said utility chamber from surface level, ii) locating a frame member at least in part into said trench and via an adjustable connection, connecting the frame to said utility chamber, wherein preferably a release material is applied to the lower surface thereof, iϋ) forming a closed cavity substantially below said frame, between said frame member, frame, and said utility chamber, and iv) introducing into said cavity a resinous fill material at least up to the lower surface of said frame member, diereafter allowing said resinous fill material to set to provide a load bearing foundation to support the frame member. Preferably said cavity is formed by location of shutter work, boxing or similar.

Preferably said method also includes filling in of any peripheral gaps present between said frame member and the surrounding surface.

Preferably said filling in of any peripheral gaps is by paving material.

Preferably said there is a release material between said fill material and at least said frame.

Preferably said fill material is a two part resinous material with accelerated hardening time, substantially faster than concrete.

In a further aspect the invention may broadly be said to consist in a method of forming the upper part of a utility chamber, comprising the steps of; countersinking the surrounding upper surface of said chamber to form a countersunk surround, emplacing a frame in said countersunk surround, said frame being of the type described in any one of the preceding statements, pumping concretious material into said countersunk surround and the underside of said frame.

Preferably said method also includes the step of securing said frame onto said utility chamber by fastening means.

Preferably said method also includes the step of emplacing inner shutters in said utility chamber, and outer shutters around the perimeter of said countersunk surround before pumping said concretious material, said shutters removed once said concretious material has sufficiently hardened.

Preferably said method also includes the step of backfilling any gaps between said frame and said countersunk surround with paving material.

Preferably said there is a release material between said concretious material and at least said frame. Preferably said concretious material is a two part resinous material with accelerated hardening time.

Preferably said method also includes the step of covering said upper surface of said frame and the upper surface of said hatch with a grippy material. In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a method of adjusting a frame for a sub-surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) releasing the surface connection between the frame and fill material there-under, ii) adjusting a support means between said frame and said utility chamber by a) adjusting the support means to move said frame upwards to the new desired height, or b) removing excess fill material under said frame and adjusting said support means to move said frame downwards to the new desired height, ϋi) filling the cavity under said frame with resinous fill material to support said frame at the new height once cured.

In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a frame for a subsurface utility chamber as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings. In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a utility chamber (subsurface or otherwise) with a frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a method of forming a utility chamber frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

In yet another aspect the present invention consists in a method of adjusting a utility chamber frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

The term 'comprising' as used in this specification means 'consisting at least in part of, that is to say when interpreting statements in this specification which include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which; Figure Ia shows an isometric view from above of one form of the frame of the present invention,

Figure Ib shows an isometric view from below of the frame of Figure 1,

Figure 2a shows a cross-sectional view of one side of the larger sized frame of the present invention, shown in Figure 1, Figure 2b shows a cross-sectional view of one side of a smaller sized frame embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 3a shows the frame of Figure 1 and Figure 2a in bottom view,

Figure 3b shows the second, smaller sized, frame of the present invention in bottom view, Figure 4 shows an isometric view from above of the frame of Figure 3b,

Figure 5 shows a semi-exploded view of the frame of the present invention in use, locating into the peripheral trench of the hole created to locate the utility chamber,

Figure 6 shows the frame and arrangement of Figure 5, but with the frame attached to the utility chamber below,

Figures 7a and 7b show a preferred embodiment in top and bottom isometric of a hatch that can be used with the frame of the present invention,

Figure 8 shows cross-sectional detail of part of the frame of Figure 5, prior to use with boxing in place, with a fastening mechanism also shown that holds the frame in place above the utility chamber and recessed trench, prior to curing of the filling material, and showing the closed cavity to retain the resinous filling material,

Figure 9 shows the same view as that of Figure 7 with boxing removed,

Figure 10 shows an isometric cross-sectional view at one end of a below surface preformed structure, in this case an aluminium utility chamber, a frame supported above the chamber to set the support height, and paving defining a recessed trench thereabouts, Figure 11 shows a similar view to Figure 10 with the form work located in place off the supports at the correct height to define a forming cavity,

