GB2591497A

GB2591497A - Cantilevered Platform

Info

Publication number: GB2591497A
Application number: GB2001314.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Robert Pledger Shaun
Original assignee: Flexi Group UK Ltd
Current assignee: Flexi Group UK Ltd
Priority date: 2020-01-30
Filing date: 2020-01-30
Publication date: 2021-08-04
Anticipated expiration: 2040-01-30
Also published as: GB202001314D0; GB2591497B

Abstract

The system comprises a bracket 10 connectable to the platform 20 and receivable in an upward-facing slot 32 of a socket 30 connectable to a structure 40. In use, the socket and bracket support at least part (e.g. at least 50%, 75% or 90%) of the platform weight. The bracket’s position and/or orientation in the socket may be adjustable e.g. by bolts 36a,36b,37 through holes in the socket and/or shims between socket and bracket. The slot depth may be at least 75%, 90% or 100% of the bracket height. The socket may restrict lateral movement of the bracket in use, and/or locking means may be provided. The slot and/or bracket may be tapered. The bracket may be connectable to a beam of the platform, the beam extending in use through an aperture of the slot. The socket may be supported by concrete anchors and/or may have a fixing portion arranged above the slot in use.

Description

CANTILEVERED PLATFORM

FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to a system and method for installing cantilevered platforms such as balconies, mezzanines, catwalks, and staircases to supporting structures and to cantilevered platforms themselves. In particular the invention provides a system and method which is able to quickly and safely attach cantilevered platforms to buildings.

BACKGROUND

It is common in the construction industry to install cantilevered platforms to the walls of a larger structure.

For instance, balconies are commonly attached to buildings such as apartment blocks and hotels. Cantilevered balconies are particularly desirable in the housing industry since no external supports (e.g. columns) are required to support a balcony, and the connection between a cantilevered platform and a building may be hidden by the façade of of the building.

Typically, prefabricated balconies (or other cantilevered platforms such as stairs, catwalks, walkways, etc.) are lifted into a position adjacent to a structure by a crane. Once in position, balconies may be bolted to the structure whilst still suspended from the crane. However, this is a slow and expensive process. In addition the holes to receive the bolts must be formed in both the structure and the balconies with strict tolerances. Moreover, securing a series of bolts whilst the balcony is suspended is time consuming and requires accurate alignment between the balcony and the structure. Achieving this accurate alignment requires high levels of skill and patience, especially in windy conditions.

Therefore, installing balconies and other cantilevered platforms in this manner is slow and expensive, requiring large amounts of "crane time".

WO 2014/174269 Al provides two methods of installing cantilevered balconies to buildings without the use of bolts. Each method includes attaching stubs to the building. In the first method a balcony may be "dropped on" to the stubs, whilst in the second method the balcony is "slid on" to the stubs. However, each of these methods have their respective disadvantages.

The first embodiment involves welding hooks to the top of the framework of a balcony. A stub with an H-shaped cross section in the horizontal plane is then attached to the building using bolts. The balcony is then lowered such that the hooks are hooked over a supporting plate of the stubs.

However, this approach results in a balcony that is relatively weak and as a corollary is less safe than conventional bolted cantilevered balcony. Specifically, the cantilevered balcony is susceptible to overturning. By this we mean that when large weights are applied to the "hooked" balcony a large moment is generated. Under such large moments the balcony will tend to rotate such that the hooks lift up and over the edge of the plate on which they are hooked. This may result in dramatic failures of the balcony at relatively low stresses.

Moreover, the welds described in WO 2014/174269 Al are subject to high tensile forces and do not transfer the in a continuous plane. As such, the welds of the first embodiment of WO 2014/174269 Al (the "hooked" balcony) are relatively weak. Therefore, the first embodiment of WO 2014/174268 Al provides a cantilevered balcony that is weaker and less safe than traditional bolted approaches.

The second embodiment of WO 2014/174268 Al comprises attaching an array of horizontal beams or stubs that project outwards from the surface of a building. A balcony to be installed on the building has a corresponding array of apertures in its frame. Therefore, the balcony may be slid onto the beams such that each beam enters a corresponding aperture.

However, the large beams or steams that project from the building may prevent the construction of scaffolding or other temporary structures against the side of the building. As such, installation of the beams onto the building or further work on the building may need to be delayed when using the second embodiment of WO 2014/174268 Al. Therefore, the second embodiment of WO 2014/174268 Al may not offer substantial time savings over the alternative methods discussed above.

In summary, there is a desire to overcome the disadvantages of known techniques for constructing balconies and other cantilevered platforms.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a system for installing a cantilevered platform to a structure, the system comprising: a socket having a slot, the socket configured to connect to the structure such that the slot faces upwards; and a bracket configured to be received in the slot of the socket, the bracket being further configured to connect to the cantilevered platform; the system configured such that at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket and the socket.

Before installation of the cantilevered platform on the building, the socket may be attached to the structure and the bracket may be attached to the cantilevered platform. Therefore, the time required for the cantilevered platform to be suspended from a crane (or other lifting apparatus) is minimised.

Indeed, it will be appreciated that a bracket attached to a cantilevered platform can be quickly and easily lowered under gravity into a socket mounted on a structure to provide a connection of high strength.

Moreover, the socket may be of relatively small dimensions and may not project substantially from a structure, so that the system does not interfere with scaffolding or other work performed on the structure. Therefore, construction delays are avoided using the system herein.

In summary, the present invention provides a system for installing a cantilevered platform (e.g. a balcony) to a structure or building quickly, safely and without delaying other construction work.

By a socket having a slot it is understood that the socket comprises a U-shaped groove or internal cavity. This groove or cavity may extend into the body of the socket. The width of the slot is defined between two opposed faces (the sides of the U) and the depth of the slot is defined by the distance between its opening and a base (at the bottom of the U). This slot may be formed by folding plate metal (e.g. steel or aluminium) to create the necessary groove casting. Alternatively, the slot may be manufactured using substantially any other suitable method including welding, casting or machining.

When attached or connected to a building, the opening of the slot is preferably arranged to face upwards -i.e. such that the opening to the slot is positioned above or over the base of the slot. Therefore, the bracket may be quickly and easily lowered into the slot (e.g. by crane). To achieve this, the bracket may be complimentarily or correspondingly shaped in comparison to the slot such that the bracket may enter the slot. As such the bracket is a "male" portion which may enter the "female" slot.

For the bracket to enter the slot the dimensions of the bracket (e.g. the width and length) may be less than those of the corresponding dimensions of the opening to the slot. For instance, the width (e.g. a maximum width) of the bracket may be less than the width of the opening to the slot. In preferred embodiments the width (or maximum width) of the bracket may be between 1 and 100 mm less than the width of the opening to the slot, preferably between 2 and 50 mm, and more preferably between 5 and 25 mm. These figures -especially differences of approximately 5 to 25 mm -provide a bracket that is configured to be easily lowered into the slot but will not move significantly within the slot under load and is unlikely to lift out of the socket The bracket may be formed of steel, aluminium or any other suitable material. 5 Furthermore, the bracket may be manufactured as a single casting. Alternatively, the bracket may be formed by welding multiple metals plates (e.g. 15 mm thick steel plate) together to provide a bracket of sufficient width.

