GB2571765A

GB2571765A - Wash basin mounting system

Info

Publication number: GB2571765A
Application number: GB1803720.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Whimpanny Richard; Lovell Fraser
Original assignee: Lovair Ltd
Current assignee: Lovair Ltd
Priority date: 2018-03-08
Filing date: 2018-03-08
Publication date: 2019-09-11
Anticipated expiration: 2038-03-08
Also published as: WO2019171071A1; GB201803720D0; GB2571765B

Abstract

A wash basin 103 mounting system 100 is disclosed. The wash basin mounting system is for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure and comprises a back portion 101, a front portion 102 defining an aperture 104, and a clamping mechanism. The damping mechanism comprises a mount 110 configured to support an underside 105 of the wash basin and a foot 111 configured to engage an underside of the wash basin. The damping mechanism is at least partially arranged between the front portion and the back portion and is adjustable, to clamp the wash basin between the mount and the foot such that the wash basin extends through the aperture away from the wall structure. A later embodiment relates to a wash basin mounting system characterized by a fulcrum configured to support an underside of the wash basin.

Description

Wash Basin Mounting System

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall, in particular a wash basin mounting system for clamping a wash basin at least partially in a wall such as a cavity wall.

Background

Conventional wash basins are often mounted to the floor by a leg, or mounted onto a wall surface by a mounting system comprising attaching means, for example involving hooks and/or screws. The wash basins are often external of a wall, and the attaching means is also external of the wall and often readily visible to a user of the wash basin. However, such wash basins can took dated and old-fashioned. In new washrooms, particularly public washrooms, there is a desire for an alternative way of supporting a wash basin that is more aesthetically pleasing.

Summary of the Invention

Disclosed herein is a wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure, the mounting system comprising: a back portion; a front portion defining an aperture; a damping mechanism, comprising: a mount configured to support an underside of the wash basin; and a foot configured to engage an upperside of the wash basin; wherein the clamping mechanism is at least partially arranged between the front portion and the back portion and is adjustable to damp the wash basin between the mount and the foot such that the wash basin extends through the aperture away from the wall structure.

In some examples, the mounting system is configured to damp a wash basin having a planar portion, and/or a generally shelf-like shape, although other shapes are possible. In one example, the basin may be a flat shelf-like shape, with an upperside on top and an underside on the bottom. For example, the thickness may be much smaller than the width and length of the basin. In some examples, the entire basin may be a planar shape. However, other shapes of basin are envisaged, given that the basin can be clamped between the foot and the mount. For example, the basin may have a tapered portion. For example, the surfaces may be or may comprise portions that are flat but not parallel. In some examples, the basin may be thicker at one end than the other.

The wash basin mounting system is configured to suspend the wash basin at least partially within a wall structure. For example, the front portion may be configured to couple to one wall and the back portion may be configured to couple to another wall of the wall structure. For example, the wall may be a cavity wall, and the front and back portions may be configured to couple to respective walls of the cavity wall structure. In some examples the mounting system further comprises stud mounting means for fixing the mounting system to studs in the cavity wall. Additionally or alternatively, the clamping mechanism may be configured to suspend the wash basin from at least partially within a cavity box mounted to the wall.

The wash basin has a proximal side and a distal side, and the clamping mechanism clamps the wash basin at a position towards the distal side. Proximally refers to a direction towards a user interfacing with the basin, while distally refers to a direction towards the back of the mounting system and towards the wall, away from the user. Because the clamping mechanism is at least partially between the front and back portions of the mounting system, if the mounting system is mounted inside a wall structure, such as a cavity wall, the distal side of the wash basin is held within the wall structure by the clamping mechanism, and the proximal side of the wash basin is closest to the user of the wash basin exterior to the wall structure.

In some examples, the wash basin mounting system may also comprise an upper portion and/or a lower portion. In some examples, the front portion, the back portion, the upper portion, and the lower portion are made of a single extrusion. For example, the extrusion may be made of steel or aluminium. In some examples, the extrusion may be configured to extend along the entire width of the wash basin.

The wash basin may be held by the damping mechanism at an acute angle to the wall structure, for example the mounting system may be configured to hold the upperside of the wash basin at an acute angle relative to the wall structure. Optionally, the acute angle is between 45° and 85° relative to the wall, preferably wherein the angle is between 65° and 85° relative to the wall. In one example, the angle is 80° relative to the wall. In some examples, the angle is between 75° to 85° relative to the wall. In such examples the distal side may be positioned vertically lower than the proximal side. In use, the upperside of the wash basin is arranged to receive water, for example from a tap positioned above the basin, such that it flows off the distal side of the wash basin, where it can be fed to a drain.

The wash basin has two lateral ends disposed between the proximal side and the distal side at each end of the wash basin. The lateral ends extend in a lateral axis in line with the plane of the wash basin and perpendicular to the width of the basin, in an axis in which the basin extends through the aperture away from the clamping mechanism.

The mounting means is configured to clamp the wash basin between the mount and the foot, such that in use the mount acts as a support surface for holding the wash basin in place, with the underside of the wash basin resting and/or biased against the mount. The foot is configured to engage the upperside of the wash basin such that the foot and mount together form a clamping mechanism. In some examples, the foot is configured to apply a biasing force to clamp the wash basin against the mount. In such examples, the weight of the basin against the mount can be used to aid the clamping.

Optionally, at least one of the foot or the mount is adjustable to clamp the wash basin. Therefore, the degree of bias exerted on the wash basin can be adjusted. For example, the foot may be adjustable whereby it can be tightened such that the clamping force holding the wash basin in place can be increased. In some examples, the mount may be adjustable such that the mount biases the wash basin against the foot. In other examples, both the foot and the mount are adjustable such that the clamp applies an adjustable biasing force from both directions on the wash basin.

Optionally, the clamping mechanism comprises tightening means. Optionally, the tightening means comprises at least one of a tightening bolt or a ratchet mechanism. Optionally, the tightening means is configured to adjustably bias the foot against the upperside of the wash basin to secure the wash basin against the mount, or configured to adjustably bias the mount against the underside of the wash basin to secure the wash basin against the foot.

Optionally, the clamping mechanism comprises a threaded bolt configured to extend through the foot, the wash basin, and the mount. At least one of the foot, the basin, and the mount may have an internal thread for receiving the threaded bolt.

Optionally, the mounting system further comprises a plate configured to engage the upperside of the wash basin, wherein the foot is configured to engage the plate such that the clamping force is distributed over the contact area between the plate and the wash basin. In some examples, the plate may be a Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) plate.

The mount and the foot each comprise a contact surface for contacting the wash basin, and in some examples each contact surface may be at the acute angle relative to the wall structure, such that in use when the wash basin is clamped by the clamping mechanism, the wash basin (for example, the upperside of the wash basin) is held at an acute angle relative to the wall structure.

Optionally, the clamping mechanism further comprises a gasket coupled to the foot. The gasket may be configured to grip the upperside of the wash basin, such that in use when the wash basin is clamped by the mounting system, the gasket is held between the foot and the upperside of the wash basin. Optionally, the gasket is configured to provide a soft boundary between the foot and the upperside of the wash basin. The gasket is optionally further configured to inhibit slippage of the wash basin when the wash basin is clamped by the clamping mechanism. Optionally, the gasket is compressible under the clamping between the foot and the wash basin. In some examples, the gasket may be made from a soft material such as rubber. The gasket may be configured to deform slightly under the application of the clamping force.

In some examples, the mount is configured to extend proximally beyond the wall structure through the aperture of the front portion, and the mount may be configured to support the underside of the wash basin at least partially proximally of the front portion. For example, the mount may protrude from the wall, underneath the wash basin such that part of the underside of the wash basin that extends from the wall is supported by the mount. This may add further support to the weight of the basin and a larger area to support the clamping force. In this case, the mount supports the basin at either side, proximally and distally, of the front portion, and therefore of the aperture.

Additionally or alternatively, the wash basin may comprise a support on its underside configured to engage the mount, or other part of the mounting system below the aperture, or in some cases the wall underneath the basin. The support is configured to provide additional support to the basin by bearing some of the weight of the basin. In some examples, the support may engage the front portion below the wash basin. The support may aid the securing of the basin by relieving strain on the clamping mechanism.

