WO2023053047A1

WO2023053047A1 - Adjustable timber pole foundation structure

Info

Publication number: WO2023053047A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/059269
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Matthias REELICK
Original assignee: Ttt Products Advanced Limited
Priority date: 2021-09-29
Filing date: 2022-09-29
Publication date: 2023-04-06

Abstract

An adjustable foundation for supporting a structure above is disclosed. The foundation comprises a first layer of timber poles 3A parallel and spaced apart from each other, and a second layer of timber poles 4A parallel and spaced apart from each other, to the first layer. The second layer on top of, and fastened to, the first layer. The level or the height of the structure supported by the foundation can be easily adjusted manually or automatically using adjustment assembly affixed to each intersection of the poles 3A, 4A.

Description

ADJUSTABLE TIMBER POLE FOUNDATION STRUCTURE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an adjustable timber pole foundation structure.

BACKGROUND

A foundation is an element of construction that connects a building to the ground. It can transfer loads from the building to the ground. Foundations are generally considered either shallow or deep or a combination of both depending on the ground conditions below the building.

Shallow foundations are usually embedded about a metre or so into soil.

A common type of shallow foundation is the slab or raft foundation where the weight of the building is transferred to the soil through a concrete slab placed at or near the surface. Slab foundations can be reinforced mat slabs, which range from 25 cm to several meters thick, depending on the size of the building, or post-tensioned slabs, which are typically at least 20 cm for houses, and thicker for heavier structures.

For a timber floor house foundation the usual method in New Zealand and many other countries is to dig out a pit approximately 800mm-1000mm of earth and remove off site. The costs for disposing this soil/earth off-site can be high particularly if environmental levies are charged. This may occur if the soil has been contaminated or if cross contamination between pit soil and the environment at where it is disposed may occur. Or if soil treatment is necessary prior to final disposal.

A minimum ground pressure condition is needed to ensure the foundation and structure are sufficiently supported by the ground. For example, the pit typically needs to provide 200kPa ground conditions.

In known shallow foundation constructions, a gravel raft may be created in the pit and may be composed of compacted gravel with layers of geocloth between. Concrete may then be poured over to create a concrete slab on top of the gravel raft. This may be approximately 150-400mm thick as an example.

Square timber foundation piles (jack studs) may be vertically installed in and project above the concrete as the concrete slab is being constructed. Bearers, joists, framework and I or formwork may be supported by the exposed jack studs.

The process of creating this foundation is time consuming because of the number of steps and the often different trades or suppliers of materials being involved. The weight of this sort of foundation for a 200sqm house may be in the order of 240 tonne.

Typical concrete raft or slab foundations are brittle due the nature of the concrete. They are strong but not very resilient. Concrete slab foundations may also be prone to shifting and elevation by liquefaction in earthquake prone areas. This can damage the foundation.

Once a concrete slab foundation has been laid it may be very difficult to move or modify or repair. Removal involves destruction of the concrete slab foundation. It cannot be reused after.

There may be various reasons why levelling or re-levelling of a structure supported by the foundation may required during or well after its initial construction. For example, a seismic event or earthquake may cause the foundation to be distorted thereby moving the structure supported by the foundation in a manner that may be or become dangerous or perhaps just problematic. Similarly, many other factors such as but not limited to land deformation, inferior construction of a building, inferior installation of the foundation, unprepared ground, seasonal conditions, physical impact etc., can also contribute to distortion of the levelling and may warrant adjustment of the levelling.

Crawling underneath a structure in an attempt to remediate levelling can be difficult and, in some cases, may be impossible depending upon how and where the foundation structure is installed. Also, re-adjustment for levelling can require digging or dismantling the flooring structure supported by the foundation in order to access the area so that the structure can be re-levelled, i.e. re-adjusted. The process can be tedious, time-consuming, expensive and often require specialists' skills. Additionally, not all parts of the levelling will necessarily be distorted, in which case levelling the entire structure can be unnecessary, time consuming and expensive process.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide an adjustable timber pole foundation that overcomes or at least ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

Additionally, or alternatively, it is an object of the present invention to provide an adjustment assembly and/or device that overcomes or at least ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

Additionally, or alternatively, it is an object of the present invention to provide a level adjustment system and/or method that overcomes or at least ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the present invention resides in an adjustable foundation for supporting a structure of a part of the structure above, the foundation comprising: a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer (preferably at an angle) to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles, wherein the foundation further comprises a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies being configured to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at/above the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

In one embodiment, the plurality of adjustable assemblies is mounted at each pole to pole intersection of each of the at least two poles of the second layer and each of the at least two poles of the second layer.

In one embodiment, the plurality of adjustable assemblies is mounted at at least one of the pole to pole intersections of the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the second layer.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of the adjustment assemblies is configured to raise or lower the level of the structure or the part of the structure at a portion of the structure or part of the structure at which it is mounted.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies comprises: a bearer configured to engage with the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the adjustable foundation and bear a load or part of the load of the structure; and a height adjustment mechanism that is physically and operatively connected to at least the bearer to adjust height or vertical between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure at the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted.

In one embodiment, the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least one threaded fastener that is externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, wherein the rotation of the at least one threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the at least one threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one threaded fastener is a stud or a bolt.

In one embodiment, the at least one threaded fastener is a first threaded fastener and the height adjustment mechanism comprises further comprises a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least a first threaded fastener and a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the second threaded fastener is located more proximal to the structure or the part of the structure than the first threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the first threaded fastener is integrally formed with the second threaded fastener to form a fastener that is the threaded fastener, the threaded fastener being a single piece fastener..

In one embodiment, the second threaded fastener and/or the first threaded fastener is/are a stud.

In one embodiment, the external thread of the first threaded fastener is a right hand thread and the external thread of the second threaded fastener is a left hand thread.

In one embodiment, the external thread of the second threaded fastener is a right hand thread and the external thread of the first threaded fastener is a left hand thread.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies comprise the penetrated fastener.

In one embodiment, the bearer is a substantially U-shaped bracket with a base portion (preferably having a planar surface) located between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the bracket, the height adjustment mechanism being physically and operatively connected to the bearer at at least the base portion of the bearer.

In one embodiment, the first sidewall and/or second sidewall comprises at least one screw hole for receiving at least one screw.

In one embodiment, the bearer is made out of a metallic material, e.g. stainless steel.

In one embodiment, the structure or the part of the structure comprises or is a framing system and the bearer is configured to receive a joist of a beam of the framing system.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is an electrical lifting mechanism.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is a hydraulic lifting mechanism.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is located between the bearer and the second layer of the poles.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is mounted at each pole to pole intersection of each of the at least two poles of the second layer.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is a scissor jack. In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is able to be controlled remotely.

In one embodiment, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies further comprises at least one level sensor that is configured to detect any change in level between the second layer of poles and the structure or the part of the structure as at least measured one level change value, the at least one level sensor being operatively connected to at least one controller, the at least one controller being programmed to read and compare the at least one measured level change value with at least one predetermined threshold level change value and performing a control action when the at least one measured level change value is exceeds the threshold level change value, the control action being transmitting of at least one control signal to the height adjustment mechanism of that adjustment assembly to adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor comprises a sensor tank that is partially filled with a liquid medium and housing a first sensing probe that is at least partially immersed into the liquid medium and a second sensing probe that is above the level of the liquid medium, wherein the control action is performed when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium; ii. the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; iii. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium; and iv. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the at least one measured level change value exceeds the threshold level change value, when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium; ii. the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; iii. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium; and iv. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure is lowered when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium. In one embodiment, the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure is raised when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor is a capacitance level sensor.

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor detects a change in capacitance when the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium or when the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium, wherein the change in capacitance corresponds to the at least one measured level change value.

In one embodiment, the liquid medium is or comprises water.

In one embodiment, the liquid medium is or comprises glycol.

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor of each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies are fluidly connected to each other (e.g., using at least one conduit).

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor of each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies are fluidly connected to a reservoir storing the liquid medium (e.g., using at least one conduit).

In one embodiment, the at least one controller is a programmable logic controller (PLC).

In one embodiment, the at least one controller is common to all of the plurality of adjustment assemblies.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises an internally threaded nut that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the bearer to receive and threadedly engage the second threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises an internally threaded nut that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the second threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the bearer comprises a hole for the first threaded fastener and/or the second threaded fastener to pass through.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises a plate.

In one embodiment, the plate is a metallic plate (e.g., stainless steel plate).

In one embodiment, a hole is formed in the centre of the plate.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism further comprises a or the threaded fastener that is configured to be received by the hole in the plate.

In one embodiment, the hole in the plate is a threaded hole that is configured to threadedly engage with the threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the threaded fastener is or comprises a rod that is externally threaded. In one embodiment, the threaded fastener is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism comprises an internally threaded nut that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener.

In one embodiment, the internally threaded nut is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted within a tube that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener.

In one embodiment, the tube that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener is located at an end of the penetrated fastener that is at or proximal to the second layer of the pole(s).

In one embodiment, the threaded fastener is a bolt or a stud (e.g., M20 bolt or a M20 stud).

In one embodiment, a nut (a threaded fastener nut) is welded to the threaded fastener at an end that is distal from the second layer of the pole(s) to facilitate the rotation of the threaded fastener using external tools.

In one embodiment, the external thread of a lower portion of the threaded fastener is a right-hand thread, and the external thread of the upper portion of the threaded fastener is a left-hand thread.

In one embodiment, the external thread of the lower portion of the threaded fastener is a left-hand thread and the external thread of the upper portion of the threaded fastener is a right-hand thread.

In one embodiment, the upper portion of the threaded fastener is integrally formed with the lower portion of the threaded fastener so that the double threaded fastener is a single piece fastener.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism further comprises a plurality of bolts.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism further comprises four bolts.

In one embodiment, the bolts are socket-head bolts with washers.

In one embodiment, the bolts are screwed into the plate.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism further comprises a second plate with smaller diameter than the plate (first plate).

In one embodiment, the second plate is positioned above and parallel to the plate (first plate).

In one embodiment, the bolts are screwed into the plate (first plate) by passing through the second plate. In one embodiment, there is a hole that is a second plate hole that is configured to align with the hole of the plate (first plate)and the threaded fastener is configured to be received by the hole and the second plate hole.

In one embodiment, the second plate hole is of the same size and have same features as hole of the plate (first plate).

In one embodiment, a hole in the threaded nut is of the same size and have same features as the hole of the plate (first plate).

In one embodiment, the hole of the threaded nut is configured to align with the hole of the plate (first plate) and the hole of the second plate so that a threaded fastener can be received by the hole of the second plate, the hole of the plate (first plate) and the hole of the threaded fastener respectively.

In one embodiment, two load spreading plates are located on the pole(s) of the second layer.

In one embodiment, the load spreading plates are spaced apart from each other and are secured to the pole(s) of the second layer by fasteners such as screws so that the penetrated fastener is located between the two load spreading plates.

In one embodiment, the load spreading plates are positioned below and parallel to the plate (first plate).

In one embodiment, the bolts are screwed into the plate (first plate) by passing through the second plate and the load spreading plates.

In one embodiment, the plate (first plate) is sandwiched between the second plate and the load spreading plates.

In one embodiment, the load spreading plates are part of the height adjustment mechanism.

In one embodiment, the the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is a floor (e.g., floor of a building).

In one embodiment, a cavity or hole or an aperture is drilled or otherwise formed on the floor and a tube (e.g., a plastic tube) is placed inside the cavity.

In one embodiment, the floor is a concrete floor.

In one embodiment, the floor is a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) floor.

In one embodiment, the floor is a timber floor.

In one embodiment, the tube is located above the plate (first plate) in a vertical orientation.

In one embodiment, a cap (e.g., a plastic cap) is placed on a top end of the tube that is distal from the second layer of the pole(s) so that the cap fully conceals the height adjustment mechanism when viewed from a top surface of the floor.

In one embodiment, the sleeve (e.g., plastic sleeve) is inserted to cover the threads of the threaded fastener. In one embodiment, the cap is of the same level as the surface (top surface) of the floor when in closed configuration..

In one aspect, the threaded fastener is configured to be rotated until the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is re-levelled or levelled to the desired level.

In one embodiment, a void is left under the floor when the floor height is increased by adjusting the threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the void is configured to receive a grout and/or epoxy.

In one embodiment, the bearer is the form of a U-shaped bracket comprising the base portion, the first side wall and the second sidewall, the base portion being located between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

In one embodiment, at least one or a plurality of screw holes are located in each of the first and second sidewalls.

In one embodiment, there are two screw holes located in each of the side walls.

In one embodiment, the planer surface comprises a fastener receiving hole that is configured to receive the threaded fastener, first threaded fastener or second threaded fastener to allow the threaded fastener, first threaded fastener or second threaded fastener to pass through the fastener receiving hole.

In one embodiment, the fastener receiving hole is located at the centre of the base portion.

In one embodiment, one or more slots are be formed on the base portion.

In one embodiment, a rib is formed below the or each slot and below the base portion, the rib extending longitudinally in the direction from the first side wall to the second sidewall or vice versa.

In one embodiment, the foundation is a foundation structure located above a planar surface such as a ground.

In one embodiment, the foundation structure comprises a primary foundation formed by a plurality of poles.

In one embodiment, a secondary foundation is located above the primary foundation.

