EP4790199A1

EP4790199A1 - A floor system

Info

Publication number: EP4790199A1
Application number: EP26154740.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jamie Connor Davidson; Shaun Anthony Spurrell; Robert James Whitmarsh-Trew
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2025-02-06
Filing date: 2026-01-28
Publication date: 2026-08-12
Also published as: GB202501782D0

Abstract

A floor system for a building, the floor system comprising:
a first layer defining an upper surface and comprising a first material;
a connecting assembly connected to the upper surface of the first layer, said connecting assembly configured for connecting a component to the floor system;
a heating arrangement located above the upper surface of the first layer for providing thermal energy to the floor system;
a second layer located on top of the upper surface of the first layer,
wherein the connecting assembly comprises a connector body connected to the first layer and an elongate mounting member extending from the connector body for connecting a component thereto,
wherein a length of the mounting member is greater than a thickness of the second layer such that a portion of the mounting member protrudes from an upper surface of the second layer.

Description

FIELD

The present teachings relate to a floor system, a building system and a method of forming a floor system.

BACKGROUND

In order to install building components such as internal walls, brackets, a safe, a kitchen unt or the like, they are commonly mounted to the floor system, for example a floor system with an underfloor heating arrangement. It is advantageous for a secure connection that the component is mechanically fixed to the floor system. Such mechanical fixing generally requires drilling into the floor system, which carries a risk that the underfloor heating arrangement could be damaged by the drilling action. If the heating arrangement is damaged, then part of the floor system needs to be dug up and repaired, which is an expensive and time-consuming process. Damage to underfloor heating arrangements may not appear as a malfunction until sometime later after expensive final floor coverings have been laid, which increases the cost of repair and inconvenience. In addition or alternatively, there may be data cables, fibre optic cables or the like in the floor system. As with the heating arrangement, if the cables are damaged by drilling, then part of the floor system needs to be dug up and repaired. Alternatively, the components may be secured to the floor system using an adhesive. However, if the shear loads exerted on the adhesive connection between the floor system and the component become too great, the component may become dislodged or move position relative to the floor system.
The present teachings seek to overcome or at least mitigate one or more problems associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the teachings there is provided a floor system for a building structure, the floor system comprising: a first layer defining an upper surface; a connecting assembly connected to or extending through the upper surface of the first layer, said connecting assembly configured for connecting a component to the floor system; a second layer located on top of the upper surface of the first layer, wherein the connecting assembly comprises a connector body connected to the first layer and an elongate mounting member extending from the connector body for connecting the component thereto, wherein the mounting member defines an elongate length that extends at least partially through the second layer to be exposed at an upper surface of the second layer.
In order to construct a building system, components such as internal walls, a bracket, a safe, a kitchen unit, are commonly mounted to the floor system. It is advantageous for a secure connection that the component is mechanically fixed to the floor system. Such mechanical fixing generally requires drilling into the floor system, which carries a risk that an arrangement located in the floor system, for example a heating arrangement, a cable arrangement or fibre optic arrangement could be damaged by the drilling action. If the arrangement is damaged, then the floor system needs to be dug up and re-laid, which is an expensive and time-consuming process. Alternatively, the components may be secured to the floor system using an adhesive. However, if the shear loads exerted on the adhesive connection between the floor system and the component becomes too great, the component may become dislodged or move position relative to the floor system.
Advantageously, providing the mounting member extending through the second layer to be exposed and accessible from above the second layer. This enables secure mounting of the component to the floor system without using adhesive or drilling into the second layer. The connector body provides reinforcement to the mounting member, for example during casting of the second layer, thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the mounting member.
The length of the mounting member may be substantially equal to or greater than a thickness of the second layer. In this way, the mounting member either sits substantially flush or level with the second layer or a portion of the mounting member protrudes from an upper surface of the second layer. This facilitates attachment of the wall structure to the connector body, e.g. via a fastener.
The connector body may comprise a body mounting arrangement configured to mount the connector body to the first layer. Advantageously, the body mounting arrangement helps to fix a position of the connector assembly relative to the layer of first material which helps to prevent the mounting member from migrating from the first layer during casting of the second layer. This helps to ensure the mounting member is in the correct position and alignment for mounting the component.
The body mounting arrangement may be a mechanical fastening arrangement configured to mechanically fasten the connector body to the first layer, and/or wherein the body mounting arrangement comprises an adhesive. Advantageously, such arrangements provide a secure connection between the connector body and the layer of first material and are simple to assemble.
The body mounting arrangement may comprise a fastener configured to extend over the connector body, and the fastener may extend into the first layer to mount the connector body to the first layer.
The fastener may comprise a U-shaped body comprising a first arm and a second arm connected by a fastener body, and the fastener body may extend over the connector body.
The connector body may comprise at least one aperture or recess configured to receive the fastener therethrough. Advantageously, such arrangements provide a secure connection between the connector body and the first layer and are simple to assemble. Additionally, apertures in the connector body are simple to manufacture.
The fastener may comprise at least one barb thereon to engage the first layer. Advantageously, such arrangements provide a secure connection between the connector body and the first layer and are simple to assemble.
The body mounting arrangement may comprise at least one barb extending from the connector body and engaging the first layer to mount the connector body thereto. Advantageously, such arrangements provide a secure connection between the connector body and the first layer and are simple to assemble.
The mounting member may comprise a first mounting member and a second mounting member, and wherein the connector body may comprise the second mounting member configured to connect the first mounting member to the connector body, optionally for releasably connecting the mounting member to the connector body. Advantageously, the second mounting member helps to ensure the first mounting member is correctly positioned with respect to the connector body. In addition, the second mounting member provides reinforcement to the first mounting member, for example during casting of the second layer, thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the first mounting member.