Optionally, the mounting system extends along the entire width of the wash basin. For example, the mounting system may be an elongate shape. In some examples, the mounting system is configured to support each lateral end of the wash basin.

Optionally, the mounting system further comprises a lower portion coupled to the mounting system. In some examples, the lower portion comprises at least one drainage opening in a bottom surface. In some examples, the lower portion is configured to receive water running off the upperside of the wash basin, in some examples, the lower portion is configured to receive water flowing over the distal side of the wash basin.

In some examples, the lower portion is coupled to the back portion of the mounting system. Optionally, the mounting system further comprises at least one drainage collector. Optionally, the lower portion is configured to receive at least one drainage collector underneath the bottom surface. For example, in use, a drainage collector may be attached underneath a drainage opening in the bottom surface of the lower portion, configured to receive water draining from the mounting system and guide it to a drain. Optionally, the lower portion extends along the entire width of the wash basin. In some examples, the lower portion is made from the same extrusion as the front portion and the back portion.

In some examples, the drainage collector may be attached to the mounting system by fixing means. For example, the fixing means may be T fixings or screws. Optionally, the mounting system comprises at least one T slot configured to receive at least one drainage collector. For example, the T slots may be present on the lower portion of the mounting bracket. In this case, the T slots may be positioned such that a drainage collector can be attached, and can be connected to the drainage aperture of the lower portion. The drainage collectors, with T fixings attached, may then be advanced along the T slots, and positioned under the drainage aperture.

Optionally, the wash basin mounting system further comprises a drainage grate comprising a plurality of drainage apertures. The drainage grate has a lowered configuration and a raised configuration. When the grate is in the lowered configuration, the drainage apertures are sized such that water can drain from the upperside of the wash basin into the lower portion, whilst inhibiting passage of objects with a diameter larger than the apertures.

The grate in the raised configuration allows access to the foot for adjusting the foot and thereby the clamping of the wash basin against the mount. For example, this may comprise the user inserting their hand between the upperside of the wash basin and the raised drainage grate, or inserting a spanner for tightening the tightening means of the foot.

Optionally, the clamping mechanism further comprises at least one additional foot, each configured to engage the upperside of the wash basin and clamp the wash basin against the mount. In one example, the mounting system (specifically the clamping mechanism) comprises a foot proximal to each lateral end of the wash basin to support and clamp the wash basin against the mount. In some examples a plurality of feet are provided evenly distributed between the two lateral ends of the wash basin. This improves the damping mechanism by spreading the force over the surface of the wash basin, reducing localised stress, and improving the grip along the width of the basin. In other examples, for example where a relatively narrow basin is provided, there may only be feet positioned towards the lateral ends of the basin, or even a single foot which may, for example, be positioned in the centre of the basin.

Also disclosed herein is a wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure, the mounting system comprising: a back portion; a front portion defining an aperture; a fulcrum configured to support an underside of the wash basin; and an anchor configured to support an upperside of the wash basin at a position between the front portion and the back portion and to inhibit rotation of the wash basin about the fulcrum; and wherein the cantilever mounting system is configured to hold the wash basin between the fulcrum and the anchor such that the wash basin extends through the aperture.

A wash basin can be held, supported on the underside by the fulcrum, and on the upperside by the anchor. The anchor and fulcrum act at different points along the lateral axis of the wash basin, wherein the basin is supported by the fulcrum at a point proximal to the user along the lateral axis of the basin, while the upperside is supported by the anchor at a point distal to the user along the lateral axis. The anchor and fulcrum are positioned such that the basin has a complementary fit between the opposing support surfaces, and is held tightly. The mounting system provides a cantilever force by the upward force on the underside at the fulcrum and the downward force on the upperside at the anchor. In this manner, the cantilever may be provided by the anchor and the fulcrum.

In some cases, the lines of action of the forces from the fulcrum and the anchor are separated along the lateral axis. In some cases, the mounting system is configured such that the anchor and the fulcrum are spaced along the lateral axis of the wash basin. In this way, the amount of material (e.g. metalwork) required to support the basin can be greatly reduced, meaning the weight and cost of the apparatus can be improved.

In some examples, the fulcrum is at least partially arranged distally of the front portion. The term distally refers to the fulcrum being further from the user of the wash basin than the front portion, along the lateral axis of the wash basin. In some cases, the fulcrum may extend proximally of the front portion, for example through the aperture and underneath the wash basin for extra support. However, the most distal contact point between the wash basin and the fulcrum is distal of the front portion. In turn, the anchor is distal of the fulcrum, and therefore distal of the front portion. The anchor may therefore support the distal side of the wash basin.

In some examples, at least one of the fulcrum or the anchor may be adjustable to aid with inserting the basin and ensuring the basin is held securely. For example, the anchor may have a tightening means such as a tightening bolt configured to push the anchor downwards towards the upperside of the basin to hold the basin in place once it has been inserted. The cantilever mounting system may comprise any of the additional features of the wash basin mounting system described above.

In one example, the mounting system comprises a plurality of anchors spaced along the width of the mounting system, configured to engage the basin at points along the width of the basin. In other examples, the anchor may be a continuous contact surface along the width of the basin. In some examples, the anchor may be part of the upper portion of the mounting system, and/or the fulcrum may be part of the lower portion of the mounting system. In some examples, the anchor is connected to the fulcrum, and they form part of the same extrusion.

As with the mounting system described previously, the cantilever mounting system is configured to suspend a wash basin from a wall. The basin held by the cantilever (the fulcrum and the anchor) extends through the aperture towards a user. The wall may be a structural wall, cavity wall, or other fake wall or panel. In some examples, the cantilever mounting system is configured to hold the upperside of the wash basin at an acute angle relative to the wall. For example, the acute angle may be between 45° and 85° relative to the wall, preferably wherein the angle is between 65° and 85° relative to the wall. In one embodiment, the angle is 80°. When the basin is held by the cantilever mounting system, the wash basin is held at the acute angle.

Other features of the mounting system disclosed above can be applied to aspects of the disclosure that make use of a cantilever mounting system. The mounting system may also comprise an upper portion which, for example, may comprise the anchor. It may also comprise a lower portion which, for example, may comprise the fulcrum. In particular, it may also comprise at least one of the wall mounting means, drainage grate, or the drainage collector described above. The mounting system may comprise drainage apertures, for example in the back portion or in the anchor, or in the lower portion, such that water can drain from the upperside of the basin. Water can collect at the tower portion for example, where it can then drain to a drainage collector and be fed to a drain. In examples where a plurality of anchors is present, the drainage may be achieved through the gaps between the anchors.

Disclosed herein also is a wash basin system for suspending a wash basin from a wall, comprising a wash basin; and a wash basin mounting system as described above. The wash basin mounting system may comprise any of the optional features described above.

Optionally, the system further comprises a leg for supporting the basin at an elevated height relative to the floor such that a user can use the wash basin when standing or sitting. Legs may be used if the wall structure is not sufficient to take the load of the wash basin mounting system. In this case a leg is provided to mount the mounting system from the floor, and arranged such that a user can wash their hands at a convenient height. For example a user can wash their hands when standing. However, other heights may be provided such as adapted for a child to wash their hands. In another example, the user can wash their hands when sitting, for example a wheelchair user. Optionally, the system further comprises a leg connector for connecting the wash basin mounting system to the leg.

In one example, the mounting system comprises at least one T slot for receiving a leg connector comprising a T connector, configured to connect a leg to the mounting system. The legs can be connected via a T connector to T slots on the mounting system that may also be used for receiving T connectors to connect a drainage collector. For example, the T slots may extend along the width of the mounting system. In one example, the T slots are present and built into an extrusion comprising the front portion and the back portion, and optionally comprising the upper portion and the lower portion. For example, the T slots may be in the back portion or the lower portion.

In one example, a drainage collector can then be attached via a T connector from the end of the mounting system and positioned at the desired location along the T slot. A leg connector can then be attached via a T connector in the same T slot and positioned where desired. In other examples, different T slots may be used. This mechanism can be used to position required components at desired intervals along the width of the mounting system (for example, legs may be positioned at regular intervals along the width of the mounting system in order to distribute the weight).