Figure 12 shows a similar view to Figure 11 with filler material located in the cavity formed by the forming work to the preset level, prior to relocation of the frame,

Figure 13 shows the view of Figure 12 with the frame relocated into place on top of and pushed partially into the filler material prior to setting,

Figure 14 shows the view of Figure 13 with form work removed and the frame set in and on the cured filler material, Figure 15 shows the final formed utility chamber surround with concrete or similar material poured about the frame, level with the paving material and hatch in place, :

Figure 16 shows the view of Figure 15 when a new level of paving material is located into place, Figure 17 shows the view of Figure 16 with the hatch removed and the frame being jacked up on the supports to be free of the filler material and surrounding concrete, and set to the new paving height,

Figure 18 shows the forming array relocated in place to form a new forming cavity, Figure 19 shows further filler material poured into the forming cavity to die preset level,

Figure 20 shows the view of Figure 19 with the frame relocated into place on top of and pushed partially into the filler material prior to setting at the new height,

Figure 21 shows the view of Figure 20 with the forming work removed, and Figure 22 shows the final formed utility chamber surround at the new height with concrete or similar material poured about the frame, level with the paving material new height and hatch in place.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention shall now be described with reference to the figures 1 through 22. A frame 1 is shown in Figure 1. The frame 1 in use forms the upper part surround to a utility chamber 105 or an extension thereof, provides or defines the opening thereto and communicates to the utility chamber 105 below.

The frame 1 has a generally rectangular outline when viewed in plan, with a central aperture 2 that passes through from the upper surface 18 of the surround 40 of the frame 1. When the frame is installed the aperture 2 allows access to the inside of the utility chamber 105 located below.

In cross-section, each of the four sides of the frame 1 has the shape of an inverted U or channel. The base portion defining the base of the inverted U channel is preferably flat and defines the upper surface 18 and surround 40 of the frame 1. The sides of the U form two walls that depend downwards from the surround 40 when the frame 1 is aligned for use. The two walls are an inner wall 5 that runs around the inner edge of the surround 40 bounding central aperture 2, and an outer wall 6 that bounds the outer edge of the upper surface 18. The outer wall may depend any where from the underside of the surround 40, but in the preferred form as shown depends from the outer edge of the surround 40. The inner wall 5 may extend all the way down, or as shown may extend partially down before it steps or flanges inwards to form a hatch lip 3. The hatch lip 3 then has an extension or leg as shown that extends further downwards to present the downwardly directed bearing surface 102.

In one preferred embodiment the walls 5 and 6 do not extend above the upper surface 18 i.e. the upper surface is a flat surface. In other preferred embodiments they do extend past the upper surface 18.

A hatch lip 3 runs around a lower edge of the inner wall 5, projecting inwards from the aperture 2 to provide an upward facing hatch support surface.

Holes 4 pass through the hatch lip 3, spaced at intervals around the periphery of the hatch Hp 3. Typically, in the preferred embodiment, there are four holes 4, two on each of the longer sides of the hatch lip 3, positioned in pairs opposite each other. That is, the positions of the holes 4 on one side correspond to the position of the holes 4 on the opposite. If required, the inner wall 5 and the upper surface 18 of the surround 40 can be recessed 100 vertically upward from the holes 5, so that the holes 4 can be accessed easily by the heads of tools or similar in use.

In the preferred embodiment shown the hatch Hp 3 is continuous about the central aperture 2. However in other embodiments the hatch lip 3 may be only present where needed e.g. for holes 4 and for supporting the hatch 15. In the preferred embodiment a second hatch clip 106 is present to in part support the hatch 15.