The second mounting member may comprise a hole, bore or sleeve configured to receive a portion of the first mounting member therein, optionally wherein the hole or bore is a threaded hole or bore. Advantageously, the hole or bore is simple to manufacture and simple to assembly to the mounting member.
Advantageously, providing the second mounting member as an elongate sleeve provides reinforcement to the first mounting member thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the first mounting member. Providing a sleeve increases an overlap between the first mounting member and the second mounting member, thereby increases an engagement surface for reinforcing the mounting member.
The mounting member may extend from an enlarged region of the connector body. Advantageously, the enlarged region provides reinforcement to the first mounting member by providing an enlarged support surface, for example during casting of the second layer, thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the first mounting member.
The enlarged region may be substantially circular or substantially polygonal when viewed in plan view. Advantageously, such shapes are simple to manufacture and may provide uniform reinforcement to the first mounting member.
The connector body may be elongate and comprises a plurality of mounting members extending therefrom. Advantageously, the plurality of mounting members provides a plurality of mounting locations for mounting to the component, thereby increasing security of the connection therebetween, and enabling larger components to be mounted to the connecting assembly. Additionally, the connector body being elongate makes the connecting assembly easier to position as correct positioning of the elongate body correctly positions each of the plurality of second mounting members.
The plurality of second mounting members may be spaced equidistantly along an elongate length of the connector body, optionally wherein said spacing between the second mounting members is in the range 100mm to 600mm. Advantageously, equidistant spacing may improve alignment of the second mounting members with corresponding mounting locations of the buildings structure (as the spacing is the same between each mounting location) and helps to distribute the mounting force along the connector body.
The mounting member may comprise one or more of an elongate rod, a plug and/or an insert. Advantageously, the elongate rod can withstand shear loads exerted on the connection between the floor system and the component, in use. Additionally, an elongate rod is simple to manufacture and assemble.
The mounting member may comprise an elongate rod, optionally an elongate threaded rod, and wherein the elongate rod comprises a flange located at an end of the elongate rod.
The elongate rod may extend through an opening in the connector body, and wherein the flange abuts against an underside of the connector body.
The sleeve may comprise a first open end located proximate the first layer and an opposing second open end, and wherein the elongate rod extends through the first open and out of the second open end such that the flange abuts against the first open end.
The underside of the connector body may comprise a recess surrounding the opening, and wherein the flange is received within the recess such that the flange is flush with the underside of the connector body.
The floor system may comprise a fastener mounted to the elongate rod configured to exert a clamping force on the component in a direction towards the upper surface of the second layer to mount the component to the floor system. Advantageously, exerting a clamping force enables secure mounting of the component to the floor system.
The fastener may be a threaded nut, a cam lock, a magnet, a screw, a vertical wedge, a horizontal wedge or a friction grip mounted to the first mounting member. Advantageously, such components are simple to assemble and can produce a clamping force sufficient to withstand sheer loads exerted on the connection between the floor system and the component, in use.
The first mounting member may be a threaded rod, and wherein the fastener is a corresponding threaded nut mounted to the threaded rod and configured to exert the clamping force on the component to mount the component to the floor system.
Advantageously, such threaded components are simple to assemble and can produce a clamping force sufficient to withstand sheer loads exerted on the connection between the floor system and the component, in use.
The portion of the mounting member that protrudes from the upper surface of the second layer may protrude from the upper surface a distance in the range 25mm to 125mm, optionally in the range 50mm to 100mm, for example approximately 75mm. Advantageously, distance in these ranges have been found to enable the mounting member to extend through a variety of components, for example commonly used components, to enable mounting of the component to the floor system.
The mounting member may protrude substantially transversely from the upper surface of the second layer. Advantageously, such an arrangement is simpler to mount to the component.
The mounting member may extend substantially vertically from the connector body and through the upper surface of the second layer.
The connecting assembly may be formed from a metal and/or a plastics material.
A thickness of the second layer may be in the range 40mm to 100mm.
The floor system may comprise a dampproof membrane underneath the first layer.
The floor system may comprise a heating arrangement located above the upper surface of the first layer for providing thermal energy to the floor system.
The heating arrangement may be a hydronic heat arrangement comprising a plurality of pipes, or wherein the heating arrangement is an electrical heating arrangement comprising a plurality of electrical wires and/or a heating mat.
The first layer may be a thermally insulating layer comprising a thermally insulating material.
The second layer may be a screed layer, optionally wherein the screed layer comprises a cementitious material.
According to a second aspect of the teachings, there is a provided a building structure comprising: a floor system according to the first aspect; and a component mounted to the mounting member of the floor system.
The component may comprise at least one hole, and wherein the mounting member extends through the hole to mount the component to the floor system.
A fastener may engage the component to mount the component to the floor system.
According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a floor system, the method comprising: providing a first layer; providing a connecting assembly comprising a connector body and an elongate mounting member extending from the connector body for connecting a component thereto; connecting the connector body to an upper surface of the first layer; depositing a second layer on top of the upper surface of the first layer such that a length of the mounting member is greater than a thickness of the second layer and a portion of the mounting member is exposed at an upper surface of the second layer.
According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a connecting assembly for connecting a component to a floor system comprising a first layer and a second layer located on the first layer, the connecting assembly comprising: an elongate connector body; and at least two mounting members extending from the connector body for connecting a component thereto, said mounting members spaced apart along the connector body, wherein the connector body comprises a body mounting arrangement for connecting the connector body to a first layer of a floor system.
The mounting member may comprise an elongate rod, optionally an elongate threaded rod, and wherein the elongate rod comprises a flange located at an end of the elongate rod.
The elongate rod may extend through an opening in the connector body, and wherein the flange abuts against an underside of the connector body.
The sleeve may comprise a first open end located proximate the first layer and an opposing second open end, and wherein the elongate rod extends through the first open and out of the second open end such that the flange abuts against the first open end.