In one embodiment, the secondary foundation is formed of a plurality of horizontal beams forming a frame structure and a plurality of vertical beams that are located above the horizontal beams and supported by the horizontal beams.

In one embodiment, the frame structure is a rectangular or a square structure having four sides.

In one embodiment, the frame structure may be fully made out of a metallic material such as but not limited to iron, aluminium, steel etc. In one embodiment, the foundation structure is configured to support a structure such as a prefabricated building above the secondary foundation.

In one embodiment, the prefabricated building (not shown) is configured to be connected, mounted or fastened to and supported above the vertical beams of the primary foundation.

In one embodiment, the primary foundation may be attached to the secondary foundation using height adjustment mechanism as defined in any one of the statements above.

In one embodiment, the is a bracket that is hollow tubular in shape.

In one embodiment, the nearer comprises a plurality of slots (preferably at a top and/or a bottom surface of the bearer).

In one embodiment, the is made out of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel.

In a second aspect, the invention resides in an adjustment assembly for adjusting a level of a structure or a part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, the foundation comprising a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer (preferably at an angle) to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles, wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to be mounted to a pole to pole intersection to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure at the pole to pole intersection to which the adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, the pole to pole intersection being an intersection of one of the first layer of at least two timber poles and one of the second layer of at least two timber poles.

In one embodiment, the adjustment assembly is configured to raise or lower the level of the structure or the part of the structure at which it is mounted.

In one embodiment, the adjustment assembly further comprises: a bearer configured to engage with the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the adjustable foundation and bear a load or part of the load of the structure or the part of the structure; and a height adjustment mechanism that is physically and operatively connected to at least the bearer to adjust height or vertical distance between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure at the pole to pole intersection to which the adjustment assembly is mounted.

In one embodiment, the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least one threaded fastener that is externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, wherein the rotation of the at least one threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the at least one threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one threaded fastener is a stud or a bolt.

In one embodiment, the at least one fastener is a first threaded fastener and the height adjustment mechanism comprises further comprises a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein, the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least a first threaded fastener and a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener.

In one embodiment, the adjustment assembly comprises the penetrated fastener.

In one embodiment, the bearer made out of a metallic material, e.g. stainless steel.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is a scissor jack.

In one embodiment, the height adjustment mechanism is able to be controlled remotely.

In one embodiment, the adjustment assembly further comprises at least one level sensor that is configured to detect any change in level between the second layer of poles and the structure or the part of the structure as at least one measured level change value, the at least one level sensor being operatively connected to at least one controller, the at least one controller being programmed to read and compare the at least one measured level change value with at least one predetermined threshold level change value and performing a control action when the at least one measured level change value is exceeds the threshold level change value, the control action being transmitting of at least one control signal to the height adjustment mechanism of that adjustment assembly to adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure.

In one embodiment, the at least one measured level change value exceeds the threshold level change value, when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium; ii. the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; iii. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium; iv. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure is lowered when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure is raised when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor is a capacitance level sensor.

In one embodiment, the liquid medium is or comprises water. In one embodiment, the liquid medium is or comprises glycol. In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor of the adjustment assembly is fluidly connected to at least one level sensor of at least one other adjustment assembly (e.g., using at least one conduit).

In one embodiment, the at least one level sensor of the adjustment assembly and the at least one level sensor of said at least one other adjustment assembly are fluidly connected (e.g., using at least one conduit) to a reservoir storing the liquid medium.

One or more statements of the first aspect may equally apply the second aspect.

In a third aspect, the invention resides in a level adjustment system that is configured to be used with a foundation for supporting a structure or a part of the structure above, the system comprising: i. the foundation comprising a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer (preferably at an angle) to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles; and ii. a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies being configured to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

One or more statements of the first aspect may equally apply the third aspect.

In a fourth aspect, the invention resides in a level adjustment system that is configured to be used with a foundation for supporting a structure or the part of the structure above, the system comprising: a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at multiple positions within the foundation and adjust height or vertical distance between the foundation and the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at one or more of said multiple position to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or part of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

One or more statements of the first aspect may equally apply the fourth aspect.

In a fifth aspect, the invention resides in a foundation comprising the level adjustment system as defined in the fourth aspect.

In one embodiment, the foundation comprises: a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other and b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer (preferably at an angle) to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles.

One or more statements of the first aspect may equally apply the fifth aspect.

One or more of the following statements may apply to any one or more of the above aspects.

In one embodiment, the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow.

In one embodiment, at each intersection, the penetrated fastener extends vertically.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener extends upwardly from a first layer pole into the juxtaposed second layer pole.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is not exposed at where the poles at the intersection touch.

In one embodiment, at each intersection the first layer pole includes a hole that is selected from one of a blind hole and a through hole and the juxtaposed second layer pole includes a through hole in axial alignment with said hole of said first layer pole, the penetrated fastener located in said hole of said first layer pole and said hole of said second layer pole.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener comprises a straight rigid tube or rod.

In one embodiment, the rod is circular in cross section or other.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is a rigid pipe or round rod. It is preferably straight and elongate. Preferably having two opposed ends. In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener has a head at one end of the penetrated fastener to locate against the outer surface of the first layer pole and has a shank passing through the first layer pole and second layer pole, the penetrated fastener also having a threaded end opposite it's one end where the head is provided configured to receive a nut to be located on the outer surface of the second layer pole.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener has a head at one end of the penetrated fastener to locate against the outer surface of the first layer pole and has a shank passing through the first layer pole and second layer pole and a vertical jack stud, the penetrated fastener having a threaded end opposite it's one end where the head is provided, configured to receive a nut to be located on an outer surface of the jack stud.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is a dowel.

In one embodiment, the dowel is located in a blind hole of the first layer pole and a through hole of the second layer pole.

In one embodiment, the dowel has a diameter of at least 30mm.

In one embodiment, the dowel has a diameter of 30 mm to 100 mm.

In one embodiment, the dowel has a diameter of 10mm to 200 mm.

In one embodiment, the dowel has a diameter of 60 mm.

In one embodiment, the hole in which the dowel is located in has a diameter the same or greater than that of the dowel so as to form a locational fit.

In one embodiment, the hole in which the dowel is located in has a diameter 62 mm.

In one embodiment, a vertical jack stud is located above, and supported by, the second layer pole at a said intersection.

In one embodiment, the vertical jack stud is located above and directly on the second layer pole at a said intersection.

In one embodiment, the second layer pole between intersections.

In one embodiment, a vertical jack stud is located above (preferably directly on) the respective pole both at an intersection and between intersections.

In one embodiment, the jack stud is of a pole shape.

In one embodiment, the jack stud has a scalloped end to thereat have a complementary fit with the respective pole the jack stud abuts.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener penetrates the jack stud.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is located in a blind hole or bore in the first layer pole.

In one embodiment, the jack stud has a blind hole extending into the jack stud from its bottom face up and into which a said penetrated fastener extends. In one embodiment, the jack stud is able to support one of timber joists, metal joists, flooring, bearers and framing of or for a structure or the part of the structure to be supported above.

In one embodiment, at each intersection where a said penetrated fastener is located, the penetrated fastener is pinned to the first layer pole by a first pin passing laterally through said penetrated fastener and at least partially through said first layer pole.

In one embodiment, at each intersection where a said penetrated fastener is located, the penetrated fastener is pinned to the second layer pole by a second pin passing laterally through said penetrated fastener and at least partially through said second layer pole.

In one embodiment, at each intersection where a said penetrated fastener is located, the penetrated fastener is pinned to the jack stud by a jack pin passing laterally through said penetrated fastener and at least partially through said jack stud.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener comprises a first orifice to accept said first pin.

In one embodiment, the first layer pole comprises a complementary first orifice to accept said first pin.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener comprises a second orifice to accept said second pin.

In one embodiment, the second layer pole comprises a complementary second orifice to accept said second pin.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener comprises a jack orifice to accept said jack pin.

In one embodiment, the jack stud comprises a complementary jack orifice to accept said second pin.

In one embodiment, one or more of the first pin, second pin and jack pin is composed of a material selected from one of stainless steel, mild steel, fibreglass, timber and plastics.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is composed of a material selected from one of stainless steel, mild steel, fibreglass, timber and plastics.

In one embodiment, the pins are held within the respective orifices by clips, nuts or fasteners configured to attach at one or both ends of the respective pin.

In one embodiment, the pins are located within the orifices by pressure and/or friction from the poles being compressed together.

In one embodiment, the orifices and the complementary orifices have an easy running to locational clearance with the respective pins they locate. In one embodiment, the orifices and the complementary orifices have an interference fit with the respective pins they locate.

In one embodiment, the pin or pins are straight and elongate.

In one embodiment, the pins have a diameter between 3 and 30mm.

In one embodiment, the pins have a diameter between 3 and 100mm.

In one embodiment, the pins have a diameter of 17mm.

In one embodiment, the orifices have a diameter 1 mm greater than the pins they locate.

In one embodiment, the orifices have a diameter between 4mm and 35 mm.

In one embodiment, the orifices have a diameter between 4mm and 105 mm.

In one embodiment, the orifices are 18 mm in diameter.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener is tension.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener, between the first layer pole pin and one or both of the second pole pin and jack stud pin is tension.

In one embodiment, the first layer poles and the second layer poles are held in a compressed manner at at least some intersections by said fastener.

In one embodiment, the first layer poles and the second layer poles are held in a compressed manner at each said intersection by said fastener.

In one embodiment, compression is kept between the first layer poles and the second layer poles by the introduction of the pins into the first orifice and at least one of either the second orifice or jack orifice, whilst the first layer poles and one or both of the second layer poles (and jack stud if provided) are under compression with each other.

In one embodiment, the penetrated fastener has a threaded end at or protruding out of top of the second layer pole or jack stud that can receive a threaded fastener to clamp/compress poles together.

In one embodiment, the first layer poles and the second layer poles are located together using a clevis type joint.

In one embodiment, there is no gap between abutting first layer pole and second layer pole at an intersection.

In one embodiment,, there is no more than 5 mm between abutting first and second layer poles and/or second layer poles and jack studs.

In one embodiment,, there is no more than 20 mm between abutting first and second layer poles and/or second layer poles and jack studs.

In one embodiment, the two poles at an intersection are compressed towards each other via an actuated threaded rod, the rod torqued between 50Nm and 150Nm.

In one embodiment, the two poles at an intersection are compressed towards each other via an actuated threaded rod, the rod torqued between lONm and 500Nm.

In one embodiment, the intersection is compressed using a torque of to lOONm. In one embodiment, the foundation is located on ground that directly supports the foundation.

In one embodiment, the foundation is assembled from discrete poles in situ on said ground.

In one embodiment, the foundation is able to be disassembled in a manner so that it can be re-assembled without repair, in another location.

In one embodiment, the foundation is located in a pit created into ground.

In one embodiment, the base of the pit is levelled with a granular material lined with a lining and the foundation is located onto the lining.

In one embodiment, the base of the pit is levelled with sand or other similar material, lined with a lining (e.g. geocloth) and the foundation is located (and preferably assembled) onto the geocloth.

In one embodiment, the foundation is at least in part embedded at least in part in earth that was removed to create the pit.

In one embodiment, the depth of the pit is at least 200 mm.

In one embodiment, the depth of the pit is at least 400 mm.

In one embodiment, the depth of the pit is 550 mm.

In one embodiment, the depth of the pit is at least 1000 mm.

In one embodiment, the depth of the pit is less than 700 mm.

In one embodiment, the pit is lined with a lining (e.g. geocloth) or other suitable membrane for prevention of liquefaction induced flows into the foundation region.

In one embodiment, geocloth is intermediate the first layer poles and the ground which supports them.

In one embodiment, the foundation offers support for a concrete pad.

In one embodiment, the foundation is in-filled with a particulate filler (e.g. earth) and a concrete pad is supported on top of the particulate filler.

In one embodiment, the foundation is able to support a concrete pad above the jack studs.

In one embodiment, a concrete pad is supported by the jack studs.

In one embodiment, formwork is supported by the jack studs.

In one embodiment, the vertical jack studs extend through and above a concrete pad.

In one embodiment, the second layer poles are partially covered in concrete.

In one embodiment, a concrete pad formwork is located on the second layer poles, the formwork having received a concrete pour and defining the base of the concrete pad.

In one embodiment, the angle between the first layer poles and the second layer poles is 90 degrees. In one embodiment, the second layer may include at least one additional pole that is not parallel to the at least two poles of the second layer.

In one embodiment, the first layer may include at least one additional pole that is not parallel to the at least two poles of the first layer.

In one embodiment, the second layer may include at least one additional pole that is not fastened to at least one of the at least two poles of the second layer.

In one embodiment, the first layer may include at least one additional pole that is not fastened to at least one of the at least two poles of the first layer.

In one embodiment, the poles have a minimum diameter of substantially 100mm.

In one embodiment, the poles have a maximum diameter of substantially 275mm.

In one embodiment, the poles have a maximum diameter of substantially 500mm.

In one embodiment, the poles are each of a substantially constant cross section along their respective length.

In one embodiment, the poles have a diameter between 150 and 275mm.

In one embodiment, the poles have a diameter between 100 and 500mm.

In one embodiment, the second layer poles have a smaller diameter than the first layer poles.

In one embodiment, the second layer poles have the same diameter as the first layer poles.

In one embodiment, the spaced parallel distance between poles of the same layer is between 1 and 5 metres.