In other examples, the mounting system may be attached to a wall. Optionally, the system further comprises a wall mounting means for attaching the wash basin mounting system to the wall. For example, the system may further comprise the stud mounting means as described above. These may also be connected to the mounting system using T slots as described above.

Optionally, the system further comprises at least one tap attached to one of the wall, the basin, or the mounting system, the tap configured to release water onto the upperside of the wash basin. For example, the at least one tap may be positioned extending from the wall above the wash basin such that it releases water onto the upperside of the wash basin, which then drains over the distal side of the basin.

Optionally, the system further comprises a float switch for detecting a blockage in the drainage collector. For example, the float switch may comprise a liquid level sensor such as an optical liquid level sensor. For example, the switch may be a First Sensor OLP Series polysulphone optical liquid level switch. The float switch is configured to detect a rise in water level due to a blockage in the drainage flow. In some examples, the float switch may be configured to detect an overflow. For example, the switch may be configured to detect the level of water in the lower portion. The float switch may further be configured to cut off the water supply, for example preventing the one or more taps being turned on until the water level has subsided. Optionally, it may further alert a user that a blockage has occurred.

Optionally, the wash basin has a planar portion. For example, the basin may be a shelf-like shape with a small thickness compared to both its width and its length along its lateral axis. Other shapes of the basin are envisaged. For example, the wash basin may have a tapered shape or a tapered portion such that part of the upperside and underside are flat, but not parallel, forming a wedge shape. In another example, the basin may curve upwards towards the proximal side. In other examples, the thickness of the basin or a portion of the basin may change along its lateral axis. For example, it may be thicker towards the distal side than the proximal side. In some examples, the thickness of the basin may be less than 20cm. Specifically, in preferable examples the basin may be less than 10cm. However, other thicknesses are possible. Other shapes are possible, such as basins having a hollow or concave shape, as is common in conventional sinks, where the basin also has a planar portion configured to be clamped by the clamping mechanism.

The material of the basin may be chosen from a material that will not easily shatter, especially under the clamping force. Optionally, the wash basin is made from an acrylic polymer such as Corian. Other materials envisaged include: marble, quartz (e.g. silestone), glass, solid grade laminate (SGL) with laminate, ultra-compact surface (e.g. Dekton), compact grate laminate (CDF) with laminate, medium density fibreboard (MDF) with laminate), chipboard with laminate, solid wood, concrete, or other stone such as granite, slate, limestone etc, or other metal such as aluminium, copper, brass, stainless steel etc. Various combinations of these may also be used. For example, a marble basin may be used with a stainless steel support for structure. Various laminate structures may also be used in addition to a main material.

The material may be chosen such that the basin is still relatively lightweight and can be supported by the clamping mechanism. In examples where a heavy basin is used, or the basin is especially thick, additional feet may be used to improve the clamping force and purchase of the clamping mechanism along the width of the basin.

Drawings

Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a cross-section of an example wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure;

Figure 2a shows a perspective view of an example mounting system, such as the mounting system of Figure 1, suspending a wash basin from a wall structure;

Figure 2b shows the mounting system of Figure 2a, in use, with an example wall in place;

Figure 3 shows a cross-section of another example wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure;

Figure 4a shows another example mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure;

Figure 4b shows the mounting system of Figure 4a from below;

Figure 5 shows a cross-section of another example wash basin mounting system;

Figure 6 shows a perspective view of another example mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure;

Figure 7 shows a cross-section of another example mounting system suspending a wash basin from a wall;

Figure 8a shows a perspective view of another example mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure, with a drainage grate in a lowered configuration;

Figure 8b shows the mounting system of Figure 8a, with the drainage grate in a raised configuration;

Figure 9a shows an example cantilever mounting system suspending a basin from a wall structure;

Figure 9b shows the cantilever mounting system of Figure 9a, showing studs in a wall;

Figure 10a shows a perspective view of another example mounting system comprising attachment means; and

Figure 10b shows a perspective view of the mounting system of Figure 10a from below.

Specific Description

Figure 1 shows a side profile of an example embodiment of a wash basin mounting system 100. The mounting system 100 comprises a back portion 101 and a front portion 102. In some examples, the mounting system 100 extends along the entire width of the wash basin 103.

The front portion 102 defines an aperture 104 through which, in use and when held by the mounting system 100, the wash basin 103 extends. The wash basin 103 comprises an upperside 105 and an underside 106. The wash basin 103 also comprises a distal side 107 which is positioned between the back portion 101 and the front portion 102. The wash basin 103 also comprises a proximal side (not shown in Figure 1), on the opposing side of the wash basin 103 that extends through the aperture 104. The wash basin 103 comprises lateral sides at each side of the basin, separated by the width of the basin. In some examples, the wash basin 103 may be a flat shelf-like shape. In some examples, the wash basin 103 may comprise a planar portion. However, other shapes are envisaged, for example the basin may have a tapered portion as shown in Figures 8b, 9a and 9b.

In some examples, such as the example shown in Figure 1, the mounting system 100 optionally comprises an upper portion 108. The upper portion 108 may be coupled between the back portion 101 and the front portion 102. The mounting system 100 also optionally comprises a lower portion 109, as shown in Figure 1. The back portion 101 may be coupled between the lower portion 109 and the upper portion 108. For example, the lower portion 109, the back portion 101, and the upper portion 108 may form a C-shape as in Figure 1, although other shapes are envisaged. The lower portion 109 may be positioned against and partially below the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103. In some examples, the lower portion 109 is coupled to the back portion 101. For example, the lower portion 109 and the back portion 101 may be formed of the same extrusion. In other examples, the lower portion 109 may be a separate trough, for example configured to receive water flowing from the wash basin 103, and that can be connected to the back portion 101. In some examples, the lower portion 109 extends along the entire width of the wash basin 103. For example, if the lower portion 109 is a separate trough, the trough may extend along the entire width of the basin 103.

The mounting system 100 also comprises a clamping mechanism comprising a mount 110 and a foot 111. The clamping mechanism is at least partially arranged between the front portion 102 and the back portion 101. In some examples, the foot 111 and the mount 110 may be located between the front portion 102 and the back portion 101. In other examples, part of the mount 110 may be located between the front portion 102 and the back portion 101, while part may extend proximally of the front portion 102, for example through the wall and underneath the basin 103 for extra support.

The front portion 102 extends downwards towards the mount 110, but not all the way, thereby defining the aperture 104. The wash basin 103 extends through the aperture 104 away from the wall structure and from the mounting system 100 such that the wash basin 103 is suspended from the wall structure. The wash basin 103 does not completely close the aperture 104, such that a remaining aperture 104a is present between the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 and the front portion 102.

The wash basin 103 may be held at an acute angle relative to the wall structure, for example such that the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 is held at an acute angle relative to the wall structure. The acute angle may be determined by the clamping mechanism. For example, the clamping mechanism may be configured to hold the basin 103 at the acute angle. For example, the wash basin 103 may be at 80° relative to the wall structure, or some other suitable angle, such as between 65° and 85° from vertical. However, other angles such as between 45° and 85° are possible. The mounting system 100 may be configured to clamp the wash basin 103 at the acute angle.

The wash basin 103 may rest on the mount 110 such that, in some cases, there is no gap between the mount 110 and the underside 106 of the wash basin 103, and no aperture remains below the wash basin 104.

The mount 110 may be coupled to the lower portion 109. In some examples, the mount 110 is coupled directly to the back portion 101, for example in the case where a lower portion 109 is not provided. In some examples, the mount 110 may extend beyond the aperture 104 and out of the wall, for example to support the underside 106 of the wash basin 103. The mount 110 has a contact surface for supporting the underside 106 of the wash basin 103.

The foot 111 has a contact surface for engaging the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. In some examples the contact surface may be large to distribute the clamping force over a larger area on the wash basin 103. In some examples, the contact surface may be small to reduce the size of the apparatus. In this, or other examples, a plurality of feet 111 may be provided in order to improve the clamping force on the basin 103. The plurality of feet 111 may be distributed along the width of the basin 103.