The underside of the connector body may comprise a recess surrounding the opening, and wherein the flange is received within the recess such that the flange is flush with the underside of the connector body.
The connector body may comprise at least one aperture or recess configured to receive the fastener therethrough. Advantageously, such arrangements provide a secure connection between the connector body and the first layer and are simple to assemble. Additionally, apertures in the connector body are simple to manufacture.
According to a fifth aspect there is provided a kit of parts of a connecting assembly for connecting a component to a floor system comprising a first layer and a second layer located on the first layer, the kit of parts comprising: an elongate connector body; and at least two mounting members mountable to the connector body so as to extend from the connector body for connecting a component thereto, wherein the connector body is configured such that the mounting members are spaced apart along the connector body.
The fifth aspect may comprise any of the feature of the first and fourth aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a floor system according to an embodiment of the present teachings;
Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the portion of the floor system of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is an isometric view of a connector body of a connector assembly of the floor system of Figures 1 and 2; and
Figures 4A to 4D illustrate a method of assembling the floor system of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows a part of a building structure 10 according to an embodiment of the present teachings. The building structure 10 includes a component 12 mounted to a floor system 14. The component 12 may be a wall structure, for example an internal wall, 12 of the building structure 10. As such, it shall be appreciated that a plurality of internal walls 12 may be mounted to the floor system 14 to form rooms of the building structure 10, as is known in the art. Alternatively, the component 12 may be any suitable component to be secured to the floor system 14, for example one or more of a bracket for a toilet or any other article, a safe, a kitchen island or the like.
The internal wall 12 is constructed from a frame assembly 16. The frame assembly 16 includes a plurality of elongate frame members 18, 19 assembled together to form the frame assembly 16. In particular, the frame assembly 16 includes a plurality of frame members 19 arranged substantially vertically, commonly known as studs. The plurality of studs 19 are connected at lowermost ends thereof to frame member 18, also known as a floor frame member, a floor plate or a base plate 18, which is mounted to the floor system 14 to mount the internal wall 12 to the floor system 14.
The frame members 18 may be formed from a metal or from timber, by way of example. Panels (not shown), for example cladding panels, orientated strand board (OSB) or the like may be mounted to the frame assembly 16 to form a cover over the frame members 18, 19 and provide structural strength to the internal wall 12. It shall be appreciated that any suitable wall insulation or reinforcement arrangements may be included on the internal wall 12, as is known in the art. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, an alternative internal wall system may be provided.
As illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the floor system 14 includes a first layer 20, a second layer 28 located on top of the first layer 20 and a connecting assembly 30 for connecting the component 12 to the floor system 14.
In the illustrated example, the first layer 20 is a thermally insulating layer 20. As such, the first layer 20 will be referred to an a thermally insulating layer hereafter. It shall be appreciated that the teachings are also applicable to embodiments where the first layer 20 is not a thermally insulating layer 20. It shall be appreciated that in further alternative embodiments, the first layer 20 may be a mesh, for example a sheet of wire mesh. The connector body 34 may be connected, for example clipped, to the mesh to connect the connector body 34 to the thermally insulating layer 20. As such, the connector body 34 may be connected to the thermally insulating layer 20 via the mesh.
The thermally insulating layer 20 is typically located on top of a dampproof membrane (not shown). Put another way, the floor system 14 includes a dampproof membrane underneath the thermally insulating layer 20. The dampproof membrane may be laid on top of a sub-base, for example a sub-base of compacted material such as stone. In addition, a membrane may be placed on top of the thermally insulating layer 20. The membrane may help to stop cementitious material from dissipating away around the perimeter of the thermally insulating layer 20 or between any gaps in the insulation, for example gaps in insulation panels of the thermally insulating layer 20. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable foundation may be located below the thermally insulating layer 20.
The thermally insulating layer 20 includes a thermally insulating material, for example cellulose, cementitious materials, mineral fibres, natural fibres, plastic fibres, fibreglass, polystyrene, polyisocynurate, polythene, icynene, phenolic, polyurethane, aerated concrete, hollow core concrete, wood, recycled glass, recycled newsprint, in the form of loose fill fibres, beads, etc or solid fill blocks, panels, etc or spray filled or pour filled or foam etc. The thermally insulating layer 20 defines an upper surface 22. The upper surface 22 may be substantially planar.
In some embodiments, the floor system 14 includes a heating arrangement 24. The heating arrangement 24 provides thermal energy to the floor system 14. Such a heating arrangement 24 is commonly known as an underfloor heating arrangement 24. The heating arrangement 24 is located above the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the heating arrangement 24 is located on the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. The heating arrangement 24 may be embedded in the screed layer 28.
It shall be appreciated that the heating arrangement 24 may be located between the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20 and an upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. By way of example, the heating arrangement 24 may have migrated from the upper surface 22 during casting of the screed layer 28. This may mean that the heating arrangement 24 is spaced apart from the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20 and embedded within the screed layer 28.
The heating arrangement 24 is located above the connecting assembly 30. As such, the connecting assembly 30 is located between the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20 and the heating arrangement 24. In alternative embodiments, the connecting assembly 30 may be located above the heating arrangement 24. As such, the heating arrangement 24 may be located between the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20 and the connecting assembly 30.
The heating arrangement 24 includes one or more pipes 26 through which heated fluid, for example water, may be routed to provide thermal energy to the floor system 14. The plurality of pipes 26 may be supplied with hot water from a boiler or heat pump (not shown). The plurality of pipes 26 are substantially U-shaped in plan view. It shall be appreciated that the plurality of pipes 26 may be substantially linear, substantially linear with U shaped returns, or could be any other suitable shape. For example, the arrangement of the pipes 26 may depend upon room shape. It shall be appreciated that the plurality of pipes 26 may be substantially hexagonal, spiral or may be substantially linear pipe sections extending in an irregular arrangement (for example an L-shaped, T-shaped, I-shaped or H-shaped arrangement. The pipes 26 may be flexible or rigid pipes.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, any suitable heating arrangement 24 may be used. Alternatively, the heating arrangement 24 may be an electrical heating arrangement. By way of example, the electrical heating arrangement may include a heating mat or one or more electrical wires for providing thermal energy to the floor system 14. The electrical heating arrangement may include mineral insulated cables, silicone covered cables, silicone heating mats. The heating arrangement 24 may be provided with insulation extending therearound, for example silicone, Kapton, PTFE, ceramic or the like. The heating mat or plurality of electric wires may be embedded in the screed layer 28 or located below the screed layer 28 and on the upper surface 22.
