WO2008019421A1

WO2008019421A1 - Wall construction

Info

Publication number: WO2008019421A1
Application number: PCT/AU2007/000901
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alan Neil Wilson; David Alan Murphy; John Walter Petschel
Original assignee: Forma-Tech Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2006-08-14
Filing date: 2007-06-28
Publication date: 2008-02-21

Abstract

A wall constructions is disclosed which has posts (40) which support reinforcing rods (26) and brackets (60) and (80). Panels (10) connected to the brackets (40) and (60) can also receive the rods (26). The panels (10) have apertures (20). A partition (90) locates between the panels (10) and defines at least one space for receiving a concrete mix so the concrete can pass through the apertures (20) and then be finished to form the outside surface of the wall with the panel (10) having the apertures (20) embedded in the concrete wall. The partition also defines a second space which forms a moisture cavity for the wall.

Description

WALL CONSTRUCTION

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a wall construction for buildings such as domestic dwellings , industrial sites such as factories , and the like .

Background of the Invention

International Patent Application No. PCT/AU02/01507 (Publication No. WO03/040487) discloses a wall construction, method of constructing a wall, and a panel for use in the construction and method. The panel is provided with a plurality of perforations and when concrete is poured, concrete can migrate through the perforations to embed the panel within the concrete. The concrete can then be finished by smoothing, rendering or the like to finish the outside surface of the wall .

By providing the panels with the perforations , it is not necessary to remove the panels, thereby overcoming difficulties with prior art techniques which required the formation of moulds and the need for significant dismantlement of formwork after a concrete wall was poured.

Summary of the Invention

The object of the present invention is to further improve the wall construction, method and panel of the previously- mentioned International application .

The invention in a first aspect may be said to reside in a system for forming a wall construction, comprising: a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being locatable in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction ; a plurality of brackets for connection to a framework for supporting the panels, each bracket having a connection portion for attachment to the framework, a panel support portion for supporting the panels, and a partition support portion between the connection portion and the panel support portion for supporting a partition; and wherein when the brackets are connected to the framework and the brackets support the panels and the partition is supported by the partition support portion, a first space is defined between the panels and the partition for receiving a flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations and embeds the panels in the material, and a second space is provided between the partition and the framework for forming a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system is for forming a wall construction of a brick veneer dwelling and the framework comprises a plurality of studs . In this embodiment the material which passes through the perforations provides one of an inner and an outer surface of the wall construction and an inner surface of the wall construction is formed by an internal panel structure connected to the studs on a side of the studs opposite the brackets .

The internal wall structure may comprise plasterboard, or may be formed of a number of layers including an insulation layer and a plasterboard layer.

In another embodiment of the invention a second set of brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels , the second set of panels having apertures, and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and on the opposite side of the framework to the first and second spaces, so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels , the third space being for receiving a flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction.

This embodiment may also be used to form a veneer wall of a domestic dwelling and the framework may therefore also be formed from studs.

However, in another embodiment the framework may be formed from a plurality of posts, each post being formed from post segments which are connected end to end to form the respective posts.

The embodiment which has the second set of panels can be used for domestic buildings and for ' larger scale wall constructions such as factories and other larger buildings, and also retaining walls. The use of the post formed from the post segments is also advantageous in environments where a separate wall frame such as that used in a domestic dwelling is not constructed prior to fabrication of the wall construction .

Preferably the system further comprises a plurality of rods , the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels . Preferably the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel .

Preferably the partition support portion comprises a pair of spaced apart plates between which the partition is locatable .

In one embodiment the connection portion comprises an end plate for abutting the framework, the end plate having an opening, and the framework having a stem for location in the opening.

Preferably the framework also has an L-shaped lug for receiving a part of the plate spaced from the opening.

In another embodiment the opening may be provided on the framework, the stem on the plate and the lug on either the plate or the framework .

Preferably the pair of plates which form the partition support portion are joined by a web and the pair of plates are connected to the connection portion by a connection web.

Preferably the recess which forms the panel support portion of the brackets is connected to the partition support portion by a second connection web .

Preferably the recess is U-shaped in profile.

The framework is preferably formed from a plurality of spaced apart frame members and the area between the frame members defines a fourth space . The moisture cavity and the fourth space may also be used to receive wiring or plumbing to provide for the connection and supply of utilities in the wall construction .

The first and second sets of panels may each comprise a first and second panel which have inter-engaging bevel edges. Thus, two different panels make up the first set of panels and the two different panels make up the second set of panels.

The invention in a second aspect may be said to reside in a wall construction comprising: a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being located in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction; a framework; a plurality of brackets connected to the framework and supporting the panels, the brackets having a connection portion attached to the framework, a panel support portion for supporting the panels and a partition support portion between the connection portion and the panel support portion; a partition supported by the partition support portions so that a first space is defined between the panels and the partition, the first space containing a hardenable flowable construction material which, whilst flowable , migrates through the perforations and embeds the panels in the material, and a second space between the partition and the framework for forming a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction.