In one embodiment, the poles are treated to prevent one or of the following; deterioration by insect, fungi, rot and moisture.

In one embodiment, the poles are made from timber logs that have been debarked and rounded.

In one embodiment,, the poles are of a generally constant diameter.

In one embodiment, the length of a first layer pole is at least 3 metres.

In one embodiment, the length of a second layer pole is at least 3 metres.

In one embodiment, one or more of the first layer pole and second layer pole may be spliced together with a respective first layer pole or second layer of to form said length.

In one embodiment, the length is provided by a single pole.

In one embodiment, the foundation is be assembled and supported on 100 kPa ground.

In one embodiment, the foundation is capable of being disassembled and removed from site in a non-destructive manner.

In one embodiment, the foundation is located under a structure that has required remedial foundation support or maintenance. In one embodiment, the foundation has been retrofitted by assembly in-situ under a building structure.

In one embodiment, the poles of each layer of poles are horizontal.

In one embodiment, all the poles of each layer of poles are horizontal.

In one embodiment, the poles of at least one layer of poles are at an angle to the horizontal.

In one embodiment, where provided, the jack stud extends vertically from the pole to which it is engaged.

In one embodiment, all the poles of at least one layer of poles are at an angle to the horizontal.

In one embodiment, the poles of at least one layer of poles are at an angle to the horizontal and the poles of the other layer of poles are horizontal.

In one embodiment, the foundation is supported on sloping ground.

In one embodiment, said layers are parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the second layer of poles are at an angle to at least the poles of the first layer on top of which they lie. This angle when seen in plan view is preferably 90 degrees.

In a sixth aspect, the invention resides in a method of adjusting a foundation comprising the following steps: a. preparing a ground site by removing earth to form a pit with a substantially planar base, b. placing a plurality of poles on the planar base to define a first layer of poles in the pit, and securing a plurality of poles to poles of the first layer to define a second layer of poles on top of the first layer of poles, c. mounting a plurality of adjustable assemblies at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the second layer poles and the first layer poles to adjust a level of a structure or a part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, and d. at at least one of the pole to pole intersection, adjusting height or vertical distance between the second layer of poles and a structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at the pole to pole intersection to which one of the plurality of adjustment assemblies is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

In one embodiment, the poles that define the second layer are arranged at an angle to the poles of the first layer.

In one embodiment, the angle is 90 degrees.

In one embodiment, the layers are parallel to each other. In one embodiment, the planar base is horizontal.

In one embodiment, the planar base is sloping.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a sheet material (e.g., geocloth) intermediate the pit base and the first layer.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing sand or levelling material intermediate the pit base and the sheet material and/or first layer.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of filling in the foundation containing pit with earth removed from the site to create the pit.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of compacting the earth.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of securing jack studs at one or more intersections.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a gravel base to the pit.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of a method of adjusting a foundation as herein described comprising: a. preparing a ground site by removing earth to form a pit with a substantially planar base, b. placing a plurality of poles on the planar base to define the first layer of poles in the pit, and securing a plurality of poles to poles of the first layer to define the second layer of poles on top of the first layer of poles, c. mounting a plurality of adjustable assemblies at each pole to pole intersection of each of the second layer poles and each of the first layer poles to adjust a level of a structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, and d. at at least one of the pole to pole intersection, adjusting height or vertical distance between the second layer of poles and a structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at the pole to pole intersection to which one of the plurality of adjustment assemblies is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

Another aspect of the invention relates a ground bearing foundation of a grid of overlapping straight timber poles, the foundation being an adjustable foundation the level or height of which can be adjusted.

In one embodiment, the poles are arranged so that a first layer of poles is provided that extend in a first plane and a second layer of poles is provided that extend in a second plane parallel to the first plane and wherein the poles of the first plane are not parallel to the poles of the second plane. In one embodiment, aspect of the invention relates to an in-situ assembled building foundation, the foundation being an adjustable foundation the level or height of which can be adjusted, the foundation being of a kind as herein described.

Another aspect of the invention relates a building supported on a foundation the foundation being an adjustable foundation the level or height of which can be adjusted, the foundation being as herein described wherein the foundation is supported on ground.

Another aspect of the invention relates a building supported on an adjustable foundation as defined by any of the above statements wherein the foundation is supported on ground.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a timber pole grid foundation comprising an upper layer of spaced apart (preferably parallel) poles supported upon a parallel lower layer of spaced apart (preferably parallel) poles extending laterally to the poles of the upper layer, wherein the poles of the lower layer are fastened to the poles of the upper layer at at least some of the intersections between the lower layer poles and upper layer poles, wherein the foundation being an adjustable foundation the level or height of which can be adjusted.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of stabilising a building supported on ground that has been adversely affected by changing ground conditions comprising assembling a foundation as described above for the building, causing the foundation to become vertically supporting of said building and adjusting the level or height of the foundation.

In one embodiment, the assembling occurs beneath the building.

In one embodiment, the assembling occurs adjacent the building and the building is subsequently shifted to be supported on top of the foundation.

In one embodiment, the building is able to be moved over the foundation and the or some of the jack studs are installed after the building is located above the foundation, the connection between the building and the jack studs being established after the jack studs are secured to the poles of the first and/or second layer.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a foundation for a building located above sloping ground, the foundation being an adjustable foundation the level or height of which can be adjusted, the foundation comprising : a. at a first plateau established at a first level of said sloping ground, a first foundation being the foundation as described above b. at a second plateau established at a second level of said sloping ground that is above the first level, a second foundation being the foundation as described above c. a plurality of poles extending upwardly from said first level extending poles (herein after "retaining poles") each secured to one of (a) a pole of said first layer of said first foundation and (b) a pole of said second layer of said first foundation, at a lower end of said retaining poles and to one of (a) a pole of said first layer of said second foundation and (b) a pole of said second layer of said second foundation, at an upper end of said retaining poles.

In one embodiment, the foundation further comprises a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the pole or at least two poles of the second layer and the pole or at least two poles of the first layer, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies being configured to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the pole and the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at/above the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

In one embodiment, the retaining poles are secured by being fastened at their upper and lower ends to respective poles of the foundations.

In one embodiment, the retaining poles area adapted and configured to bear against the poles of the upper and lower foundations and thereby be secured thereby.

In one embodiment, the retaining poles extend parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the retaining poles are spaced from each other to be able to provide a soil retaining function to the ground extending between the two plateaus.

In one embodiment, the retaining poles laterally abut each other.

Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications, cited above and below, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun. For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal" and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing or Figs, (figures). However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following description are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

It is acknowledged that the term "comprise" may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the term 'comprise' shall have an inclusive meaning, allowing for inclusion of not only the listed components or elements, but also other non-specified components or elements. The terms 'comprises' or 'comprised' or 'comprising' have a similar meaning when used in relation to the system or to one or more steps in a method or process.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, in this specification, use of the word 'substantially' with a term, to define a characterizing feature(s), gets all the benefit (i.e. benefit of any broadening) afforded by the use of the word 'substantially', and also includes within its scope the feature(s) being that term exactly, (without broadening). For example, if a feature is described/defined in the present specification as being 'substantially orthogonal' then that includes, within its scope, the feature being 'close' to orthogonal (in so far the word 'substantially' is deemed to broaden the term 'orthogonal'), and also includes within its scope the feature being 'exactly' orthogonal.

As used hereinbefore and hereinafter, "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

When used in the claims and unless stated otherwise, the word 'for' is to be interpreted to mean only 'suitable for', and not for example, specifically 'adapted' or ' configured' for the purpose that is stated.

It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings in which: Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an assembled foundation.

Fig. 2 shows a plan view of an assembled foundation.

Fig. 3 shows a side view of an assembled foundation.

Fig. 4 shows a side cross sectional view of an assembled foundation in a pit.

Fig. 5 shows a breakout perspective view of at an assembled intersection.

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment without a jack stud.

Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment with a threaded fastener.

Fig. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of an intersection.

Fig. 8A shows an exploded perspective view of an intersection of a different embodiment.

Fig. 9 shows a side view of an assembled intersection.

Fig. 10 shows an end view of an assembled intersection.

Fig. 11 shows a side view of a spliced pole.

Fig. 12 shows an end view of a spliced pole.

Fig. 13 A shows a side view of an assembled foundation in a pit supporting a formwork and concrete slab above the jack studs.

Fig. 13 B shows a side view of an assembled foundation in a pit supporting a framework by the jack studs.

Fig. 13 C shows a side view of an assembled foundation in a pit supporting a gravel raft and concrete slab.

Fig. 13 D shows a side view of an assembled foundation in a pit directly supporting a concrete slab.

Fig. 14 shows a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of a foundation of the present invention.

Fig. 15 shows a schematic side view of a sloping embodiment of a foundation of the present invention.

Fig. 16 shows a schematic side view of a drive through 2 part jack stud embodiment of a foundation of the present invention.

Fig. 17 shows a schematic side view of a 2 part jack stud as used in a drive through embodiment.

Fig. 18 a schematic side view of a drive through embodiment of a foundation with some of the jack studs removed or not installed.

Fig. 19 shows a schematic side view of a terraced embodiment of a foundation of the present invention.

Fig. 20A shows a perspective view of at an assembled intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention is to be fitted or mounted. Fig. 20B shows a perspective view of at an assembled intersection of Fig. 20A that is fitted or mounted with the adjustment assemble of one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 20C shows a structure in the form of framework/framing system whose level is to be adjusted using the adjustment assembly of Fig. 20B.

Fig. 20D shows a flooring 87 placed on top of the framework 82 of Fig. 20C.

Fig. 20E shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly of Fig. 20C.

Fig. 21A shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention may be fitted or mounted.

Fig. 21B shows the intersection of Fig. 21A that is fitted or mounted with the adjustment assembly another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 21C shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly of Fig. 21B in a lowered position.

Fig. 21D shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly of Fig. 21B in a raised or expanded position.

Fig. 22A shows a perspective view of a level sensor when in use with the adjustment assembly of Fig. 21B

Fig. 22B shows a perspective view of a height adjusting mechanism in the form of a scissor jack when in use with the adjustment assembly of Fig. 21B. Also partially shown is the level sensor of Fig. 22D.

Fig. 22C shows an example of foundation and structure that is supported by the foundation together with two adjustment assemblies.

Fig. 22D shows a schematic view of a foundation and structure that is supported by the foundation together with three adjustment assemblies that are operatively connected to a reservoir and a controller.

Fig. 23A shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 23B shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to embodiment of Figure 23A may be fitted or mounted.

Figs. 24A-24F sequentially show one method of adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the embodiment of Figs. 23A and 23B.

Figs. 25A-25Z sequentially show another method of adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the embodiment of Figs. 23A and 23B. Fig. 26 shows an example of the sleeve and temporary fasteners that may be used in adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the embodiment of Figs. 23A and 23B.

Figs. 27A shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 27B shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to embodiment of Figure 27A may be fitted or mounted.

Fig. 28 shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 29 shows a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a yet further embodiment of the present invention.

Figs. 30A-30C show an example of the bearer that can used in the various embodiments of the present invention.

Figs. 31A-31B show a foundation structure together with the adjustment assembly according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position.

Figs. 31C-31D show the primary foundation being attached to the secondary foundation of the foundation structure of Fig. 31A using the adjustment assembly.

Fig. 31E shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to embodiment of Figure 31A may be fitted or mounted.

Fig. 31F shows a cross sectional view of at an assembled intersection of the poles of the primary foundation of the foundation structure of Fig. 31A.

Figs. 32A-32B show an example of the bearer that can used in the foundation structure of Fig. 30A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to Fig. 1 there is shown an example of a foundation 1 in a perspective view. The foundation 1 may be a foundation assembly of multiple parts. A similar foundation is shown in plan in Fig. 2 and as a side view in Fig. 3. Figs. 1-3 are merely an example of a shape that a foundation as herein described may assume. An alternative shape is shown in Fig. 14. Many variations in shape and configuration are anticipated and a person skilled in the art will understand such variations based on the description about the foundation that will herein now be described. The foundation is able to be used a number or purposes. Such purposes may be; a foundation for a residential building, commercial buildings, roadway foundations, construction pads, temporary pads, railway line foundations, foundations for agricultural buildings and so on. The foundation may also be used in waterbodies e.g. sea.

The foundation 1 preferably comprises of a plurality of poles 2. The poles are preferably timber poles. They are preferably elongate and are substantially round in cross section. They are preferably of a substantially constant cross section.

The poles are of a substantial length so that they can span a substantial distance. In the preferred form at least one and preferably a plurality of the poles used in the foundation are at least three metres long and preferably over four metres long.

The plurality of poles are arranged in a grid-like manner as can clearly be seen in Fig. 2. There is preferably a first layer of poles 3 and a second layer of poles 4. The first layer of poles 3 is preferably the lower layer of poles and the second layer of poles 4 are preferably the upper layer of poles. For example poles 3A of the lower level extends substantially horizontally when in situ. Likewise poles 4A of the upper level 4 extends substantially horizontally when in situ. In the preferred form the poles 4A of the second level (second layer) lie on top of poles 3A of the first level (first layer). This can be seen in Fig. 1 and 3. Some nesting at the intersections may be provided for by virtue of a cutout or scallop being provided poles of one or both of the levels. In the preferred form no such cut-out or scalloping is provided.