The hollow central part of the frame 1 is divided into compartments 7 by webs 8, spaced at intervals and running between the inner and outer walls 5, 6. These run perpendicular to the inner and outer walls 5, 6, except at the corners of the frame, where four of the webs 8 run diagonally from the inner corners to the outer corners. The function of the webs 8 is two fold. The first of these is to impart strength to the frame 1. The second is to form part of the downwardly directed bearing surface 102. In the preferred embodiment each of the webs 8 join the outer and inner walls

5, 6 respectively and the underside of the upper portion 18. However in other embodiments where strength is not required so much as sufficient bearing surface they may join to one or two of the walls.

The inner and outer walls 5 and 6 and webs 8 all extend so far to present a co- planar single or multiple surface that presents as a downwardly directed bearing, surface 102.

The frame 1 (and hatch 15) is usually formed from a metal material e.g. die cast, cast or moulded aluminium, cast iron or steel. This can become slippery when wet, an undesirable characteristic for surfaces that require traction, e.g. road or foot traffic surfaces. Although as stated above, the inner and outer walls 5, 6 in one embodiment do not overlap above the upper surface 18, in another embodiment they can. The result is that the central part of the surround 40 of the frame 1 is recessed downwardly (in the horizontal plane when aligned for use) to form a shallow depression or recessed area 9. The recessed area 9 can therefore be filled with material 26 that will increase the amount of grip on the uppermost surface - e.g. a thin layer of tarmac, paving or other grip entrancing material. Alternatively, a thin layer of textured rubber matting, resin or similar could be disposed in the recessed area 9. The recessed area 9 may alternatively be textured to provide sufficient grip e.g. raised stipples or similar. This stippling may also provide a keying to any material that is located in the recessed area 9. The hatch 15 may also have such similar treatment and be recessed to receive a surface treatment.

The hatch 15 and frame 1 may be coloured also if desired either directly by the material of their construction or by application of secondary materials, e.g. paints, resins, coloured finishes (including concretious surface finishes). This may key to the recessed area 9.

In use, the aperture 2 is closed by a hatch 15. The hatch 15 is sized to fit the aperture 2, with edges of the hatch 15 resting on the hatch lip 3. In the preferred embodiment these are the lower peripheral edges 101 of the hatch 15. In further preferred embodiments the hatch 15 may also have engagement with a second step or flange as a second lip 106. This second lip 106 is outward from the hatch lip 3 and near the upper surface 19. The second lip 106 engages a mating surface and the underside of the hatch 15.

The lid 15 is preferably formed as a single planar panel, strengthened on its underside by a number of flanges 16, aligned perpendicular to the under surface of the hatch 15, so that they face vertically downwards when the hatch 15 is in position. A number of these flanges 16 are aligned running lengthways and crossways across the underside of the hatch, parallel and perpendicular to each other, as shown. If required, the hatch 15 can include lugs 18 at its edges, positioned and sized to fit into the recesses 9 of the holes 4, so that gaps in e.g. the road surface are minimised.

These lugs may also house means to engage the hatch 15 to the frame 1 in known ways.

The method of installation of the frame 1 with a utility chamber 105 to form a utility chamber surround will now be described with reference to Figures 8 through 22. A void, cavity of hole is created to receive and support and hold the utility chamber 105. The hole includes a recessed trench 11 with a width larger than the plan perimeter shape of the main utility chamber 105. The recessed trench 11 is of a sufficient plan area to accommodate more than the width and height of the frame 1, as shown. The recessed trench 11 is sufficiently deep so that when the frame 1 is brought flush with the surface of the ground there is room beneath the bearing surface (s) 102.

The lower and outer walls of the recessed trench 11 can be defined by compacted backfill 27 to precisely match the contours of the utility chamber 105. In other embodiments they may be dug and formed from the surrounding material itself (e.g. soil or clay). In the preferred embodiment the utility chamber is a preformed structure that is cast from aluminium. In other less preferred embodiments the utility chamber 105 can either be formed by lining the cavity with concrete or similar, or a preformed structure can be placed in the cavity to define the utility chamber 105.

