GB2598635A

GB2598635A - Securing system and play apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2598635A
Application number: GB2014105.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lewis Helena; Mann Miles
Original assignee: Robovision Ltd
Current assignee: Robovision Ltd
Priority date: 2020-09-08
Filing date: 2020-09-08
Publication date: 2022-03-09
Also published as: GB202014105D0

Abstract

A securing system 40 for securing an accessory to a play apparatus comprises a projection 1, a bracket 2, an opening 3, and a fastener 43. The fastener 43 is moveably connected to the bracket 2. The fastener 43 is moveable relative to the bracket 2 to secure at least part of the projection 1 within the opening 3, to secure the projection 1 relative to the bracket 2. The securing system 40 provides a means for easily removing an accessory from a play apparatus and for easily reattaching the accessory to the play apparatus in a secure manner. Also disclosed is a folding play apparatus.

Description

SECURING SYSTEM AND PLAY APPARATUS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a securing system for securing an accessory, such as a slide, to a play apparatus, such as a climbing frame. The present disclosure also relates to a play system comprising an accessory, a play apparatus and a securing system. The present disclosure also relates to a folding play apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Outdoor play apparatus such as climbing frames, raised platforms and standalone slides can occupy a substantial amount of space. For instance, an outdoor play apparatus may occupy a majority or significant proportion of a typical domestic garden, leaving limited space for other activities. Such a play apparatus may also present an obstacle to cutting grass. These problems may be exacerbated when a play apparatus is used with one or more accessories, for example when a climbing frame is used with a slide, monkey bars or an additional raised platform. These accessories are typically difficult to move and store, and so they may be left in situ in a garden with a play apparatus when not in use.

Removing an accessory from a play apparatus may provide a solution to the above-mentioned problems; however an accessory is typically permanently or semi-permanently secured to a play apparatus making it difficult to remove the accessory and subsequently reattach the accessory to the play apparatus when it is next intended to be used. Foldable or collapsible play apparatus may also provide a solution to the above-mentioned problems, however, such apparatuses are typically limited by design to a relatively small size.

SUMMARY

An aspect provides a securing system for securing an accessory to a play apparatus. The securing system comprises a projection, a bracket, an opening, and a fastener. The fastener is moveably connected to the bracket. The fastener is moveable relative to the bracket to secure at least part of the projection within the opening, to secure the projection relative to the bracket.

Examples of play apparatus include climbing frames and raised platforms. Examples of accessories include slides, monkey bars, ladders, fireman's poles or additional raised platforms. The securing system is suitable for securing an accessory to a play apparatus and may also be suitable for securing separate parts of a play apparatus to one another.

The securing system may provide a means for securing an accessory to a play apparatus without an end user having to machine parts of the accessory or play apparatus, for example by drilling one or more holes in the play apparatus to secure the accessory via a bolt or screw. The securing system may provide a means for reversibly securing an accessory to a play apparatus. This may enable the accessory to be stored when not in use, advantageously reducing the footprint of the play apparatus.

The fastener may be slidably, rotatably, pivotably, hingedly or otherwise moveably connected to the bracket. The fastener may be moveably connected to the bracket such that the fastener can move, for example change position, relative to the bracket while still maintaining a physical connection with the bracket.

The fastener may comprise the opening.

Where the fastener comprises the opening, the bracket may comprise an aperture. At least part of the projection may be configured to extend through the aperture. At least part of the projection may be configured to extend through the aperture when at least part of the projection is secured within the opening. In this way the aperture may further secure the projection relative to the bracket.

In another embodiment, the bracket may comprise the opening The opening may comprise a slot within the bracket which is open at an edge of the bracket. The fastener may be moveable to close the slot when at least part of the projection is located within the slot, to secure at least part of the projection within the slot In another embodiment, the opening may be defined by the bracket and the fastener. The 30 fastener may be moveable from an open position to a closed position. The opening may be defined by the bracket and the fastener when the fastener is in the closed position.

The fastener may be moveable from the closed position to the open position. The fastener may be moveable between the closed position and the open position.

The fastener may comprise an inclined surface. Relative movement between the projection and the inclined surface with at least part of the projection maintaining contact with the inclined surface may force the fastener to move from the closed position towards the open position. This advantageously enables a user to secure the projection relative to the bracket without having to separately actuate the fastener.

The fastener may be resiliently biased towards the closed position. This may remove the requirement for a user to actuate the fastener to secure the projection within the opening. The fastener may be resiliently biased towards the closed position by one or more springs, such as one or more spiral springs and/or coil springs.

In any of the above described embodiments, the projection may comprise a first portion and a second portion. A diameter of the second portion may be greater than a diameter of the first portion. The opening may comprise a diameter greater than the diameter of the first portion of the projection and less than the diameter of the second portion of the projection. In use, the first portion of the projection may be secured within the opening and the second portion of the projection may be arranged outside of the opening. Due to the diameter of the second portion of the projection being greater than the diameter of the opening, the second portion of the projection inhibits movement of the projection relative to the part of the securing system comprising the opening.

The opening may be a first portion of a larger opening. The larger opening may comprise a second portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second portion of the projection. The second portion of the larger opening may help to locate the projection relative to the opening prior to moving the fastener to secure the projection within the opening.

The fastener of any of the above described embodiments may comprise a handle This may enable easy movement of the fastener by a user of the securing system The fastener may be moveable relative to the bracket in a first plane. Where the fastener comprises a handle, the handle may extend at an angle to the first plane. The handle may extend orthogonally or perpendicularly to the first plane. This may further enable easy movement of the fastener by a user of the securing system.

The securing system of any of the above described embodiments may comprise a locking mechanism configured to inhibit movement of the fastener relative to the bracket The locking mechanism may be configured to inhibit movement of the fastener relative to the bracket when at least part of the projection is received in the opening. This may further secure the projection relative to the bracket.

Where the fastener comprises a handle, the locking mechanism may comprise a release actuator integrated with the handle This may simplify an operation to release the projection from the opening.

The securing system of any of the above described embodiments may comprise an indicator configured to indicate when at least part of the projection is secured within the opening.

The securing system of any of the above described embodiments may comprise an indication such as a locating strip for locating the projection at a predetermined position with respect to part of an accessory or a play apparatus. The indication, e.g. locating strip, may be used to guide the formation of one or more apertures in part of an accessory or a play apparatus for receiving one or more fasteners, such as bolts or screws. The indication, e.g. locating strip, may simplify installation of the securing system.

Another aspect provides a play system. The play system comprises a play apparatus, an accessory and the securing system of any of the above-described embodiments.

The accessory may comprise the projection of the securing system and the play apparatus may comprise the bracket and the fastener. Alternatively, the play apparatus may comprise the projection and the accessory may comprise the bracket and the fastener.

The play system may comprise a storage bracket. The storage bracket may be configured to cooperate with the securing system to secure the accessory relative to the play apparatus in a storage configuration, for example when the accessory is not in use. The accessory may comprise the projection of the securing system and the play apparatus may comprise the storage bracket. Alternatively, the accessory may comprise the storage bracket and the play apparatus may comprise the projection. The storage bracket may comprise an opening configured to receive at least part of the projection to secure the projection relative to the storage bracket. The storage bracket may comprise a bracket, an opening and/or a fastener according to any of the embodiments described herein.