The material which migrates through the apertures allows one of an inner and outer wall surface to be formed.

In one embodiment of the invention, the wall construction further comprises an internal panel structure connected to the studs on a side of the studs opposite the brackets .

The internal wall structure may comprise plasterboard, or may be formed of a number of layers including insulation layer and a plasterboard layer .

In another embodiment of the invention a second set of brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels , and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels, the third space containing a hardenable flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction.

This embodiment may also be used to form a veneer wall of a domestic dwelling and the framework may therefore also be formed from studs .

However, in other another embodiment the framework may be formed from a plurality of posts , each post being formed from post segments which are connected end to end to form the respective posts .

The wall construction further comprises a plurality of rods , the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels .

Preferably the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel .

In one embodiment the connection portion comprises an end plate for abutting the framework, the end plate having an opening, and the framework having a stem for location in the opening .

) Preferably the pair of plates which form the partition support portion are joined by a web and the pair of plates are connected to the connection portion by a connection web .

Preferably the recess which forms the panel support portion of the brackets is connected to the partition support portion by a second connection web.

Preferably the recess is U-shaped in profile.

The invention in a still further aspect may be said to reside in a method of forming a wall construction — P —

comprising: providing a plurality of panels, each having perforations , and locating the panels to define substantially the plane of the wall construction; coupling the panels to a framework so the panels are supported in the side-by-side configuration; locating a partition between the panels and the framework to define a first space between the panels and the partition and a second space between the partition and the framework; pouring a flowable construction material into the first space so the material migrates through the perforations in the panels to embed the panels in the material and so the material which passes through the perforations provides an outer surface of the wall construction; and wherein the second space forms a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction, substantially parallel to the outer surface of the wall construction.

The method further comprises forming one of an inner and outer surface from the material which migrates through the apertures .

Preferably the panels are supported by providing brackets and attaching the brackets to the framework and supporting the panels from the brackets .

In one embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises connecting an internal panel structure connected to the studs on a side of the studs opposite the brackets .

The internal wall structure may comprise plasterboard, or may be formed of a number of layers including insulation layer and a plasterboard layer.

In another embodiment of the invention a second set of — Q —

brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels , and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels, supplying a flowable construction material to the third space which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction.

However, in other another embodiment the framework may be formed from a plurality of posts, each post being formed from post segments which are connected end to end to form the respective posts .

The method further comprises providing a plurality of rods , the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels .

Preferably the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel . The invention in a still further aspect may be said to reside in a system for forming a wall construction, comprising: a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being located in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction; a plurality of posts , each post having a first face and a second opposite face, connectors on the first faces and the connectors on the second faces; a plurality of rods for location in connectors on the respective first and second faces by attaching the rods to aligned connectors of spaced apart posts when the wall construction is being constructed; and wherein a first set of the plurality of panels is locatable on the rods associated with the connectors of one of the faces and a second set of panels is connectable to the rods associated with the connectors on the other face, and wherein when the sets of panels are so located, a space is defined between the panels for receiving a flowable construction material so that the material can migrate through the perforations in the panels to embed the panels, rods and posts in the material and so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

Preferably the connectors comprise hooks and the rods are supported by the hooks by locating the rods on the hooks .

Preferably the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods, the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together.

Preferably the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel, and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel .

Preferably the posts are formed from a plurality of post segments, each post segment having one hook.

However, in other embodiments, the segments may include more than one hook.

The present invention still further provides a wall construction comprising: a plurality of spaced apart posts, the posts having opposed faces ; at least one connector on each of the opposed faces of each post; a rod supported by the connectors on one face, and a rod supported by the connectors on the other face of the posts; a plurality of panels supported on the rods , the panels having perforations and being located in side-by- side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction, the panels defining a space therebetween; and a hardenable flowable material mix located in the space which migrates through the perforations so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

Preferably the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods , the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together.

Preferably the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel, and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel.

Preferably the posts are formed from a plurality of post segments , each post segment having one hook .

However, in other embodiments, the segments may include more than one hook.

The present invention still further provides a method of forming a wall construction comprising: providing a plurality of spaced apart posts , the posts having opposed faces, and at least one connector on each face of each post; supporting a rod by the connectors on one face, and supporting a rod by the connectors on the other face of the posts ; locating a plurality of panels on the rods, the panels having perforations and being located in side-by- side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction, the panels defining a space therebetween; and supplying a hardenable flowable material mix to the space which migrates through the perforations so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

Preferably the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods, the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together. Preferably the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel, and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel .

However, in other embodiments , the segments may include more than one hook.

The invention in a still further aspect may be said to reside in a bracket for use in a wall construction, the bracket comprising: a connection portion for connecting the bracket to an article; a recess for supporting a rod; and a support portion between the connection portion and the recess for supporting an ancillary member between the connection portion and the recess .

Preferably the support portion comprises a pair of spaced apart plates defining a space for receiving the ancillary member .

Preferably the spaced apart plates are connected to the recess and the connection portion by webs.

Preferably the spaced apart plates are joined together by a connecting web .

Brief Description of the Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :

Figure 1 is a perspective front view of a panel according to the preferred embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the panel of Figure 1;

Figure 2A is a plan view of the panel of Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 3 is a side view of the panel of Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 3A is a detailed perspective view from the rear of the two panels joined together; Figure 3B is a detailed front view of two panels joined together;

Figure 4 is a front view of a second panel used in the preferred embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 is a rear view of the panel of Figure 4 ; Figure 5A is a top view of the panel of Figures 4 and 5 ;

Figure 6 is a view of how the panel of Figures 1 and 2 are connected in a horizontal direction to the panels of Figures 4 and 5; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a post segment according to one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the post segment of Figure 7 from the opposite side;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a first bracket used in the preferred embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 is a view of a second bracket used in the preferred embodiment of the invention;

Figure 11 shows how post segments are connected together to form a post and also shows the brackets of Figures 9 and 10 on the post;

Figure 12 is a detailed view of part of the post of Figure 11 showing interconnection of the post segments;

Figure 13 is a detailed view showing the connection of a bracket to the post; Figure 14 is a partly broken away drawing of a wall construction according to one embodiment of the invention; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view through a wall construction according to the embodiment of Figure 14;

Figure 16 is a plan view of the wall construction of Figures 14 and 15;

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view through a wall construction of a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 18 is a side view of a wall construction according to a third embodiment of the invention; and Figure 19 is a plan view of the wall construction of Figure 18.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments Figures 1 to 3 show a panel 10 according to the preferred embodiment of the invention. The panel 10 has corrugations 12 formed from a roof 13, a flat crest 14, a flat floor 16 and an inclined intermediate wall 18. Each roof 13, crest 14, floor 16 and inclined wall 18 are provided with aligned apertures 20 which extend along the length of each of the roofs 13, crests 14, floor 16 and inclined wall 18.

As best seen in Figures 2 and 3, ribs 22 extend vertically having regard to the orientation of the panels 10 when the panels are in use. The ribs 22 are provided with an upper recess 24 which is U-shaped in profile and an offset leg 29 at the end of the rib 22 opposite the recess 24.

As is best shown in Figure 2 , the panels have two connection hooks 28 on one side and two eyes 30 aligned with the respective hooks 28 on the other side. Panels 10 can be mounted side by side in a horizontal direction by locating the hooks 28 of one panel into the eyes 30 of an adjacent panel.

The uppermost roof 13 has a hole 33 and bottom rail 39 of the panels has lugs 30 which have barbs 30a. Offset legs 29 which are joined to the remainder of the rib 22 by a wall section 27. The horizontally aligned recesses 24 receive a reinforcing rod 26 made from metal which serves to both interconnect the panels, as will be described in more detail hereinafter, and to provide reinforcing for the formed wall construction.

As shown in Figure 3A, one panel labelled 10' is arranged in side-by-side relationship above another panel 10 ' ' . The aligned recesses 24 of the panel 10' ' are closed by the legs 29 and top wall section 27 of the rib 22 of the panel 10' . As is apparent from Figure 2, the leg 29 on the rib 22 to the right in Figure 2 is offset in the opposite direction to the legs 29 on the other two ribs. Therefore, when the legs 29 of the ribs of the panel 10' overlap the ribs 22 of the panel 10 ' ' , the panels are prevented from lateral movement in the horizontal direction .

Figure 3B shows a front view of the panels 10' and 10' ' which clearly shows the lugs 30 locating through the opening 33 to assist in holding the panels against vertical separation. The barbs 30a on the lugs 30 provide a snap fit of the lugs 30 into the openings 33. The tabs 32 project down from the rail 39 at the lower extremity of the panels 10 and cut-outs 31 are formed in the rail 39 for accommodating box section 32 of the recesses 24.

The bottom rail 39 of one panel overlaps a top rail 41 of an adjacent panel when the panels are arranged vertically above one another.

Figures 4 and 5 are front and rear views of a second panel 11 used in the preferred embodiments of the invention. The panel 11 is basically the same configuration as the panel 10 and like reference numerals indicate like parts. However, as is apparent from Figure 5, the panel 11 has hooks 201 which project outwardly of the side edge of the panel and slightly rearward, and the opposite edge has eyes 202 which project outwardly of the edge of the panel.