The frame 1 is then located into the recessed trench 11, with the open side of each of the compartments 7 and beaming surface(s) 102 facing downwards toward the upper surface 10 of the recessed trench 11. The co-planer surface (s) 102 in the preferred embodiment have a release material applied, for example a liquid or a film. This allows the frame to be released and lifted clean of the filler material 25 as described later.

In the preferred embodiment, the frame 1 is supported in place by support means 12 passing through the holes 4, as shown in Figures 8, 9 and 10. The support means 12 connect to the utility chamber 105. In the preferred embodiment the support means 12 connect to a flange 23 at or toward the upper edge f the utility chamber wall. The support means 12 set the frame 1 at the desired distance off the lower surface 10 of the recessed trench 11 and more importantly at the correct height to be flush with the ground surface 103.

Each support means 12 comprises a threaded bolt 13. This passes through one of the holes 4, and a first pair of nuts 28 and 29. The nuts are located either side of the hatch lip 3, threaded onto the bolt 13 to hold the frame 1 in place. It should be noted that two nuts — an upper Mp nut 28 and a lower lip nut 29 — are the preferred form, however a captive nut that is accessible from above may be used also. In some embodiments the hatch lip 3 may be threaded also. It is preferred that the support means 12 also comprises at least one washer between the upper lip nut 28 and the hatch lip 3.

In the preferred embodiment, the lower end of the bolt 13 passes into a hole (blind or otherwise) or similar feature on or toward the upper edge of the utility chamber 105, for example a hole formed in a lip or groove or flange 23. A second set of nuts and washers — upper chamber nut/ washer 30 and lower chamber nut/ washer 31 — located each side of this feature 23 hold die bolt 13 in place relative to the utility chamber 105. Again the support means 12 may be threaded also. It should be noted that the washers are included as part of the preferred embodiment, but that this arrangement can work without washers. Where reference is made in this specification to nut/ washer combinations, it should be understood that this can mean a nut /washer combination or a nut by itself.

Other embodiments of this arrangement will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. For example but not limited to, support means with indexable heights.

Prior to location of the frame on the support means 12, a sleeve 24 (preferably of plastic) is slipped over the support means 12 (in this case the bolt 13, also encompassing the upper nut/ washer combination 30. The sleeve 24 either is of a sufficient length to engage and seal against the underside of the frame 1 (when located there on, or is at least sufficiently long to sit proud of the level of filler material 25 to be introduced. The sleeve 24 acts as additional forming work preventing flow of the filler material onto the bolt and therefore seizing it. The sleeve also in part prevents movement of the filler material down into the chamber 105.

Reinforcing (not shown) if required may be located in the recessed trench 11. The frame is then located on the support means 12 and they are adjusted to sit the frame 1 flush with the ground surface 103 and above the recessed trench 11. In the embodiment shown a spanner 32 is used to adjust the threaded components of the support means 12. Form work is then located into place. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 8 and 9 formwork takes the form of inner shutters 22A positioned inside the utility chamber 105, flush with the inner surfaces of the utility chamber 105. Outer shutters 21 A if required are positioned around the outer periphery of the recessed trench 11. The frame 1 is left in place in this method. In other embodiments the inner shutters 22A may be formed by an extension of the utility chamber 105.

In other embodiments formwork is more extensive and shown in Figures 11 through 13. In this embodiment the frame 1 is removed. The form work is similar consisting of inner shutters 21A and outer shutters 22B. The inner shutters 21A are suspended off the utility chamber 105 as shown in Figure 11. Preferably as part of the inner shutters 21B (though equally as part of the outer shutters (22B) reusable strickles 36 are located to provide an index to the required height of the filler material. They are held in place by holders 35. In this case the holders are threaded to attach onto the upper part of the bolt 13. If required for the inner shutters 21B then bracing 33 is also used.