Once the bracket is received in the slot, the bracket may contact the socket and the socket may support at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform. Thus a cantilevered platform on which the bracket is mounted may be hung from the structure without the need to bolt the platform to the building whilst it is suspended. Therefore, cantilevered platforms may be constructed quickly and cheaply using the systems described herein.

It will be understood that a socket that is configured to connect to a structure includes: a socket that is formed or provided integrally within the structure (i.e. such that the materials of the socket and wider structure are connected by continuous material); a socket that may be permanently attached to the structure such as by welding; and/or a socket that may be non-permanently attached to the structure (e.g. using bolts and/or shims). Similarly, a bracket configured to connect to the cantilevered plafform may be formed integrally or continuously with the cantilevered platform and/or may be configured to be permanently or non-permanently attached to the cantilevered platform.

Preferably, the socket is configured to connect to the structure such that the slot extends in a direction parallel to the surface to which the socket is connected. In such an arrangement the slot may exhibit a U-shape or V-shape when viewed in cross section in a plane normal to the structure (e.g. in a plane in which the cantilevered platform projects from the structure). This offers a connection between the cantilevered platform and the structure which has high resistances to moment about an axis parallel to the structure (e.g. as generated by weights applied to the cantilevered platform). However, this is not essential and in further examples the slot may extend normal to the surface to which the socket is connected Preferably the system further comprises adjustment means for varying the position and/or orientation of the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket. Thus the arrangement of the bracket relative to the socket may be varied and the cantilevered platform connected to the bracket may be placed in a pre-determined position and/or orientation.

As a result, the position and/or orientation of the cantilevered platform to which the bracket is connected may be modified or affected by the adjustment means after the cantilevered platform has been installed on the structure by lowering the bracket into the socket. In other words, the adjustment means may be configured to vary the position and/or orientation of the bracket (and a connected cantilevered platform) relative to the socket whilst at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket and the socket. This may allow for an installer to correct for errors in (for instance) the location of the socket, the connection between the socket and the structure or the bracket and the cantilevered platform, or the connection of the cantilevered platform itself. Therefore, the system is more flexible and easier to use.

Preferably, the adjustment means comprises one or more bolts configured to extend through a respective threaded hole in the socket, such that each bolt may be driven through the respective threaded hole to contact the bracket when received in the socket. These bolts may be driven through the walls or base of the slot to contact and push the bracket away from the socket. Equally, retracting the bolt may allow the bracket to move closer to the walls of the socket. Therefore, depending on the location of the bolt around the perimeter of the bracket and socket the orientation and/or position of the bracket relative to the socket may be changed or adjusted. It will be appreciated that using bolts in this manner allows the position and/or orientation of the bracket (and hence of a cantilevered platform connected to the bracket) to be controlled very accurately in a continuous range. The bolts may be formed of any suitable material; these materials may include steel, stainless steel, aluminium and other metals. Once the bolts are moved to the correct locations -i.e. such that the cantilevered platform is in a predetermined position and/or orientation -they may be covered with a heat-shrink material to protect them from their environment and/or prevent tampering.

For instance, a bolt extending through the side wall of the slot may be used to adjust the lateral position of the bracket and cantilevered platform relative to the socket (e.g. parallel to the direction in which the slot extends along the socket).

Equally, a bolt extending through the base of the slot may be used to raise and lower the bracket and cantilevered plafform. If the bolt is offset from the centreline of the cantilevered platform inserting and retracting the bolt will also cause the cantilevered platform to rotate about an axis in which the platform projects from the structure (i.e. about an axis normal to the surface of the structure). Finally, a bolt extending through either of the opposed sides of the slot may be used to displace the bracket and the cantilevered platform towards or away from the structure (i.e. in the direction in which the platform projects from the structure). Bolts extending through the opposed sides of the slot may also be used to control the rotation of the cantilevered platform about an axis parallel to the direction in which the slot extends along the socket (e.g. parallel to the surface of the structure wherein the socket is connected to the structure such that the slot extends parallel to the surface of the structure). As such, it will be appreciated that the use of multiple bolts extending through different portions of the socket may be used together to provide highly accurate control of the position of a bracket and cantilevered platform.

Some embodiments may comprise adjustment bolts configured to extend through each of the opposed first and second sides of the slot, wherein the first side of the slot is configured to be furthest from the structure when the socket is connected to the structure (i.e. such that the first side is a front side and the second side is a rear side of the slot). The adjustment of the position and/or orientation may comprise first driving adjustment bolts through the front, first side of the slot into contact with the bracket so as to adjust the position and/or orientation of the bracket (and connected cantilevered structure)(such as to increase the pitch angle of the platform from being angled down from the structure towards or to being level) and subsequently driving the adjustment bolts through the rear, second side of the slot to contact the bracket so as to secure the bracket and restrict further movement of the bracket relative to the socket. However, this sequence of steps is not essential.

Additionally, or alternatively, the adjustment means may comprise at least one shim configured to be inserted between the socket and the bracket the bracket is received in the socket. A shim is a thin and often tapered or wedge-shaped piece of material which may be inserted or driven between the socket and bracket to adjust the spacing between the socket and the bracket. By adjusting the spacing between the socket and the bracket by inserting shims at various points around the perimeter of the bracket the position and/or orientation of the bracket relative to the socket may be varied. The use of one or more shims may increase the stiffness of the plafform used with the system by making the bracket more secure in the socket either when bolts are used or when bolts are not used. By "stiffness" we intend to mean the amount the platform flexes or pivots around the socket and bracket connection when further weight is applied to the platform with increased stiffness decreasing the flexing or pivoting.

These adjustment means may preferably be configured to vary the position of (i.e. to displace) the bracket and a connect cantilevered platform in at least one direction over a range of at least ± 2.5 mm, preferably at least ± 5 mm, more preferably at least ± 10 mm. This variation of position may be in a plane generally perpendicular (i.e. such as a, substantially, horizontal plane or a plane parallel to the ground) to the direction from which the bracket may be introduced to the socket, or may be in another plane. Additionally or alternatively, the above adjustment means may be configured to vary the orientation of (i.e. to rotate or to vary the attitude of) the bracket and cantilevered platform about the axis in which the cantilevered platform projects from the structure over an angle range of at least ± 0.5 degrees, more preferably ± 1 degree, more preferably still ± 2 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, the above adjustment means may be configured to vary the orientation of (i.e. to rotate or to vary the attitude of) the bracket and cantilevered platform about the axis parallel to the surface of the over an angle range of at least ± 0.002 degrees (which corresponds to a variation in the displacement at the tip of a 1.5 m deep cantilevered platform with depth 1.5 m of approx. ± 3 mm), more preferably at least ± 0.003 degrees (approx.. ± 5 mm tip deflection with 1.5 m deep cantilevered platform), more preferably at least ± 0.008 degrees (approx.. ± 12 mm tip deflection with 1.5 m deep cantilevered platform).