In some examples, and as shown in Figure 1, the mounting system 100 comprises tightening means. Figure 1 shows a tightening means coupled to the foot. In this example, the tightening means is a threaded tightening bolt 112. In other examples, the tightening means may be a threaded screw or a ratchet mechanism. In the example of Figure 1, the threaded bolt 112 is coupled to the foot 111. In the example of Figure 1, the threaded bolt 112 comprises an external thread for guiding the advancement of the bolt 112 within a threaded hole. The mounting system 100 comprises a hole with an internal thread 113. For example, the threaded hole 113 is in the upper portion 108 in Figure 1. The thread of the hole 113 is complementary to the thread of the tightening bolt 112 such that the tightening bolt 112 can be advanced through the hole 113.

In some examples, and in the example shown in Figure 1, the mounting system 100 comprises a gasket 114 coupled to the foot 111. When the wash basin 103 is damped by the clamping mechanism, the gasket 114 is held between the foot 111 and the upperside 105 of the wash basin. The gasket 114 may be compressible under the clamping between the foot 111 and the wash basin 103. For example, the gasket 114 may be made from a soft material such as rubber.

In some examples, the mounting system comprises a drainage grate 115 comprising a plurality of drainage apertures 116. The drainage grate 115 has a lowered configuration and a raised configuration, wherein the grate 115 is shown in the lowered configuration in Figure 1. In some examples, the drainage grate 115 is positioned behind the front portion 102, above the wash basin 103, and in front of the foot 111. In the lowered configuration, the grate 115 closes the remaining aperture 104a between the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 and the front portion 102, except for a plurality of drainage apertures 116. This means that the drainage grate 115 comes into contact with the upperside 105 of the basin 103, or is sufficiently close to the upperside 105 to inhibit passage of debris between the grate 115 and the basin 103.

In the raised configuration, the drainage grate 115 is raised away from the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103, and may be held in a recess of the front portion 102 such that the remaining aperture 104a is open between the front portion 102 and the wash basin 103. The drainage grate 115 is positioned in the raised configuration such that the remaining aperture 104a exposes the foot 111 allowing access to the foot 111 through the remaining aperture 104a. For example, the clamping force on the wash basin 103 can be adjusted by tightening the foot 111. In some examples, the remaining aperture 104a is sufficiently large to allow a user to insert a tool such as a spanner for tightening the foot 111 or tightening means (e.g. tightening bolt 112) coupled to the foot 111.

The mounting system 100 may also comprise at least one strut 117 coupled between the lower portion 109 and the upper portion 108. The struts 117 extend from points on the mounting system 100 located between the back portion 101 and the front portion 102. The struts 117 provide an additional connection between the upper portion 108 and the lower portion 109 (additional to the back portion 101 extending between the upper portion 108 and the lower portion 109). For example, the struts 117 and the back portion 101 may form a cavity for receiving water from the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103.

In some examples, the struts 117 comprise apertures, or the struts 117 have gaps between each strut 117 such that connections between the lower portion 109 and the upper portion 108 are formed, spaced along the width of the mounting system 100. In some examples, the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103 may rest against the struts 117 for extra support.

The clamping mechanism clamps the wash basin 103 such that the wash basin 103 extends through the aperture 104. The wash basin 103 is clamped towards its distal side 107.

The mount 110 is configured to support the underside 106 of the wash basin 103. The mount 110 acts as a support surface for holding the wash basin 103 in place, with the underside 106 of the wash basin 103 resting against the mount 110.

The aperture 104 is configured to receive the wash basin 103 and allow the passage of water from the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 into the mounting system 100. In use, water will flow along the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103, through the remaining aperture 104a and over the distal side 107. For example, the basin 103 may be held at an acute angle relative to the wall structure such that the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103 is lower than the proximal side, in order to aid with guiding water off the upperside 105 of the basin 103 towards the distal side of the basin 103 and into the mounting system 100.

The lower portion 109 of the mounting system 100 is configured to receive water running off the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. In use, when water flows over the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103, the lower portion 109 is configured to receive the water flowing over the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103. The lower portion 109 may comprise at least one drainage opening in a bottom surface of the lower portion 109. Water collecting in the lower portion 109 can then exit the lower portion 109 through the at least one drainage opening. Optionally, the lower portion 109 is configured to receive at least one drainage collector underneath the bottom surface of the lower portion 109. The drainage collector is configured to receive water from the mounting system 100 and guide it to a drain. For example, a drainage collector may be located below each drainage opening in the tower portion 109. The drainage collector is described in more detail with reference to Figures 7 and 10.

The foot 111 is configured to engage the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 such that the foot 111 and the mount 110 together form the clamping mechanism. In some examples, and as shown in Figure 1, the foot 11 applies a biasing force to clamp the wash basin 103 against the mount 110. In this case, the weight of the basin 103 against the mount 110 can be used to aid the clamping. However, in other examples, the mount 110 may apply a biasing force to achieve the damping against the foot 111. In some examples, the foot 111 is aligned with the mount 110 on the opposing side of the wash basin 103 such thatthe lines of action of the forces overlap.

Optionally, at least one of the foot 111 or the mount 110 is adjustable to clamp the wash basin 103. Therefore, the degree of bias exerted on the wash basin 103 can be adjusted. For example, the foot 111 may be tightened such that the clamping force holding the wash basin 103 in place can be increased. A tightening means may be provided to tighten the foot against the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. For example, and in the example shown in Figure 1, the tightening means may comprise a threaded bolt 112 that is received by a threaded hole 113, the threaded bolt 112 configured to be tightened to apply a greater clamping force between the foot 111 and the mount 110. In some examples, the tightening means may be coupled to the mount 110 such that the mount 110 is adjustable. In this manner, the mount 110 can push the wash basin 103 against the foot 111. In other examples, both the foot 111 and the mount 110 are adjustable such that the clamping mechanism applies an adjustable force from both directions on the wash basin 103.

In Figure 1, the threaded hole 113 in the upper portion 108 allows the foot 111 to be adjusted relative to the fixed mounting system 100. For example, the threaded hole 113 is configured to receive the threaded boil 112 such that the threaded bolt 112 can rotate within the threaded hole 113 and be advanced relative to the hole 113. The threaded bolt 112 is configured to push the foot 111 against the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 when the bolt 112 is tightened. This can be achieved by rotating the threaded bolt 112 relative to the threaded hole 113 such that the bolt 112 advances towards the basin 103, pushing the foot

111 against the upperside 105 and tightening the clamping mechanism. The threaded bolt

112 can then be locked in the desired position. For example, this may be achieved by a locking nut configured to inhibit loosening of the tightening means.

The threaded bolt 112 may be advanced by turning it relative to the threaded hole 113, which can be achieved by a tool such as a spanner (or other similar device such as a screwdriver or Allen key) applying a rotational force to a head of the threaded bolt 112. In some examples, the threaded bolt 112 may comprise other means for aiding the rotation. For example, the threaded bolt 112 may comprise a nut or other means for engaging a spanner head, which is fixed to the bolt 112 between the bolt head and the foot 111 such that a spanner can be used to rotate the bolt 112 without requiring access to the top of the bolt 112. in other examples, the threaded bolt 112 may comprise a lever fixed to the bolt 112 such that the bolt 112 can be rotated by hand more easily. For example, these tightening aids (such as the lever) may be provided between the threaded hole 113 of the mounting system 100 and the foot 110, allowing easier access for tightening the bolt 112. By providing the tightening mechanism between the threaded hole 113 and the foot 111, access to the tightening means may be achieved through the remaining aperture 104a in the front portion 102 of the mounting system 100, above the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. In this way, at least one of the aperture 104 and remaining aperture 104a may be sized to provide access to the tightening means, such as the foot 111, when the wash basin 103 is held in place extending through the aperture 104 by the mounting system 100. This may advantageously make servicing and maintenance of the wash basin 103 easier, for example if the wash basin 103 is cracked and needs replacing.