The outer shutters 22B can sit on the lower surface 10 of the recessed trench. If they outer shutters 22B are of separate pieces, then they are held together by joiners 34. The result is a forming cavity 38 for the filler material Concretious filler material 25 such as concrete or an epoxy (any fast setting material is within the scope of the invention such as two or more pot systems, fast acting concrete, polyesters, polyvinyls, hot set materials, ultra violet cure materials or similar) is then introduced or poured into the void or forming cavity 38 formed by the recessed trench and formwork. . In the first method where the frame 1 is left in place the level of filler material is such that it extends vertically just past the downwardly directed bearing surface 102.

In the second method when the frame is not present, the strickles 36 indicate the height for filling, as shown in Figure 12, and act as a guide for any floats used to smooth the filler material 38 into place. In this method once the filler material 25 is in place, and at the right height the strickles are removed and the frame 1 located into place as shown in Figure 13. The frame may be tightened down onto the setting filler material 25 to ensure good contact between the filler material 25 and the bearing surface 102.

The shutter work can be removed when the filler material 25 has achieved a self supporting or non-running working hardness. For both methods this is shown in Figures 9 and 14.

Any gap remaining between the filler material 25, upper surface 103 and frame 1 can be in-filled or backfilled with paving material 26 or similar. The filler material is then allowed to set. This can occur within 1-2 days depending upon the filler material 25 and environmental condition. Any set speed can be chosen depending on the time frame that construction needs to be recommenced by around the utility chamber. In most instances the filler material will have cured overnight.

If work is carried out that would alter the level of the ground surface 103 into which the frame 1 is sunk — e.g. road resurfacing work or similar — then the level of the frame 1 can be adjusted as follows with reference to Figures 16 through 22.

It is to be understood that when the term level is used it may be the existing level of the ground, or a level that is to be created, for example by later paving material or similar.

The frame is easily released from the cured filler material 25 supporting it in place due to the presence of the releasing agent between the bearing surface 102 and the filler material 25. This can be achieved via external force application (e.g. lifting the frame 1) or internal by use of the support means 12 (e.g. nuts 28, 29 and/or 30/31 by spanner 32) to jack the frame 1 clean of the filler material 25. The upper surface 18 of the surround 40 can be raised to the new desired height 37. A new support surface of filler material can then be created in the way described earlier.

Shutter work is then added in one of the two methods as earlier described. If the frame 1 does not need to be raised higher then its thickness then the old paving material 26A from the previous level, can act as the outer shutter work. Additional or replacement filler material 25 can then be poured or pumped into the new forming cavity (either under the frame if in situ as in method 1, or into the cavity with the fame removed, strickles 36 used and then removed and then the frame 1 located back into place and tightened down on to the setting material as per method 2). Shutter work can then be removed once the filler material has reached a non running, workable setting. Additional paving material 26 can then be added to fill any remaining cavity between the new filler material 25, frame 1, and new paving material surface level 37.

In a similar way if the height of the frame 1 needs to be lowered the frame 1 can be released in a similar way above from the filler material 25. If necessary the frame 1 can be lifted clear of the trench 11. The old or cured filler material 25 can then be broken up to below the required height and removed. The frame is then > replaced, and adjusted via the support means 12 to the new height. New filler material is then introduced.

In this manner, the frame 1 can be raised or lowered as required to stay at the level of, or flush with, the new surrounding surface 103 height.