Preferably, the depth of the slot is at least 0.75 times the height of the bracket, preferably wherein the depth of the slot is at least 0.9 times the height of the bracket, more preferably still wherein the depth of the slot is greater than or equal to the height of the bracket. As such, in preferred examples the slot is sufficiently deep to receive the majority of the bracket or the entire bracket therein. This provides a secure connection between the cantilevered platform and structure as the bracket is less likely to lift out of the slot in use, and because the opposed walls of the slot provide a strong resistance to turning moments transmitted by the bracket. However, this is not essential and in other examples the slot may be less than 0.75 times the height of the bracket.

In preferred examples, the socket is configured to restrict lateral movement of the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket. The term laterally will be understood as in a longitudinal direction in which the slot and the bracket extend. For instance, if the socket is connected to the structure such that the slot extends longitudinally parallel to the surface of the structure, the bracket and the connected cantilevered platform may be prevented from moving laterally, parallel to the surface of the structure. For instance, the socket may comprise an end wall at either end of the slot or at each end of the slot. In this case the respective end of the slots will be closed by an end wall, such that movement of the bracket in the direction in which the slot extends (i.e. laterally) is prevented.

In preferred examples, the system may comprise locking means, the locking means configured to restrict movement of the bracket relative to the socket when the bracket is received in the socket. Such locking means may improve the safety of the connection between the cantilevered platform and the structure. For instance, when attached the locking means may prevent a bracket lifting from the slot (e.g. from moving vertically out of the slot). Additionally, or alternatively the detachable locking means may prevent lateral movement of the bracket (and any connected cantilevered platform) relative to the socket and/or structure.

The locking means may be selectively applied to restrict movement of the bracket (e.g. such that they only restrict movement of the bracket once it is received in the socket). For instance the locking means may be detachable and/or may be engaged and disengaged as necessary. Suitable locking means may comprise a locking plate which may be attached (e.g. bolted) across the opening of the slot to prevent a bracket held therein from lifting from the slot.

Alternatively, any other suitable locking means may be provided -e.g. a pin could be inserted through a wall of the slot and into a hole or aperture in the bracket so as to restrict movement of the bracket relative to the slot.

Preferably, the slot is tapered, the opening of the slot having a greater width than the base of the slot. By "tapered" it is understood that a feature reduces in thickness or narrows along its length or depth. Therefore, the distance between the opposed sides of the slot may vary along a direction in which the slot extends into the socket. For instance, a first side of the slot may be angled or skewed -i.e. not parallel or perpendicular -to the opposed second side (at least over a portion of the two opposed sides). Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the opposed sides of a tapered slot may be curved.

Additionally, or alternatively, the bracket may be tapered, the bracket having a greater width at an upper surface than at a lower surface. Thus opposed side surfaces of a bracket may be angled or skewed relative to one another at least over a portion of the two opposed side surfaces. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the opposed side surfaces of a tapered bracket may be curved.

Equally, where a bracket is formed of multiple plates connected together (e.g. by welding or using bolts), a tapered bracket may be created by varying the length of the plates such that a surface defined by the edges of the plates is angled relative to the opposing surface of the longest plate.

Providing a tapered slot and/or a tapered bracket makes it easier to locate or seat the bracket within the slot. Thus lowering the bracket into the socket is simplified. Thus the average time and cost to install a cantilevered balcony using the system may be further reduced.

Moreover, systems which combine the adjustment means discussed above comprising bolts and tapered brackets are particularly beneficial. A bolt which extends through the socket to contact a side surface of the bracket that is an angled relative to the bolt provides highly accurate control of the rotation of the cantilevered platform and therefore can provide highly accurate control of the tip deflection of a cantilevered platform.

In preferred embodiments the bracket may be configured such that, when the bracket is connected to the cantilevered platform, a first side surface of the bracket is angled at between 90 and 70 degrees relative to the direction in which the cantilevered platform projects, more preferably between 85 and 75 degrees, more preferably still between 82 and 80 degrees, more preferably still at an angle of approximately 81 degrees relative to the direction in which the cantilevered platform projects.

Preferably the bracket is configured to connect to a support beam of the cantilevered platform, wherein preferably the slot comprises an aperture through which the support beam may extend when the bracket is received in the socket. In other words, the bracket may be attached to a beam or bar which forms part of the frame of the cantilevered platform. This frame may be manufactured of steel, aluminium, or any other suitable material. An aperture may be provided in a side or end wall of the slot, such that the beam may project from the socket to support the cantilevered platform. This allows the transmission of forces and moments along a single axis to the socket from the cantilevered platform, increasing the strength of the connection between the cantilevered platform and the socket.

Preferably the system comprises one or more concrete anchors (which may also be referred to as reinforced concrete frame fixing brackets) configured to be installed in a concrete slab of the structure, the socket being configured to connect to the concrete anchors. Concrete anchors offer a simple means of securing objects to a concrete slab. The concrete anchors may be cast into the concrete as it is poured, or installed once the concrete has been poured and set.

The socket may be connected to a concrete slab using bolts extending into the concrete anchors installed in the slab or using nuts which are fastened to threaded bars which extend from the concrete anchors. Appropriate fittings are provided by the SchOck Ltd (RIM), such as the Isokorb (RIM) provided by SchOck Ltd. Such fittings allow a socket to be quickly and accurately connected to the structure. As a result the cantilevered platform may also be accurately located relative to the structure -e.g. in a predetermined position and/or orientation. For a balcony such a predetermined position may be aligned with and level with a floor of the structure, and/or at an appropriate position relative to a door in the wall of the structure. However, in further examples any other suitable fittings or connection means may also be used. For instance, where the socket is to be connected to a frame of a structure it may be bolted and/or welded to the structure. In further examples the structure may comprise threaded bars which protrude from a surface of the structure, the socket may be brought into contact with the structure such that the threaded bars extend through fixing holes in the socket, and the socket may be secured to the structure by tightening nuts onto the threaded bars.

In preferred examples, the system further comprises a jig for positioning concrete anchors in a pre-determined arrangement within a concrete slab. A jig may further reduce the difficulty of accurately connecting or attaching the socket to the structure in a pre-determined position and/or orientation. Thus the cantilevered platform may be accurately installed on the structure at a predetermined arrangement using the socket. Jigs may be used to provide appropriate locations for threaded holes, castings or welds used to connect the socket to the structure.