In the preferred form the poles 4A of the upper level (upper layer) extend at an angle to the poles 3A of the lower level (lower layer). In the preferred form the poles of the upper level are substantially parallel to each other. In the preferred form the poles of the lower level are substantially parallel each other. In the preferred form the poles of the lower level extend at a right angle to the poles of the upper level. It will be appreciated that the poles of the lower level may extend at another angle relative to the poles of the upper level. This can be seen in Fig. 14. So long as the poles of the lower level are arranged to at least overlap with some of the poles of the upper level it can be seen that at least one (and preferably a plurality) of upper to lower level pole intersections 5 are created.

It is at these intersections that the poles of upper layer cross over the lower layer poles. Here, the fastening of the upper layer to the lower layer occurs. Furthermore, at these intersections, jack studs may also be fastened using the same or another fastening arrangement as is used for pole to pole fastening.

The fastening of the lower level poles to the upper level poles at at least one and preferably each of the intersections of the foundation will hereinafter be described in more detail. With reference to Fig. 4 it can be seen that the foundation 1 is able to be supported on the ground 6. The foundation 1 may be supported in a pit 7 that is created in-ground. The pit 7 maybe of a plan perimeter shape to closely match the perimeter shape of the foundation 1. The pit 7 is preferably a shallow pit and has a base 8 that is substantially level. The pit 7 may also be located on a slope as shown in Fig. 15. The foundation preferably bears directly onto the ground.

The level base of the pit provides the platform for supporting the lower level poles of the foundation. Given that the poles are preferably elongate and straight a substantially level base 8 will provide substantially uniform support to each of the lower level poles. Preferably the level base 8 is within a tolerance of 150mm in vertical height. The levelling can be achieved by introducing a finer material such as sand into the bit that is easily spreadable to give a level base. Alternately, the pit itself may dug level from the outset.

The foundation may alternatively be placed or constructed on the upper surface of the ground 6 without being set at least partially into a pit. Advantages in placing or constructing the foundation 1 in a pit will hereinafter be described.

Using timber poles (which are rigid but have some capacity to resiliently flex and are tough) that are of a substantial length, load distribution of the structure or part of the structure supported by the foundation to the ground below can be provided in well distributed manner.

In some forms the foundation may include a plurality of jack studs 9. These jack studs 9 are preferably engaged to at least one and preferably a plurality of upper level poles. Preferably the jack studs 9 have a complementary scalloped recess to fit snugly against the respective pole that supports it. Jack studs will hereinafter be described in more detail.

The top of the jack studs are configured to support a structure or part of the structure. The structure may be a building or pad any other structure that needs a foundation to be connected to. The structure may be a framework or framing system.

Within the pit an optional lining 40 may be provided. The lining 40 may be of durable and preferably waterproof material. The foundation 1 may be placed or constructed on such lining material to separate the foundation from contacting at least part and preferably all of the base 8 of the pit or the ground on which the foundation is supported. The lining 40 can divert any ground liquefaction flow. It may prevent such liquefaction from coming up through the foundation. It can be seen in Fig. 4 that the lining 40 is upturned on its edges. This is an optional upturn and instead the lining 40 may be substantially flat and may have in some locations apertures therethrough to help with water drainage in a downward direction into the ground below the foundation. In further embodiments the lining 40 extends up the sides of the pit to ground level. In the most preferred form the foundation 1 is assembled in situ. In the situation where the foundation is to be set at least partially into a pit 7, the pit after having been created can receive the plurality of poles so as to be arranged in the pit in the grid-like manner that is preferred and as described herein. Preferably some, and more desirably all, of the lower level poles 3A are moved into the pit whereafter the upper level poles can be laid laterally or diagonally on top of some and preferably most if not all of the lower level poles.

In some forms the poles are prefabricated for the purposes of fastening the poles together at at least one and preferably each intersection of the upper and lower level poles. In an alternative the poles can receive fasteners without such pre-fabrication having been done or required. In some forms the provision of fastening features for fastening the poles together occurs in situ and such will hereinafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

With reference to Fig. 6 and 7 one example of a fastening arrangement between the upper and lower level poles is shown. With reference to Fig. 6 a dowel 10 is provided to be located in a hole 11 of the upper level pole 4A. An axially aligned hole 12 of the lower level pole allows for the dowel 10 to be located therein. The dowel preferably hence extends between the upper and lower level poles at an intersection region 5.

The dowel 10 is located in the hole 11 and hole 12 to prevent lateral sliding (shear) movement between the poles at that intersection.

The dowel 10 may be a tube or a rod and is preferably of a rigid material such as a composite material or a metal material. It may instead be of timber. The dowel may have a circular, square or other shaped cross section. It is preferably straight, elongate and sufficiently long to be able to extend to a sufficient extent in an upper and lower level pole at an intersection.

The dowel needs to be able to resist relative horizontal movement between the upper and lower level. It should preferably also be able to act in tension to prevent vertical separation of upper and lower levels. It preferably also is be able to act in compression. The dowel may have a diameter of at least 10mm, or a diameter between 10 and 200 mm. As a tube, the dowel preferably has a diameter of 60 mm and a wall thickness of 4mm.

Preferably, the hole in which the dowel is located in has a diameter greater than that of the dowel so as to form a locational fit. Preferably, the hole in which the dowel is located in has a diameter 62 mm. The hole to locate the dowel is preferably the same or larger than the dowel, yet still be able to locate the dowel is a snug manner. The preferred drilling process as will herein be described should hence be performed sufficiently accurately. In one foundation a plurality of dowels may be used. Some may be of a different size to others. Some may be of a different length to others. Some may be cut to length on site. At least two different lengths are preferably provided, depending on whether used with fastening a jack stud or not. In one embodiment shown in Fig. 11, the dowel is 830mm long. This length is approximately equal to sum of the lengths of the holes within the upper and lower layer poles and jack stud. In embodiments with no jack stud, Fig. 7, the dowel may only be 550mm long. A person skilled in the art will realise these lengths are not specific.

Preferably a vertical separation between the poles, and to hold the poles together in a vertical orientation, is achieved by the dowel 10 being secured, preferably by pinning to both the upper level pole 4A and the lower level pole 3A. This is preferably achieved by pins 13 and 14 that respectively extend into lateral holes 15 and 16 of the upper and lower level poles 4A, 3A. The pins extend into and preferably through the dowel by virtue of the dowel having matching apertures 17 and 18. In one embodiment the dowel may have a friction fit with hole 11 and hole 12 and not use pins or other fasteners.

In the preferred form the holes 11 and 12 extend substantially in a radial direction to the central axis of the elongate poles. Similarly the holes 15 and 16 for the pins extend radially and preferably perpendicular to the respective holes 11 and 12. In the preferred form the holes 15 and 16 are through holes through each of the poles and are dissected by the holes 11 and 12 in which the dowel 10 is located.

In the preferred form the hole 12 is preferably a blind hole whereas the hole 11 is preferably a through hole. The through hole is provided as a result of the in situ provision of the features of the foundation that fasten the poles at an intersection together.

Alternative fasteners may be used for fastening the poles at an intersection together. One such alternative is shown in Fig. 7 where the dowel 10A is provisioned with a hole 18A to receive the pin 14A extending into the hole 16A of the lower pole 3A but no pin is provided for securing the dowel to the upper pole 4A and instead a threaded fastening arrangement 19 is provided at a distal end of the dowel 10A.

The third fastening arrangement may include a male threaded region 20 of the dowel and a female threaded member such as a nut 21 that can be threadingly fastened and react against an upper surface of the upper pole 4A directly or via a washer 22 or other load spreading member.

With reference to Fig. 8 in a preferred form where a jack stud is provided, the jack stud is provided at an intersection between an upper level pole 4A and a lower level pole 3A. The jack stud 9 is preferably secured using the dowel 10B. The dowel 10B may be a hollow dowel (and therefore may also be referred to as a pipe) or at least a portion of the dowel 10B may be hollow for the reasons as will be explained later with reference to Figs. 20A-20E. The dowel 10B in a similar manner to the dowel described with reference to Fig. 6 is provided in a hole 11B of an upper level pole 4A and extends into the hole 12B of the lower level pole 3A. The hole 11B and 12B are axially aligned so that the dowel 10B can extend in both holes 11B and 12B. Whilst the dowel 10B may be pinned to the upper level pole 4A as well as the lower level pole 3A in one form no such pinning occurs with the upper level pole 4A. Instead the dowel 10B is fastened to the jack stud 9. The jack stud 9 may include a blind or through hole 25 that can receive the dowel 10B.

Preferably the jack stud is pinned in a similar fashion to the lower pole as it is to the upper pole. The dowel 10B may be provided with a hole 22 to receive the pin 23 that extends in through the lateral hole 24 of the jack stud 9 to allow for the pin 23 to reach the dowel and penetrate into the hole 22 of the dowel and preferably therethrough. This allows for a pinning of the dowel to both the jack stud 9 and the lower level pole 3A and thereby secure in a vertical direction the jack stud 9 with the upper level pole 4A and the lower level pole 3A.

In Fig. 8 the hole 25 of the jack stud is preferably a blind hole and likewise the hole 12B in the lower level pole 3A is also a blind hole. Figs. 9 and 10 show side and end views of the assembled version of the exploded view shown in Fig. 8. Preferably the pin 23 and the pin 14B extend parallel to each other although in an alternative configuration as shown in Fig. 8A they are perpendicular each other. Preferably the pins are elongate straight pins that extend perpendicular to the elongate direction of the dowel. The dowel in situ preferably extends substantially vertically whereas the pins extend substantially horizontally and parallel to the elongate directions of the respective upper and lower level poles.

The jack stud may be at least partially coated with a plastics coating to prevent detriment to the jack stud. Preferably, the jack stud is at least partially coated with a polyethylene shroud.

In the preferred form the pins are composed of a metal material such as a stainless steel. Alternatively, the pins are composed of a plastics or composites material. They are able to snugly fit into the apertures or holes of the dowel and thereby ensure that the dowel is securely connected to the components of the foundation . R-pins or split pins 31 may be provided to help ensure the pins remain in position. Alternatively, the holes into which the pins are pushed may provide a snug fit with the pin. Preferably the pins have a running, locational or interference tolerance fit with their respective holes. For example, the pins may need to be driven in by a mallet or hammer. Preferably the pin holes have a diameter 1 mm greater than the pins they locate. Preferably the pin holes have a diameter between 4 and 105 mm. Preferably the holes are 18 mm in diameter. The pins may have a diameter between 3 and 100mm. Preferably the pins have a diameter of 17mm. A person skilled in the art will realise many different size pins can be used. The size of the pin determined by how much pressure is put on the assembly, what the pin material is, and many other factors.

With reference to Figs. 11 and 12 it can be seen that if a pole is not sufficiently long to provide a continuous span in a particular direction, poles can be end to end joined by a splint-like arrangement. The splint arrangement may include side plates 32 and 33 that are rigid and elongate and provide some resistance against bending of the composite pole when assembled. The plates 32 and 33 are preferably securely joined to each of the poles by fasteners that for example may come in the form of fastening pins 34 that pass through each of the two poles 38 and 39. There are other ways of end to end joining poles to provide a longer effective span.

In the preferred form each pole has a substantial span. Preferably at least two of the poles at each level are located at a peripheral region of the foundation. Preferably between such peripheral poles 2A at a level, at least one of the poles at the other level extends substantially between such peripheral poles. This helps create a foundation that provides resistance against subsidence of the foundation. Should part of the ground below the foundation subside and a pole previously being vertically supported at such subsidence is then left unsupported thereat, the rigidity of the pole itself and that of the at least one pole above to which is secured, will help reduce or prevent movement of foundation.

The poles have a diameter greater than a 100mm and more preferably in one embodiment they are 275mm in diameter. In certain embodiments, the poles have a maximum diameter of substantially 500mm. In certain embodiments the poles have a diameter between 100mm and 500mm. The diameters of the poles need to be sufficient for the forces present in the assembly and the jig (later described) needs to be designed and dimensioned appropriately.

Preferably, the spaced parallel distance between poles of the same layer is between 1 and 3 metres or between 1 and 5 metres. Spacing of the poles depends on the structure the foundation needs to support. Heavier structures will require closer spacing. Other factors such as ground type, local laws, environs, timber or materials used, cost will dictate the desired spacing between poles.

Preferably, the poles are treated to prevent one or of the following; deterioration by insect, fungi, rot and moisture. Preferably, the poles are debarked and rounded to a generally constant diameter. However it is appreciated the timber poles will have deviations of diameter and trueness and this is acceptable and accounted for in the design of the current invention. In some embodiments, the timber poles may have one or more flat or facetted surfaces. The flat surfaces may be adjacent each other where a pole is laid on top of another pole. In some embodiment, each pole is a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical pole. In some embodiment, each pole has a uniform diameter throughout its length. In some embodiment, each pole comprises a hollow core. In some embodiment, each pole is a hollow cylindrical or a substantially hollow cylindrical pole. Alternatively, the poles may be oval or ellipse shaped.

In some embodiments the assembly of the foundation is not perpendicular grid like as shown in Fig. 14. It is appreciated that a person skilled in the art will realise this system is versatile and many different variations for different sites, uses and foundations are applicable.

The foundation as shown in Fig. 4 is preferably located in a pit 7. The pit 7 is preferably a pit that has been created prior to establishing the foundation therein.