In order to aid this process, the preferred embodiment of frame 1 has the following additional feature: The inner wall 5 below the hatch lip 3 extends downwardly as shown in Figures 2a and 2b. Notches 17 are formed as shown in Figure 1. These allow improved access to the fasteners or nuts passing through the holes 4. It should also be noted that in the preferred embodiment, each of the holes 4 is located at the end of one of the webs 8, with the overhang recessed at the location of the hole 4, as shown in Figure Ib. The notches 17 facilitate tool access to the nuts to adjust the frame 1 height before and after the filler material 25 introduction. It can be seen that the use of the frame 1 substantially removes the need for pre-casting large heavy concrete and similar frames and surrounds. All necessary heavy casting is done on site. The comparatively lightweight frame and reusable formwork can be made off site and delivered on site and in most sizes is easily man handlable, rather than requiring a crane and similar for pre-cast concrete frames and surrounds. Also if requited a fast cure filler material will cure faster to a workable strength and therefore the time period before work recommence close to or around the utility chamber 105 is considerably reduced.

In the preferred embodiments, there are two sizes of frame 1. The first, larger size of frame 1 has a depth of approximately 10cm. The length is approximately 180cm, with a width of approximately 120cm. The aperture 2 has a width of approximately 660mm and a length of approximately 1330mm. The hatch lip 3 has a width of approximately 5cm. Each of the compartments 7 has a width of between 18cm and 22cm. The second, smaller size of frame 1 ^s has a depth or height of 60-70mm. The length is approximately 144cm, with a width of approximately 77cm. The aperture 2" has a width of approximately 61cm and a length of approximately 127cm. The lip 3" has a width of approximately 25mm. Each of the compartments 7" has a width of approximately 27cm. It should be noted that different sizes and shapes of frame other than frames 1 and 1 " described and shown could be utilised. For example square, circular or oval or other shaped frames could be used without departing from the inventive concept described and claimed.

The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred forms thereof. Modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A moulded of cast frame for association with a below surface utility chamber to define an entrance to said utility chamber, said frame comprising or including; a surround of an opening, said opening to allow entrance to said utility chamber below, an outer wall or skirt (hereafter "outer wall"), continuous or discontinuous depending downwardly from said surround, and an inner wall or skirt (hereafter "inner wall"), continuous or discontinuous, bounding said opening and depending downwardly from said surround, there being at least one inwardly directed flange or step from said inner wall, wherein said outer wall has a lowermost surface, and at least one of said inner wall, flange or step or extension or extensions thereof has lowermost surface, said lowermost surfaces presenting to collectively form downwardly directed bearing surfaces.

2. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 1 wherein said frame also includes a plurality of vertical webs, underneath said surround running between said inner and said outer walls.

3. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2 wherein said frame is formed from a metal.

4. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in either claim 2 or 3 wherein said outer wall lower most surfaces and said inner wall, flange or step or extension thereof lower most surfaces and lower-most surfaces of said vertical webs present as a co-planar said downwardly directed bearing surface.

5. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein there is provision on said frame for connection with a plurality of support means to run between said frame and said utility chamber to space said frame adjustably from said utility chamber.

6. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 5 wherein said support means are adjustable to vary the positioning in situ of said frame member relative to said utility chamber.

7. A moulded or cast moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein said at least one inwardly directed flange or step includes a plurality of holes passing therethrough.

8. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 7 wherein said plurality of holes is adapted to receive said support means in use.

9. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein said frame member is adapted to receive a hatch to at least in part close said aperture.

10. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein there is a second inwardly directed flange or step from said inner wall, upward and outwardly from said at least one inwardly directed flange or step.

11. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 1 wherein the most upper surface of said surround is substantially flat.

12. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 11 wherein said hatch rests on said at least one inwardly directed flange or step, said second inwardly directed flange or step or both said inwardly directed flanges or steps, with an upper surface of said hatch flush with said upper surface.

13. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 11 or 12 wherein said upper surface of said frame has a surface treatment as a texture or as an applied surface finish to either, i) increase grip, or ii) change the colour or finish of said upper surface.

14. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in claim 13 wherein said hatch upper surface has a similar surface treatment to said upper surface of said frame.

15. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein an upper surface of said hatch and said upper surface of said frame are recessed in the horizontal plane to form a shallow depression.

16. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein at least said shallow depressions contain or receive said surface treatment.