As is best shown in Figures 2A and 5A, the panel 10 in plan view is bevelled so that the front face 10a is slightly longer than the rear face 10b. The panel 11 has its front face 11a slightly shorter than the rear face lib. Thus, the panels can be located in side-by-side relationship with the bevelled edges 10c and Hd abutting one another and so that the hook 201 can locate in the eye 30 to join the panels 10 and 11 horizontally, as shown in Figure 6. Furthermore, the bevel arrangement enables the panels to form a corner (not shown) at 90° if required.

The bevel arrangement of the panels enables the panels to be located closely together to provide a continuous array of panels. However, in other embodiments the panels could have square ends and simply abut one another, or could be slightly spaced apart.

If the panels are provided with square edges , then only one type of panel need be provided, rather than the two panels 10 and 11 shown in Figures 1, 2, 2A, 4, 5 and 5A.

The panels 11 can join to other panels 11 or to panels 10 in the vertical direction in the same manner as described with reference to Figure 3B.

A plurality of the panels 10 and 11 are arranged in side- by-side orientation both vertically and horizontally to define the general plane of the wall construction . The side-by-side configuration is also best seen in Figure 11. The panels 10 and 11 may be about 30 cm² in size and are supported from a framework.

In one embodiment of the invention the framework is formed from posts 40 (see Figure 14) which are formed from post segments 38 shown in Figures 7 and 8. With reference to Figures 7 and 8, each segment 39 is of generally square tube shaped configuration and has a first face 41 and an opposite face 42. The faces 41 and 42 are joined by side face sections 43 and end sections 44. The faces 41 and 42 are joined on the side of the segments 39 remote from the portions 43 and 44 by edge portions 45 and 46. The portion 45 has a hole 47 and the portion 46 has a hole 48. As is apparent from Figure 7, the segment 39 is open between the portions 43 and 44 and opposite the hole 48 , thereby defining a path through the posts 40 for service items such as wiring, plumbing and the like. The hollow posts 40 (see Figure 11) also provide a service cavity for utilities such as wiring and plumbing.

The face 41 is provided with three connection bosses and the face 42 is also provided with three connection bosses 50 (only one of which can be seen in Figure 8) .

The end sections 44 have a cut-out profile 53 so that two segments 39 can be connected end to end with the profile 53 of one segment engaging with the profile 53 of the adjacent segment to join the segments together so that a number of segments can be joined to form the post 40. Typically the segments are about 30 cm in length and, depending on the height of the wall , ten or more segments may be used to form the post 40.

As is apparent from Figures 7 and 8, the bosses 50 at the end portions 44 are formed in halves so that when two segments are joined together, the half bosses at each end match with the half bosses of the other segment 39 to form a complete boss 50.

The portions 44 are provided with a tongue 51 which has a barb 52. When the segments 39 are connected together, the tongue 51 of one segment locates in the hollow profile of the adjacent segment and the barb 52 engages in the opening 48 by a snap fit to lock the segments 39 together, as best shown in Figure 12 in which the join between two segments 39' and 39' ' is shown.

As is also best shown in Figure 8, the segments 39 are provided with an auxiliary connection hook 55 adjacent opening 47. The function of the hook 55 will be described with reference to Figures 18 and 19.

The segments 39 are also provided with L-shaped lugs 57 and 58 which are a mirror image of one another . The lugs 57 and 58 are provided on both the faces 41 and 42 and the purpose of the lugs 57 and 58 will be described hereinafter .

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a first bracket 60 used in the preferred embodiment of the invention. The bracket 60 has a connection plate 61 having a hole 62. The plate 61 has a connection web 63 which connects to a partition support section 64 formed from plates 65 and 66 which are joined by a horizontal web 68. A second web 70 extends outwardly from the plate 66 and carries a rod support 74 which has a recess 72 which has a generally U-shaped profile. The web 70 may have a hole 73 to reduce material and lighten the weight of the bracket 60.

The recess 72 may be formed from a box section U-shaped profile 73 so the recess has some extent in a direction parallel to the plates 65 and 66 (generally into and out of the plane of the paper in Figure 9) .

The rod support 74 is formed from two arms 74a and a transition section 74b between the arms. The arms 74a are notched at 74c so that, if desired, a wire can be wrapped around the arms 74a in the notches 74c to hold the rod 26 in the recess 72. This prevents release of the rod 72 during pouring of a concrete mix (as will be described hereinafter) if significant loads are applied to the components of the wall construction during forming of the wall construction. In other embodiments, one of the arms 74a or 74b may be provided with an integrally hinged cap which can clip over the other of the arms to close the recess 72 and therefore lock the rod 26 in the recess 72.