The depth of the pit is at least 200 mm. In certain embodiments the depth of the pit is at least 400mm. In some embodiments the top of the upper layer poles may protrude above the surrounding ground surface. Preferably the depth of the pit is 550 mm or less than 1000mm. Preferably, the depth of the pit is less than 800 mm. A typical prior art foundation ( Type 2A, 2B, or 3A ) for a timber floor type may have a pit 800mm - 1000mm deep.

After assembly of the foundation in the pit, the earth I soil removed from the pit to create the pit is at least in part re-introduced back into the pit. This soil 40 at least partially embeds the foundation in soil within the pit. A compacting of the soil may take place. One of the advantages of reintroducing at least some of the soil when moved to create the pit, back into the pit, is that less soil then is required to be disposed of or placed elsewhere on or offsite.

With a grid-like structure of the foundation of the present invention a substantial amount of volume remains in the pit after the foundation being established therein, that volume able to be re-occupied by the soil previously removed from the pit. This therefore means that a reduced amount of remaining soil removed from the pit is required to be disposed of or used elsewhere on or offsite. This is of particular advantage for a site where the soil may be contaminated or is of a quality that makes it expensive for it to be disposed of, offsite. The fact that a lot, if not all (if compacted) of the soil removed to create the pit can be reintroduced into the pit after the foundation has been established therein means that less site soil needs to be taken offsite.

An alternative version of the foundation of the present invention where no jack studs are provided includes one where a concrete pad is able to be supported on or by the foundation.

With reference to Figs. 13 A, B, and D there is shown various support embodiments. Fig. 13A shows a raised formwork 80 retaining a concrete slab 81 supported by the jack studs 9. Fig. 13B shows a framing system 82, including bearers or joists supported by the jack studs 9.

Fig. 13C shows a concrete slab 81 supported by the foundation, preferably with a gravel raft 82 and/or lining intermediate the earth and the concrete slab.

In a further embodiment, as shown in Fig. 13D, the concrete slab 81 at least partially covers the second layer of poles.

Preferably, the foundation is able to be installed under structures such a buildings or a framework on which the building is supported that require remedial foundations or maintenance.

As described above, the top of the jack studs are configured to support a structure. In one example the jack studs are connected to a building. The jack studs may be connected to various types of building structures or features such as wooden or steel bearers or framework. In one embodiment a house or building 81 is to be located onto the jack studs, where the building is prebuilt. The prebuilt building 81 is transported via a vehicle 82 to the foundation site. As the as the jack studs are typically extending higher out of the ground than the height of the vehicle 82 above the ground, it may be preferable to remove a series of jack studs so a vehicle may drive over the foundation without hindrance of hitting the jack studs. The building 81 is lifted up off the truck via supports or a jacking system 83 and the unburdened truck is driven off the foundation site. The building 81 is then lowered downwards onto the existing jack studs, or further jack studs installed where they were once removed, and then the building connected to the jack studs. The dowels may be left remaining in place with the first and second layer poles, yet be low enough to allow a truck to drive over them as shown in Fig. 18

In other embodiments, the vehicle can drive between jack studs, so there is no need to remove any jack studs.

In a further embodiment, the jack studs are of a two or more part form as shown in Fig. 16. In the two-part form jack stud, the lower part 84 of the jack stud is fixed to the foundation, and extends out of the ground lower than the height of the clearance of a structure burdened vehicle above the ground to allow the vehicle to drive over the lower part of the jack stud. Once the vehicle has located the building in the correct place and driven away, the upper part 85 of the jack stud can be connected to the lower part 84 of the jack stud so the jack stud extends to its operative height. The lower part of the jack stud may merely be a fixture to attach the jack stud to. The lower part 84 and upper part 86 may be joined by a pin 85 as shown in Fig. 17.

In an alternative embodiment, the foundation is installed at least partially on a slope 7. The design of this angled system is essentially the same as the horizontal system apart from the jack studs if present. If jack studs are required, they are located off the intersections as usual, between the bottom layer poles and top layer poles, however they are vertical. The vertical jack studs are of different heights down the slope 7, so the jack studs are able to form a top bearing plane 80 that is level to support a level structure. The bottom layer poles in a preferred embodiment will be laid perpendicular to the slope as shown in Fig. 15 to more effectively resist sliding down the slope.

As shown in Fig. 19, the foundation may be used in a tiered or terraced fashion. In a terraced fashion, the foundation consists of more than one substantially parallel and offset level foundations 90. Pits ay be dug into these terraces to locate the foundations. Preferably these offset terraced foundations 90 are tied together vertically. The tying may be done in the form of extended jack studs 91. The extended jack studs may also form part of a retaining wall. The wall may be fully or partially joined to adjacent terrace foundations 90.

The tying may also be done in a sloped fashion, with a sloped retaining wall. Alternatively, the sloped wall may be of the manner of the sloped foundation described above and shown in Fig. 15.

Many of the above embodiments may be combined depending on site and structure supporting requirements. This is due to the versatile nature of the present invention.

The foundation herein described is able to be moved if subsidence of it does occur. At least one or more poles can be lifted or jacked up or down to relevel the foundation. Propping of the foundation can then occur to re-stabilise the foundation in its relevelled condition.

Preferably, the foundation is capable of being disassembled or modified in a nondestructive manner. The pins are able to knocked out and the jack stud if present lifted off, the upper layer removed, dowel removed and subsequently the bottom layer removed. All or most parts may then be reused and reassembled.

It is desirable to have a foundation that facilitates adjustment of level whenever as required. The adjustment could be raising or lowering the level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

With reference to Figs. 20A to 22D, several embodiments for adjusting the level of the foundation as described above will now be described.

One example of an adjustment assembly that can be used for adjusting a level of a structure that is supported by the foundation (also referred to as a foundation assembly) will be described with reference to Figs. 20A-20E.

The foundation may be the same as the foundation 1 described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 19. Alternatively, the foundation may be a different foundation from what is described above. Fig. 20A shows an intersection of poles 3A and 4A to which the adjustment assembly 100 may be fitted or mounted. Fig. 20B shows the intersection with the adjustment assembly fitted or mounted. Fig. 20C shows a structure in the form of framework 82. Fig. 20D shows a flooring 87 placed on top of the framework 82 of Fig. 20C. Fig. 20E shows a cross-sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly. At least two poles 4A of the second layer and the at least two poles 3A of the first layer may be present at each pole to pole intersection.

In the plurality of poles that are arranged in a grid-like manner such as the ones shown in Figs. 1 and 2, each of the pole to pole intersection, some, or at least one pole to pole intersection may have the adjustment assembly mounted on it to raise or lower the level of the structure or part of the structure located above that particular intersection. Pins 105a, 105b are most preferably the same type pins 23 and 14B respectively as described above, but it is possible that are different type of pins.

The adjustment assembly may comprise a bearer 101. The bearer may be configured to engage with the structure or the portion of the structure that is supported by the adjustable foundation 100 and bear the load or part of the load of the structure.

As shown, the bearer 101 may be a substantially U-shaped bracket with a base portion 101a preferably having a planar surface located between a first sidewall 101b and a second sidewall 101c of the bracket. The first sidewall 101b and/or the second sidewall 101c may comprise one or more screw holes for receiving one or more screws 102. The bearer 101 may be made out of a metallic material.

In some embodiments, the bearer 101 may be of many other suitable shapes as long as it can provide functionality of bearing the load or part of the load of the structure or the part of the structure. However, having a bearer 101 as shown in the figures is most preferable, especially if the structure or part of the structure is a framing system 82 as shown in Fig. 20C. As shown in that example, the bearer 101 may be configured to receive a joist or beam 82a of the framing system 82 that is supported by the foundation 1. A flooring 87, which may be a slab or panel made out of concrete, timber or any other suitable material, may be placed on top of the framing system 82 as shown in Fig. 20D.

The adjustment assembly 100 may further comprise a height adjustment mechanism 110. Height adjustment mechanism 110 may be physically and operatively connected to at least the bearer 101 to adjust the vertical distance or height between the bearer 101 and the second layer of poles 4. In Figs. 20A-20E, only one first layer of pole 3A and the second layer of pole 4A, and only one pole to pole intersection are shown for the sake of clarity. The height adjustment mechanism 110 may be physically and operatively connected to the bearer 101 at at least the base portion 101a of the bearer 101. The height adjustment mechanism may be a fully mechanical device as shown in Figs. 20A-E.

At least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, may be fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly may further comprise the penetrated fastener 112. Alternatively, the penetrated faster 112 may be part of foundation 1. The penetrated fastener 112 or at least the portion of it may be hollow. The penetrated fastener 112 may be the same as the dowel 10A or 10B as described above, except that the dowel or at least the portion of that dowel is hollow at an end proximal to the structure or part of the structure to be supported by the foundation 1. Alternatively, the penetrated fastener may be a hollow dowel that is welded to or is integrally formed with the dowel 10A or dowel B at an end that is proximal to the structure or part of the structure to be supported by the foundation 1 so that the hollow dowel is formed as a single piece. The first layer pole 3A and the second layer pole 4B are fastened or configured to be fastened by the penetrated fastener at the pole to pole intersection or each pole to pole intersection. The manner of fastening using dowels 10A and 10B is already described above and therefore need not be described again. The penetrated fastener 112 may be used for fastening the poles 3A, 4A in the same way as dowels 10B and 10B.

The height adjustment mechanism 110 may comprise a first threaded fastener 114 and a second threaded fastener 116. The first threaded fastener 114 may be externally threaded and may be configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener 112 to couple the penetrated fastener 112 and the bearer 101. For that purpose, the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener may either be internally threaded or may comprise an internally threaded nut 115a that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112. Similarly, the second threaded fastener 116 may be externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener 114 so that rotation of the second threaded fastener 116 in a clockwise and/or anti-clockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener 114 to rotate with respect to/relative to the penetrated fastener 112. This will then adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer lOland the second layer of the pole 4A, thereby also adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the pole 4A and the structure or part of the structure, which in the example of Figs. 20A-E is a framing system 82. The rotation in one direction (e.g. anti-clockwise direction) may raise the level, and rotation is an opposite direction (e.g., clockwise direction) may lower the level An internally threaded nut 111 may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the bearer to receive and threadedly engage the second threaded fastener.

Alternatively, the internally threaded nut 111 may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the second threaded fastener 116. The bearer 110 may comprise a hole for the first threaded fastener and/or the second threaded fastener to pass through.

The first threaded fastener 114 may be accessible from above the structure to cause that threaded fastener to rotate (e.g., using tools such as a spanner, plier, Allen key or any other suitable tool), which means there is no need to crawl underneath the foundation for level adjustment.

The first threaded fastener and/or second threaded fastener may be a bolt or a stud (e.g., M20 stud). The second threaded fastener 116 may be located more proximal to the structure or part of the structure (in this example framework 82/framing system 82) supported by the foundation than the first threaded fastener 114. In one embodiment, the external thread of the first threaded fastener 114 is a right-hand thread, and the external thread of the second threaded fastener 115 is a left-hand thread. Alternatively, the external thread of the first threaded fastener 114 is a left-hand thread and the external thread of the second threaded fastener 115 is a right-hand thread.

In some embodiments, the first threaded fastener may be integrally formed with the second threaded fastener, in which case a single threaded fastener may be present.

The level of adjustment from may be up to 130 mm. Alternatively, it could be more or less than 130mm, e.g. between 1 mm to 500 mm, depending upon the length of the threaded fastener(s) used for adjustment. Although, Fig. 20E shows the second threaded fastener 114 passing through the jack stud 9, that is optional. In other words, the jack stud 9 may not necessarily be present in a or each point to point intersection of foundation 1 where adjustment assembly 100 is mounted.

As mentioned above, in Figs. 20A-20E, only one first layer(lower layer) of pole 3A and the second layer(upper layer) of pole 4A and only one pole to pole intersection are shown for the sake of clarity. Foundation 1 may comprise a plurality of intersections with a plurality or multitude of adjustment assemblies. For example, if there are 60 pole to pole intersections, each or at least some of the intersections may have one adjustment assembly 100 mounted on it. The number of adjustment assemblies required may vary as desired. It is not necessary to have an adjustment assembly mounted on each intersection.

The height adjustment mechanism need not be a purely mechanical device. In certain embodiments, the height adjusting mechanism may be a pneumatic device (e.g. a pneumatic jack). In certain embodiments, the height adjusting mechanism may be a hydraulic device (e.g. a hydraulic jack). However, the hydraulic mechanism is less preferred especially because such a mechanism can cause a leak of hydraulic fluids which can damage the foundation 1. Figs. Another embodiment for adjusting the level of structure or part of the structure supported by foundation will now be described with reference to Figs. 21A to 21D.

Fig. 21A shows an intersection of poles 3A and 4A to which the adjustment assembly 100 of this second embodiment may be fitted or mounted. Fig. 21B shows the intersection with the adjustment assembly fitted or mounted. Fig. 21C shows a cross- sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position. Fig. 21D shows a cross-sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to the second preferred embodiment of the present invention in a raised position.

The invention described with reference to Figs. 21A-D are similar in most aspects to the invention described with reference to Figs. 20A-E above, and the differences can be identified by comparing Figs. 20A-E with Figs. 21A-21D. In Figs. 21A-21D, the features that are same or similar to those shown in Figs. 20A-20E are identified with the same reference numeral. Most of the description of the invention with reference to Figs. 20A-20E of the embodiment above, equally applies to the invention described with reference to Figs. 21A-21E and therefore need not be described again. Therefore, only the main features that are different will be discussed.