When installed, preferably the upper surface of the cantilevered platform extends over the socket and bracket so as to prevent tampering with the connection and to prevent items becoming trapped between the socket and bracket. Preferably this upper surface will be positioned at a predetermined vertical positon (e.g. such that the upper surface is meets or is aligned with a floor of the structure).

To achieve this the socket may comprises a fixing portion configured to connect to the structure, wherein the socket is configured such that the slot is vertically offset from the fixing portion, such that when the opening of the slot faces upwards, the slot is lower than the fixing portion. Thus there is a step down from the fixing portion of the socket to the slot. This step down or offset between the slot and the fixing portion may be varied to accommodate different layers, components and/or surface coatings (e.g. decking or laminates) that extend over the bracket and/or socket. Thus the opening of the slot is preferably lower than an upper edge of the fixing portion and/or the centreline of the slot is preferably lower than a centreline of the fixing portion.

The fixing portion may be a plate which may be brought into abutment with the structure and bolted and/or welded to the structure. The fixing portion and the slot may be connected by a connection portion, the connection portion configured to extend in a direction which is angled (i.e. is not parallel) to the horizontal axis when the socket is connected to the structure. In use the connection portion may extend through a gap in any cladding or facade applied to the surface of the structure.

Preferably the system comprising one or more brackets and one or more sockets; wherein each socket is configured to connect to the structure, and each bracket is configured to connect to the cantilevered platform and to be received in a socket; wherein preferably each bracket is configured to be received in a respective socket. Thus each cantilevered platform may be supported by a plurality of brackets and/or a plurality of sockets.

Distributing the weight of a cantilevered platform between multiple brackets and sockets in this matter may allow for the weight of the system to be reduced whilst retaining the same connection strength. Reducing the weight of the system reduces the size of the crane or other lifting equipment required to lift a cantilevered platform to be installed using the system and maximises the outboard distance a given crane may lift the cantilevered platform.

For instance, the system may be configured such that each bracket connected to the cantilevered platform may be received in a respective or corresponding socket connected to the structure. Alternatively, the system may comprise a plurality of brackets configured to connect to a single cantilevered platform and a single socket configured to be connected to a structure (e.g. a single socket with a single slot extending parallel to the structure which may receive all of the brackets). In this case the brackets (and the attached cantilevered platform) may be positioned at various positions along the slot in the socket. It will be appreciated that this alternative example increases the weight of the structure since a larger socket will involve more material, but increases the flexibility of the system.

Each of the brackets and sockets may comprise any of the preferable or optional features discussed above. For instance, each bracket and/or socket may comprise respective adjustment or locking means, and each bracket and/or socket may be tapered.

Preferably, the system is configured such that at least 50% of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket(s) and the socket(s), preferably at least 75% of the weight of the cantilevered platform, more preferably at least 90% of the weight of the cantilevered platform. Indeed, in preferred examples substantially all of the weight of the cantilevered is supported by the brackets and sockets discussed above -i.e. substantially all forces and moments of the cantilevered platform are transferred to the structure via the bracket and socket. However, in alternative examples at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform may be supported by columns, brackets, cables or another fixing system.

In examples with multiple brackets and/or multiple sockets each bracket or socket may support a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform. In other words, forces from the cantilevered platform may be distributed between the brackets and sockets. For instance, in an example with three pairs of sockets and brackets, each pair of sockets and brackets may transfer approximately 33% of the weight of the cantilevered platform to the structure (e.g. each socket and bracket may transfer between 15% and 60% of the weight of the cantilevered platform to the structure).

Preferably the system comprises the cantilevered platform and wherein preferably the cantilevered platform is a balcony, mezzanine, catwalk, or staircase. Alternatively, the system discussed above may be provided or supplied separately from the cantilevered platform, such that the bracket may be attached to a platform on site ahead of installation. It will be appreciated that the cantilevered platform may take substantially any form including (but not limited to) a balcony, mezzanine, catwalk, or staircase.

For instance, a balcony constructed using the systems discussed herein may be 2.25 m in length and 1.5 m in depth (such that it has an area of 3.375 m2) and be supported by three pairs of sockets and brackets. Alternatively, the balcony may be from 1 to 2 m in depth and from 2 to 5 m in width. As such, the balcony installed with the present system may have an area of at least 2 m2, and may be a minimum of 5 m2, which may be due to local housing guidance..

The balcony (or other cantilevered platform) may be pre-fabricated, meaning that it arrives at the structure including all features such as the brackets, balustrade, flooring, and cladding. As such, no further substantial construction work may be required to the balcony after it has been lowered onto the sockets installed on the structure. This minimises the construction time for the structure.

The system may further comprise an intumescent seal, the intumescent strip being configured such that when the bracket is received within the socket the intumescent seal is positioned between the cantilevered platform and the structure. Intumescent strips expand when heated to stop the spread of fire. As such, the intumescent strip may seal the gap or interface between the cantilevered platform and the structure, so as to stop or slow the spread of fire up the structure to an overhanging balcony. For instance, the intumescent strip may be rated as A2 or Al non-combustible materials as defined in BS EN-13501-1:2018 (British Standards Institution, 2018) and be capable of preventing the spread of fire for 1 hour or 2 hours respectively. Suitable intumescent strips are sold by Rockwool (RIM), such as the Rockwool Intumescent Expansion Joint, which is also referred to as the Intumescent Expansion Joint Seal.

In particularly preferred examples the cantilevered platform may itself be fire resistant and configured to prevent the spread of fire. For instance, the cantilevered platform may be rated as A2 or Al non-combustible as defined in BS EN-13501-1:2018 (British Standards Institution, 2018) and thus be capable of preventing the spread of fire for 1 hour or 2 hours respectively. For instance, the cantilevered platform may comprise panels comprising a cementious board (a cement particle board comprising wood particles bonded by cement, such as a Europanel cementious board like the Versapanel A2, which may be painted with a fire resistant sealant, such as Rawlins Thermoguard Coating), also known as a cementifious board, or foamed concrete. Other suitable materials include steel, aluminium, titanium and ceramics. Each of these materials is noncombustible and will act as a fire break, preventing the spread of fire therethrough.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cantilevered platform supported using the system according to the first aspect of the invention. The system supporting this cantilevered platform may comprise any of the preferable or optional features discussed above. Such cantilevered platforms may be constructed quickly, safely and without delaying other construction work. As discussed above, the cantilevered platform may be a balcony, mezzanine, catwalk, staircase, or any other suitable structure. Such cantilevered platforms may also be easily retrofit onto an existing structure to which one or more sockets have been installed.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of installing a cantilevered platform to a structure using the system of the first aspect of the invention, the method comprising the steps of: attaching the socket to the structure such that the slot faces upwards; lowering the bracket into the slot such that the bracket is received by the socket, the bracket being connected to the cantilevered platform; such that at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket and socket.