In some examples, the tightening means may be uni-directionally advanced towards the basin 103, while inhibiting motion in the opposing direction such that the foot 111 can be secured in position and prevent unwanted loosening. For example, this may be formed by a ratcheting mechanism. In some examples, the ratcheting mechanism comprises a linear ratchet having a set of angled teeth such that a tightening means comprising a tooth engages with each angled tooth of the ratchet, allowing motion towards the basin, but not in the reverse direction. For example, the teeth may be angled downwards such that the tightening means may be advanced downwards, towards the upperside 105 of the basin

103, but not in the upwards direction. For example, the ratchet teeth may be present at intervals along a bolt, and the tightening means is a nut configured to be advanced over the ratchet bolt and having a tooth allowing the nut to be advanced over the bolt towards the basin, allowing the foot to be tightened to the basin. The tooth may be on the inside of the nut, such that the tooth engages the angled teeth on the outside of the ratchet bolt. This allows the mechanism to be self-locking, and is held in position by the teeth. In some examples, there may be a mechanism to disengage the tightening means from the ratchet such that the pressure of the foot on the basin can be loosened, or the foot can be removed, for example. In another example, the tightening may be achieved by a mechanism similar to a cable tie, wherein a tooth can be advanced over a series of closely-spaced protrusions until in the desired position, and the tooth is prevented from being advanced in the opposing direction.

The gasket 114 is coupled to the foot 111 for gripping the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 and is held between the foot 111 and the wash basin 103. The gasket 114 is optionally configured to provide a soft boundary between the foot 111 and the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. Optionally, the gasket 114 is further configured to inhibit slippage of the wash basin 103 when the wash basin 103 is clamped by the clamping mechanism. In some examples, the gasket 114 is configured to deform slightly under the application of the clamping force. In this manner, the foot 111 may gain a more effective purchase on the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 for clamping. In this case, the gasket 114 acts to inhibit slippage between two surfaces that may otherwise be smooth surfaces that are not well adapted for gripping (e.g. typically the foot 111 may be made from stainless steel, and the basin 103 may be made from marble).

The gasket 114 prevents a localised pressure point which may otherwise lead to a fracture in the basin 103. Applying a strong gripping force with a foot 111 (e.g. made from metal) may cause a brittle basin 103 to crack or shatter. The gasket 114 acts to provide a buffer between the two hard surfaces, while improving the grip of the foot 111 against the wash basin upperside 105. The gasket 114 can also act as a dampener to reduce the effects of vibration during the lifetime of the basin 103.

In the lowered configuration, the drainage grate 115 is configured to close the remaining aperture 104a between the front portion 102 and the wash basin 103, except for a plurality of drainage apertures 116 in the grate 115. In the lowered configuration, the drainage grate 115 is configured to inhibit passage of objects larger than the drainage apertures 116. The plurality of drainage apertures 116 are sized such that water can easily pass through, while inhibiting passage of larger debris. For example, the apertures 116 may have a diameter between 1mm and 20mm. For example, the apertures 116 may be 5mm . The drainage apertures 116 may be configured such that debris such as tissue can be prevented from entering the drain and causing a blockage. Other sizes are possible, for example the diameter may be between 1mm to 100mm.

The grate 115 in the raised configuration allows access to the foot 111 for adjusting the foot 111 and thereby the clamping of the wash basin 103 against the mount 110. For example, during maintenance, the grate 115 may be raised when water is not flowing, such that a maintenance user may adjust the foot 111. For example, this may comprise the user inserting their hand between the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103 and the raised drainage grate 115, or inserting a tool such as a spanner for tightening the tightening means of the foot 111. It also allows access for cleaning the drainage grate 115. The front portion 102 may be configured to receive the drainage grate 115 when in the raised configuration.

The struts 117 are configured to provide structural support to the mounting system 100The gaps between the struts 117 allow for the passage of water from the upperside 105 over the distal side 107 and towards a drain through the lower portion 109. For instance, the lower portion 109 may comprise a drainage opening, and further be connected to a drainage collector for collecting water and allowing passage to a drain (not shown in Figure 1).

Optionally, the struts 117 are configured to receive the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103. For example, the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103 may engage the struts 117. The struts 117 may be configured to provide support to the distal side 107 and aid in the holding of the wash basin 103. In particular, if the wash basin 103 is held at an acute angle, the struts 117 can bear some of the weight of the wash basin 103 and reduce the strain on the clamping mechanism.

Furthermore, the gaps between the struts 117 are configured to allow the passage of water therethrough such that water can flow along the upperside 105 of the basin 103, over the distal side 107 of the basin 103, and for example, into the lower portion 109 of the mounting system 100 where it can be fed to a drain. In other examples, if no struts 117 are provided, other means for allowing the water to exit may be provided. For example, the back portion 101 may comprise drainage apertures for allowing water to leave the upperside 105 of the basin 103, for example towards a drain. For example, this may be the case if the back portion 101 is against the distal side 107 of the basin 103. In other cases, the back portion 101 does not support the distal side 107, and there is a gap present to allow for drainage of the water.

During operation, a user interfaces with a wash basin 103 suspended from a wall. The wash basin 103 extends through the wall such that a user can position their hands above the upperside 105 of the basin 103. The user can then turn on a tap which is configured to release water onto the upperside 105 of the wash basin 103. In one example, the wash basin 103 is held at an acute angle such that water flows along the upperside 105 towards the wall. The mounting system 100 is located within the wall such that it is hidden from the user. The proximal side of the wash basin 103 extends towards the user, while the distal side of the basin 103 is clamped within the wall. The water can flow over the distal side 107 of the wash basin 103 and, for example, into the lower portion 109 of the mounting system 100. This drainage process is not seen by the user, and the water appears to disappear into the remaining aperture 104a in the wall, which is aesthetically pleasing from a design perspective. With the drainage grate 115 in the lowered configuration, the mounting system 100 is obscured from view and also prevents tampering of the clamping mechanism. The apertures 116 in the drainage grate 115 allow the drainage of water into the mounting system 100 while inhibiting passage of larger debris. An example drawing of the user view of the mounting system 100 in operation can be seen in Figure 2b.

In some examples, the mounting system 100 is housed within a wall structure. The mounting system 100 may be fixed within the wall structure. For example, the back portion 101 may be coupled to an inner surface of the back of a wall, and the front portion 102 may be coupled to the opposing inner surface of the front of a wall. In other examples, the front portion 102 and/or the back portion 101 may be housed within the wall, but recessed from the surfaces of the wall structure. The mounting system 100 allows the wash basin 103 to be clamped behind a user-facing wall structure, while the wash basin 103 extends through the wall (through the aperture 104) away from the wall structure, allowing a user to interact with the basin 103, but so that the drainage process is hidden from view from the user.

The wall structure may be a solid wall with a recess, or it may be a false wall. For example, the wall structure may be a stud wall. In this example, the back portion 101 of the mounting system 100 may be coupled to studs in the stud wall. For example, the mounting system 100 may comprise stud mounting means coupled to the back portion 101 for fixing the mounting system 100 to studs in the cavity wall. For example, the damping mechanism may comprise stud mounting means having an element configured to fix the mounting system 100 to a stud wall. In this example the element may have a groove that allows for easy alignment to the wall studs. In another embodiment, the stud mounting means is configured to receive a back plate, wherein the back plate is configured to allow the mounting system 100 to be attached to the wall. For example, the back plate may be attached to the stud mounting means by at least one T slot. In some examples, the stud mounting means are built into the extrusion of the wash basin mounting system 100. In some examples, the T slots may be built into the extrusion.

In some examples, the wall structure may be a cavity box attached to a wall, for example a cavity box attached to a solid wall. In one example, a cavity box may be used to house components of the plumbing required for the wash basin. In such examples, the mounting system 100 may be inside the cavity box, but, for example, exterior to the solid wall. In some examples, the front portion 102 of the mounting system 100 may be coupled to the front wall of the cavity box, and the back portion 101 may be coupled to the back wall of the cavity box, where the back wall may be a solid wall. The front wall may be formed of Solid Grade Laminate (SGL) panels. Additionally or alternatively, the front portion 102 may further comprise an SGL panel or some other false wall used to form a wall structure.