Whilst the illustrated example of the floor system 14 includes a heating arrangement 24, it shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments the heating arrangement 24 may be omitted.
In an alternative embodiment, the floor system 14 a cable arrangement may be included. By way of example, data cables, fibre optic cables or the like may be provided in the floor system 14. In such embodiments, the first layer 20 may not be a thermally insulating later 20. Instead, the first layer 20 may be a structural layer for example formed by floorboards, a resin material or the like. The teachings outlined hereafter are also applicable to embodiments where a cable arrangement is provided in the floor system 14.
In the illustrated example, the second layer 28 is a screed layer. The screed layer 28 may be a layer of cementitious material 28. It shall be appreciated that the layer of cementitious material 28 may include concrete. In alternative embodiments, the screed layer 28 may not include a cementitious material. By way of example, the screed layer 28 may include calcium sulphate. In some embodiments, the screed layer 28 may include an additive material. The additive material could be an additive in the screed layer 28 or could be an additional layer applied on top of the screed layer 28. The additive material may include one or more of latex, cement-based, gypsum-based, epoxy-based, polyurethane-based. Such additive materials help to improve the flatness and levelness of the floor system 14, improve resistance to cracking and water damage, whilst speeding up drying and curing of the screed layer 28. It shall be appreciated that in such embodiments, the screed layer 28 may be replaced with an alternative structural layer, and said structural layer may not be cementitious. By way of example, the structural layer may include a resin or a resin compound. The structural layer may be a heat insulator or a sound insulator.
The screed layer 28 is located on top of the upper surface 22, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28 is substantially planar. This helps to provide a secure and stable surface 32 on which the building structure 12 may be supported. A thickness of the screed layer 28 is typically in the range 40mm to 100mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the screed layer 28 may be more than 100mm.
The internal wall 12, in particular the floor frame member 18, is mounted to the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. It shall be appreciated that a damp proof member, for example a damp proof strip or sheet, may be located under the floor frame member 18 (i.e. between the upper surface 32 and the floor frame member 18).
It is advantageous for a secure connection that the building structure 12 is mechanically fixed to the floor system 14. Such mechanical fixing generally requires drilling into the floor system 14, which carries a risk that the heating arrangement 24, for example the plurality of pipes 26, could be damaged by the drilling action. If the heating arrangement 24 is damaged, then the floor system 14 needs to be partially dug up and re-laid, which is an expensive and time-consuming process. It shall be appreciated that the same applies to embodiments were an alternative arrangement, for example a cable arrangement, is provided in the floor system 14.
Alternatively, in known systems, the building structures 12 may be secured to the floor system 14 using an adhesive. However, if the shear loads exerted on the adhesive connection between the floor system 14 and the building structure 12 becomes too great, the building structure 12 may become dislodged or move position relative to the floor system 14.
The connecting assembly 30 provides a secure connection between the building structure 12 and the floor system 14 without using an adhesive connection between the building structure 12 and the floor system 14, and without drilling into the floor system 14.
The connecting assembly 30 is connected to or extends through the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the connecting assembly 30 is connected to the upper surface 22. In alternative embodiments, the connecting assembly 30 may extend through the thermally insulating layer 20 and may be connected to a layer located below the thermally insulating layer 20.
The connecting assembly 30 includes a connector body 34 connected to the thermally insulating layer 20 and illustrated in detail in Figure 3. The connecting assembly 30 includes a mounting member defining an elongate length that extends at least partially through the screed layer to be exposed (i.e. accessible) at the upper surface of the screed layer 28. The length of the mounting member may be less than, substantially equal to, or greater than a thickness of the screed layer.
In the illustrated example, the connecting assembly 30 includes a first mounting member 36 extending from the connector body 34 for connecting the building structure 12 thereto. As illustrated in Figure 1 and 2, a length of the first mounting member 36 is greater than a thickness of the screed layer 28 such that a portion of the first mounting member 36 protrudes from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. Put another way, the first mounting member 36 extends generally from the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20, through the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28 to protrude therefrom. In other embodiments, the first mounting member 36 may be below or substantially level with the upper surface of the screed layer. The length of the mounting member 36 may be in the range 60mm to 250mm. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the length of the first mounting member 36 may be less than 60mm or more than 250mm.
The portion of the first mounting member 36 that protrudes from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28 protrudes from said upper surface 32 a distance in the range 10mm to 125mm, optionally in the range 50mm to 100mm example approximately 75mm. Distances in these ranges have been found to enable the first mounting member 36 to extend through a variety of building structures 12, for example commonly used building structures, to enable mounting of the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. Providing the elongate first mounting member 36 protruding through the uppermost surface 32 of the screed layer 28 enables secure mounting of the building structure 12 to the floor system 14 without using adhesive or drilling into the screed layer 28. The connector body 34 provides reinforcement to the elongate first mounting member 36, for example during casting of the screed layer 28, thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment, in particular vertical alignment, of the elongate first mounting member 36.
The connector body 34 includes a body mounting arrangement 38 for connecting the connector body 34 to the thermally insulating layer 20. The body mounting arrangement 38 includes one or more apertures 38 located on and extending through the connector body 34. Although only two of the apertures 38 are labelled in Figure 3 for reasons of clarity, it shall be appreciated that the apertures 38 extend over a majority of the connector body 34.