This method allows for cantilevered platforms to be installed on structures quickly, safely and without delaying other construction work. The method may be performed using a system or cantilevered platform comprising any of the preferable or optional features discussed above in reference to the preceding aspects of the invention (e.g. multiple brackets may be connected to the cantilevered platform and these multiple brackets may be lowered under gravity into a corresponding number of sockets connected to the building).

The method may comprise a preceding step of connecting the bracket to the cantilevered platform. For instance, the bracket may be bolted or welded to the cantilevered platform. Equally the bracket may be formed integrally with -i.e. as part of-the cantilevered platform.

Preferably lowering a bracket into the slot is performed using a crane. A crane offers a convenient way to suspend a cantilevered platform and lower the bracket into the socket. However, other lifting apparatuses may be used. Having said this claimed method minimises the crane time required to fit cantilevered platforms such as balconies, thereby reducing a significant cost associated with constructing structures or buildings.

The method may comprises the preceding step of installing one or more concrete anchors in a concrete slab of the structure; and wherein the step of attaching the socket to the structure socket comprises attaching the socket to the one or more concrete anchors.

Moreover, the method may comprise a further preceding step of determining an arrangement for the one or more concrete anchors using a jig.

The use of concrete anchors and a jig offers a quick and simple method for achieving highly accurate arrangement of the cantilevered platform on the structure with strict tolerances.

Preferably the system comprises the step of providing an intumescent seal between the cantilevered platform and the structure. Thus the cantilevered platform can prevent the spread of fire through the structure (e.g. up a building). The cantilevered platform itself may also be fire resistant or non-combustible.

Preferably the method further comprises the subsequent step of adjusting the position and/or orientation of the cantilevered platform relative to the structure through the adjustment of the position and/or orientation of the bracket within the socket.

This step may be performed using any of the adjustment means discussed herein. The adjustment may be performed when at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure by the bracket and socket, such that the cantilevered platform is supported (at least in part) from the building by the bracket and socket -e.g. after the cantilevered platform has been released from a crane or other lifting equipment.

Preferably the method comprises the step of securing the bracket within the socket using a locking means. The locking means may be any of the locking means discussed herein. The locking means may prevent movement of the bracket and/or the cantilevered platform relative to the socket and/or the structure after it has been applied.

In summary, the invention recited in the appended claims and discussed above offers substantial benefits over conventional systems and methods known in the art. In particular systems and methods according to the invention offer a quick, safe and cost effective means of constructing buildings and other structures with cantilevered platforms such as balconies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure la shows schematically a cross sectional view of a system for supporting a cantilevered platform in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figures lb and lc show schematically in a cross section steps in a method in accordance with the invention for installing a cantilevered platform to a structure using the system of Figure la.

Figure 2a shows schematically a cross sectional view of a system for supporting a cantilevered platform in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 2b shows schematically a cross section of a bracket and a cantilevered platform suitable for use within the system of Figure 2a.

Figure 3 shows in a perspective view a system for supporting a cantilevered platform in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4 shows in perspective view a cantilevered balcony in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure la shows a system which supports a cantilevered platform 20 from a structure 40.

The system comprises a bracket 10, the bracket 10 connected to the cantilevered platform 20. The system further comprises a socket 30 connected to the structure 40. The socket 30 comprises a slot 32 which extends into the socket 30.

The slot 32 comprises an opening 32a through which the bracket 10 extends. As such, the bracket 10 is received by the socket 30 in slot 32, such that the platform 20 is supported by the structure 40, being cantilevered in the x-direction (i.e. such that the cantilevered platform 20 projects in a direction that is normal to a surface 42 of the structure 40). Thus at least a portion (and preferably substantially all) forces and moments which act on the cantilevered platform 20 are transferred to the structure 40 via the bracket 10 and socket 20.

The width of the slot 32 and its opening 32a On the x-direction) are defined by the distance between two opposed sides 33, 34 of the socket 30. The depth of the slot 32 (in the z-direction) is defined by the distance between the opening 32a of the slot 32 and a base 34 of the socket 30. The bracket 10 is restricted from moving by the sides 33, 34 and base 35 of the socket 30 such that at least a portion of the forces and moments applied to the bracket 10 by the cantilevered platform 20 will be transmitted to the socket 30.

The system comprises adjustment means which may be used to vary the position of the bracket 10 and the cantilevered platform 20 relative to the socket 30 and the structure 40. For instance the adjustment means may be configured to control the deflection of the free end 21 of the cantilevered platform 20 (i.e. the tip of the cantilevered platform 20) relative to the x-direction, which extends normal to the surface 42 of the structure and parallel to the direction in which the cantilevered platform 20 projects from the structure 40.

Specifically, the adjustment means comprises two side bolts 36a, 36b which extend through threaded holes in the first side 33 of the socket 30 0.e. the front side of the socket 30 which is configured to face away from the structure 40 when the socket 30 is connected to the structure) and a base bolt 37 which extends through a threaded hole in the base 35 of the socket 30. These side bolts 36a, 36b and the base bolt 38 may be driven through the respective threaded holes in the socket 30 (e.g. by a socket wrench) so as to contact the bracket 10, thereby influencing the position and/or orientation of the the bracket and the connected cantilevered platform 20. When the screws 36a, 36b, 37 are in contact with the bracket 10, forces and moments transferred to the bracket 10 from the cantilevered platform 20 may be transmitted to the socket 30 via the bolts 36a, 36b, 37.

Installation of the cantilevered platform 20 shown in Figure la to the structure 20 will now be discussed with reference to Figures lc and lb which show sequential steps in a method of installing the cantilevered platform 20.

Before commencing installation, the bracket 10 is connected or attached to the platform 20, and the socket 30 is connected or attached to the structure 40. These connections may be formed by (for instance) welding and/or bolting the corresponding pads to each other. Alternatively, the bracket 10 and platform 20 and/or the socket 30 and structure 40 may be formed as a single continuous component -i.e. such that the bracket 10 is integral to the platform 20 and/or the socket 30 is integral to the structure 40.

The socket 30 is connected or attached to the structure 40 such that the opening 32a of the slot 32 is above the base 35 of the slot 32 in the z-direction (e.g. in a substantially vertical direction parallel to the surface 42 of the structure 40). As such, the slot 32 and its opening 32a will be seen to face upwards in Figure 1.

To install the platform 20, the bracket 10 is lifted above the socket 30 as shown in Figure 1 b. This may be performed using a crane (not shown), or other lifting equipment. The side bolts 36a, 36b and base bolts 37 are preferably retracted (as shown in Figure lb) or removed, such that they do not extend into the slot 32.

The bracket 10 may then be lowered into the upwardly-facing slot 32 as shown by arrow L. The resulting arrangement in which the bracket 10 is received in the slot 32 of the socket 30 is shown in Figure 1c. Once the bracket 10 is received in the slot 32 the crane may release the platform 20, such that the weight of the bracket 10 and the platform 20 is transferred to the socket 30 and the platform is supported by and cantilevered from the structure 40.