The projection of the securing system may comprise a first portion and a second portion. A diameter of the second portion may be greater than a diameter of the first portion. The opening of the storage bracket may comprise a first portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the first portion of the projection and less than the diameter of the second portion of the projection. The opening of the storage bracket may comprise a second portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second portion of the projection.

The storage bracket may comprise means for storing the accessory when the accessory is not in use, thereby removing the need for an end user of the play system to provide storage space for the accessory.

The projection of the securing system may be located at a first end of the accessory. The play system may comprise a retainer for retaining a second end of the accessory when the projection is received in the opening of the storage bracket. The combination of the storage bracket and the retainer may provide a secure storage configuration for the accessory, e.g. a slide.

The retainer may comprise a groove for receiving at least part of the second end of the accessory. The retainer may comprise a latch pivotally connected to the play apparatus. The retainer may be configured to engage any part of the second end of the accessory.

Another aspect provides a folding play apparatus. The folding play apparatus comprises a first portion, a second portion, and a connecting portion. The second portion is hingedly connected to the first portion. The connecting portion comprises a first portion arid a second portion. The first portion of the connecting portion is hingedly connected to the first portion of the play apparatus and hingedly connected to the second portion of the connecting portion.

The second portion of the connecting portion is hingedly connected to the second portion of the play apparatus.

This aspect of the invention may provide a relatively large play apparatus which can be folded into a storage configuration for easy storage of the play apparatus. Known folding play apparatuses, such as folding slides, are typically limited to a relatively small size. For example, known folding slides may be limited by design to a size suitable for a maximum user weight of 20-50kg. Features of the above aspect of the invention, for example the hingedly connected portions of the connecting portion, provide a folding play apparatus, such as a folding slide, which may be suitable for a maximum user weight of up to 100kg.

The first portion of the play apparatus may comprise a ladder. The second portion of the play apparatus may comprise a slide.

The first portion and/or second portion of the connecting portion may comprise one or more metal tubes The one or more metal tubes may be formed from steel, or any other suitable metal. The folding play apparatus may comprise one or more hinges to provide the hinged connections between the portions of the folding play apparatus The one or more hinges may be formed primarily from one or more plastics materials and/or metal.

The structural components of known folding play apparatus, such as folding slides, are typically constructed almost entirely from plastic. This limits the maximum user weight of the play apparatus, typically to 20-50kg. The use of metal tubes and/or hinges formed primarily from one or more plastics materials and/or metal may enable a maximum user weight of the folding play apparatus of the present invention to be up to 100kg.

The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature or parameter described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied to any other aspect. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may be applied to any aspect and/or combined with any other feature or parameter described herein

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 a shows a schematic side view of a securing system according to an embodiment; Figure lb shows a further schematic side view of the securing system of Figure la; Figures 2a and 2b each show a schematic side view of a securing system according to another embodiment; Figure 3a shows a schematic side view of a securing system according to another embodiment; Figure 3b shows a schematic side view of a projection of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3c shows a schematic end view of the projection of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3d shows a schematic side view of a fastener of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3e shows a schematic plan view of the fastener of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3f shows a schematic side view of a bracket of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3g shows a schematic plan view of the bracket of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3h shows a schematic side view of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 3i shows a further schematic side view of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figures 3] and 3k each show a schematic front view of a handle of the fastener of the securing system of Figure 3a; Figure 4a shows a schematic front view of a securing system according to another embodiment, Figure 4b shows a schematic side view of a projection of the securing system of Figure 4a; Figure 4c shows a schematic end view of the projection of the securing system of Figure 4a; Figures 4d-f each show a schematic view of the projection of the securing system of Figure 4a in use with an accessory; Figure 4g shows a further schematic front view of the securing system of Figure 4a; Figure 4h shows a further schematic front view of the securing system of Figure 4a; Figure 4i shows a further schematic front view of the securing system of Figure 4a; Figure 5a shows a schematic front view of a securing system according to another embodiment, Figure 5b shows a schematic close-up isometric view of the projection of the securing system of Figure 5a; Figure Sc shows a schematic plan view of a portion of an accessory for use with the securing system of Figure 5a; Figure 5d shows a schematic isometric view of a portion of the accessory shown in Figure Sc; Figure Se shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a play system according to an 30 embodiment; Figure 5f shows a schematic close-up side view of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 5g shows a further schematic close-up isometric view of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 5h shows a further schematic close-up side view of the play system of Figure Se, Figure Si shows a further schematic close-up isometric view of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 5j shows a schematic close-up front view of the play system of Figure 5e; Figure 5k shows a further schematic close-up side view of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 51 shows a schematic front view of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 3m shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a portion of the accessory of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 5n shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a portion of the play system of Figure Se; Figure 6a shows a schematic view of a play system according to an embodiment; Figure 6b shows a schematic close-up of a portion of the play system of Figure 6a; Figure Gc shows a schematic close-up view of another portion of the system of Figure Ga; Figure 6d shows a schematic close-up view of the same portion of the play apparatus as shown in Figure 6c; Figure 6e shows a further schematic view of the play system of Figure 6a; Figure 6f shows a schematic plan view of the play system of Figure 6a with an accessory of the play system in a usable configuration, Figure Gg shows a schematic plan view of the play system of Figure Ga with the accessory in a storage configuration; Figure 7 shows a schematic view of a play system according to another embodiment; Figure 8a shows an embodiment of a folding play apparatus; Figure 8b shows the play apparatus of Figure 8a in an intermediate configuration between an in-use configuration and a storage configuration; and Figure 8c shows the play apparatus of Figure 8a in the storage configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures la and lb each show a schematic side view of a securing system 10, for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, according to an embodiment. The securing system 10 comprises a projection 1, a bracket 2, an opening 3, and a fastener 4. The fastener 4 is moveably connected to the bracket 2. The fastener 4 is moveable relative to the bracket 2 to secure at least part of the projection 1 within the opening 3, to secure the projection 1 relative to the bracket 2.

In use, an accessory such as a slide may comprise the projection 1 and a play apparatus, such as a climbing frame or playhouse or part thereof, may comprise the bracket 2 The projection 1 may be formed integrally with the accessory, for example by injection moulding the accessory and the projection 1 as a single part. In other embodiments, the projection 1 may be formed separately to the accessory before being suitably fastened to the accessory. The bracket 2 may be fastened to a structure of the play apparatus by any suitable means, such as by one or more screws or bolts. In other embodiments, an accessory may comprise the bracket 2 and a play apparatus may comprise the projection 1.

In the embodiment of Figures la and lb, the fastener 4 comprises the opening 3. The opening 3 comprises a groove provided in the main body of the fastener 4. In other embodiments, the opening may comprise any opening, for example a notch, suitable for receiving at least part of the projection 1.