As shown, in Figs. 21A-D, the height adjustment mechanism may be an electrical lifting mechanism. The height adjustment mechanism in this example is a scissor jack. A scissor jack and its working principle are well known and therefore need not be described in detail. But, in summary scissor jack is a device that is used to slowly and carefully lift a body (in this example structure or part of the structure in the form of framework 82) slowly above the planar surface such as a ground. It is called a scissor jack because it can expand (see Fig. 21D) and contract (see Fig. 21C) in a manner resembling a pair of scissors. A scissor jack 210 may be an electrical scissor jack. The scissor jack may be secured to the pole 4A using a bolt 119 or similar fastening means.

As shown, the height adjustment mechanism, in this example, the scissor jack 210, may be located between the bearer 101 and the second layer/upper layer of pole(s) 4A.

The scissor jack 210 may be controlled remotely. For example, a controller 400 may be operatively connected to the scissor jack and the controller 400 may cause the scissor jack to transition between the lowered condition as shown in Fig. 20C and raised condition as shown in Fig. 20D. A controller 400 may be operatively connected to a user interface using which the user may cause the scissor jack to transition between the lowered and raised condition. However, it is most preferred that height adjustment mechanism (e.g., scissor jack 210) can transition automatically between the raised and lowered condition. For such purpose, the adjustment assembly may further comprise at least one level sensor 300. The level sensor 300 may be configured to detect any change of level between the second layer of poles and the structure as at least one measured level change value. The level sensor 300 may be operatively connected to at least one controller 400. The controller 400 may be a PLC controller. Alternatively, it may be any other suitable controller. The controller 400 may be programmed to read and compare the measured level change value received from the sensor with at least one predetermined threshold level change value. If the measured level change value exceeds the threshold level change value, the controller 400 may then perform a control action. The control action may involve transmitting of at least one control signal to the height adjustment mechanism (scissor jack 210) of the adjustment assembly to adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer 101 and the second layer of the pole(s) 4A, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the pole(s) 4A and the structure (e.g. framework 82).

As shown in Fig. 22A, the level sensor 300 may comprise a sensor tank 302. Sensor tank 302 may be partially filled with a liquid medium 304. Sensor tank 302 may house a first sensing probe 306a that is at least partially immersed into the liquid medium 304 and a second sensing probe 306b that is above the level of the liquid medium 304. As long as the first sensing probe 306a is at least partially immersed into the liquid medium and a second sensing probe 306b is above the level of the liquid medium 306 (i.e. does not contact the liquid medium), the controller may determine that the measured level change value does not exceed the threshold level change value. In such a case, no control action may be performed. However, the control action may be performed when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe 306a is above the liquid medium 304; ii. the second sensing probe 306b is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium

304; iii. the first sensing probe 306a and the second sensing probe 306b are above the liquid medium 304; and iv. the first sensing probe 306a and the second sensing probe 306b are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium 304.

When any one of such a scenario occurs, the controller may determine that the measured level change value has exceeded the threshold level change value and thereby send a signal to the scissor jack causing the scissor jack 210 to either be in a raised condition or a lowered condition. The raising or lowering of the scissor jack 210 may stop once the first sensing probe 306a is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium 304 and the second sensing probe 306b is above the liquid medium 304.

When the first sensing probe 306a and the second sensing probe 306 are both above the liquid medium, the scissor jack may be transitioned to a lower condition. Similarly, when the first sensing probe 306a and the second sensing probe 306b are both at least partially immersed into the liquid medium, the scissor jack may be transitioned to a raised condition. The raising or lowering of the scissor jack 210 may stop once the first sensing probe 306a is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium 304, and the second sensing probe 306b is above the liquid medium 304.

The raised condition and the lowered condition does not necessarily mean fully raised or fully lowered condition of the scissor jack 210.

The level sensor 300 may be a capacitance sensor. The working principle of a capacitance sensor or capacitance level sensor is well known and therefore need not be described in detail. However, in summary, the level sensor 300 may detect a change in capacitance when the first sensing probe 306a is above the liquid medium 304 or when the second sensing probe 306b is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium. That change in capacitance may correspond to the measured level change value. The controller 400 may stop raising or lowering of the scissor jack 210 once the norma l/standa rd capacitance value is detected using the first sensing probe 306a and second sensing probe 306b. This normal/standard capacitance value may be pre-set by a user and programmed to the controller 400.

Instead of the change in capacitance, many other suitable electrical parameters may be detected using the first and second sensing probes 306a, 306b, such as but not limited to change in current, change in voltage, change in resistance, change in temperature etc.

The liquid medium may be or may comprise water, glycol or many other substance suitable for the purpose.

Instead of two probes, in some embodiments, the level sensor may comprise a single probe. The level sensor may detect a change in electrical parameter when the sensing probe is above the liquid medium or when the sensing probe 306b is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium. That change in electrical parameter may correspond to the measured level change value. The controller 400 may stop raising or lowering of the scissor jack 210 once the normal/standard electrical parameter value is detected using the sensing probe. This normal/standard electrical parameter value may be pre-set by a user and programmed to the controller 400. However, having two sensor probes is more advantageous in terms of reliability and accuracy. Two probes can be also be used to generate a circuit which can increase accuracy. As explained above, the foundation 1 may comprise a plurality of pole to pole intersections for example when in a grid like structure as shown in Figs. 1 and 2. In such a case, an adjustment assembly may be mounted to each or a number of pole to pole intersections. In such a case, the foundation will have a plurality of adjustments assemblies each having its own height adjusting assembly (e.g. scissor jack 210) and/or level sensor 300). In certain embodiments, the number of adjustments assemblies may be equal to the number of pole to pole intersections so each intersection may have one adjustment assembly as described above. With such an arrangement, only the specific area/portion where the levelling is distorted or needs adjustment will be adjusted rather than having to adjust the levelling of whole foundation or structure. Controller 400 may be common to all of the plurality of adjustment assemblies. For example, the if an intersection 5 of Fig. 2 is distorted or needs adjustment for any reason, the controller will send signal to either raise or lower the level of the height adjustment assembly associated/mounted/located with the adjustment assembly that is mounted at that particular intersection to a desired or corrected level. The levelling at other intersections that are not distorted or do not need adjustment will not be adjusted. Similarly, when adjustment is required at two or more intersections only the levelling at those intersection will be adjusted. If the adjustment is required at all of the intersections where the foundation is mounted, levelling will be adjusted at all of the intersections.

When a plurality of adjustment assemblies is used and consequently when there is a plurality of level sensors 300, then each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies may fluidly connected to each other, for example using at least one conduit 308. Each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies may be fluidly connected (e.g. using at least one conduit) to a reservoir 320 storing the liquid medium.

Many other height suitable height adjustment mechanisms may be used but scissor jack is most preferable at least for reliability, accessibility and costs. Alternatively, an airbag or similar pressurised system may be used for height adjustment mechanisms. However, such pressurised systems are more likely to fail when compared to scissor jacks, hence scissor jacks are most preferable.

Similarly, many other types of level sensors may be used including laser sensors. However, the level sensor as described above is most preferable at least because it is more reliable and cost effective for use with the foundation as described above. Similarly, level sensor described above are easy to replace as compared to complex level sensors.

The scissor jack 210 can transition automatically between the raised and lowered conditions as described above. But it some embodiments, it is also possible that the scissor jack 210 can manually transition between the raised and lower conditions manually. A switch may be provided that is operatively connected to the height adjustment mechanism or system to switch between the automatic or manual modes.

Figs. 23A-B show another embodiment for adjusting the level of structure or part of the structure supported by the foundation.

Fig. 23A shows a cross-sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position. Fig. 23B shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to this embodiment of the present invention may be fitted or mounted. Fig. 23B may also be said to be showing a partial perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 23A in a raised position. In Fig. 23B, the concrete floor is not shown for the sake of clarity.

The invention shown in Figs. 23A and 23B are similar in most aspects to the invention described with reference to Figs. 20A-E above, and the differences can be identified by comparing Fig. 20E with Figs. 23A. In Fig. 23A, the features that are same or similar to those shown in Figs. 20A-20E are identified with the same reference numeral. Most of the description of the invention with reference to Figs. 20A-20E of the embodiment above, equally applies to the invention described with reference to Fig. 23A and therefore need not be described again. Therefore, only the main features that are different will be discussed.

The invention shown in Fig. 23A may be used in concrete floor application. In this regard, floor 87 of Fig. 23A may be a concrete floor. Preferably, the floor 87 is a 120mm thick concrete floor. The invention shown in Fig. 23A may also be used in many other types of floors other than concrete floors, although concrete floor is most preferable.

The height adjustment mechanism 410 may comprise a plate 411. Preferably, the plate is a metallic plate (e.g., stainless steel plate) with a hole 413 in the centre of the plate 411. The height adjustment mechanism 410 may further comprise a threaded fastener 415 that is configured to be received by the hole 413 in the centre of the plate 411. The hole 413 may be a threaded hole that is configured to threadedly engage with the threaded fastener 415.

The threaded fastener 413 may be or may comprise a rod that is externally threaded and may be configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener. For that purpose, the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener may be internally threaded. Additionally, or alternatively, an internally threaded nut 415a may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112, i.e., within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener. Preferably, internally threaded nut 415a may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted within a tube and that tube is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112. Such tube may be located at an end of the penetrated fastener that is at or proximal to the second layer of the pole(s) 4A.

Rotation of the threaded fastener 415 in a clockwise and/or anti-clockwise direction causes the threaded fastener 415 to rotate with respect to/relative to the penetrated fastener 112 and/or the internally threaded nut 415a. This will then adjust the height or the vertical distance between the floor 87 and the second layer of the pole(s) 4A. The rotation in one direction (e.g., anti-clockwise direction) may raise the level, and rotation is an opposite direction (e.g., clockwise direction) may lower the level.

The threaded fastener 415 may be accessible from above to cause that threaded fastener to rotate (e.g., using tools such as a spanner, plier, Allen key or any other suitable tool), which means there is no need to crawl underneath the foundation for level adjustment.

The threaded fastener 415 may be or may comprise a double threaded rod. In other words, the threaded fastener may comprise a left hand thread as well as the right hand thread. The left hand thread may be located at portion of the threaded fastener and the right hand thread may be located in the other portion of the threaded fastener.

The threaded fastener 415 may be a bolt or a stud (e.g., M20 bolt or a M20 stud). A nut 417 (threaded fastener nut) may be welded to the threaded fastener 415 at an end that is distal from the second layer of the pole(s) 4A to facilitate the rotation of the threaded fastener 415 using external tools. Although, many other possible configurations for facilitating rotation of the threaded fastener are possible. In one embodiment, the external thread of a lower portion 414 of the threaded fastener 415 is a right-hand thread, and the external thread of the upper portion 416 of the threaded fastener 415 is a left-hand thread. Alternatively, the external thread of the lower portion 414 is a lefthand thread and the external thread of the upper portion 416 is a right-hand thread.

The upper portion 416 may be integrally formed with the lower portion 414 so that the double threaded fastener is a single piece.

The height adjustment mechanism 410 may further comprise a plurality of bolts. Preferably, there are four bolts 419a, 419b, 419c and 419d. The bolts may be sockethead bolts with washers. The bolts 419a, 419b, 419c, 419d may be screwed into the plate 411. Preferably, there is a second plate 411a with smaller diameter than the plate 411 (first plate 411). The second plate 411a may be positioned above and parallel to the plate 411. The bolts 419a, 419b, 419c, 419d may be screwed into the plate 411 by passing through the second plate 411a. There may be a hole (second plate hole) 413a that is configured to align with the hole 413 of the plate 411 and the threaded fastener 415 may be configured to be received by the holes 413 and 413a. Hole 413a may be of the same size and have same features as hole 413. Similarly, the hole 413b in the threaded nut 415a may be also of the same size and have same features as hole 413. The hole 413b of the threaded nut 415a may be configured to align with the hole 413 of the plate 411 and 413a of the second plate 411a so that a threaded fastener 415 can be received by the holes 413a, 413 and 413b respectively as shown in Fig. 23A. Two load spreading plates 411b, 411c may be located on the pole(s) 4A. The load spreading plates 411b, 411c may be spaced apart from each other and may be secured to the pole(s) by fasteners such as screws so that the penetrated fastener 112 is located between the two load spreading plates 411b, 411c. The load spreading plates 411b, 411c may be positioned below and parallel to the plate 411. The bolts 419a, 419b, 419c, 419d may be screwed into the plate 411 by passing through the second plate 411a and the load spreading plates 411b, 411c. The plate 411 may be sandwiched between the second plate 411a and the load spreading plates 411b, 411c.

The level of adjustment from may be up to 130 mm. Alternatively, it could be more or less than 130mm, e.g., between 1 mm to 500 mm, depending upon the length of the threaded fastener(s) used for adjustment. In some embodiments, the threaded fastener 415 may be replaced with the first and second threaded fasteners as described with reference to Figs. 20A-20E. Preferably, the plate is a 10mm plate, i.e., the thickness of the plate may be 10mm. Preferably, the second plate 411a is a 20mm plate, i.e., the thickness of the second plate is 20mm. Preferably, the bolts 419a, 419b, 419c, 419d are M12 socket head bolts. Preferably, the load spreading plates 411b, 411c are 6mm plates, i.e., the thickness of each of the load spreading plates may be 20mm. Preferably, the holes 113, 113a are 30mm. All components of the height adjustment mechanism 410 may be made out of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel. There may be additional bolts 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d screwed onto the plate 411 as shown in Fig. 23B for additional securement but that is optional. The bolts 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d are omitted from the cross sectional views for the sake of clarity. Preferably bolts 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d are M12 bolts.