Once the cantilevered platform 20 is supported by the structure 40, its orientation and/or position may be adjusted using the side bolts 36a, 36b and base bolt 37 as discussed above. As such, the cantilevered platform 20 will be supported by the structure 40 as shown in Figure la.

In alternative methods, the orientation and/or position of the cantilevered platform 20 may be adjusted whilst at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform 20 is still supported by a crane. However, in this approach, the crane is required to support the cantilevered platform 20 for a longer period of time when it could otherwise be used for other tasks, and there is a risk that the cantilevered platform will settle into a different position as its weight is released by the crane.

In further examples, once the bracket 10 is received in the socket 30, a locking mechanism (not shown) may be attached to secure the bracket 10 in the socket 30 (e.g. such that the bracket 10 cannot lift from the socket 30 in the vertical direction (the z-direction)). For instance, a locking pin may be inserted through a side 33, 34 of the socket 30 and into an aperture of the bracket 10. Alternatively a locking plate may be secured over the bracket 10. This may be performed before or after the cantilevered platform 20 is released by the lifting equipment.

In further examples, where the adjustment means comprises one or more side bolts extending through a first side of a slot (e.g. such as side bolts 36a, 36b shown in Figure 1 which extend through the front side 33 of the socket 30 furthest from the structure 40) and one or more side bolts extending through the opposing second side of the slot (e.g. second side 34' of the socket 30 which is nearest the structure), the adjustment process may comprise the steps of driving the side bolts extending through the rear, second side of the slot into contact with the bracket so as to adjust the position and/or orientation of the bracket relative to the slot before driving the side bolts extending through the front, first side of the slot into contact with the bracket so as to restrict (and preferably prevent) further movement of the bracket relative to the slot.

Figure 2a shows a further example of a system which comprises a bracket 10' and a socket 20' and supports a cantilevered platform 20' from a structure 40'.

Corresponding features common to the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2 are indicated with the similar reference with a prime symbol.

As in Figure 1, the system of Figure 2a comprises a bracket 10' connected to the platform 20', and a socket 30' connected to the structure 40'. As shown, the socket 30' comprises a slot 32' which faces upwards (i.e. upwards in the z-direction), having a free opening 32a' positioned above its base 35'. The bracket 10' is received in the socket 30', extending into the slot 32' through the opening 32a'. Thus at least a portion of the weight of the platform 20' is transferred to the structure 40' via the bracket 10' and socket 30'.

In contrast to the example shown in Figure 1, in the system of Figure 2a the bracket 10' and the slot 32' are tapered (i.e. they reduce in width along their length/depth). Specifically, a first surface 13' of the bracket is angled (i.e. is not parallel or perpendicular) with respect to its opposed second surface 14'. Thus the thickness of the bracket 10' in the x-direction increases from its lower surface 15' (i.e. its free end) to its upper surface 16' (its upper end). Whereas the first side 33' of the socket 30' (i.e. the front side of the socket 30' furthest from the structure 40') is angled with respect to the second side 34' of the socket 30' (i.e. the rear side furthest from the structure 40'). As shown the width of the slot 32a' in the x-direction (i.e. the distance between the first side 33' and the second side' of the socket 30') decreases along the depth of the slot in the z-direction from the opening 32a' of the slot 32' to the base 35 of the slot 32'. This taper makes lowering the bracket 10' into the slot 32' simpler as the relatively small free end of the bracket 10' is easily located within the relatively wide opening 32a' of the slot.

In further examples the opposed sides 33', 34' of the socket 30' and the opposed surfaces 13', 14' of the bracket 10' may be curved. Equally, the slot 32' may only be tapered over a portion of its depth and the bracket 10' may only be tapered over a portion of its length.

The system comprises a side bolt 36' which extends through a threaded hole in the first side 33' of the socket 30' and may be driven into contact with the bracket 10' retained in the socket 30'. The tapered nature of the bracket 10' means that a significant changes in the orientation of the bracket 10' and cantilevered platform 20' about the y-axis (i.e. about an axis parallel to the surface 42' of the structure 40 and perpendicular to the direction in which the cantilevered platform 20' projects from the structure 40') may be achieved even relatively small changes in the position of the side bolt 36' relative to the first side 32' of the socket 30'. This offers a great amount of control regarding the rotation of the cantilevered platform 20' and the deflection of the free end 21' (i.e. the tip) of the cantilevered platform 20'.

The taper angle A of the bracket 10' and the slot 32' is 81 degrees -such that the opposing surfaces 13', 14' of the bracket 10' and the opposing sides 33', 34' of the slot 32' are skewed relative to each other by an angle of 9 degrees.

However, this is not essential and in further embodiments the taper angle A may be between 85 and 75 degrees.

The system further comprises an intumescent strip 50' positioned between the cantilevered platform 20' and the structure 40'. This intumescent strip 50' may be fire resistant and/or non-combustible and prevent the passage of fire between the cantilevered platform 20' and the structure 40'. The intumescent strip 50' may be attached to the structure 40' or the cantilevered platform 20' before the cantilevered platform 20' is installed on the structure 40' (i.e. before the cantilevered platform 20' is lifted into position and the bracket 10' is lowered into the socket 30'), or it may be provided between the structure 40' and the cantilevered platform 20' after the cantilevered platform 20' is attached to the structure 40' Unlike the example shown in Figure 1, the socket 40' of Figure 2a is connected to a surface 42' of the structure 40' using a fixing plate 38'. Before installation of the cantilevered platform 20', this fixing plate 38' may be brought into contact with the structure 40' and secured in place. The fixing plate 38' is connected to second side 34' of the slot 32' by a connection portion 39'. The connection portion 39' is angled relative to the direction in which the cantilever beam 20' is configured to project from the structure 40' (i.e. the x-direction), such that the slot 32' is positioned lower than the fixing plate 38'. This allows an upper surface 26' of the cantilevered platform 20' to be adjacent or aligned to the upper edge of the fixing plate 38'. Thus control of the length and angle of the connection portion 39' offers control of the vertical position of the upper surface 26' of the cantilevered platform 20' (i.e. the position of the upper surface 26' in the z-direction) when the cantilevered platform 20' is installed on the structure 40'.

The bracket 10' shown in Figure 2a, which is a solid piece of bulk material, may be formed as a single casting or machined from a larger piece of material. However, such methods of manufacture are not essential. Figure 2b shows an alternative tapered bracket 10" suitable for use with the socket of Figure 2a. Equivalent features shared between Figures 2a and 2b are indicated by an additional prime notation.