17. A moulded or cast frame as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16 wherein said downwardly directed bearing surfaces are adapted to be supported from below by a hardened filler material.

18. A method of providing a surface frame for a below surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) providing a utility chamber located below said surface, with a frame trench about and outward from the periphery of said utility chamber (or an extension thereof) and downward from a level of said surface, ii) locating a frame member at least in part into said frame trench and via an adjustable support connection, connecting the frame to and supporting it from said utility chamber at a predetermined height, iii) providing a forming cavity in said frame trench, peripherally about said utility chamber between said frame trench, and said utility chamber, iv) introducing into said forming cavity a filler material at least up to the level of a downwardly presenting bearing surface of said frame member, and v) allowing said filler material to set to provide a load bearing foundation to support said frame member.

19. A method of providing a frame as claimed in claim 18 wherein said predetermined height locates an uppermost surface of said frame member to lie flush with said surface level.

20. A method of providing a frame as claimed in either claim 18 or 19 wherein a release material is located intermediate of said frame member and said filler material.

21. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20 wherein said filler material extends past said bearing surface of said frame member.

22. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 21 wherein said forming cavity is in addition formed by location of shutter work, form work, boxing or similar.

23. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 22 wherein prior to step iii) said frame member is removed and replaced after step iv).

24. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 22 or 23 wherein said shutter work, form work, boxing or similar is removed after said filler material has set to a self supporting state.

25. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 22 or 24 wherein said shutter work, form work, boxing or similar consists of inner shutters defining an inner periphery of said forming cavity and outer shutters defining and outer periphery of said forming cavity.

26. A method of providing a frame as claimed in claim 25 wherein said inner shutters seal said forming cavity from the interior of said utility chamber.

27. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 26 wherein said method also includes filling in of any peripheral gaps present between said frame member and said surface surrounding.

28. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 27 wherein said filler material is fast setting material.

29. A method of providing a frame as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 27 wherein said filler material is a two part resinous material with accelerated hardening time, substantially faster than concrete.

30. A method as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 29 wherein movable parts of said support means located within said forming cavity are isolated from said filler material when located therein.

31. A method of adjusting a frame for a sub-surface utility chamber, comprising or including the steps of, i) releasing the surface connection between said frame and filler material there-under, ϋ) adjusting connection or support means between said frame and said utility chamber by a) adjusting the connection or support means to move said frame upwards to the new height and providing a forming cavity thereunder, or b) removing excess fill material under said frame and adjusting said connection or support means to move said frame downwards to a new height, and providing a forming cavity thereunder, and ϋi) filling said forming cavity under said frame with filler material to support said frame from below at said new height once said filler material is able to bear weight.

32. A utility chamber installation comprising or including, a utility chamber that is set underground in a hole in surrounding ground and that includes side walls that extend towards a surface of said surrounding ground, a frame member that is set into said surrounding ground to define a frame about an opening of said utility chamber and is capable of receiving and supporting a hatch to close said opening, an in situ formed foundation located within a trench defined about said opening and below said frame member and by which said frame member is upwardly supported at least in part, and at least one support able to support said frame member in part from said utility- chamber, said support being adjustable to allow the variable positioning of said frame member relative to the utility chamber between limits in a vertical direction.

33. A utility chamber installation as claimed in claim 33 wherein a first of the limits is defined by said foundation.

34. A kit or combination suitable to provide a closable frame surround for a utility chamber, said kit or combination comprising or including, a frame with an opening to define an entrance to said chamber, a plurality of supports or support assemblies (hereafter "supports") able to connect between said frame and said utility chamber to support said frame from said utility chamber, a hatch to close said opening, and optionally said utility chamber.

35. A frame for a sub-surface utility chamber as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

36. A utility chamber (sub-surface or otherwise) with a frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

37. A method of forming a utility chamber frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.

38. A method of adjusting a utility chamber frame as herein described with or without reference to any one of more of the accompanying drawings.