The wash basin 103 may be supported at an elevated height from the floor by the mounting system 100. The height may be configured such that a user can operate the wash basin 103 while standing. In other examples, the wash basin 103 may be provided at a lower height such that a user can operate the wash basin 103 while sitting, for example for users in a wheelchair, or at a lower height such that it can be reached by children.

The mounting system 100 may be made from a single extrusion. For example, the front portion 102 may be coupled to the upper portion 108 of the mounting system 100, which in turn in coupled to the back portion 101 of the mounting system 100. The back portion 101 may be coupled to the tower portion 109 of the mounting system 100. These portions may all be made from a single extrusion, for example steel or aluminium. This extrusion may extend along the entire width of the wash basin 103. In some examples, the mount 110 may also be part of the same extrusion.

Figure 2 shows an example embodiment of the mounting system being applied to suspend a wash basin from a wall. Figure 2a shows the mounting system 200 comprising a front portion 202 and a back portion 201. In addition, Figure 2b shows a tower portion 209 and an upper portion 208. The mounting system also comprises a drainage grate 215 above the upperside 205 of the wash basin 203. The basin 203 is also shown to have a tapered portion.

In some examples, as shown in the example of Figure 2a, legs 218 are provided to mount the wash basin 203. For example, the legs 218 may be attached to the tower portion 209 of the mounting system 200. For example, these may be connected via T slots. In some examples, and as seen in the example of Figure 2, the mounting system 200 may also comprise back plates 219. The back plates 219 are provided to attach the mounting system 200 to a back wall. The attachment means for the legs 218 and the back plates 219 are described in more detail with reference to Figure 10a and 10b below.

The mounting system 200 is configured to clamp the wash basin 203 within or behind a wall. The clamping is achieved using the foot and mount as described above with reference to Figure 1 (not shown in Figure 2). Water incident on the upperside 205 of the basin 203 can drain through apertures in the drainage grate 215. The wash basin 203 extends through the aperture such that the basin 203 extends from the wall structure. Figure 2b is provided to show an example of the wall structure in place.

Figure 2b shows the mounting system 200 suspending the wash basin 203 from a wall 220. As described above, the wall structure 220 may for example be a stud wall, a cavity box, or some other false wall. The mounting system 200 is placed behind or within the wall 220 such that the basin 203 extends through the aperture of the mounting system 200 and through the wall 220. In some examples, the front portion 201 is in-line with the user-facing wall 220.

Taps 221 are shown in Figure 2b to release water onto the upperside 205 of wash basin 203. The drainage grate 215 is used to allow water to drain from the upperside 205 of basin 203 into the mounting system 200, and to the lower portion 209, as described with reference to Figure 1 above. In some examples, the taps 221 may be attached to the basin 203, or the mounting system 200, or to the wall structure 220. In some examples, the mounting system 200 may also comprise sealing elements at each lateral end 222, for example towards the distal side of the lateral ends 222. For example, the sealing elements may be rubber gaskets. The sealing elements are used to form a seal and prevent water leaking over the lateral ends 222 of the wash basin 103.

Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the clamping mechanism of the mounting system, using a threaded bolt through the foot, the basin, and the mount as a tightening means. Mounting system 300 shows a wash basin 303 disposed between a foot 311 and a mount 310. The basin 303 is secured by a threaded bolt 312 running through foot 311, basin 303, and mount 310. For example, at least one of the foot 311, the basin 303, and the mount 310 may have an internal thread for receiving the threaded bolt 312. In this case, the threaded bolt 312 may be different to the threaded bolt 112 in Figure 1, for example as it may be configured to extend through the wash basin 303. The basin 303 can be further secured by using threaded nuts 323 to secure the foot 311 and/or the mount 310 in place. The nuts 323 may comprise an internal thread for advancement over the threaded bolt 312, where they can be secured in place against the foot 311, for example. The nuts 323 may be present on the upper side of the foot 311 and/or the lower side of the mount 310.

The threaded bolt 312 is configured to hold the basin 303 in place. In some examples, nuts 323 are not required, and the head of the bolt 312 may be used to secure the foot 311, for example. The bolt 312 may be tightened to the foot 311 by the bolt head such that the foot 311 is secured between the wash basin 303 upperside and the boit head. In other examples, the foot 311 may be fixed to the bolt 312 such that the bolt 312 acts as the tightening means for the foot 311, and as the bolt 312 is advanced, the foot 311 is tightened against the basin 303. For example, the wash basin 303 and/or mount 310 may comprise an internal thread configured to be engaged by the threaded bolt 312. In this example, a threaded nut 323 or bolt head may not be required, and the necessary attachment may be achieved by the internal thread.

Figure 4 shows an example embodiment of the clamping mechanism of Figure 3 in practice. Figure 4a shows the view from above the basin 403, and Figure 4b shows the view from below the basin 403. The wash basin 403 is shown between a foot 411 and a mount 410, with a threaded bolt 412 extending through the foot 411, through the basin 403, and through the mount 410. Figures 4a and 4b show an example of how the foot 403 and mount 410 can be of various sizes and shapes.

As described above in reference to Figure 3, the threaded bolts 412 are configured to secure the foot 411 and mount 410 in place, and thereby clamp the wash basin 403. In some examples, and as shown in Figure 4, there may be a plurality of threaded bolts 412 for clamping the basin 403. In some examples, the bolts 412 may be screws.

Although not discernible in Figure 4, threaded bolts 412 may be further secured by threaded nuts above the foot 411 and below the mount 410 to hold them in place, in a manner described above in reference to Figure 3. Figure 4 also shows a drainage grate 415 comprising a plurality of drainage apertures 416. This example shows how the size od the apertures may vary.

The mount 410 can be seen in Figures 4a and 4b to extend beyond the lower portion 409 of the mounting system 400, protruding out of the aperture underneath the underside 406 of the wash basin 403. The mount 410 protruding from the aperture as in this example, can be used to provide further support for the basin 403. Mount 410 is shown to be separate from the lower portion 409 in this example. In this example, the damping is performed in front of the drainage grate 415, but in this case behind the aperture 403. Other features such as an upper portion may be incorporated in this example, but are not shown in Figure 4.

Figure 5 shows another embodiment of the clamping mechanism of the mounting system, wherein the foot engages a plate to distribute the clamping force. Mounting system 500 comprises a foot 511, a basin 503, and a mount 510. In some examples, a tightening bolt 512 is coupled to the foot 511. The foot 511 may be coupled to a plate 524. In other examples, the plate 524 is configured to receive the foot 511. For example, the plate 524 may comprise a recess for receiving the foot 511. For example, the plate 524 may be an SGL plate. The tightening bolt 512 may have an external thread. The upper portion 508 of mounting system 500 comprises a hole 513 with an internal thread.

The bolt 512 may be configured to be advanced through the hole 513 relative to the upper portion 508 of the mounting system 500, such that the bolt 512 engages the foot 511. Therefore, in some examples, the bolt 512 is configured to extend through the upper portion 508.

The foot 511 is configured to engage the plate 524, such that the plate 524 engages the upperside 505 of the basin 503. In this manner, the foot 511 distributes the clamping force applied by the tightening bolt 512 across the plate 524. Therefore, the force on the plate 524 clamps the basin 503 against the mount 510.

The recess for receiving the foot 511 may improve the grip to aid with the clamping. The foot 511 thereby distributes the clamping force across the plate 524 such that the force is spread over the contact area between the plate 524 and the upperside 505 of the basin 503. This can prevent localised pressure points, and prevent the basin 503 from cracking or shattering. The plate 524 may have a larger surface area than shown in Figure 5, and may extend substantially into the plane of Figure 5.

In addition, the plate 524 may be further fixed to the basin 503, for example by screws, or bolted through the basin 503 and secured on the underside 506. In one example, the mount 510 may be used to provide leverage for securing the plate 524 to the upperside 505 of the basin 503, for example using another threaded bolt. Other optional features described above, such as the lower portion, may also be present in this example.

Figure 6 shows an example embodiment of the clamping mechanism of Figure 5. Mounting system 600 comprises a foot 61 and a wash basin 603. The mounting system 600 comprises an upper portion 608 which comprises at least one hole 613 with an internal thread. Mounting system 600 comprises a threaded bolt 612.