A plurality of fasteners 50, for example staples 50 as illustrated in Figure 2, are provided to mount the connector body 34 to the thermally insulating layer 20, in particular to the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. A first end of the staple 50 is located in one of the apertures 38 and extends through the thermally insulating layer 20, and an opposing second end of the staple 50 extends into the thermally insulating layer 20 to mount the connector body 34 to the thermally insulating layer 20.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the apertures 38 may be omitted and the fastener 50 may extend over the connector body 34 (i.e. as opposed to extending through the connector body 34). By way of example, the fastener 50 may straddle the connector body 34. The fastener 50 may include a first arm and an opposing second arm connected by a fastener body. The first and second arms extend into the thermally insulating layer 20 to mount the connector body 34 to the thermally insulating layer 20. The opposing arms may include an engagement formation, for example one or more barbs, for engaging the thermally insulating layer 20.
The fastener body may extend over the connector body 34 such that the arms are located on different sides of the connector body 34. The arms may be located on opposing sides of the connector body 34 (for example opposing elongate sides of the connector body 34). The arms may be located on adjacent sides of the connector body 34, for example if the fastener extends over a corner of the connector body 34. Put another way the connector body 34 is at least partially located between the opposing first and second arms.
The connector body 34 may include recesses located on one or more side edges of the connector body 34, and the fastener 50 may be located in the recess on the connector body 34. The recesses may be located on opposing elongate side edges of the connector body 34. Each recess located on an opposing elongate side edge of the connector body 34 may receive one of the first and second arms. As such, a pair of recesses may be provided for receiving each fastener. It shall be appreciated that a plurality of fasteners and recesses may be provided. The fasteners may be discrete fasteners spaced apart along the elongate length of the connector body 34. The recesses may be discrete recesses spaced apart along the elongate length of the connector body 34.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the fastener may be a stud, a barb or the like. In further alternative embodiments, the body mounting arrangement 38 may be an alternative arrangement. The body mounting arrangement 38 may be any suitable mechanical fastening arrangement configured to mechanically fasten the body mounting arrangement 38 to the thermally insulating layer 20. By way of example, the body mounting arrangement 38 may include one or more barbs located on an underside of the connector body 34 for engaging the thermally insulating layer 20. In addition or alternatively, the body mounting arrangement 38 may include an adhesive, for example an adhesive tape.
The connector body 34 includes a second mounting member 40 for connecting the first mounting member 36 to the connector body 34. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the second mounting member 40 is for releasably connecting the mounting member 36 to the connector body 34. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the mounting member 36 may be permanently connected to the second mounting member 40. The second mounting member 40 helps to provide reinforcement to the elongate mounting member 36, particularly during casting of the screed layer 28.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the second mounting member 40 is a sleeve 40. The sleeve 40 is formed with the connector body 34 such that the sleeve 40 and the connector body 34 form a unitary component. In alternative embodiments, the sleeve 40 may be formed separately from the connector body 34 and mounted thereto.
The sleeve 40 receives an end portion of the mounting member 36 therein, as illustrated in Figure 2, to mount the mounting member 36 to the connector body 34. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the sleeve 40 is a threaded sleeve 40, however in alternative embodiments the sleeve 40 may not be threaded. The sleeve 40 is connected to connector body 34 at a first end and receives the second mounting member 40 through an opposing second end. The sleeve 40 extends transversely from the connector body 34 such that the sleeve 40 is arranged substantially vertically, in use.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the sleeve 40 extends partially through the screed layer 28. In other embodiments, however, the sleeve 40 may extend further through the screed layer 28 to be exposed (i.e. accessible) at the upper surface of the screed layer 28. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiment, the sleeve 40 may extend to be level with the upper layer 32 of the screed layer 28, or may protrude from the screed layer 28. Put another way, the sleeve 40 may have a height less than, equal to or greater than the thickness of the layer of cementitious material.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the sleeve 40 may be omitted and a threaded opening may be provided in the connector body 34 for receiving the end portion of the first mounting member 36 therein. In further alternative embodiments, the opening may not be threaded.
In a further alternative embodiment, the sleeve 40 may include a formation located on an internal surface thereof (i.e. on a bore extending through the sleeve 40), for example a slot, and the first mounting member 36 may include a corresponding formation located on an external surface thereof. Rotation of the first mounting member 36 within the sleeve 40 may move the corresponding formations into engagement with one another to mount the first mounting member 36 to the sleeve 40. By way of example, a half turn or quarter turn rotation of the first mounting member 36 relative to the sleeve 40 may move the corresponding formations into engagement with one another to mount the first mounting member 36 to the sleeve 40.
A plurality of second mounting members 40 are provided, each configured to releasably connect a first mounting member 36 to the connector body 34. This provides a plurality of mounting locations for connecting to the building structure 12, thereby increasing security of the connection therebetween and enabling larger and/or heavier building structures to be mounted to the connecting assembly 30.
In the embodiment of Figure 3, the connector body 34 is elongate and includes the plurality of second mounting members 40 extending from the connector body 34. The elongate connector body 34 is substantially linear. In alternative embodiments, the connector body 34 may be in plan view non-linear, for example substantially curved, wave shaped, or any suitable shape such as L-shaped, T-shaped, I-shaped or U-shaped.
The connector body 34 defines a substantially constant thickness extending there along. The thickness of the connector body 34 increases at the sleeve 40 (i.e. the sleeve has a height greater than the thickness of the remainder of the connector body 34). In addition, the connector body 34 includes apertures 38. Therefore "substantially" constant is taken to mean that a majority of the connector body 34 has a constant thickness. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the thickness of the connector body 34 may not be constant.
The connector body 34 includes opposing sides extending along an elongate length thereof, and said opposing sides are substantially parallel and linear. The connector body 34 includes opposing faces, an upper face facing towards the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28 and a lower face facing towards the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. The upper and lower surfaces of the connector body 34 are substantially parallel. In particular, the upper and lower surface of the connector body 34 are substantially parallel and planar. It shall be appreciated that in some embodiments, the upper surface may be substantially curved, and the lower surface may be substantially planar. The connector body 34 is formed from plate material, i.e. from material having a thickness less than half its length and width.