A cavity 421 may be drilled or otherwise formed on the floor 87 and a tube 418 (e.g., a plastic tube) may be placed inside the cavity 421. The cavity 421 may be or may be replaced with a hole or an aperture. The tube 418 may be located above the plate 411 in a vertical orientation. A cap 423 (e.g., a plastic cap) may be placed on a top end of the tube that is distal from the second layer of the pole(s) 4A so that the cap 423 fully conceals the height adjustment mechanism 410 when viewed from a top surface of the floor 87. The cap 423 may be of the same level as the surface (top surface) of the floor 87 when in closed configuration as shown in Fig. 23A. In other words, the top surface of the cap 423 may be coplanar with the top surface of the floor 23A in the closed configuration. This avoids any protrusion or depression on the top surface of the floor 87. Figs. 24A-24F sequentially show one method of adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the height adjustment mechanism 410 shown in Figs. 23A and 23B.

Cap 423 is removed to gain access to the height adjustment mechanism 410. This is shown in Figs. 24A and 24B where the cap of Fig. 24A is removed in Fig. 24B. As shown in Figs. 24C and 24D, the floor height is then adjusted/ increased using the threaded fastener 415 (by rotating it) until the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is re-levelled or levelled to the desired level. Of course, it can be appreciated that the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is re-levelled or levelled to the desired level by re-levelling or levelling at the intersection(s) of poles 3A, 4A. The cap 423 is then inserted back into place, i.e., into the closed configuration as shown in Figs. 24E and 24F. As shown in Fig. 24E and 24F, a void 470 is left under the floor 87 which means that the floor height is increased by adjusting the threaded fastener 415. As would be appreciated by a skilled person, floor height may be decreased by rotating the threaded fastener 415 in the opposite direction.

Although not essential, it is possible to pump a grout and/or epoxy into the void 470 to increase strength and durability of the flooring. The grout or epoxy can act as a means to prop the floor below its span between where it is vertically supported at each intersection. Such propping may mean that a concrete floor of a thinner construction can be provided or a concrete floor with greater spans can be provided. Or such propping can be used as remedial action should, at a later stage, such remedial action be identified as desirable. Although, pumping such material may mean that rotating the threaded fastener may not be possible as the threads of the threaded fastener will be jammed by the grout and/or epoxy which may mean that further re-adjustment/re-levelling can be difficult. However, if no further adjustment/levelling is required then pumping a grout and/or epoxy into the void 470 created by the above method may still be desirable.

Figs. 25A-25Z sequentially show another method of adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the height adjustment mechanism 410 of Figs. 23A and 23Z. This method allows pumping a grout and/or epoxy into the void 470 without compromising the re-adjustment/re-levelling ability.

Cap 423 is removed to gain access to the height adjustment mechanism 410. This is shown in Figs. 25A where the cap 423 is present and Fig. 25B where the cap 423 is removed. As shown in Figs. 25C and 25D, the floor height is then adjusted/ increased using the threaded fastener 415 (by rotating it) until the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is re-levelled or levelled to the desired level. Of course, it can be appreciated that the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation is re-levelled or levelled to the desired level by re-levelling or levelling at the the intersection (s) of poles 3A, 4A. A void 470 is left under the floor 87 which means that the floor height is increased by adjusting the threaded fastener. As shown in Figs. 25E and 25F, two of the bolts 419a, 419b are then removed. As shown in Figs. 25G and 25H, two temporary fasteners 425a, 425b that are threaded fasteners are then inserted to replace of the bolts 419a, 419b that were removed and these temporary fasteners 425a, 425b are then tightened against the pole 4A. If load spreading plates 411b, 411c are present on the pole(s) 4A, the temporary fasteners 425a, 425b are tightened firmly against the load spreading plates 411b, 411c on the pole 4A as shown in Figs. 25G and 25H. As shown in Figs. 251 and 25J, the remaining bolts 419c and 419d are then removed. This is followed by removal of the threaded fastener 415 and the second plate 411a as shown in Figs. 25K and 25L. As shown in Figs. 25M and 25N, a sleeve 427 (preferably plastic sleeve 427) is then inserted through the hole 413 in the plate 411. As shown in Figs. 250 and 25P, the threaded fastener 415 may then be inserted back into the place. The bolts 419c and 419d may then be placed back into place as shown in Figs. 25Q and 25R. The temporary fasteners 425a and 425b may then be removed as shown in Figs. 25S and 25T. As shown in Figs. 25U and 25V, bolts 419a and 419b may then be inserted back into place. Cap 423 may be inserted back into place as shown in Figs. 25W and 25X. As shown in Figs. 25Y and 25Z, grout and/or epoxy 435 may then be pumped under the floor to fill the void 470, if desired.

The method as described above with reference to Figs. 25A-25Z, therefore allows adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation using the height adjustment mechanism 410. Further, it also allows grout to be pumped into the void 470 so that the structure or part of the structure that is more strongly supported by the foundation, if desired. The sleeve 427 covers and thereby protects the threads of the threaded fastener 415 from the grout so that readjustment of the level or re-levelling can be performed again in the future if needed. In addition, or as an alternative to the grout, epoxy may also be injected/pumped into the void 470 to increase strength and durability of the flooring, if desired. Alternatively, no grout and/or epoxy may be pumped or injected to the void 470 and the void 470 can be left empty. As mentioned above, the grout or epoxy can act as a means to prop the floor below its span between where it is vertically supported at each intersection. Such propping may mean that a concrete floor of a thinner construction can be provided or a concrete floor with greater spans can be provided. Or such propping can be used as remedial action should, at a later stage, such remedial action be identified as desirable.

Fig. 26 shows an example of the sleeve 427 and temporary fasteners 425a, 425b that may be used in the method as described above with reference to Figs. 25A-25Z. As shown, the sleeve 427 may be a hollow tube preferably made out of plastic. Similarly, as shown the temporary fasteners 425a, 425b may be threaded rods (e.g., M12 threaded rods) having external threads. Slots 429 may be formed on at least the end of each temporary fastener 425a, 425b that is configured to be located proximal to the floor 87 to allow fastening by a screwdriver. In some embodiments, such slots may be present on both the ends.

Figs. 27A-B show another embodiment for adjusting the level of structure or part of the structure supported by the foundation.

Fig. 27A shows a cross-sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position. Fig. 27B shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to this embodiment of the present invention may be fitted or mounted. Fig. 27B can also be said to be showing a partial perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 27A. In Fig. 27B, the concrete floor is not shown for the sake of clarity.

The invention shown in Figs. 27A and 27B is similar in most aspects to the invention described with reference to Figs. 23A to 25Z above, and the differences can be identified by comparing Fig. 27A with Fig. 23A. In Fig. 27A, the features that are same or similar to those shown in Fig. 23A are identified with the same reference numeral. Most of the description of the invention with reference to Figs. 23A-25Z of the embodiment above, may equally apply to the invention described with reference to Figs. 27A and 27B and therefore need not be described again. Therefore, only the main features that are different will be discussed.

The invention shown in Fig. 27A may be used in Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) flooring. In this regard, floor 87 of Fig. 23A may be a CLT floor. Preferably, the floor 187 is a 150mm thick concrete floor. The invention shown in Fig. 27A may also be used in many other types of floors other than CLT floors, although CLT floor is most preferable.

The height adjustment mechanism 510 may comprise a plate 511. Preferably, the plate is a metallic plate (e.g., stainless steel plate) with a hole 513 in the centre of the plate 511. The height adjustment mechanism 510 may further comprise a threaded fastener 515 that is configured to be received by the hole 513 in the centre of the plate 511. The hole 513 may be a threaded hole that is configured to threadedly engage with the threaded fastener 415.

The threaded fastener 513 may be or may comprise a rod that is externally threaded and may be configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener 112. For that purpose, the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener 112 may either be internally threaded. Additionally, or alternatively, an internally threaded nuts 515a, 515b may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112. Preferably, internally threaded nut 515a may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted within a tube and that tube is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112. Such tube may be located at an end of the penetrated fastener that is at or proximal to the second layer of the pole(s) 4A.

Rotation of the threaded fastener 513 in a clockwise and/or anti-clockwise direction causes the threaded fastener 513 to rotate with respect to/relative to the penetrated fastener 112 and/or the internally threaded nuts 515a, 515b. This will then adjust the height or the vertical distance between the floor 87 and the second layer of the pole(s) 4A. The rotation in one direction (e.g., anti-clockwise direction) may raise the level, and rotation is an opposite direction may lower the level (clockwise direction).

The threaded fastener 515 may be accessible from above to cause that threaded fastener to rotate (e.g., using tools such as a spanner, plier, Allen key or any other suitable tool), which means there is no need to crawl underneath the foundation for level adjustment.

The threaded fastener 515 may be or may comprise a double threaded rod as described above.

The threaded fastener 515 may be a bolt or a stud (e.g., M20 bolt or a M20 stud). A nut 517 may be welded to the threaded fastener 515 at an end that is distal from the second layer of the pole(s) 4A to facilitate the rotation of the threaded fastener 515 using external tools. Although, many other possible configurations for facilitating rotation of the threaded fastener are possible. In one embodiment, the external thread of a lower portion 514 of the threaded fastener 515 is a right-hand thread, and the external thread of the upper portion 516 of the threaded fastener 515 is a left-hand thread. Alternatively, the external thread of the lower portion 514 is a left-hand thread and the external thread of the upper portion 516 is a right-hand thread.

The upper portion 516 may be integrally formed with the lower portion 514 so that the threaded fastener 515 is a single piece fastener.

The height adjustment mechanism 510 may further comprise a plurality of bolts. Preferably, there are four bolts 520a, 520b, 520c and 520d. The bolts may be sockethead bolts with washers. Unlike the embodiment of Fig. 23A, there are no second plate and loads spreading plates in the embodiment of Fig. 27A.

The bolts 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d may be screwed into the plate 511. The hole 513b in the threaded nut 415a may be of the same size and have same features as hole 513.

The level of adjustment from may be up to 210 mm. Alternatively, it could be more or less than 210mm, e.g., between 1 mm to 500 mm, depending upon the length of the threaded fastener(s) used for adjustment. In some embodiments, the threaded fastener 515 may be replaced with the first and second threaded fasteners as described with reference to Figs. 20A-20E. Preferably, the plate is a 10mm plate, i.e., the thickness of the plate may be 10mm. Preferably, the bolts 520a, 520b, 520c, 520d are M12 bolts with 30mm round washers. All components of the height adjustment mechanism 410 may be made out of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel. In Fig. 27A, the pole(s) 4A is located partially below the groundline 430.

Any hole in the floor 87 may be covered with the plugs (not shown). The plugs may be removed during adjustment and re-inserted after adjustment.

Fig. 28 is a cross sectional view of the foundation together with the structure and the adjustment assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The invention shown in Fig. 28 is similar in most aspects to the invention described with reference to Figs. 20A to 20E above, and the differences can be identified by comparing Fig. 28 with Fig. 20E. In Fig. 28, the features that are same or similar to those shown in Fig. 23A are identified with the same reference numeral. Most of the description of the invention with reference to Figs. 20A-20E of the embodiment above, equally applies to the invention described with reference to Fig. 28 and therefore need not be described again. Therefore, only the main features that are different will be discussed.

The height adjustment mechanism 610 may comprise a single piece threaded fastener 615. The threaded fastener 615 may be externally threaded and may be configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener 112 to couple the penetrated fastener 112 and the bearer 101. For that purpose, the hollow portion of the penetrated fastener may either be internally threaded or may comprise an internally threaded nut 115a that is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the penetrated fastener 112. The threaded fastener 615 may be identical to the first threaded fastener 114 and second threaded fastener 116 as described above with reference to Figs. 20A-20E when the first threaded fastener 114 and second threaded fastener 114 are formed as a single piece fastener.

An adjusting nut 640 is welded to the threaded fastener 615. The adjusting nut 640 is located between the bearer 101 and the pole(s) 4A. Rotation of the adjusting nut 640 in a clockwise and/or anti-clockwise direction causes the threaded fastener 615 to rotate with respect to/relative to the penetrated fastener 112. This will then adjust the height or the vertical distance between the bearer 101 and the second layer of the pole(s) 4A, thereby also adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the pole(s) 4A and the structure or part of the structure, which in this example is a framing system. The rotation in one direction (e.g., anti-clockwise direction) may raise the level, and rotation is an opposite direction (e.g., clockwise direction), may lower the level.

An internally threaded nut 611 may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the bearer 110 to receive and threadedly engage with the threaded fastener 615. Alternatively, the internally threaded nut 611 may be welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the threaded fastener. Embodiment shown in Fig. 29 is identical to the embodiment shown in Fig. 28 except that in the embodiment shown in Fig. 28 the internally threaded nut 611 is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the bearer 110 to receive and threadedly engage with the threaded fastener 615, whereas in the embodiment shown in Fig. 29, the internally threaded nut 711 is welded, fastened or otherwise mounted to the threaded fastener 615. In Figs. 28 and 29, the screws 102 are not shown for the sake of clarity. In Fig. 29, the internally threaded nut is shown by reference numeral 711, threaded fastener is shown by reference numeral 715, and adjusting nut is shown by reference numeral 740.