In an example use case, the projection 1 forms part of an accessory, such as a slide, and the bracket 2 is fastened to part of a play apparatus. In order to secure the accessory to the play apparatus, a user may begin by manoeuvring the accessory into a position in which the projection 1 is aligned with the opening 3 (for example as shown in Figure la) The user may then move the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2 to a position in which at least part of the projection 1 is secured within the opening 3 (for example as shown in Figure lb). In this position, the projection 1 is secured relative to the bracket 2 at least by means of the fastener 4 inhibiting movement of the projection 1 relative to the bracket 2.

In some embodiments, the securing system 10 may further comprise a closure for closing the opening 3 when at least part of the projection 1 is secured within the opening 3. The closure may be moveably connected to one or both of the bracket 2 and fastener 4. Alternatively, the closure may not be connected to any other part of the securing system 10. The closure may help to further secure the projection 1 relative to the bracket 2.

Figures 2a and 2b each show a schematic side view of a securing system 20, for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, according to another embodiment The securing system 20 has features in common with the securing system 10 of Figures la and lb and like reference numerals will be used to refer to like features.

In the embodiment of Figures 2a and 2b, the bracket 2 comprises the opening 3. Figure 2a shows the fastener 4 in a first position in which the fastener 4 does not obscure the opening 3. In an example use case, the projection 1 forms part of an accessory, such as a slide, and the bracket 2 is fastened to part of a play apparatus. In order to secure the accessory to the play apparatus, a user may begin by ensuring the fastener 4 is in the first position as shown in Figure 2a. The user may then manoeuvre the accessory into a position in which the projection 1 is received within the opening 3. The user may then move the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2 to a second position in which the opening 3 is closed by the fastener 4 (for example as shown in Figure 2b). In this position, the projection 1 is secured relative to the bracket 2 at least by means of the fastener 4 inhibiting movement of the projection 1 relative to the bracket 2.

Figures 2c and 2d each show a schematic plan view of the securing system 20 of Figures la and lb. Figure 2c shows the fastener 4 in the first position as shown in Figure 2a. Figure 2d shows the fastener 4 in the second position with the projection I secured within the opening 3 as shown in Figure 2b.

Figure 3a shows a schematic side view of a securing system 30, for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, according to another embodiment. The securing system 30 has features in common with the securing system 10 of Figures 1 a and lb and like reference numerals will be used to refer to like features.

In the embodiment of Figure 3a, the fastener 4 comprises the opening 3. In this embodiment, the bracket 2 comprises an aperture 21 which is described in further detail below with reference to Figures 3f and 3e. In other embodiments, the bracket 2 may not comprise an aperture 21.

Figure 3b shows a schematic side view of the projection 1 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. In this embodiment, the projection 1 comprises a first portion 11 and a second portion 12. A diameter 12d of the second portion 12 is greater than a diameter I Id of the first portion 11. In the embodiment of Figure 3b, both the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 of the projection 1 comprise a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, one or both of the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 of the projection 1 may comprise a cross-section which is not circular. In some embodiments, the shapes of the cross-sections of the first and second portions 11, 12 may be the same and in other embodiments the shapes of the cross-sections of the first and second portions 11, 12 may be different.

Figure 3c shows a schematic end view of the projection 1 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. In Figure 3c the projection 1 is viewed from an underside of the second portion 12 and the first portion 11 is shown in cross-section Figure 3d shows a schematic side view of the fastener 4 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. In this embodiment, the fastener 4 comprises a first portion 41 comprising the opening 3, and a handle 42 suitably attached to the first portion 41. In use, a user may move the first portion 41 of the fastener 4 by means of the handle 42. In other embodiments, the handle 42 may not be present.

Figure 3e shows a schematic plan view of the fastener 4 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. In this embodiment, the opening 3 is a first portion of a larger opening 5. The larger opening 5 comprises a second portion 6. The opening 3 comprises a diameter 3d greater than the diameter ltd of the first portion 11 of the projection 1 and less than the diameter 12d of the second portion 12 of the projection 1. The second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 has a diameter 6d greater than the diameter 12d of the second portion 12 of the projection 1.

Figure 3f shows a schematic side view of the bracket 2 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. Figure 3g shows a schematic plan view of the bracket 2 of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. The bracket 2 comprises a first portion 22 comprising the aperture 21. The aperture 21 comprises a diameter 21d greater than greater than the diameter 12d of the second portion 12 of the projection 1.

The bracket 2 further comprises four arm portions 23a-d and four mounting portions 24a-d.

In other embodiments, the bracket 2 may comprise fewer or more than four arm portions 23a-d and four mounting portions 24a-d. Each of the arm portions 23a-d comprises a first end and a second end. Each of the arm portions 23a-d is connected to the first portion 22 of the bracket 2 at the first end of the respective arm portion 23a-d. Each of the mounting portions 24a-d is connected to one of the arm portions 23a-d at the second end of the respective arm portion 23a-d. Each of the mounting portions 24a-d comprises an aperture 25a-d for receiving a fastener such as a screw or bolt. In use, the bracket 2 can be attached to part of a play apparatus by means of one or more fasteners extending through one or more of the apertures 25a-d. In some embodiments, one or more of the arm portions 23a-d may be formed integrally with the first portion 22 of the bracket 2. In some embodiments, one or more of the mounting portions 24a-d may be formed integrally with a respective one of the arm portions 23a-d. In some embodiments, the first portion 22 of the bracket 2, each of the arm portions 23a-d and each of the mounting portions 24a-d are all formed integrally as a single piece For example, the bracket 2 may be formed by a stamping process.

Each of the arm portions 23a-d extends from the first portion 22 of the bracket 2 at an angle such that a vertical distance (labelled dl in Figure 30 is provided between the first portion 22 of the bracket 2 and each of the mounting portions 24a-d. In use, where the bracket 2 is mounted to part of a play apparatus, this provides a vertical gap between the part of the play apparatus and the first portion 22 of the bracket 2. The arm portions 23a-d are arranged such that a horizontal distance (labelled d2 in Figure 30 is provided between adjacent arm portions 23.

In the embodiment of Figure 3f, each of the mounting portions 24a-d extends parallel to the first portion 21 of the bracket. This may enable fastening of the bracket 2 to a horizontal surface of part of a play apparatus. In other embodiments, one or more of the mounting portions 24a-d may extend at an angle to the first portion 21 of the bracket 2. For example, one or more of the mounting portions 24a-d may extend perpendicularly to the first portion 21 of the bracket 2. This may enable fastening of the bracket 2 to a vertical surface of part of a play apparatus.

Figure 3h shows a schematic side view of the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. When the securing system 30 is assembled, the first portion 41 of the fastener 4 is arranged between adjacent arm portions 23 of the bracket 2, within the distance labelled d2 in Figure 3g, and between the first portion 21 and the mounting portions 24a-d of the bracket 2, within the distance labelled d1 in Figure 3f In use, where the bracket 2 is mounted to part of a play apparatus via the mounting portions 24a-d, this means that the first portion 41 of the fastener 4 extends between the part of a play apparatus and the first portion 21 of the bracket 2. In other embodiments, the first portion 21 of the bracket 2 may extend between the part of a play apparatus and the first portion 41 of the fastener 4.