The plurality of second mounting members 40 are spaced equidistantly along the elongate length of the connector body 34. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, said spacing between the second mounting members 40 may be in the range 100mm to 600mm. The equidistant spacing may improve alignment of the second mounting members 40 with corresponding mounting locations of the buildings structure 12 (as the spacing is the same between each mounting location) and helps to distribute the mounting force along the connector body 34.
The second mounting member 40 is provided on an enlarged region 42 of the connector body 34. It shall be appreciated that each second mounting member 40 may be provided on an enlarged region 42 of the connector body 34. As such, the number of enlarged regions 42 may correspond to the number of second mounting members 40. "Enlarged region" is taken to mean that the connector body 34 has a larger surface area when the connector body 34 is viewed in plan view. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the enlarged region 42 is substantially circular and the second mounting member 40 is located substantially centrally with respect to the second mounting member 40. In alternative embodiments, the enlarged region 42 may be any suitable shape, for example substantially ovular, rectangular, polygonal or the like. Providing the second mounting member 40 on the enlarged region 42 region provides reinforcement to the first mounting member 36 by providing an enlarged support surface, for example during casting of the screed layer 28, thereby helping to facilitate the correct positioning and alignment of the first mounting member 36. In further alternative embodiments, the enlarged region 42 may be omitted. As such, the width of the connector body 34 may be substantially constant along the elongate length thereof.
The elongate body 34 is defined by connecting strips 44 extending between the enlarged regions 42. The connecting strips 44 are substantially linear and co-axial to define the substantially linear elongate connector body 34.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the connecting strips 44 may be omitted and the connector body 34 may include only the enlarged region 42 on which the sleeve 40 is located. Put another way, in alternative embodiments, one or a plurality of discrete connector bodies may be provided which are not connected together. Each discrete connector body may include the body mounting arrangement 38 and the second mounting member 40. It shall be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one connector body with a second mounting member 40 and a body mounting arrangement 38 may be provided. The teachings described above in relation to the elongate connector body 34 are also applicable to embodiments where the connector body 34 is not elongate.
In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, a plurality of first mounting members 36 are provided each extending from the connector body 34. Each first mounting member 36 is received in one of the plurality of second mounting members 40. As such, a number of mounting members 36 may correspond to a number of second mounting members 40. In some embodiments, there may be more second mounting members 40 than mounting members 36 (i.e. some of the second mounting members 40 may not receive a mounting member 36). By way of example, there may be mounting members 36 received in every other second mounting member 40, or in a second mounting member 40 every 100mm, 200mm, 300mm, 400mm, 500mm, 600mm etc.. A length of each mounting member 36 is greater than a thickness of the screed layer 28 such that a portion of each mounting member 36 protrudes from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. The mounting member protrudes substantially transversely from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. As such, the mounting member 36 extends substantially vertically, in use.
The building structure 12 includes a plurality of through-holes 13 for receiving each first mounting member 36 therethrough. The through-holes 13 are pre-drilled prior to the building structure 12 being mounted to the floor system 14. In use, each mounting member 36 extends through a respective through hole 13. Each through-hole has a diameter greater than a diameter of a portion of the mounting member 36 it receives, so as to enable the mounting member 36 to pass through the through-hole 13. A length of each elongate mounting member 36 is greater than a combined thickness of the screed layer 28 and the base plate 18 such that a portion of the mounting member 36 protrudes from an upper surface of the base plate 18
The first mounting member 36 includes an elongate rod 46. The elongate rod 46 is connected to the second mounting member 40 at a first end thereof and an opposing second end protrudes from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. In particular, said second end protrudes through both the screed layer 28 and the base plate 18. The elongate rod 46 is substantially circular in cross-section, however in alternative embodiments the elongate rod 46 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as polygonal.
The connecting assembly 30 also includes a fastener 48 mounted to the first mounting member 36, for example to the elongate rod 46. The fastener 48 is configured to engage the elongate rod 46 and the building structure 12 to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. In particular, the fastener 48 engages an upper surface of the base plate 18. As such, the fastener 48 is located on a portion of the mounting member 36 which protrudes from the building structure 12, i.e. from the upper surface of the base plate 18. An opposing lower surface of the base plate 18 engages the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. As such, the upper surface 32 and the lower surface of the base plate 18 are coplanar.
The fastener 48 engages the elongate rod 46 to exert a clamping force on the building structure 12 in a direction towards the upper surface 32 of the layer of cementitious material 20 to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. As such, movement of the building structure 12 relative to the floor system 14 is prevented by the fastener 48 exerting the clamping force on the building structure 12.
In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3, the elongate rod 46 is an externally threaded rod 46 and the fastener 48 is a complimentary threaded nut 48. As such, the threaded nut 48 is moved in a tightening direction along the threaded rod 46 until the threaded nut 48 engages the building structure 12, in particular the base plate 18 of the building structure 12. As such, the building structure 12 is clamped between the threaded nut 48 and the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28.
The thread extends along an entirety of the threaded rod 46. As such, the rod 46 can engage the internally threaded sleeve 40 at or towards the first end thereof, and engage the fastener 48 at or towards the opposing second end thereof. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, only part of the rod 46 may be threaded. For example, the rod 46 may be threaded at or towards the first and/or second end thereof, and a substantially central region of the rod 46 may not be threaded.
It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the elongate rod 46 may include a threaded bore (i.e. the elongate rod 46 is internally threaded), and the fastener 48 may be an externally threaded fastener (for example a screw). In further alternative embodiments, the elongate rod 46 and the fastener 48 may not be threaded. By way of example, the fastener 48 may be a cam lock, a clamp, a magnet or a friction grip, tapered wedge through a slot, quarter turn, push fit clamshell grips, vertical push fit wedge to widen split at top of the rod, located on the first mounting member 36 for engaging the building structure 12.