The hole 613 may be configured to receive the threaded bolt 612. The threaded bolt 612 is configured to engage a plate 624, which may for example be an SGL plate. The plate 624 distributes the clamping force over a larger area than the foot 611. One foot 611 is shown without a plate 624 to illustrate how the foot 611 could fit within a recess in the plate 624 for improved grip.

Figure 7 shows a cross sectional profile of an example embodiment of the mounting system, similar to the outline drawing in Figure 1. Mounting system 700 is configured to suspend a wash basin 703 from a wall 720. The mounting system 700 comprises a back portion 701 and a front portion 702. The front portion 702 comprises an aperture 704, through which the wash basin 703 extends. The mounting system 700 comprises a foot 711 and a mount 710. In this example, mount 710 is shown connected to a lower portion 709. The lower portion 709 is shown connected to back portion 701, which in turn is connected to upper portion 708. Upper portion 708 is connected to front portion 702. In this example, each of the lower, back, upper, and front portions are formed of the same, single, extrusion. In this case, the mount 710 is also formed of the same extrusion. In other examples, each of the portions may be manufactured separately and joined, for example by fixings such as screws.

In some examples, as shown in Figure 7, a tightening means such as a threaded bolt 712 is coupled to the foot 711. In Figure 7, the upper portion 708 comprises a threaded hole 713. The threaded bolt 712 is shown to extend through the hole 713. In some examples, the mounting system 700 also comprises a drainage grate 715 as described above, shown in Figure 1 in the lowered configuration.

The mounting system 700 comprises at least one strut 717 between the upper portion 708 and the lower portion 709. These struts 717 are spaced along the width of the mounting system 700, such that there are gaps between the struts 717.

In some examples, a drainage collector 725 is present. For example, the drainage collector 725 may be attached to the underneath of the lower portion 709. In some examples, there may be a plurality of drainage collectors 725, spread along the width of the mounting system 700.

The mount 710 and foot 711 are configured to clamp the wash basin 703 as described above. The mount 710 is biased against the upperside of the wash basin 703 by the threaded bolt 712. In this example, the threaded bolt712 is guided by the threaded hole 713 in the upper portion 708. The threaded bolt712 has an external thread which is configured to be advanced through the internally-threaded hole 713 relative to the upper portion 708 of the mounting system 700. The threaded bolt712 is configured to engage the foot 711 such that the foot 711 pushes against the basin 703 and secures it in place. In this manner, the foot 711 is adjustable such that the basin 703 can be clamped. In other embodiments, the mount 710 may be adjustable instead of the foot 711, or in addition.

The front portion 702 shows a region for receiving the drainage grate 715 when in the raised configuration. In some examples, and as shown in Figure 7, the drainage grate 715 is positioned within the wall 720.

The struts 717 may be configured to support the distal side 707 of the basin 703, to aid with holding the basin 703. The gaps between the struts 717 allow water to drain from the upperside of the basin 703. This water can then collect in the lower portion 709, where it can be fed to a drain.

The lower portion 709 comprises a drainage opening in the bottom surface, through which water can be fed to a drainage collector 725. Drainage collector 725 may be attached to the lower portion 709 via T slots on the underside of the mounting system 700. The attachment means of drainage collectors 725 using T slots is described in more detail below with reference to Figure 10.

Mounting system 700 is configured to suspend the wash basin 703 from the wall structure 720. In some examples, and as shown in Figure 7, the mounting system is positioned within the wall structure. As described above, the mounting system may be a recess in a wall, or the wall structure may, for example, be a stud wall, or a cavity box. In some examples, the front portion 702 may be coupled to the front wall 726. In some examples, the back portion 701 may be coupled to the back wall 727. For example, if the wall 720 is a cavity wall, the front and back portions may be coupled to the internal surfaces of the wall. In other examples, the front portion 702 may comprise a front wall structure 726 such as an SGL plate.

Figure 8 shows a close-up example of the mounting system for suspending a wash basin, highlighting the drainage grate. Wash basin 803 can be suspended from the mounting system 800. The system 800 comprises a front portion 802. In Figure 8a, the drainage grate 815 is shown to comprise a plurality of apertures 816. In the lowered configuration, the drainage grate 815 rests against the upperside of the wash basin 803 such that the aperture in the front portion 802 of the mounting system 800, through which the basin 803 extends, is closed (except for the drainage apertures 816). The drainage apertures 816 are sized such that water can pass over the upperside of the wash basin 803, and enter the mounting system 800, but objects of size larger than the diameter of the drainage apertures 816 are blocked from passing. This can prevent blockages in the drain. Part of the drainage collector 825 can be seen in Figure 8. Figure 8 shows a back panel 819 that may be used to connect the mounting system to a back wall. In some examples, this may be connected to the mounting system by T slots on the back of the back portion.

The front portion 802 may comprise a recess which is configured to house the drainage grate 815 when in the raised configuration. The drainage collector 825 may be configured to receive water from the lower portion of the mounting system 800, as described above.

Figure 8b shows the drainage grate 815 in the raised configuration, wherein the drainage grate 815 is withdrawn upwards into a recess in the front portion 802. This exposes the mounting system 800 behind the drainage grate 815. Figure 8b shows the foot 811 against the upperside of the wash basin 803. In some examples, a tightening nut 828 may be provided. In some examples, and as shown in the example of Figure 8b, a plurality of struts 817 may be provided. The plurality of struts 817 comprise gaps 817a between them.

When the drainage grate 815 is raised, this allows user access to tighten the foot 811. For example, the tightening nut 828 allows the user to rotate the nut 828 e.g. by using a tool such as a spanner, to secure the foot 81 against the basin 803.

The plurality of struts 817 may be configured to engage the distal side of wash basin 803. The gaps 817a between the struts 817 allow water to drain over the upperside of the wash basin 803 to be collected in the lower portion. Once water has collected in the tower portion, it can drain through a connected drainage collector 825.

Figure 9 shows another example mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall. Figure 9a shows a mounting system 900 configured to suspend a wash basin 903 from a wall 920. The mounting system 900 comprises a back portion 901 and a front portion 902.

The front portion 902 defines an aperture 904 through which the wash basin 903 extends when held by the mounting system 900. The mounting system 900 comprises an anchor 929 and a fulcrum 930. The mounting system 900 also comprises a lower portion 909. The fulcrum 930 may be attached to the lower portion 909, and is shown in Figure 9 as made from the same extrusion. The anchor 929 may be attached to the back portion 901 and also to the front portion 902. Although, in some examples, the anchor 929 and/or the fulcrum 930 may be separate from these parts.

The anchor 929 is configured to engage an upperside of the wash basin 903. The fulcrum 930 is configured to support an underside of the wash basin 903. By holding the basin 903 at points along the upperside and the underside, the basin 903 can be held using a cantilever mechanism. The fulcrum 930 and the anchor 929 are shown to act at different points along the lateral axis of the basin 903. This means the basin 903 can be held more securely, and less material is required to sufficiently hold the basin 903. By supporting the underside of the basin 903 at the fulcrum 930 proximally of the anchor 929, the basin 903 can be better supported. In some examples, as shown in Figure 9a, the fulcrum 930 may extend beyond the wall 902 underneath the basin 903.The lower portion 909 is configured to provide drainage.

Figure 9b shows the cantilever mounting system suspending a basin from a stud wall. Mounting system 900 is configured to suspend wash basin 901 from stud wall 920. Stud wall 920 comprises studs 920a. Mounting system 900 comprises means for attaching to the studs 920a. The mounting system 900 comprises a back portion 901, front portion 902, anchor 929, fulcrum 930, and lower portion 909 as in Figure 9a. Aperture 904 is shown above the upperside of the wash basin 903. Drainage grate 915 can also be seen, comprising a plurality of drainage apertures 916.

In some examples, the stud mounting means comprises back plates configured to align with the studs 920a. The back plates are shown in more detail in Figure 10.