The securing system 30 further comprise an interface between the first portion 41 of the fastener 4 and the first portion 22 of the bracket 2 which connects the fastener 4 to the bracket 2 and which enables the fastener 4 to be moveable, in this case slidable, relative to the bracket 2. In some embodiments, the interface may comprise one or more tracks mounted on or formed integrally with one of the fastener 4 and the bracket 2, and one or more grooves formed in the other of the fastener 4 and the bracket 2, each of the one or more tracks being slidable within one of the one or more grooves.

Figure 3h shows the fastener 4 in a first position in which the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 is aligned with the aperture 21 of the bracket 2. In an example use case, the projection 1 forms part of an accessory, such as a slide, and the bracket 2 is fastened to part of a play apparatus. In order to secure the accessory to the play apparatus, a user may begin by ensuring the fastener 4 is in the first position as shown in Figure 3h. The user may then manoeuvre the accessory into a position in which the first portion 11 of the projection extends through both the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and the aperture 21 of the bracket 2, as shown in Figure 3h. This may comprise passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 firstly through the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and then through the aperture 21 of the bracket 2. Because the diameter 6d of the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and the diameter 21d of the aperture 21 of the bracket 2 are both greater than the diameter 12d of the second portion 12 of the projection 1, the second portion 12 of the projection 1 is able to pass through both the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and the aperture 21 of the bracket 2.

In some examples, the bracket 2 may be fastened to an underside surface of the part of the play apparatus. The part of the play apparatus may comprise a through-bore which opens at the underside surface. In such examples, manoeuvring the projection 1 into the position shown in Figure 3h may comprise first passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the through-bore of the part of the play apparatus, then passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5, and then passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the aperture 21 of the bracket 2. In other examples, the bracket 2 may be mounted across two parts of a play apparatus with a gap extending between the two parts. In such examples, manoeuvring the projection 1 into the position shown in Figure 3h may comprise first passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the gap, before passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and the aperture 21 of the bracket 2.

In other examples, the bracket 2 may be fastened to a part of a play apparatus such that the bracket 2 is cantilevered from the part of a play apparatus. In such examples, the bracket 2 may only comprise one or more arm portions 23 and/or mounting portions 24 located at a first end of the bracket 2 for fastening the bracket 2 to a part of the play apparatus. In examples in which the bracket 2 is cantilevered from a part of a play apparatus, manoeuvring the projection 1 into the position shown in Figure 3h may comprise first passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5, before passing the second portion 12 of the projection 1 through the aperture 21 of the bracket 2.

After the projection 1 is arranged such that the first portion 11 of the projection 1 extends through both the second portion 6 of the larger opening 5 and the aperture 21 of the bracket 2, as shown in Figure 3h, the user may then move the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2 to a second position in which the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is received in the opening 3, as shown in Figure 3i. Because the diameter 3d of the opening 3 is less than the dimeter 12d of the second portion 12 of the projection 1, the second portion 12 of the projection 1 is inhibited from passing through the opening 3. When the fastener 4 in the second position and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is received in the opening 3, the projection 1 is therefore secured relative to the bracket 2 at least by means of the second portion 12 of the projection 1 being inhibited from passing through the opening 3. In some examples, the projection I may protrude from an underside surface of the accessory, such that when the fastener 4 in the second position and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is received in the opening 3, the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is secured between the second portion 12 of the projection 1 and the underside surface of the accessory.

In some embodiments, the securing system 30 may comprise a locking mechanism configured to inhibit movement of the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2. The locking mechanism may be configured to inhibit movement of the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2 when the fastener 4 is in the second position and/or when the fastener 4 is in the first position. Figures 3j and 3k each show a schematic front view of the handle 42 of the fastener 4. The locking mechanism comprises a release actuator 421 integrated with the handle 42. Figure 3j shows the release actuator 421 in a first position. In the first position, the locking mechanism may be engaged to inhibit movement of the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2. Figure 3k shows the release actuator 421 in a second position. In the second position, the locking mechanism may be released to allow movement of the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2.

IS

The release actuator 421 may be biased, for example by means of one or more springs, towards the first position. The release actuator 421 comprises an aperture 422 for enabling a user to move the release actuator 421 from the first position to the second position For example, the aperture 422 may be sized such that a user can insert part of a finger into the aperture 421 to move the release actuator 421.

Figure 4a shows a schematic front view of a securing system 40, for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, according to another embodiment. The securing system 40 has features in common with the securing system 10 of Figures la and lb and like reference numerals will be used to refer to like features.

In the embodiment of Figure 4a, the opening 3 of the securing system 40 is defined by the bracket 2 and the fastener 4. Figure 4a shows the fastener 4 in a closed position. The fastener 4 is resiliently biased towards the closed position, for example by one or more springs. The opening 3 is defined when the fastener 4 is in the closed position. The bracket 2 comprises a U-shaped opening 26 comprising an internal surface 261. The fastener 4 comprises a hook portion 43 comprising an internal surface 431 and an external inclined surface 432. When the fastener 4 is in the closed position, the internal surface 261 of the U-shaped opening 26 of the bracket 2 and the internal surface 431 of the hook portion 43 of the fastener 4 together define the opening 3. In this embodiment, the opening 3 is partially enclosed by the internal surfaces 261, 431 when the fastener 4 is in the closed position. In other embodiments, the opening 3 may be fully enclosed by the internal surfaces 261, 431 when the fastener 4 is in the closed position.

The fastener 4 further comprises a handle 42. The bracket 2 further comprises a ledge 27 which extends out of the plane of the page as viewed in Figure 4a. The securing system 40 further comprises an indicator 15 configured to indicate when at least part of the projection 1 is secured within the opening 3. In this embodiment, this is achieved by indicating when the fastener 4 is in the closed position. The indicator 15 comprises a panel 151 which is moveable with the fastener 4 and which is visible through an opening 152 in the bracket 2.

When the fastener 4 is in the closed position, a portion of the panel 151 which displays information indicating that the fastener 4 is in the closed position is aligned with the opening 152 of the indicator 15 such that the portion of the panel 151 is visible through the opening 152. In some examples, this information may comprise a colour, such as red, or text, such as the letter 'C'.

Figure 4b shows a schematic side view of the projection 1 of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a. In this embodiment, the projection 1 comprises a first portion 11 and a second portion 12. A diameter 12d of the second portion 12 is greater than a diameter I Id of the first portion 11. In the embodiment of Figure 4b, both the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 of the projection I comprise a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, one or both of the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 of the projection 1 may comprise a cross-section which is not circular. In some embodiments, the shapes of the cross-sections of the first and second portions 11, 12 may be the same and in other embodiments the shapes of the cross-sections of the first and second portions 11, 12 may be different.

The projection 1 further comprises a third portion 13. The third portion 13 of the projection 1 extends from the first portion 11 of the projection 1 perpendicularly to the first portion 11 of the projection 1. In other embodiments, the third portion 13 of the projection 1 may extend at any other angle to the first portion 11 of the projection I. The third portion 13 of the projection 1 comprises a proximal end 13a and a distal end 13b. The proximal end 13a is closer to the first portion 11 of the projection 1 than the distal end 13b. In use, the distal end 13b may be coupled to an accessory such as a slide. The first portion II of the projection 1 comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The third portion 13 of the projection 1 extends from the first end of the first portion 11 of the projection 1 and the second 12 portion of the projection 1 extends from the second end of the first portion 11 of the projection 1.