In some embodiments, the elongate rod 46 may include a flange located at an end thereof. The flange is located on an opposing end of the elongate rod 46 to the end which protrudes from the upper surface 32. In this embodiment, the elongate rod extends through an opening 40 in the connector body, and the flange abuts against an underside of the connector body. The underside of the connector body includes a recess surrounding the opening, and the flange is received within the recess such that the flange is flush with the underside of the connector body. Alternatively, the lower surface of the flange may be arranged above the underside of the connector body.
The sleeve 40 includes a first open end and a second open end (i.e. the bore of the sleeve 40 extends through an entirety of the sleeve 40). The first open end is located proximate the thermally insulating layer 20. The second open end is located remote from the connector body 34. The elongate rod 46 extends through the first open end and out of the second open end such that the flange abuts against the first open end. Put another way, the connector body 34 is located between the sleeve 40 and the flange of the elongate rod 46. The flange may engage an underside of the connector body. As such, in this embodiment, the elongate rod 46 may be inserted into the sleeve 40 from a remote face of the connector body 34 to the face from which the sleeve 40 protrudes (i.e. through the underside of the connector body 34). It shall be appreciated that the bore may be a through-hole which does not include a thread and the elongate rod 46 may pass through the through-hole. Alternatively, the bore may be threaded and may engage an external thread on the elongate rod 46.
The connector body 34 may include a recess surrounding the first open end of the sleeve 40 (i.e. located on the remote face of the connector body 34). A shape of the recess corresponds to the shape of the flange of the elongate rod 46. As such, the flange and the connector body 34 are flush when the elongate rod 46 is mounted to the sleeve 40.
Alternative embodiments of the mounting member 36 will be described hereafter. In one alternative embodiment, the mounting member 36 may be internally threaded (i.e. an internally threaded tube). The tube may be releasably or permanently attached to the second mounting member 40. The tube may protrude from the upper surface 32, or be flush with the upper surface 32, or may be located below the upper surface 32. In this embodiment, the mounting member may include an insert or plug, for example a threaded insert or plug, which is connected to an upper end portion of the tube. As such, the insert or plug may act to extend a length of the mounting member 36. This allows for some variability in screed depth such that the upper end portion of the tube may be located beneath the finished level of upper layer 32.
When the screed layer 28 is cast, the insert may be removed and a fastener may be connected to, for example screwed into, the tube. It shall be appreciated that in this embodiment, the fastener is the portion of the mounting member which protrudes from the upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28. As such, it shall be appreciated that the mounting member 36 may be formed from a plurality of sections or components, a portion of which protrudes from the upper surface 32.
By way of example, the mounting member 36 may be include one or more of an elongate rod, a plug and/or an insert.
It shall be appreciated that in another alternative embodiments, the mounting member 36 may be a rod which extends through the screed layer 28 and is cut flush with the upper surface 32. The solid rod may include a plug, for example an internally threaded plug, fitted to an end portion thereof, and a fastener may be connected into the plug, for example via a threaded connection to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. In another alternative embodiment, the mounting member 36 may be a rod having one or more recess or slot extending along an external surface thereof. The recess or rod may be drilled into the external surface of the rod. It shall be appreciated that a plurality of recesses or slots may be provided. A fastening member, for example a wedging member, may engage one of the slots or recesses to provide a clamping force to mount the base plate 18 to the floor system 14. As such, it shall be appreciated that the mounting member 36 may be mounted to the building structure 12 without using a threaded connection in some embodiments.
In another alternative embodiment, the mounting member 36 may be a rod, and a fill material, for example a resin, may be used to fill a gap between the rod and the through-hole 13 of the base plate 18 through which the rod extends. The shear resistance provided by the resin and the rod has been found to be sufficient to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. In another alternative embodiments, the mounting member 36 may be a rod, for example a plastic rod, that is releasably mounted to the connector body 34. Once the screed layer 28 has been cast, the rod may be removed, for example unscrewed, from the connector body 34 to leave a through-hole extending through the screed layer 28. A fastener, for example an expanding fastener, may then be inserted into the through-hole to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14. It shall be appreciated that as the expanding fastener will protrude from the upper surface 32, the expanding fastener falls under the definition of a mounting member.
A method of assembly the floor system 14 will be described hereafter with reference to Figures 4A to 4D. In some embodiments, the method includes the step of providing a sub-base made up of compacted material such as stone and locating a dampproof membrane on the sub-base. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, these steps may be omitted.
As illustrated in Figure 4A, the method includes providing a thermally insulating layer 20 including a thermally insulating material. A connecting assembly 30 is provided, the connector assembly 30 including a connector body 34 and an elongate mounting member 36 extending from the connector body 30 for connecting a building structure 12 thereto. The connector body 34 is connected to an upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20. A heating arrangement 24 is provided and located on the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20, as illustrated in Figure 4B.
The screed layer 28 is cast on top of the upper surface 22 of the thermally insulating layer 20 such that a length of the mounting member 36 is greater than a thickness of the screed layer 28 and a portion of the mounting member 36 protrudes from an upper surface 32 of the screed layer 28, as illustrated in Figure 4C.
The screed layer 28 is cast such that the heating arrangement 24, the connector body 34 and a portion of the mounting member 36 are embedded in the screed layer 28. It shall be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the screed layer 28 may be located entirely above the connector body 34 and/or the heating arrangement 24.
In order to form a building system 10, a building structure 12 is provided. The building structure 12 includes a mounting feature 13, for example one or more through-holes 13. As illustrated in Figure 4D, the building structure 12 is mounted on the floor system 14 such the mounting member 36 extends through a first end of the through-hole 13 and protrudes out of an opposing second end of the through-hole 13. In particular, the through-hole 13 extends through the base plate 18. A fastener 48 located on the mounting member 36 is moved into engagement with building structure 12, in particular into engagement with the base plate 18, to mount the building structure 12 to the floor system 14.
It shall be appreciated that this method may be applied to the alternative embodiments described above. In particular, the method may be applied to embodiments where the arrangement is a cable arrangement, for example a data cable arrangement or a fibre optic cable arrangement, and the first layer is a structural layer.
Although the teachings have been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