The bracket 10" of Figure 2b comprises a plurality of metal plates 11a", 11b", 11c" which are connected or fixed together (e.g. by welding). The metal plates 11a", 11b", 11c" are of different lengths such that a first surface 13" of the bracket 10" (defined by the surface of the largest plate 11a") is angled or skewed relative to a second surface 14" of the bracket 10" defined by the edges of the metal plates 11a", 11b", 11c" (as indicated by the dashed line on Figure 2b). Thus the bracket 10" of Figure 2b is tapered having a taper angle A. Thus the bracket 10" increases in width along its height (i.e. in the z-direction) from its lower surface 15" (i.e. its free end) to its upper surface 16" (its upper end) Other features of the bracket 10" and the cantilevered platform 20" shown in Figure 2b may be substantially the same as the features of the bracket 10' and cantilevered portion 20' discussed above in relation to Figure 2a. In addition, it will be appreciated that any of the additional or preferable features described in reference either Figures 2a or Figure 2b may be incorporated into the system of Figure 1, and vice versa.

Figures 3 and 4 show a further system for installing a cantilevered platform 120 (specifically a balcony) to a structure (not shown) from opposing angles. It will be appreciated that Figure 3 omits many features of the cantilevered platform 120 so as to more clearly exhibit the connection between the cantilevered platform 120 and the structure. In these figures, the reference signs of similar features as those of Figure 1 have their values incremented by a value of 100.

As is seen most clearly in Figure 3, the cantilevered platform 120 is connected to three brackets 110a, 110b, 110c. Specifically, each bracket 110a, 110b, 110c is welded to a respective support beam 122a, 122b, 122c which forms part of the framework 122 of the cantilevered platform 120. The central support beam 122b is a square beam, whereas the outer support beams 122a, 122c at either end of the cantilevered platform 120 are C beams. However, beams with alternative cross sections may be used in further embodiments. The support beams 122a, 122b, 122c and the framework 122 as a whole may comprise or be formed of steel, aluminium or any other suitable structural material.

The system further comprises three sockets 130a, 130b, 130c. The sockets 130a, 130b, 130c and the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c are configured such that each socket 130a, 130b, 130c may each receive a respective bracket 110a, 110b, 110c. Specifically, each bracket 110a, 110b, 110c is received in the slot 132a, 132b, 132c of the respective bracket 110a, 110b, 110c. Each slot 132a, 132b, 132c faces upwards such that the corresponding bracket 110a, 110b, 110c may be lowered into it (e.g. under gravity). In preferred examples the slots 132a, 132b, 132c are formed using plate metal (e.g. 15 mm thick steel plate) which is folded into the appropriate shape. Alternatively any other method of manufacture may be used in further embodiments.

Thus the weight of the cantilevered platform 120 (and hence forces and moments from the cantilevered platform 120) may be distributed between the three pairs of brackets 110a, 110b, 110c and sockets 130a, 130b, 130c. Each bracket 110a, 110b, 110c and socket 130a, 130b, 130c may transfer a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform 120 (and any loads applied to the cantilevered platform 120) to the supporting structure.

The depth of each slot 132a, 132b, and 132c is substantially the same as its respective bracket 110a, 110b, and 110c. Thus the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c are unlikely to lift out of the slots 132a, 132b, and 132c even when high loads are applied. As such the cantilevered platform 120 is unlikely to fail in an unsafe manner.

As shown in Figure 3, each socket 130a, 130b, 130c comprises an aperture 151a, 151b, 151c in its first side wall 133a, 133b, 133c that is configured to face away from the structure when the socket 130a, 130b, 130c is connected to the structure. The apertures 151a, 151b, 151c extends down the entire depth of the sockets 130a, 130b, 130c, and are configured such that the support beam 122a, 122b, 122c extend outwards in the x-direction from the bracket 110a, 110b, 110c through the aperture 151a, 151b, 151c and out of the slot 132a, 132b, 132c.

Thus the support beams 122a, 122b, 122c of the cantilevered platform 120 and the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c are substantially co-linear, avoiding excessive stresses being created within the support beams 122a, 122b, 122c and brackets 110a, 110b, 110c.

As will also be seen in Figure 3, the sockets 130a, 130b, 130c each comprise a fixing plate 138a, 138b, and 138c. Each fixing plate 138a, 138b, 138c is configured to connect to the structure (not shown). For instance, bolts may be driven through a plurality of fixing holes 141 in each fixing plate 138a, 138b, and 138c and into the structure. In more detail, the structure may comprise a plurality of concrete anchors within which these bolts may be inserted or received and/or a plurality of threaded holes formed through its structural framework.

Alternatively the structure may be provided with a plurality of threaded bars which extend from the structure in x-direction (i.e. normal to the surface of the structure and parallel to the direction in which the cantilevered platform is configured to project from the structure). Each threaded bar may be connected to and/or extend from a concrete anchor formed in a concrete slab of the support. The fixing plates 138a, 138b, 138c may be attached to the structure by bringing the fixing plates 138a, 138b, 138c into abutment with the structure such that the threaded bars may extend through the fixing holes 141. Subsequently, the fixing plates 138a, 138b; 138c can be secured to the structure by nuts driven onto the threaded bars.

The concrete anchors, threaded holes and/or threaded bars discussed above may be accurately located and provided to the structure according to a pre-determined arrangement through the use of a jig before the sockets 130a, 130b, 130c are attached or connected to the structure.

The fixing plates 138a, 138b, 138c are attached to the body of the sockets 130a, 130b, 130c and the slots 132a, 132b, 132c via angled connection portions 139a, 139b, 139c. The length and angle of the connection portions 139a, 139b, 139c may be varied to control the height of the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c and the connected support beams 122a, 122b, 122c. Hence the height of the cantilevered platform 120 is controlled.

The position and orientation of each bracket 110a, 110b, 110c within its respective slot 132a, 132b, 132c-and hence the position and orientation of the cantilevered platform 120 as a whole relative to the structure from which it projects -may be adjusted using adjustment bolts 136 which extend through the side of each slot 132a, 132b, 132c. These adjustment bolts 136 may be individually driven into and out of threaded holes in the sockets 130a, 130b, 130c to contact and move the respective bracket 110a, 110b, 110c.

From comparison of Figures 1,2 3, and 4 it will be appreciated that sockets may comprise adjustment bolts in a wide variety of arrangements and layouts so as to provide appropriate control of the position and/or arrangement of the cantilevered platform in question. However, in other embodiments further adjustment means such as shims may be used.

Returning to Figure 3, it will be seen that the central slot 132b comprises an end wall 131b at each of its ends (i.e. at the terminal points of the slot 132b in the y-direction). Whereas the outer slots 132a, 132c positioned on either side of the central slot 132b each comprise a single end wall 131a, 131c at their interior ends (i.e. at their ends closest to the central slot 132b in the y-direction). These end walls 131a, 131b, 131c restrict the movement of the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c laterally in the y-direction, parallel to the slots 132a, 132b, 132c and to the surface (not shown) from which the cantilevered platform 120 extends.