Figure 4c shows a schematic end view of the projection 1 of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a, In Figure 4c the projection I is viewed in a direction extending from the second portion 12 of the projection 1 towards the third portion 13 of the projection, and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is shown in cross-section Figures 4d-f each show a schematic view of the projection I of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a in use with an accessory 7. For clarity, some features of the projection 1 are not labelled in each of Figures 4d-f. In this example the accessory 7 comprises a slide. The distal end 13b of the third portion 13 of the projection 1 is coupled to an underside surface 7a of the accessory 7 such that the projection 1 extends underneath the main body of the accessory 7. It will be appreciated that the orientation of the projection 1 shown in Figures 4d-f is merely an example and that in other embodiments the projection 1 may be orientated in any suitable manner.

The slide of this example comprises a conduit 73 which protrudes from an underside surface of the slide. The conduit 73 is in fluid communication with a topside surface of the slide. In use, a water source can be connected to the conduit 73, for example via a domestic garden hose, to deliver water to the topside surface of the slide to provide a 'water slide'. The slide of any of the other examples described herein may also comprise the conduit 73.

Figure 4g shows a further schematic front view of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a. For clarity, not all the features of the securing system 40 are labelled in Figure 4g. In an example use case, the projection 1 forms part of an accessory, such as a slide, and the bracket 2 is fastened to part of a play apparatus. In order to secure the accessory to the play apparatus, a user may begin by manoeuvring the accessory into a position in which the first portion 11 of the projection 1 contacts the external inclined surface 432 of the hook portion 43 of the fastener 4. The user may then move the projection 1 relative to the inclined surface 432, while maintaining contact between the first portion 11 of the projection 1 and the inclined surface 432. This may involve the user moving the accessory in a downwards direction relative to the inclined surface 432, as indicated by the arrow labelled 'a' in Figure 4g. Due to the direction of the force acting on the inclined surface 432, resulting from the movement of the projection t and the direction of the gradient of the inclined surface 432, the fastener 4 is caused to move away from the closed position towards an open position in a direction indicated by the arrow labelled lb' in Figure 4g. The force acting on the fastener 4 resulting from the movement of the projection 1 is sufficient to overcome a biasing force which provides for the fastener 4 being resiliently biased towards the closed position.

Figure 4g shows the fastener 4 in an intermediate position between the closed position and the open position. As the fastener 4 moves away from the closed position, the panel 151 of the indicator 15 is moved with the fastener. In the intermediate position, a portion of the panel 151 which displays information indicating that the fastener 4 is in the intermediate position is aligned with the opening 152 of the indicator 15. In some examples, this information may comprise a colour, such as black.

Figure 4h shows a further schematic front view of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a. For clarity, not all the features of the securing system 40 are labelled in Figure 4h. Figure 4h shows the fastener in the open position and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 received in the U-shaped opening 26 of the bracket 2. In this position, the second portion 12 of the projection rests on the ledge 27 of the bracket 2. When the fastener 4 is in the open position, a portion of the panel 151 which displays information indicating that the fastener 4 is in the open position is aligned with the opening 152 of the indicator 15. In some examples, this information may comprise a colour, such as green.

Figure 4i shows a further schematic front view of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a. For clarity, not all the features of the securing system 40 are labelled in Figure 4i. After the first portion 11 of the projection 1 has been received in the U-shaped opening 26 of the bracket 2, the projection 1 is no longer exerting a force on the fastener 4 which is sufficient to overcome the biasing force which provides for the fastener 4 being resiliently biased towards the closed position. As such, the biasing force causes the fastener 4 to return to the closed position as shown in Figure 4i. With the fastener 4 in the closed position, the opening 3 is defined and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is secured within the opening 3. As such, the projection 1 is secured relative to the bracket 2 and the accessory is secured relative to the play apparatus. In some embodiments, the securing system 40 may further comprise a locking mechanism to inhibit movement of the fastener 4 relative to the bracket 2 when the fastener 4 is in the closed position and the first portion 11 of the projection 1 is received in the opening 3. A user may release the first portion 11 of the projection 1 from the opening 3 by actuating the handle 42 to move the fastener 4 against the biasing force from the closed position to the open position. The user may then manoeuvre, for example by lifting, the accessory to remove the first portion 11 of the projection 1 from the U-shaped opening 26 of the bracket 2.

Figure 5a shows a schematic front view of a securing system 50, for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, according to another embodiment. The securing system 50 has features in common with the securing system 40 of Figures 4a-i and like reference numerals will be used to refer to like features. In the embodiment of Figure 5a, the fastener 4 comprises the opening 3 of the securing system 50. The fastener 4 comprises a U-shaped portion 44 which defines the opening 3. The handle 42 is connected to the U-shaped portion 44. The handle 42 may be formed integrally with the U-shaped portion 44. Figure 5a shows the fastener 4 in an open position. The bracket 2 comprises two apertures 28 for receiving a screw or the like to secure the bracket 2 to an accessory or part of a play apparatus. The apertures 28 are accessible when the fastener 4 is in the open position In some embodiments, the apertures 28 may not be present and the bracket 2 may be fastened to an accessory or part of a play apparatus, in use, by another suitable means.

The fastener 4 further comprises a recess 45 configured to receive the third portion 13 of the projection L The U-shaped portion 44 of the fastener 4 comprises a first portion 441 and a second portion 442. The first portion 441 defines the opening 3 and is configured to receive the first portion 11 of the projection 1. The second portion 442 defines a further opening and is configured to receive the second portion 12 of the projection 1. In some embodiments, the second portion 12 of the projection 1 may not be present. In such embodiments, the second portion 442 of the fastener 4 may not be present.

Figure 5b shows a schematic close-up isometric view of the projection 1 of the securing system 50 of Figure 5a. The projection 1 comprises the same features of the projection 1 of the securing system 40 of Figure 4a, as shown in Figures 4b and 4c. The projection 1 of the securing system 50 of Figure 5a further comprises a fourth portion 16 which extends from the distal end 13b of the third portion 13. The fourth portion 16 comprises two apertures 161. In other embodiments, the fourth portion 16 may comprise a single aperture 161 or more than two apertures 161.

Figure Sc shows a schematic plan view of a portion of an accessory 7 for use with the securing system 50 of Figure 5a. In an example use case, a user of the securing system 50 may secure the projection 1 to the accessory 7. In this example the accessory 7 comprises a slide. In this embodiment, the securing system 50 further comprises a locating strip 17. The locating strip 17 is configured to be arranged on a topside surface 7b of the accessory. A first end 17a of the locating strip 17 is configured to hook over an edge 7c of the accessory 7. The locating strip comprises two apertures 171 arranged at a second end 17b of the locating strip 17, opposite the first end 17a. In other example use cases, the user may secure the projection 1 to part of a play apparatus and the locating strip 17 may be used in a similar manner to guide the forming of apertures in the play apparatus.