Figure 10 shows the rear and underside views of a mounting system, such as a mounting system of any of the examples described above. Mounting system 1000 is configured to suspend wash basin 1003 from a wall. The mounting system 1000 in Figure 10 comprises a front portion 1001, a back portion 1002, and upper portion 1008 and a lower portion 1009. In some examples, and as shown in the example of Figure 10a and 10b, these portions are all made from a single extrusion. Figure 10 shows the mounting system 1000 supported by legs 1018. Legs 1018 may be connected to the mounting system via T slots 1031 on the underside of the mounting system 1000 (e.g. on the bottom of the lower portion 1009). For example, the legs 1018 may have a leg connector 1018a which can be attached to a T slot 1031 by T connectors (e.g. T nuts) 1031a. The T slots 1031 are shown in this example to be made from the same single extrusion as the rest of the mounting system (specifically, the front 1002, back 1001, lower 1009, and upper 1008 portions).

In some examples, and as shown in Figure 10, the mounting system 1000 may further comprise at least one drainage collector 1025. For example, the drainage collectors 1025 may be attached to the bottom of the lower portion 1009 of the mounting system 1000.

T slots 1031 are shown at the back of the back portion 1001, in addition to underneath the lower portion 1009 of the mounting system 1000. In some examples, back plates 1019 may be attached to the T slots 1031 attached to the back portion 1001. Fixing means such as T nuts 1031a may be used to secure devices in T slots 1031 in place.

The T slots 1031 on the bottom of the mounting system 1000 (e.g. underneath lower portion 1009) may also be used to attach drainage collectors 1025 underneath drainage openings in the bottom of the lower portion 1009 of the mounting system 1000. Drainage collectors 1025 may be attached to the T slots 1031 via T nuts 1031a. These may be the same T slots 1031 as used to connect the legs 1018 and leg connectors 1018a. The T slots 1031 allow multiple devices such as drainage collectors 1025 and leg connectors 1018a to be slid along the mounting system 1000 from the end, and positioned where desired. The devices can then be locked in place by T fixings such as T nuts 1031a.

The mounting system 1000 may comprise further T slots 1031 at the back of the back portion 1001 of the mounting system 1000. For example, two T slots 1031 on the back of mounting system 1000 are shown in Figure 10. These T slots 1031 allow further devices to be connected to the mounting system 1000, for example back plates 1019. Back plates 1019 may be attached to at least one T slot 1031 (e.g. shown in Figure 1 as connecting to two T slots 1031). Fixing means such as T nuts 1031a can then be used to secure the back plate 1019 in place. For example, these may align with studs as in Figure 9. Mounting system

1000 may comprise one or more of leg mounting means or wall mounting means. In some examples, the drainage collector 1025 may be connected to T slots 1031 in the back portion

1001 of the mounting system 1000.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure, the mounting system comprising:

a back portion;

a front portion defining an aperture;

a clamping mechanism, comprising:

a mount configured to support an underside of the wash basin; and a foot configured to engage an upperside of the wash basin;

wherein the clamping mechanism is at least partially arranged between the front portion and the back portion and is adjustable to clamp the wash basin between the mount and the foot such that the wash basin extends through the aperture away from the wall structure.

2. The wash basin mounting system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the foot or the mount is adjustable to clamp the wash basin.

3. The wash basin mounting system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises tightening means, optionally comprising at least one of a tightening bolt or a ratchet mechanism.

4. The wash basin mounting system of claim 3, wherein the tightening means is configured to adjustably bias the foot against the upperside of the wash basin to secure the wash basin against the mount, or configured to adjustably bias the mount against the underside of the wash basin to secure the wash basin against the foot.

5. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises a threaded bolt configured to extend through the foot, the wash basin, and the mount.

6. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, further comprising a plate configured to engage the upperside of the wash basin, wherein the foot is configured to engage the plate such that the clamping force is distributed over the contact area between the plate and the wash basin.

7. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the wall is a cavity wall, and the mounting system further comprises stud mounting means for fixing the mounting system to studs in the cavity wall.

8. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the clamping mechanism is configured to suspend the wash basin from at least partially within a cavity box mounted to the wall.

9. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting system is configured to hold the upperside of the wash basin at an acute angle relative to the wall.

10. The wash basin mounting system of claim 9, wherein the acute angle is between 45° and 85° relative to the wall, preferably wherein the angle is between 65° and 85° relative to the wall.

11. The wash basin mounting system of claim 9 or 10, wherein the mount and the foot each comprise a contact surface for contacting the wash basin, each contact surface being at the acute angle relative to the wall, such that in use when the wash basin is clamped by the clamping mechanism, the wash basin is held at the acute angle.

12. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the damping mechanism further comprises a gasket coupled to the foot for gripping the upperside of the wash basin, such that in use when the wash basin is clamped by the damping mechanism, the gasket is held between the foot and the upperside of the wash basin.

13. The wash basin mounting system of daim 12, wherein the gasket is configured to provide a soft boundary between the foot and the upperside of the wash basin, and is further configured to inhibit slippage of the wash basin when the wash basin is damped by the clamping mechanism, optionally wherein the gasket is compressible under the clamping between the foot and the wash basin, and optionally wherein the gasket is made from rubber.

14. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the mount is configured to extend proximally beyond the wall through the aperture of the front portion, optionally wherein the mount is configured to support the underside of the wash basin partially proximally of the front portion.

15. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the mounting system extends along the entire width of the wash basin.

16. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, further comprising a lower portion coupled to the mounting system and arranged between the front portion and the back portion, the lower portion comprising at least one drainage opening in a bottom surface of the lower portion, and configured to receive water running off the upperside of the wash basin, optionally wherein the lower portion is configured to receive at least one drainage collector underneath the bottom surface.

17. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, further comprising at least one drainage collector.

18. The wash basin mounting system of claim 16 or 17, further comprising a drainage grate comprising a plurality of drainage apertures, the drainage grate having a lowered and a raised configuration, the apertures sized such that when the grate is in the lowered configuration water can drain from the upperside of the wash basin into the lower portion, whilst inhibiting passage of objects with a diameter larger than the apertures, and wherein the grate in the raised configuration allows access to the foot for adjusting the foot and thereby the clamping of the wash basin against the mount.

19. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the damping mechanism further comprises at least one additional foot, each configured to engage the upperside of the wash basin and clamp the wash basin against the mount.

20. The wash basin mounting system of claim 16 or any claim dependent thereon, wherein in use when the wash basin is clamped by the clamping mechanism, the wash basin has a proximal side and a distal side, the damping mechanism clamping the wash basin at a position towards the distal side, wherein the distal side is positioned in the wall and positioned lower than the proximal side due to the wash basin being at the acute angle, and wherein the upperside of the wash basin is arranged to receive water such that it flows off the distal side into the lower portion, and optionally wherein the wash basin has two lateral ends disposed between the proximal side and the distal side at each end of the wash basin, the clamping mechanism comprising a foot proximal to each lateral end to support the wash basin against the mount, optionally further comprising a plurality of feet evenly distributed between the two lateral ends of the wash basin.

21. The wash basin mounting system of any preceding claim, wherein the clamping mechanism is configured to clamp a wash basin having a planar portion.

22. A wash basin mounting system for suspending a wash basin from a wall structure, the mounting system comprising:

a back portion;

a front portion defining an aperture;

a fulcrum configured to support an underside of the wash basin; and an anchor configured to support an upperside of the wash basin at a position between the front portion and the back portion and to inhibit rotation of the wash basin about the fulcrum; and wherein the mounting system is configured to hold the wash basin between the fulcrum and the anchor such that the wash basin extends through the aperture.

23. A wash basin system for suspending a wash basin from a wall, comprising:

a wash basin; and a wash basin mounting system according to any preceding claim.

24. The wash basin system of claim 23, further comprising a leg for supporting the basin at an elevated height relative to the floor such that a user can use the wash basin when standing or sitting, optionally further comprising a leg connector for connecting the wash basin mounting system to the leg.

25. The wash basin system of claim 23 or 24, further comprising a wall mounting means for attaching the wash basin mounting system to the wall.

26. The wash basin system of any of claims 23 to 25, further comprising at least one tap attached to one of the wall, the basin, or the mounting system, the tap configured to release water onto the upperside of the wash basin.

27. The wash basin system of any of claims 23 to 26, wherein the wash basin has a planar portion.