Figure 7 shows a second bracket 80 used in the preferred embodiment of the invention. The bracket 80 has a connection plate 81 having a hole 83 and a support plate 82 connected to the plate 81 by a horizontal web 83. The plate 82 carries a connection web 70 and a U-shaped recess 72 formed from box section 73 which is identical to the corresponding components shown in Figure 9.

The tab 75 in the bracket 60 provides a fixing point for fixing the bracket 72 to an end wall or the like if desired.

As is best shown in Figures 11, 12 and 13, the brackets 60 and 80 connect to the post 40 formed from the segments 39 by locating the bosses 50 through the hole 62 of the bracket 60 or the hole 83 of the bracket 80. Typically, the bosses 50 are designed with respect to the holes so that the brackets are located on the bosses 50 and turned 90° to the orientation shown in Figures 11, 12 and 13, and then when located, are rotated into the position shown in Figures 11, 12 and 13 so that the boss 50 prevents the bracket from being withdrawn off the boss 50 in a horizontal direction. The lugs 57 or 58 support bottom edges of the respective plates 61 and 81. The lug 58 is inverted with respect to the lug 57 so that the if the segment 39' shown in Figure 11 is arranged in the reverse orientation, the lug 58 would be used to support the bottom edge of the plate 81 shown in Figure 8. Thus, the segments 39 can be located either way up and joined together as previously described, without effecting the operation of the formed post 40.

As is shown in Figure 11, the brackets 80 are located on one face (that which forms the face 41 of the post 40 shown in Figure 11) and the brackets 60 are located on the opposite face 41.

Figures 14, 15 and 16 show a wall construction according to one embodiment of the invention . With reference to these figures, a framework is formed from the posts 40 and the brackets 60 and 80 are connected to the posts 40 as previously described.

As is apparent from Figure 14, brackets 60 and 80 are aligned horizontally, and the rod 26 which may be circular in cross-section and formed from metal, is located in the recesses 72 of each of the horizontally aligned brackets 60 and each of the horizontally aligned recesses 72 of the brackets 80.

A first set 8 of panels 10 and 11 are located on the posts 40 by locating the horizontally aligned recesses 24 of each panel 10 or 11 on one of the rods 26. The rod 26 will be locked in the recesses 24 when the panel immediately above that panel is located in place by the L- shaped leg 29 and wall section 27, as is shown in Figure 3A.

Thus, the panels 10 and 11 are connected to the posts 40 by arranging the panels 10 and 11 on the rods 26 which in turn are held by the brackets 60, and the brackets 60 are fastened to the posts 40 as previously described.

A partition 90 formed from a plurality of partition plates 91 are located in the brackets 60 by locating a top edge of -the partition plates 91 between the plates 65 and 66 above the web 68 and the top edge of another partition plate 91 between the plates 65 and 66 below the web 68. Thus, the plates 65 and 66 sandwich edges of the partition plates 91 to hold the partition plates in position so that the partition 90 defines a first space 100 between the panels 10 and the partition 90 and a second space 101 between the partition 90 and the posts 40. The partition 90 may be formed from cement sheet backing or any other suitable material.

A flowable concrete mix is poured in the space 100 between the panels 10 and 11 and the partition 90 so as to fill the space 100 and so that the mix migrates out through the apertures 20 in the panels 10 so that the outer surface of the wall construction can be formed.

The corrugated form of the panels 10 and 11 provide rigidity to the panels and also facilitates adherence of the mix to the panels 10 and 11 as the mix migrates through the apertures 20. Thus, the mix tends to hold onto the outer surface of the panels 10 and 11 where the mix can then be smoothed by trowelling or floating or the like to form the outer surface of the wall construction.

If desired, the outer surface can be finished simply by painting or by application of an acrylic render 102.

Thus , as will be apparent from the above description , the set 8 of the panels 10 and 11 and the brackets 60 to the left of the partition 90 in Figure 15, as well as the rods 26 , are completely embedded in the concrete mix . Thus , the formwork used to form the wall need not be removed and the panels 10 and 11, brackets 60 and rods 26 provide additional reinforcing to the concrete mix used to form the wall construction. The space 100 forms a moisture cavity 101.

The cavity 101 plays a significant role in the wall construction because it provides a moisture cavity in which moisture can locate and be drained away so that it does not deteriorate the wall construction. The moisture may come from moisture which permeates out from the concrete mix or which passes through the wall construction after formation of the wall construction from the outside .

In the embodiment shown in Figure 15 , a paper vapour barrier 104 can be connected to the posts 40 before the brackets 63 are located in place. However, in other embodiments the barrier 104 could be located after securement of the brackets 60 by cutting the paper 104 around the brackets 60.