To secure the projection 1 to the accessory 7, a user may begin by positioning the locating strip 17 on the topside surface 7a of the accessory and hooking the first end 17a of the locating strip 17 over the edge 7c of the accessory 7 at a predetermined location along the length of the edge 7c. The user may then use the apertures 171 of the locating strip 17 as a guide to form apertures in the accessory 7, for example by drilling, which align with the apertures 171 of the locating strip 17. The user may then position the fourth portion 16 of the projection 1 on an underside surface 7a of the accessary such that the apertures 161 of the fourth portion 16 align with the apertures formed in the accessory 7 and the apertures 171 of the locating strip 17. It will be appreciated that where the fourth portion 16 comprises a single aperture or more than two apertures, the locating strip 17 may comprise a corresponding number of apertures 171. After positioning the fourth portion 16 such that the series of apertures align, the user may then secure the projection 1 to the accessory 7 using suitable fasteners, such as one or more screws, extending through the series apertures.

In other embodiments, the locating strip 17 may not be present and the position of the apertures required to be formed in the accessory 7 may be determined by another means, for example by an indicator provided on the accessory 7. In other embodiments, fasteners such as screws or the like may not be used to secure the projection Ito the accessory 7. For example, an adhesive may be used. In such embodiments, it may not be required to form apertures in the accessory 7.

Figure 5d shows a schematic isometric view of a portion of the accessory 7 shown in Figure Sc. The fourth portion 16 of the projection 1 has been secured to an underside surface 7a of the accessory 7, for example as described above. The third portion 13 of the projection extends from the fourth portion 16 away from the underside surface 7a such that the projection 1 extends underneath the main body of the accessory 7. It will be appreciated that the orientation of the projection 1 shown in Figure 5d is merely an example and that in other embodiments the projection 1 may be orientated in any suitable manner.

Figure Se shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a play system 110 according to an embodiment. Figure 5f shows a schematic close-up side view of the play system 110. The play system 110 comprises a play apparatus 8, an accessory 7 and two securing systems 50a, 50b according to the embodiment of Figure 5a. In other embodiments, a single securing system SO or more than two securing systems 50 may be provided. For clarity, only some of the features of each securing system 50a, SOb are labelled. In this example, the projections 1 of the securing systems 50a, 50b form part of the play apparatus 7 and the play apparatus 7 comprises a slide. The projections 1 may be secured to the main body of the play apparatus 7 as described above with reference to Figures Sc and Sd. The projections 1 are orientated such that the first portions 11 of the projections 1 extend from the third portions 13 of the projections 1 in a horizontal direction away from the play apparatus 8. The bracket 2 of each of the securing systems 50a, 50b is fastened to part of the play apparatus 8 and the play apparatus 8 comprises a raised platform. In other examples, the accessory 7 may comprise an accessory other than a slide and the play apparatus 8 may comprise an apparatus other than a raised platform. Figures Se and 5f show the fastener 4 of each securing system 50a, 50b in the open position shown in Figure 5a.

In order to secure the accessory 7 to the play apparatus 8, a user may begin by manoeuvring the accessory 7 into the position shown in Figures 5e and 5f. In this embodiment, the projections 1 are spaced from an end of the accessory 7 closest to the projections 1. In the position shown in Figures Se and 5f, the end of the accessory 7 closest to the projections 1 rests on a horizontal surface of the play apparatus 8 and the first portions 12 of the projections 1 are aligned with the openings 3 defined by the fasteners 4. The user may then move the accessory 7 towards the play apparatus 8 until the first portions 11 of the projections 1 are received within the openings 3 and the second portions 12 of the projections 1 are received within the further openings defined by the second portions 442 of the fasteners 4. This is shown in Figures 5g and 5h. Figure 5g shows a further schematic close-up isometric view of the play system 110 and Figure 5h shows a further schematic close-up side view of the play system 110. An advantage of the embodiment of Figure 5e is that once a user has lifted the end of the accessory 7 closest to the projections 1 on to the horizontal surface of the play apparatus 8, the user is not required to further lift the accessory 7 to guide the projections 1 in to the openings 3.

After the first portions 11 of the projections 1 are received within the openings 3, the user may then rotate the fastener 4 of each securing system 50a, 50b, for example by means of the handle 42, to a closed position. Figures Si, 5j and 5k show the fastener 4 of each securing system 50a, 50b in the closed position with the first portions 11 of the projections 1 received within the openings 3. Figure Si shows a further schematic close-up isometric view of the play system 110, Figure 5j shows a schematic close-up front view of the play system 110 and Figure 5k shows a further schematic close-up side view of the play system 110. With the first portions 11 of the projections 1 received within the openings 3 and the fasteners 4 in the closed position, the U-shaped portions 44 of the fasteners 4 engage the first portions 11 of the projections 1 to inhibit movement of the projections 1 in a vertical direction and engage the third portions 13 of the projections 1 to inhibit movement of the projections 1 in a horizontal direction away from the bracket 2. The accessory 7 is therefore secured to the play apparatus 8. The securing system 50 may further comprise means to releasably secure the fastener 4 in the closed position.

Figure 51 shows a schematic front view of the play system 110. In Figure 51, one of the projections 1 of one of the securing systems 50a, 50b and the bracket 2 and fastener 4 of each of the securing systems 50a, 50b are visible. The accessory 7 comprises two storage hooks 18, one of which is visible in Figure 51. In other embodiments, the accessory 7 may comprise a single storage hook 18 or more than two storage hooks 18. In Figure 51, the accessory 7 is secured relative to the play apparatus 8 in a storage configuration. In the storage configuration, the storage hooks 18 hook over an edge of the play apparatus to secure the accessory to the play apparatus 8. Figure 5m shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a portion of the accessory 7 including the storage hooks 18. Figure 5n shows a schematic close-up isometric view of a portion of the play system 110 with the accessory in the storage configuration.

Figure Ga shows a schematic view of a play system 9 according to another embodiment. Figure 6b shows a schematic close-up of a portion of the play system 9 of Figure 6a. The play system 9 comprises a play apparatus 8, an accessory 7 and a securing system 30. In this embodiment, the play apparatus 8 comprises a raised platform, the accessory 7 comprises a slide and the securing system comprises the securing system 30 of Figure 3a. In other embodiments, the play apparatus 8 may comprise a play apparatus other than a raised platform, such as a climbing frame or swing set. The accessory 7 may comprise an accessory other than a slide, such as monkey bars or an additional raised platform. The securing system may comprise a securing system according to any of the above described embodiments.

The play apparatus 8 further comprises first and second storage brackets 19a, 19b which are described in further detail below with reference to Figure 6c. In other embodiments, the storage brackets 19a, 19b are not provided. In some embodiments, fewer than or more than two storage brackets may be provided As shown in Figure 6b, the play system 9 comprises first and second securing systems 30a, 30b. In other embodiments, the play system 9 may comprise fewer or more two securing systems 30a, 30b. For clarity, only some of the features of each securing system 30a, 30b are labelled. In the embodiment of Figure 6b, the projection 1 of each securing system 30a, 30b forms part of the accessory 7 and the bracket 2 of each securing system 30a, 30b is fastened to an underside surface of part 81 of the play apparatus 8. The part 81 of the play apparatus 8 is provided with two through-bores which open at the underside surface. Figure Gb shows the projection 1 of each securing system 30a, 30b extending through one of the through-bores. Figure 6b shows the fastener 4 of each securing system 30a, 30b in the second position, as shown in Figure 3h, in which the projection 1 of each securing system 30a, 30b is secured relative to the respective bracket 2.