The system shown in Figures 3 and 4 further comprises locking means. The locking means includes four locking plates 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d which may be secured over the openings to the slots 132a, 132b, 132c using bolts 162 -e.g. once a bracket 110a, 110b, 110c is received in the slot 132a, 132b, 132c. A single locking plate 160a, 160d is provided to each of the outer sockets 130a, 130c, whereas two locking plates 160b, 160c are provided to the centre socket 130b. Additionally, the locking plates 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d may be secured to the respective bracket 110a, 110b, 110c using bolts driven through holes 163 in the upper surface of the locking plates 132a, 132b, 132c but this is not essential.

Figure 3 shows the system with only a single locking plate 160c engaged (i.e. secured to its respective socket 130a, 130b, 130c). However, when each locking plates 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d is secured (as shown in Figure 4) the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c and the cantilevered platform 120 are prevented or restricted from lifting out of the respective slot 132a, 132b, 132c (i.e. from moving in the z-direction).

The locking plates 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d may be secured or engaged after the cantilever platform 120 has been released by a crane (or other lifting equipment) following the insertion of the brackets 110a, 110b, 110c into the respective sockets 130a, 130b, 130c. This reduces the crane time required to install the cantilevered platform 120 to a structure. However, in further embodiments the locking plates 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d may be secured whilst the cantilever platform 120 is still suspended or supported (at least in part) by a crane or other lifting equipment.

In further embodiments substantially any other locking mechanism may be used to secure a bracket within a slot. Equally, in other embodiments locking means may not be necessary to retain a bracket within the slot.

Figure 4 shows further optional and preferable features of a balcony (or cantilevered platform) with which the systems and methods discussed above may be used. For instance, the cantilevered platform 120 comprises balustrades 124 (specifically glazed panels), flooring 126 and cladding 128 (e.g. to match the cladding of the structure to which the cantilevered platform 120 is to be attached).

Within the body of the cantilevered platform 120, and between the framework 122 of the cantilevered platform 120 there are provided fire resistant and noncombustible panels 121. These panels 121 may comprise (for instance) comprising cementious board or foamed concrete. The cantilevered plafform 120 further comprises an intumescent strip 150 configured to be located between the structure and the cantilevered platform 120 when the cantilevered platform 120 is installed on the structure. Thus the cantilevered platform 120 may restrict or prevent the spread of fire up or down the outside of a structure since fire is prevented from passing through the body of the cantilevered platform 120 or between the cantilevered platform 120 and the structure.

The cantilevered platform further comprises lifting eyes 123 from which the cantilevered panel 120 may be lifted and suspended (e.g. by a crane or other lifting equipment). The lifting eye 123 may be detachable, such that they may be removed once the cantilevered platform 120 is installed on a structure.

Each of these features may be provided to the cantilevered platform 120 off-site -i.e. away from the structure to which the cantilevered platform 120 is to be installed. Using such pre-fabricated cantilevered platforms 120 may accelerate the installation of these cantilevered platforms 120 to structures.

It will be readily appreciated that any of the features of the connection systems and cantilevered platforms 120 discussed in relation to Figures 3 and 4 may be incorporated into any of further examples discussed above (e.g. those shown in Figures 1 and 2).

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for installing a cantilevered platform to a structure, the system comprising: a socket having a slot, the socket configured to connect to the structure such that the slot faces upwards; and, a bracket configured to be received in the slot of the socket, the bracket being further configured to connect to the cantilevered platform; the system configured such that at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket and the socket.
2. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising adjustment means for varying the position and/or orientation of the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket.
3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the adjustment means comprises one or more bolts each configured to extend through a respective threaded hole in the socket, such that each bolt may be driven through the respective threaded hole to contact the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket.
4. The system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the adjustment means comprises at least one shim configured to be inserted between the socket and the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket.
5. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the depth of the slot is at least 0.75 times the height of the bracket, preferably wherein the depth of the slot is at least 0.9 times the height of the bracket, more preferably still wherein the depth of the slot is greater than or equal to the height of the bracket.
6. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the socket is configured to restrict lateral movement of the bracket when the bracket is received in the socket.
7. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising locking means, the locking means configured to restrict movement of the bracket relative to the socket when the bracket is received in the socket.
8. The system according to any preceding claim wherein the slot is tapered, the opening of the slot having a greater width than the base of the slot.
9. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the bracket is tapered, the bracket having a greater width at an upper surface than at a lower surface.
10. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the bracket is configured to connect to a support beam of the cantilevered platform, wherein preferably the slot comprises an aperture through which the support beam may extend when the bracket is received in the socket.
11. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more concrete anchors configured to be installed in a concrete slab of the structure, the socket being configured to connect to the concrete anchors.
12. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a jig for positioning concrete anchors in a pre-determined arrangement within a concrete slab.
13. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the socket comprises a fixing portion configured to connect to the structure; and wherein the socket is configured such that the slot is vertically offset from the fixing portion, such that when the opening of the slot faces upwards, the slot is lower than the fixing portion.
14. The system according to any preceding claim, comprising one or more brackets and one or more sockets; wherein each socket is configured to connect to the structure, and each bracket is configured to connect to the cantilevered platform and to be received in a socket; wherein preferably each bracket is configured to be received in a respective socket.
15. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured such that at least 50% of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket(s) and the socket(s), preferably at least 75% of the weight of the cantilevered platform, more preferably at least 90% of the weight of the cantilevered platform.
16. The system according to any preceding claim, the system comprising the cantilevered platform and wherein preferably the cantilevered platform is a balcony, mezzanine, catwalk, or staircase.
17. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising an intumescent strip, the intumescent strip being configured such that when the bracket is received within the socket the intumescent seal is positioned between the cantilevered platform and the structure.
18. A cantilevered platform supported by the system of any preceding claim.
19. A method of installing a cantilevered plafform to a structure using the system of any of claims 1 to 15, the method comprising the steps of: connecting the socket to the structure such that the slot faces upwards; lowering the bracket into the slot such that the bracket is received by the socket, the bracket being connected to the cantilevered platform; such that at least a portion of the weight of the cantilevered platform is transferred to the structure via the bracket and socket.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein lowering the bracket into the slot is performed using a crane.
21. The method of any of claims 19 to 20, the method comprising the preceding step of installing one or more concrete anchors in a concrete slab of the structure; and wherein the step of attaching the socket to the structure socket comprises attaching the socket to the one or more concrete anchors.
22. The method of any of claim 21, the method comprising the preceding step of determining an arrangement for the one or more concrete anchors using a jig.
23. The method of any of claims 19 to 22, comprising the step of providing an intumescent seal between the cantilevered platform and the structure.
24. The method of any of claims 19 to 23, further comprising the subsequent step of adjusting the position and/or orientation of the cantilevered platform relative to the structure through the adjustment of the position and/or orientation of the bracket within the socket.
25. The method of any of claims 19 to 24, further comprising the step of securing the bracket within the socket using a locking means.