The embodiment of Figure 15 has a plurality of polystyrene insulated blocks 110 which are supported by the brackets 80 between the connection plate 81 and the support plate

82. The blocks 110 form a polystyrene insulation layer against the posts 40 and also define a third space 120 between the polystyrene insulating layer and a second set 9 of panels 10 and 11 which are connected to rods 26 supported by the brackets 80 in the same way that the panels 10 are supported to the brackets 60.

Again, the space 120 is filled by the concrete mix so the mix passes through the apertures 20 in the plates 10 and 11 and can be finished in the same manner as previously described to form the inner surface of the wall construction .

As is best shown in Figure 16, a fourth space 220 is provided between the posts 40. The space 220 can be used to locate utilities such as electrical wiring, plumbing and the like in the wall construction for supply of water and electricity to the building. The hollow posts 40 can also be used to contain wiring or plumbing if required.

If necessary or desired, the moisture cavity 101 can also accommodate some utility fixtures such as wiring or plumbing. If the barrier 104 is not used, the spaces 101 can form a single cavity which acts as both a permanent moisture cavity and also a cavity for receiving the above- mentioned utilities .

Figure 17 shows another embodiment of the invention in which the wall construction is for a veneer domestic dwelling. In this embodiment the framework is formed from wall frame 130 which has a plurality of vertical wooden studs 132. The brackets 60 are connected direct to the studs 132 by nails or any other suitable fasteners . The brackets 60 support the partition 90 and the panels 10 and 11 in the same manner as described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. The outer surface of the wall construction in the embodiment of Figure 17 is also formed in the same manner as described with reference to Figures 14 and 15.

In this embodiment the inner surface of the wall can be completed by a layer of plasterboard 140, as is conventional, or by a wall structure which uses the second set of panels 10 ' described with reference to Figure 15.

Additional insulating paper can be supplied to the wall structure by securing the paper to the posts 40 in the embodiment of Figure 15 or to the studs 132 , such as is represented by insulating paper 133 in Figure 17. Again, the insulating paper 133 can be secured in place before the brackets 60 are connected to the studs 132 or after the brackets are connected to the studs 132.

If desired, a stiffening member such as a metal tube or the like can be inserted into the post 40 to stabilise the post 40 whilst the wall construction is being formed and, in particular, until the concrete mix has hardened. The tubes can then be removed and used in a later wall construction for stiffening or reinforcing the post 40 if necessary.

The wall construction in Figure 17 may support roof trusses 170 of a roof frame of the dwelling by connecting the trusses 170 to the studs 132, as is usual.

The wall constructions of Figures 15 and 17 may be formed on precast slabs 190.

Figures 18 and 19 show a still further embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment the wall construction is formed from the posts 40 which are made up from the segments 39 previously described. The posts are arranged in side-by-side configuration. In this embodiment the posts 40 are turned 90° with respect to the orientation in the embodiments of Figures 15 and 17 so that the opposed faces which have the hooks 55 define the plane of the wall construction .

The aligned hooks 55 on the posts 40 support reinforcing rods 26 which are the same as those previously described. The panels 10 and 11 are connected to the reinforcing rods in the same manner as previously described so that a space 260 is formed between the set 8 of panels 10 and 11 on one face of the posts 40 and the set 9 of panels 10 and 11 on the opposite face of the posts 40, as is best shown in Figure 19. Concrete mix is poured into the spaces 260 between the posts 40 and the respective sets of panels so the mix can migrate through the perforations in the panels 10 and 11 in the same manner as previously described, and then be finished to complete the outer surface of the wall. The hollow posts 40 can be used to supply utilities such as plumbing and wiring to the building if required.

Thus, in this embodiment the brackets 60 and 80 are not used and the hooks 55 are used to directly support the rods 26 on the posts 40 so the panels can be attached in the same manner as described with reference to the earlier embodiments .

As is apparent from the previous description, the post 40 is formed from segments 39 which are identical and which are arranged so that one segment 39 is turned 180° with respect to the adjacent segment 39. The result of this is that a hook 55 is provided on each face of the post 40 on every second segment 39.

The top and bottom edges of panels 10 and 11 which are not directly supported on a rod 26 such as the edges labelled E in Figure 18 are connected together by the tabs 30 locating in the apertures 33 as previously described. Because the wall construction of this embodiment is relatively thin and will contain less concrete mix than the other embodiments, the support of the panels at every second segment 39 and the connection of the other edges of the panels Ξ in the manner described above is sufficient to securely hold the panels 10 in place whilst the concrete mix is being poured and migrates through the apertures in the panels 10 and 11.

However, in other embodiments, if desired, additional hooks could be provided on the segments 39 so that each segment 39 will provide a hook on each of the opposite faces for supporting rods 26.

Once again, as in the earlier embodiments, when the concrete mix is poured and hardened, the rods 26 form reinforcing rods which are embedded in the concrete, as are the posts 40 and the panels 10 and 11.