Figure 6c shows a schematic close-up view of another portion of the play system 9. The projection 1 of each of the securing systems 30a, 30b are labelled as la and lb respectively. The play apparatus 8 comprises first and second storage brackets 19a, 19b. Each storage bracket comprises an opening 191a, 191b. The opening 191a of the first storage bracket 19a is configured to receive at least part of the projection la of the first securing system 30a to secure the projection la of the first securing system 30a relative to the first storage bracket 19a. The opening 191b of the second storage bracket 19b is configured to receive at least part of the projection lb of the second securing system 30b to secure the projection lb of the second securing system 30b relative to the second storage bracket 19b. In other embodiments, the play apparatus 8 may comprise a single securing system 30, comprising a single projection 1, and a single storage bracket 19. In other embodiments, the play system 9 may comprise more than two securing systems 30 and more than two storage brackets 19. The play apparatus 9 may comprise the same number of storage brackets 19 as projections 1, such that the opening 191 of each storage bracket 19 is configured to receive at least part of one of the projections 1.

In the embodiment of Figure 6c, each projection la, lb comprises a first portion and a second portion as shown in Figures 3b and 3c. The opening 191a, 191b of each storage bracket 19a, 19b comprises a first portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the first portion of the respective projection I a, lb and less than the diameter of the second portion of the respective projection la, lb, and a second portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second portion of the respective projection la, lb The second portion of the opening 191a, 191b of each storage bracket 19a, 19b is located above the respective first portion of the respective opening 191a, 191b when the play system 9 is assembled and arranged for use.

The opening 191a, 191b of one or both storage brackets 19a, 19b may take the same form as the larger opening 6 of the fastener 4 of the embodiment of Figure 3e.

Figure od shows a schematic close-up view of the same portion of the play system 9 as shown in Figure 6c, Figure Ge shows a further schematic view of the play system 9 of Figure Ga, In Figures 6d and 6e, the accessory 7 is secured relative to the play apparatus 8 in a storage configuration. In this configuration, the first portion of the first projection la is secured within the first portion of the opening 191a of the first storage bracket 19a, and the second portion of the second projection lb is secured within the second portion of the opening 191b of the second storage bracket 19b.

In order to secure the accessory 7 relative to the play apparatus 8 in the storage configuration, a user may first manoeuvre the accessory 7 in to a position in which the second portion of the first projection la is aligned with the second portion of the opening 191a of the first storage bracket 19a and the second portion of the second projection lb is aligned with the second portion of the opening 191b of the second storage bracket 19b. The user may then manoeuvre the accessory 7 to pass the second portion of each projection la, lb through the second portion of the respective opening 191a, 191b such that the first portion of each projection la, lb extends through the second portion of the respective opening 191a, 191b. Because the diameter of the second portion of each opening 191a, 191b is greater than the diameter of the second portion of each projection la, lb, the second portion of each projection la, lb is able to pass through the second portion of the respective opening 191a, 191b. The user may then lower the accessory 7 such that the first portion of each projection la, lb extends through the second portion of the respective opening 191a, 191b. Because the diameter of the first portion of each opening 191a, 191b is less than the dimeter of the second portion of each projection I a, lb, the second portion of each projection I a, lb is inhibited from passing through the respective opening 191a, 191b. This secures each projection la, lb relative to the respective storage bracket 19a, 19b. In order to remove the accessory 7 from the storage configuration, a user may reverse the process described above.

In some embodiments, one or more of the storage brackets 19a, 19b may comprise a bracket, an opening and/or a fastener according to any of the embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, a bracket, an opening and a fastener of any embodiment of the securing system described herein may be provided in place of one or more of the storage brackets 19a, 19b.

Figure Of shows a schematic plan view of the play system 9 of Figure 6a with the accessory in a usable configuration. Here the accessory 7 is secured relative to the play apparatus 8 by means of the one or more securing systems as described above. In this configuration, the play system 9 comprises a first footprint indicated by the broken line labelled 14a. Figure 6g shows a schematic plan view of the play system 9 of Figure 6a with the accessory 7 in the storage configuration, as shown in Figures 6d and 6e. In this configuration, the play system 9 comprises a second footprint indicated by the broken line labelled 14b. The length of the first footprint 14a is greater than the length of the second footprint 14b. In this example, the length of the first footprint 14a is 2.8m and the length of the first footprint 14b is 1.6m, however, this is merely illustrative and the length of the first and second footprints 14a, 14b may be different in other embodiments. Figures 6f and 6g demonstrate that a play system 9 according to the present invention provides a storage configuration in which the footprint of the play system 9 can be reduced when an accessory 7 is not in use. This reduces the total area occupied by the play system 9, increasing the availability of space in an environment in which the play system 9 is situated, for example a domestic garden.

Figure 7 shows a schematic view of a play system 90 according to another. The play system 90 comprises a play apparatus 8, an accessory 7 and a securing system 40. In this embodiment, the play apparatus 8 comprises a playhouse with a raised platform, the accessory 7 comprises a slide and the securing system comprises the securing system 40 of Figure 4a. For clarity, not all features of the securing system 40 are labelled in Figure 7. In other embodiments, the play apparatus 8 may comprise a play apparatus other than a raised platform, such as a climbing frame or swing set. The accessory 7 may comprise an accessory other than a slide, such as monkey bars or an additional raised platform. The securing system may comprise a securing system according to any of the above described embodiments.

In the embodiment of Figure 7, the accessory 7 comprises the projection 1 of the securing system 40 and the bracket 2 of the securing system 2 is fastened to a part of the play apparatus 8. The projection 1 is located at a first end 71 of the accessory 7. The play system 90 further comprises a storage bracket comprising an opening configured to receive at least part of the projection 1 to secure the projection 1 relative to the storage bracket. The storage bracket is used to secure the accessory 7 to the play apparatus 8 in a storage configuration as shown in Figure 7. The storage bracket may be a storage bracket 13 as described above with reference to Figures 5c-e.

The play system 90 further comprises a retainer 91 for retaining a second end 72 of the accessory 7 when the projection 1 is received in the opening of the storage bracket, as shown in Figure 7. In the embodiment of Figure 7, the retainer 91 comprises a groove for receiving at least part of the second end 72 of the accessory 7. In this embodiment, the tip of the second end 72 of the accessory 7 is receivable in the groove of the retainer 91. In other embodiments, the retainer 91 may comprise a latch pivotally connected to the play apparatus 8. Where the play apparatus 7 comprises a slide, as in the embodiment of Figure 7, the latch may be configured to engage a side rail of the slide at the second end 72 of the slide. In other embodiments, the retainer 7 may comprise any suitable means for retaining the second end 72 of the accessory 7.