A floor system for a building structure, the floor system comprising:
a first layer defining an upper surface;

a connecting assembly connected to or extending through the upper surface of the first layer, said connecting assembly configured for connecting a component to the floor system;

a second layer located on top of the upper surface of the first layer,

wherein the connecting assembly comprises a connector body connected to the first layer and an elongate mounting member extending from the connector body for connecting the component thereto,

wherein the mounting member defines an elongate length that extends at least partially through the second layer to be exposed at an upper surface of the second layer.
The floor system according to claim 1, wherein the length of the mounting member is substantially equal to or greater than a thickness of the second layer.
The floor system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connector body comprises a body mounting arrangement configured to mount the connector body to the first layer.
The floor system according to claim 3, wherein the body mounting arrangement is a mechanical fastening arrangement configured to mechanically fasten the connector body to the first layer, and/or wherein the body mounting arrangement comprises an adhesive, optionally wherein the body mounting arrangement comprises a fastener configured to extend over the connector body, and wherein the fastener extends into the first layer to mount the connector body to the first layer.
The floor system according to claim 4, wherein the fastener comprises a U-shaped body comprising a first arm and a second arm connected by a fastener body, wherein the fastener body extends over the connector body.
The floor system according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the connector body comprises at least one aperture configured to receive the fastener therethrough.
The floor system according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting member comprises a first mounting member and a second mounting member, and wherein the connector body comprises the second mounting member configured to connect the first mounting member to the connector body, optionally for releasably connecting the mounting member to the connector body.
The floor system according to claim 7, wherein the second mounting member comprises a hole, bore or sleeve configured to receive a portion of the first mounting member therein, optionally wherein the hole or bore is a threaded hole or bore.
The floor system according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting member extends from an enlarged region of the connector body.
The floor system according to any preceding claim, wherein the connector body is elongate and comprises a plurality of mounting members extending therefrom, optionally wherein the plurality of second mounting members are spaced equidistantly along an elongate length of the connector body.
The floor system according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting member comprises an elongate rod, optionally an elongate threaded rod, and wherein the elongate rod comprises a flange located at an end of the elongate rod.
The floor system according to claim 11, wherein the elongate rod extends through an opening in the connector body, and wherein the flange abuts against an underside of the connector body, optionally wherein the underside of the connector body comprises a recess surrounding the opening, and wherein the flange is received within the recess such that the flange is flush with or arranged above the underside of the connector body.
A building structure comprising:
a floor system according to any preceding claim; and

a component mounted to the mounting member of the floor system.
A method of assembling a floor system, the method comprising:
providing a first layer;

providing a connecting assembly comprising a connector body and an elongate mounting member extending from the connector body for connecting a component thereto;

connecting the connector body to an upper surface of the first layer;

depositing a second layer on top of the upper surface of the first layer such that a length of the mounting member is greater than a thickness of the second layer and a portion of the mounting member protrudes from an upper surface of the second layer.
A kit of parts of a connecting assembly for connecting a component to a floor system comprising a first layer and a second layer located on the first layer, the kit of parts comprising:
an elongate connector body; and

at least two mounting members mountable to the connector body so as to extend from the connector body for connecting a component thereto,

wherein the connector body is configured such that the mounting members are spaced apart along the connector body.