Whilst the posts 40 and the configuration of the panels previously described are preferred, the brackets could be supported other than by posts 40 such as by attaching direct to existing framework or by other support members and the panels could be flat and formed from any material including metal .

Since modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may readily be effected by persons skilled within the art, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiment described by way of example hereinabove.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A system for forming a wall construction, comprising : a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being locatable in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction; a plurality of brackets for connection to a framework for supporting the panels, each bracket having a connection portion for attachment to the framework, a panel support portion for supporting the panels, and a partition support portion between the connection portion and the panel support portion for supporting a partition; and wherein when the brackets are connected to the framework and the brackets support the panels and the partition is supported by the partition support portion, a first space is defined between the panels and the partition for receiving a flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations and embeds the panels in the material, and a second space is provided between the partition and the framework for forming a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction.

2. The system of claim 1 further comprising a second set of brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels, the second set of panels having apertures , and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and on the opposite side of the framework to the first and second spaces, so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels, the third space being for receiving a flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction .

3. The system of claim 1 wherein the framework is formed from a plurality of posts, each post being formed from post segments which are connected end to end to form the respective posts .

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the system further comprises a plurality of rods, the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel .

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the partition support portion comprises a pair of spaced apart plates between which the partition is locatable.

7. The system of claim 2 wherein the connection portion comprises an end plate for abutting the framework, the end plate having an opening, and the framework having a stem for location in the opening.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein the framework also has an L-shaped lug for receiving a part of the plate spaced from the opening.

9. The system of claim 8 wherein the opening is provided on the framework, the stem on the plate and the lug on either the plate or the framework .

10. The system of claim 9 wherein the pair of plates which form the partition support portion are joined by a web and the pair of plates are connected to the connection portion by a connection web .

11. The system of claim 10 wherein the recess which forms the panel support portion of the brackets is connected to the partition support portion by a second connection web .

12. The system of claim 4 wherein the recess is U- shaped in profile .

13. The system of claim 1 wherein the framework is formed from a plurality of spaced apart frame members and the area between the frame members defines a fourth space .

14. A wall construction comprising: a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being located in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction; a framework; a plurality of brackets connected to the framework and supporting the panels , the brackets having a connection portion attached to the framework, a panel support portion for supporting the panels and a partition support portion between the connection portion and the panel support portion; a partition supported by the partition support portions so that a first space is defined between the panels and the partition, the first space containing a hardenable flowable construction material which, whilst flowable, migrates through the perforations and embeds the panels in the material , and a second space between the partition and the framework for forming a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction.

15. The wall construction of claim 14 wherein the wall construction further comprises an internal panel structure connected to the studs on a side of the studs opposite the brackets .

16. The wall construction of claim 14 wherein the internal wall structure may comprise plasterboard, or may be formed of a number of layers including insulation layer and a plasterboard layer .

17. The wall construction of claim 14 wherein a second set of brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels , and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels, the third space containing a hardenable flowable construction material which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction.

18. The wall construction of claim 14 wherein the framework is formed from a plurality of posts, each post being formed from post segments which are connected end to end to form the respective posts .

19. The wall construction of claim 17 wherein the wall construction further comprises a plurality of rods , the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels.

20. The wall construction of claim 19 wherein the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel .

21. The wall construction of claim 17 wherein the partition support portion comprises a pair of spaced apart plates between which the partition is locatable.

22. The wall construction of claim 18 wherein the connection portion comprises an end plate for abutting the framework, the end plate having an opening, and the framework having a stem for location in the opening.

23. The wall construction of claim 22 wherein the framework also has an L-shaped lug for receiving a part of the plate spaced from the opening .

24. The wall construction of claim 17 wherein the pair of plates which form the partition support portion are joined by a web and the pair of plates are connected to the connection portion by a connection web .

25. The wall construction of claim 24 wherein the recess which forms the panel support portion of the brackets is connected to the partition support portion by a second connection web.

26. The wall construction of claim 24 wherein the recess is U-shaped in profile.

27. A method of forming a wall construction comprising: providing a plurality of panels , each having perforations, and locating the panels to define substantially the plane of the wall construction; coupling the panels to a framework so the panels are supported in the side-by-side configuration; locating a partition between the panels and the framework to define a first space between the panels and the partition and a second space between the partition and the framework ; pouring a flowable construction material into the first space so the material migrates through the perforations in the panels to embed the panels in the material and so the material which passes through the perforations provides an outer surface of the wall construction; and wherein the second space forms a permanent moisture cavity in the wall construction, substantially parallel to the outer surface of the wall construction .

28. The method of claim 27 wherein the method further comprises forming one of an inner and outer surface from the material which migrates through the apertures .