Figure 8a shows an embodiment of a folding play apparatus 100. The folding play apparatus 100 comprises a first portion 101, a second portion 102, and a connecting portion 103. The second portion 102 is hingedly connected to the first portion 101. The connecting portion 103 comprises a first portion 103a and a second portion 103b. The first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 is hingedly connected to the first portion 101 of the play apparatus 100 and hingedly connected to the second portion 1036 of the connecting portion 103. The second portion of the connecting portion 103b is hingedly connected to the second portion 102 of the play apparatus 100.

In the embodiment of Figure 8a, the first portion 101 of the play apparatus 100 comprises a ladder and the second portion 102 of the play apparatus 100 comprises a slide. In other embodiments, one or both of the first and second portions 101, 102 of the play apparatus 100 may comprise another form of play equipment. The portions of the play apparatus 100 may be hingedly connected to one another by any suitable hinge means which allows the hingedly connected portions to pivot relative to one another.

In the embodiment of Figure 8a, the first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 comprises first and second struts and the second portion 103b of the connecting portion 103 comprises first and second struts. Each of the first and second struts of the first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 is hingedly connected to the first portion 101 of the play apparatus 100. Each of the first and second struts of the second portion 103b of the connecting portion 103 is hingedly connected to the second portion 102 of the play apparatus 100. The first strut of the first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 is hingedly connected to the first strut of the second portion 103b of the connecting portion 103. The second strut of the first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 is hingedly connected to the second strut of the second portion 103b of the connecting portion 103. In other embodiments, one or both of the first and second portions 103a, 103b of the connecting portion 103 comprises more or fewer than two struts. Each strut may comprise any suitable structural member.

Figure 8a shows the play apparatus 100 in an in-use configuration. In some embodiments, the play apparatus 100 may comprise releasable locking means to reversibly lock the hingedly connected portions of the play apparatus 100 relative to one another to secure the play apparatus 100 in the in-use configuration. Figure 8b shows the play apparatus 100 in an intermediate configuration between the in-use configuration and a storage configuration.

Figure Sc shows the play apparatus 100 in the storage configuration. For clarity, the connecting portion 103 of the play apparatus is not labelled in Figure 8c. The releasable locking means may also be configured to reversibly lock the hingedly connected portions of the play apparatus 100 relative to one another to secure the play apparatus 100 in the storage configuration.

To reconfigure the play apparatus 100 from the in-use configuration to the storage configuration, a user may first release any locking means provided to secure the play apparatus 100 in the in-use configuration The user may then pivot the first portion 101 of the play apparatus 100 relative to the second portion 102 of the play apparatus 100, or vice versa, about the hinged connection between the first and second portions 101, 102 of the play apparatus 100, for example in a folding motion. This will cause the first and second portions 103a, 103b of the connecting portion 103 to pivot relative to one another about the hinged connection between the first and second portions 103a, 103b of the connecting portion 103. This will also cause the first portion 103a of the connecting portion 103 to pivot relative to the first portion 101 of the play apparatus and cause the second portion 103b of the connecting portion 103 to pivot relative to the second portion 102 of the play apparatus about the respective hinged connections. The play apparatus 100 will then adopt the intermediate configuration before adopting the storage configuration. The locking means may be configured to automatically engage when the play apparatus 100 adopts the storage configuration. To reconfigure the play apparatus 100 from the storage configuration to the in-use configuration, a user may first release the locking means before reversing the process described above. The locking means may be configured to automatically engage when the play apparatus 100 adopts the in-use configuration.

It will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments above-described and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the concepts described herein Except where mutually exclusive, any of the features may be employed separately or in combination with any other features and the disclosure extends to and includes all combinations and sub-combinations of one or more features described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A securing system for securing an accessory to a play apparatus, comprising: a projection; a bracket; an opening; and a fastener; wherein the fastener is moveably connected to the bracket and is moveable relative to the bracket to secure at least part of the projection within the opening, to secure the projection relative to the bracket.
2. The securing system of claim 1, wherein the fastener comprises the opening.
3. The securing system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the bracket comprises an aperture, and at least part of the projection is configured to extend through the aperture
4. The securing system of claim 1, wherein the bracket comprises the opening.
5. The securing system of claim 1, wherein the opening is defined by the bracket and the 20 fastener.
6. The securing system of claim 5, wherein the fastener is moveable from an open position to a closed position, and the opening is defined by the bracket and the fastener when the fastener is in the closed position.
7. The securing system of claim 6, wherein the fastener is moveable from the closed position to the open position, and the fastener comprises an inclined surface, and relative movement between the projection and the inclined surface with at least part of the projection maintaining contact with the inclined surface forces the fastener to move from the closed position towards the open position.
8. The securing system of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the fastener is resiliently biased towards the closed position
9. The securing system of any preceding claim, wherein the projection comprises a first portion and a second portion, and a diameter of the second portion is greater than a diameter of the first portion, and the opening comprises a diameter greater than the diameter of the first portion of the projection and less than the diameter of the second portion of the projection.
10. The securing system of claim 9, wherein the opening is a first portion of a larger opening, and the larger opening comprises a second portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second portion of the projection.
11. The securing system of any preceding claim, wherein the fastener comprises a handle.
12. The securing system of claim 11, wherein the fastener is moveable relative to the bracket in a first plane, and the handle extends at an angle to the first plane.
13 The securing system of any preceding claim, comprising a locking mechanism configured to inhibit movement of the fastener relative to the bracket when at least part of the projection is received in the opening.
14. The securing system of claim 13 when dependent on claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a release actuator integrated with the handle.
15. The securing system of any preceding claim, comprising an indicator configured to indicate when at least part of the projection is secured within the opening.
16. The securing system of any preceding claim, comprising an indication such as a locating strip for locating the projection at a predetermined position with respect to part of an accessory or a play apparatus.
17. A play system, comprising a play apparatus, an accessory and the securing system of any preceding claim
18. The play system of claim 17, wherein the accessory comprises the projection of the securing system, and the play apparatus comprises a storage bracket, and the storage bracket comprises an opening configured to receive at least part of the projection to secure the projection relative to the storage bracket
19. The play system of claim 18, wherein the projection comprises a first portion and a second portion, and a diameter of the second portion is greater than a diameter of the first portion, and the opening of the storage bracket comprises a first portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the first portion of the projection and less than the diameter of the second portion of the projection, and a second portion having a diameter greater than the diameter of the second portion of the projection.
20. The play system of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the projection of the securing system is located at a first end of the accessory, and the play system comprises a retainer for retaining a second end of the accessory when the projection is received in the opening of the storage bracket.
21. A folding play apparatus, comprising: a first portion; a second portion hingedly connected to the first portion; and a connecting portion comprising a first portion and a second portion; wherein the first portion of the connecting portion is hingedly connected to the first portion of the play apparatus and hingedly connected to the second portion of the connecting portion, and the second portion of the connecting portion is hingedly connected to the second portion of the play apparatus.
22. The folding play apparatus of claim 21, wherein the first portion of the play apparatus comprises a ladder and the second portion of the play apparatus comprises a slide.