Figs. 30A-30C show an example of the bearer 101 that can used in the various embodiments described above with reference to the drawings. Fig. 30A is a perspective view of the bearer 101. Fig. 30B is a front view of the bearer 101 and Fig. 30C is the side view of the bearer 101 of Fig. 30A. As shown, the bearer 101 may be in the form of a U- shaped bracket comprising a base portion 101a located between a first sidewall 101b and a second sidewall 101c of the bracket. In other words, the bearer 101 may comprises the base portion 101a, the first side wall 101b and the second sidewall 101c, the base portion being located between the first sidewall 101b and the second sidewall 101c. The base portion may comprise a planer surface. A plurality of screw holes lOld may be located in the first and second sidewalls 101b, 101c. In the embodiments shown, there are two screw holes lOld located in each of the side walls, however only one or more than two screw holes may be located in each of the first and second side walls 101b, 101c. The screw holes are configured to receive screws 102. The planer surface 101a may comprise a fastener receiving hole lOle that is configured to receive the threaded fastener, first threaded fastener or second threaded fastener as described above as described above to allow the threaded fastener, first threaded fastener or second threaded fastener to pass through it. The fastener receiving hole lOle may be located at the centre of the base portion 101a. One or more slots lOlf may be formed on the base portion 101a to. Although, two slots lOlf are shown there may be more than two slots. Alternatively, there may be only one slot. A rib (protrusion) 101g may be formed below each slot and below the base portion 101a. The ribs 101g extend longitudinally in the direction from the first side wall to the second sidewall or vice versa. The ribs 101g are formed by the egress material from the creation of the slots. Such rib and slot arrangements enhance the strength of the bearer 101 more specifically, the base portion 101a of the bearer. The numberer of ribs may be same as the number of slots and each rib may formed underneath each slot. The bearer 101 is preferably made out of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel.

Fig. 31A is a perspective view of a foundation structure 800 together with the adjustment assembly according to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position. Fig. 31B is a top plan view of Figure 31B. As shown in Figs. 31A and 31B, foundation structure 800 may be located above a planar surface 888 such as a ground. The foundation structure comprises a primary foundation formed by a plurality of poles 3A and 4B as described above. The secondary foundation is located above the primary foundation The secondary foundation is formed of a plurality of horizontal beams 845 forming a frame structure and a plurality of vertical beams that are located above the horizontal beams and supported by the horizontal beams. The frame structure may be a rectangular or a square structure having four sides. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 31A there are four vertical beams 844 with one vertical beams 844 in each corner of the frame structure. Also, in that embodiment there are at least four further vertical beams 843 (intermediate vertical beams) with two vertical beams 843 located at two opposing sides of the frame structure. The remaining two opposite sides of the frame structure do not have any vertical beam, although it is possible for them to have a similar vertical beam(s). The frame structure may have more or less vertical beams than what is shown in Fig. 31A. Also, the frame structure need not be rectangular and may be of any other shape. The vertical beams may be spaced apart from each other as shown. The vertical beams may be wielded, mounted, fastened or otherwise attached to the vertical beams. As shown, each vertical beam 844 located at the corners of the frame structure may comprise a single beam whereas other remaining vertical beams 843 may comprise at least two beams that are wielded, mounted, fastened or otherwise attached together for additional strength. Alternatively, all vertical beams 843 and 844 may be identical. Each vertical beam may be a hollow tube. The frame structure may be fully made out of a metallic material such as but not limited to iron, aluminium, steel etc.

The foundation structure 800 is configured to support a structure such as a prefabricated building above the secondary foundation. The prefabricated building (not shown) is configured to be connected, mounted or fastened to and supported above the vertical beams 843, 844 of the primary foundation. The primary foundation formed by the poles 4A and 3A with may be same as the grid structure are described above may provide bearing capacity on the planar surface such as a ground 888 which can be a soft ground.

The primary foundation may be attached to the secondary foundation using height adjustment mechanism as shown in Figs. 31C and 31D. Fig. 31C shows primary foundation being attached to the secondary foundation using height adjustment mechanism at an intermediate portion of the frame structure where vertical beam 843 is located. Fig. 31D shows primary foundation being attached to the secondary foundation using height adjustment mechanism at a corner portion of the frame structure where vertical beam 843 is located. The height adjustment mechanisms shown in Figs. 31C and 31D are similar in most aspects to the invention described with reference to Figs. 28 or 29 above, and the differences can be identified by comparing Figs. 31C and 31D with Figs. 28 or 29. Therefore the description of the invention with reference to Figs. 28 and 29 of the embodiment above may equally apply to the invention described with reference to Figs. 31C and 31D and therefore need not be described again. Therefore, only the main difference is that the location of the bearer 801 used with the height adjustment mechanism in Fig. 31C location of the bearer 801 used with the height adjustment mechanism of Fig. 31D. In Fig. 31C bearer 801 is located above and attached/secured/welded/mounted to the height adjustment mechanism and attached/secured/welded/mounted to and located below the horizontal beams of the frame structure. In Fig. 31D, bearer 801 is still located below the horizontal beams of the frame structure but lower portion or lower surface of the bearer 801 is sandwiched between the internally threaded nut 811 and adjusting nut 840.

Fig. 31E shows an intersection to which the adjustment assembly according to embodiment of Fig. 31A may be fitted or mounted. Fig. 31F shows a cross sectional view of at an assembled intersection of the poles 4A and 3A of the primary foundation of the foundation structure of Fig. 31A. At each intersection of the poles 2A and 3A, a penetrating fastener 112 and pins may be used in a same or similar manner as described above.

As shown in Figs. 31E, 32A and 32B, bearer 801 may be a bracket that is hollow tubular in shape. It may also comprise a slot or a plurality of slots 801a, 801b. The slot(s) 801a, 801b may be formed in top and/or bottom surface. Such configuration of bearer allows tools (e.g., screwdrivers, spanners etc.) to be inserted within the bearer 801 to facilitate adjustment. The bearer 101 is preferably made out of a metallic material, e.g., stainless steel.

In one example, the foundation structure 800, the height adjustment mechanism and/or the bearer 801 described above with reference to Figs. 31A to 32B may be used with other embodiments of the invention described above.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

Although the invention has been described by way of example and with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that modifications and/or improvements may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

Claims

57

CLAIMS:

1. An adjustable foundation for supporting a structure of a part of the structure above, the foundation comprising a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles, wherein the foundation further comprises a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies being configured to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at/above the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

2. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of the plurality of the adjustment assemblies is configured to raise or lower the level of the structure at a portion of the structure at which it is mounted.

3. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies comprises: a bearer configured to engage with the structure or a portion of the structure that is supported by the adjustable foundation and bear a load or part of the load of the structure; and a height adjustment mechanism that is physically and operatively connected to at least the bearer to adjust height or vertical between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height or the vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure at the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted.

4. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, , wherein the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each 58 pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein the at least one fastener is a first threaded fastener and the height adjustment mechanism comprises further comprises a second threaded fastener and wherein, the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least one threaded fastener that is externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, wherein the rotation of the at least one threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the at least one threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 4, wherein the at least one threaded fastener is a stud or a bolt. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein the at least one fastener is a first threaded fastener and the height adjustment mechanism comprises further comprises a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer are, at each pole to pole intersection, fastened to each other by a penetrated fastener at least portion of which is hollow, and wherein, the height adjustment mechanism comprises at least a first threaded fastener and a second threaded fastener, the first threaded fastener being externally threaded and is configured to be received and threadedly engaged within the hollow portion of the penetrated faster to couple the penetrated fastener and the bearer, the second threaded fastener being externally threaded and engaged with the first threaded fastener so that rotation of the second threaded fastener in a clockwise and/or anticlockwise direction causes the first threaded 59 fastener to rotate with respect to the penetrated fastener and adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure, wherein the second threaded fastener is located above the first threaded fastener. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the second threaded fastener is located more proximal to the structure that the first threaded fastener. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the second threaded fastener and/or the first threaded fastener is/are a stud. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the external thread of the first threaded fastener is a right hand thread and the external thread of the second threaded fastener is a left hand thread. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the bearer is a substantially U-shaped bracket with a base portion located between a first sidewall and a second sidewall of the bracket, the height adjustment mechanism being physically and operatively connected to the bearer at at least the base portion of the bearer. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 11, wherein the first sidewall and/or second sidewall comprises at least one screw hole for receiving at least one screw. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the bearer is made out of a metallic material, e.g. stainless steel. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, the structure comprises or is a framing system and the bearer is configured to receive a joist of a beam of the framing system. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is an electrical lifting mechanism. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is a hydraulic lifting mechanism or a pneumatic lifting mechanism. 60

17. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3, 15 or 16, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is located between the bearer and the second layer of the poles.

18. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3, 15 or 16, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is mounted at each pole to pole intersection of each of the at least two poles of the second layer.

19. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3 or any one of claims 15 or 18, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is a scissor jack.

20. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 3 or any one of claims 15 or 18, wherein the height adjustment mechanism is able to be controlled remotely.

21. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies further comprises at least one level sensor that is configured to detect any change in level between the second layer of poles and the structure as at least measured one level change value, the at least one level sensor being operatively connected to at least one controller, the at least one controller being programmed to read and compare the at least one measured level change value with at least one predetermined threshold level change value and performing a control action when the at least one measured level change value is exceeds the threshold level change value, the control action being transmitting of at least one control signal to the height adjustment mechanism of that adjustment assembly to adjust the height between the bearer and the second layer of the poles, thereby adjusting the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure.

22. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 21, wherein the at least one level sensor comprises a sensor tank that is partially filled with a liquid medium and housing a first sensing probe that is at least partially immersed into the liquid medium and a second sensing probe that is above the level of the liquid medium, wherein the control action is performed when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium; ii. the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; iii. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium; and 61 iv. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

23. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 22, wherein the at least one measured level change value exceeds the threshold level change value, when one of the following occurs: i. the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium; ii. the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium; iii. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium; and iv. the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are both at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

24. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 23, wherein the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure is lowered when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are above the liquid medium.

25. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 23, wherein the height between the second layer of the poles and the structure is raised when the first sensing probe and the second sensing probe are at least partially immersed in the liquid medium.

26. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the at least one level sensor is a capacitance level sensor.

27. An adjustable foundation as claimed in claim 26, wherein the at least one level sensor detects a change in capacitance when the first sensing probe is above the liquid medium or when the second sensing probe is at least partially immersed in the liquid medium, wherein the change in capacitance corresponds to the at least one measured level change value.

28. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 27 , wherein the liquid medium is or comprises water.

29. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 27 , wherein the liquid medium is or comprises glycol. 30. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 29, wherein the at least one level sensor of each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies are fluidly connected to each other (e.g. using at least one conduit).

31. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 30, wherein the at least one level sensor of each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies are fluidly connected to a reservoir storing the liquid medium (e.g. using at least one conduit).

32. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 31, wherein the at least one controller is a programmable logic controller (PLC).

33. An adjustable foundation as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 32, wherein the at least one controller is common to all of the plurality of adjustment assemblies.

34. An adjustment assembly for adjusting a level of a structure or a part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, the foundation comprising a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles, wherein the adjustment assembly is configured to be mounted to a pole to pole intersection to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or the part of the structure at the pole to pole intersection to which the adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, the pole to pole intersection being an intersection of one of the first layer of at least two timber poles and one of the second layer of at least two timber poles.

35. A level adjustment system that is configured to be used with a foundation for supporting a structure or a part of the structure above, the system comprising: i. the foundation comprising a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles; and ii. a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the at least two poles of the second layer and the at least two poles of the first layer, each of the plurality of adjustment assemblies being configured to adjust height or vertical distance between the second layer of the poles and the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at the pole to pole intersection to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

36. A level adjustment system that is configured to be used with a foundation for supporting a structure or a part of the structure above, the system comprising: a plurality of adjustment assemblies for adjusting a level of the structure that is supported by the foundation, each of the plurality of adjustable assemblies being mounted at multiple positions within the foundation and adjust height or vertical distance between the foundation and the structure or a part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at one or more of said multiple position to which that adjustment assembly is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

37. A foundation comprising the level adjustment system as claimed in claim 36.

38. A foundation as claimed in claim 37, wherein the foundation comprises: a. a first layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the first layer parallel and spaced apart from each other and b. a second layer of at least two timber poles, each pole of the second layer parallel and spaced apart from each other, each laying on timber poles of the first layer to span across at least two poles of the first layer and each fastened to each said two poles of said first layer at the intersection of said poles.

39. A method of adjusting a foundation comprising the following steps: a. preparing a ground site by removing earth to form a pit with a substantially planar base, 64 b. placing a plurality of poles on the planar base to define a first layer of poles in the pit, and securing a plurality of poles to poles of the first layer to define a second layer of poles on top of the first layer of poles, c. mounting a plurality of adjustable assemblies at each or a respective pole to pole intersection of the second layer poles and the first layer poles to adjust a level of a structure or a part of the structure that is supported by the foundation, and at at least one of the pole to pole intersection, adjusting height or vertical distance between the second layer of poles and a structure or the part of the structure that is supported by the foundation at the pole to pole intersection to which one of the plurality of adjustment assemblies is mounted, thereby adjusting the level of the structure or part of the structure that is supported by the foundation.

40. A method of claim 39, wherein the foundation is an adjusting foundation as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 33.