29. The method of claim 27 wherein the panels are supported by providing brackets and attaching the brackets to the framework and supporting the panels from the brackets.

30 . The method of claim 29 wherein the method further comprises connecting an internal panel structure connected to the studs on a side of the studs opposite the brackets .

31. The method of claim 29 wherein a second set of brackets are provided, the second set of brackets having a second connection portion for connection to the framework, a second panel support portion for supporting a second set of panels in side-by-side configuration opposite to and spaced from the previously said panels , and an ancillary support portion between the second connection portion and second panel support portion for supporting a second panel member adjacent the framework and so that a third space is defined between the second panel member and the second panels, supplying a flowable construction material to the third space which migrates through the perforations in the second panels to embed the second panels in the material and so that the material which migrates through the second panels provides the other of the inner and outer surface of the wall construction.

32. The method of claim 31 wherein the method further comprises providing a plurality of rods, the panel support portions of the brackets comprising a recess, and the panels having aligned recesses so that the rods can be located in the aligned recesses of the panels and the rods being receivable in the recesses of the brackets so the brackets therefore support the panels.

33. The method of claim 32 wherein the rods are locked in place by the location of one panel immediately above another said panel so that the recesses in the another said panel are closed by the panel above the said another said panel .

34. A system for forming a wall construction, comprising : a plurality of panels, each having perforations, the panels being located in side-by-side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction; a plurality of posts, each post having a first face and a second opposite face, connectors on the first faces and the connectors on the second faces; a plurality of rods for location in connectors on the respective first and second faces by attaching the rods to aligned connectors of spaced apart posts when the wall construction is being constructed; and wherein a first set of the plurality of panels is locatable on the rods associated with the connectors of one of the faces and a second set of panels is connectable to the rods associated with the connectors on the other face, and wherein when the sets of panels are so located, a space is defined between the panels for receiving a flowable construction material so that the material can migrate through the perforations in the panels to embed the panels , rods and posts in the material and so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

35. The system of claim 34 wherein the connectors comprise hooks and the rods are supported by the hooks by locating the rods on the hooks .

36. The system of claim 34 wherein the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods, the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together.

37. The system of claim 36 wherein the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel, and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel .

38. The system of claim 34 wherein the posts are formed from a plurality of post segments , each post segment having one hook.

39. A wall construction comprising: a plurality of spaced apart posts , the posts having opposed faces ; at least one connector on each of the opposed faces of each post; a rod supported by the connectors on one face, and a rod supported by the connectors on the other face of the posts; a plurality of panels supported on the rods , the panels having perforations and being located in side-by- side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction, the panels defining a space therebetween ; and a hardenable flowable material mix located in the space which migrates through the perforations so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

40. The wall construction of claim 39 wherein the connectors comprise hooks and the rods are supported by the hooks by locating the rods on the hooks.

41. The wall construction of claim 39 wherein the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods , the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together.

42. The wall construction of claim 41 wherein the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel , and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel .

43. The wall construction of claim 39 wherein the posts are formed from a plurality of post segments, each post segment having one hook .

44. A method of forming a wall construction comprising: providing a plurality of spaced apart posts, the posts having opposed faces, and at least one connector on each face of each post; supporting a rod by the connectors on one face, and supporting a rod by the connectors on the other face of the posts; locating a plurality of panels on the rods , the panels having perforations and being located in side-by- side configuration to substantially define the plane of the wall construction, the panels defining a space therebetween; and supplying a hardenable flowable material mix to the space which migrates through the perforations so the material which passes through the perforations provides surfaces of the wall construction.

45. The method of claim 44 wherein the connectors comprise hooks and the rods are supported by the hooks by locating the rods on the hooks .

46. The method of claim 45 wherein the panels have recesses for receiving the rod to attach the sets of panels to respective rods, the panels having interconnecting elements for interconnecting the plurality of panels of each set of panels together.

47. The wall construction of claim 46 wherein the interconnecting elements comprise lugs on a lower edge of the panel which locates in a recess in an upper edge of another panel, and a hook on one side edge of the panel which locates in an eye on the side edge of another panel .

48. The wall construction of claim 44 wherein the posts are formed from a plurality of post segments, each post segment having one hook.

49. A bracket for use in a wall construction, the bracket comprising: a connection portion for connecting the bracket to an article; a recess for supporting a rod; and a support portion between the connection portion and the recess for supporting an ancillary member between the connection portion and the recess .

50. The bracket of claim 49 wherein the support portion comprises a pair of spaced apart plates defining a space for receiving the ancillary member .

51. The bracket of claim 50 wherein the spaced apart plates are connected to the recess and the connection portion by webs .

52. The bracket of claim 51 wherein the spaced apart plates are joined together by a connecting web.