GB2579060A

GB2579060A - Apparatus for converting motion

Info

Publication number: GB2579060A
Application number: GB1818728.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Martyn David
Original assignee: Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
Current assignee: Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
Priority date: 2018-11-16
Filing date: 2018-11-16
Publication date: 2020-06-10
Anticipated expiration: 2038-11-16
Also published as: GB201818728D0; GB2579060B

Abstract

An assembly 2 for converting motion comprising a first arm 8 rotatable at a first position about a first fixed pivot 4; a second arm 10 rotatable at a first position about a second fixed pivot 6; a third arm 12 pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to a second position on the second arm spaced from the first position; a first connecting arm 16 pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced from the first position and to a second position on the third arm spaced from the first position; a second connecting arm 22 pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm spaced from the first position and to a third position on the second arm spaced from the first position; a foldable assembly 32, 34 pivotably connected to the second fixed pivot and to a third position on the third arm; and a foldable support assembly 52, 54 pivotally connected to the foldable assembly and to an arm that has a component of its movement in a direction from the first fixed pivot to the second fixed pivot as the assembly moves from a retracted position to an extended position. The assembly may be used to extend balconies, walls, floor or roof extensions, or canopies from a house, apartment, office building, or caravan.

Description

APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING MOTION

The present invention relates to an apparatus for converting motion. In a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly comprising the apparatus, including but not limited to an expandable building assembly.

Mechanisms for converting motion, in particular producing a straight line motion from a rotational motion are known in the art. Such straight line mechanisms may be characterised by comprising a first member rotatable about an axis passing through the member and a second member linked to or associated with the first member, the arrangement being such that rotational movement of the first member about the axis results in a straight line movement of the second member.

Examples of early mechanisms for producing a straight line motion include the straight line mechanism design by James Watt, comprising a series of three levers in end-to-end configuration, with movement of the two end levers about pivots at their free ends causing the middle lever to follow a close approximation to a straight line over a portion of its movement. A related linkage comprising three levers, with the middle lever constrained to follow a straight line was proposed by Tchebicheff. The Peaucellier-Lipkin inversor consists of an arrangement of seven levers and provides a conversion of circular motion into linear motion and vice versa. A related four-lever mechanism was proposed by Hart. A linear converter, known as the half beam mechanism, in which a first linear motion is converted to a second linear motion perpendicular to the first, was designed by Scott Russell.

An analysis of a variety of multi-lever, straight line linkages is provided 30 by Dijksman, E.A. 'Advances in Robot Kinematics and Computationed Geometry', pages 411 to 420, [1994] Kluwer Academic Publishers.

US 4,248,103 discloses a straight line mechanism, in particular a mechanism of the so-called conchoid' type. There is disclosed a linkage mechanism for an industrial manipulator comprising at least two of the said straight line mechanisms.

US 4,400,985 concerns a straight line link mechanism, comprising a plurality of pivotally connected links. The links are connected between a support and a controlled member. As one of the links is moved in a 360° arc, the controlled member alternately moves in a first direction along a linear path and thereafter in the opposite direction along a curved path. The weight of the controlled member may be balanced by the use of a counter weight, to provide a lifting mechanism. A cam may be employed to control the motion of the controlled member.

More recently, US 4,747,353 discloses a straight line motion mechanism formed from a pair linkage mechanisms arranged in a parallelogram in combination with a motion control means. The motion control means interconnects the two linkage mechanisms and provide a uniform angular displacement of each linkage mechanism.

US 5,102,290 concerns a transfer device for transferring a workpiece from a first location to a second location. The workpiece is moved in a trochoidal arc by means of a pickup arm mounted to roll along a flat surface.

A straight line mechanism is disclosed in US 5,237,887. The mechanism comprises a static base and a platform supported by first and second arm assemblies. Each of the first and second arm assemblies comprises portions pivotally connected to the static base. The arrangement of the pivoted arm portions of each arm assembly is such that the platform is constrained to move in a straight line, as the portions of the arms move about their respective pivot connections.

Still more recently, WO 97/33725 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two first links connected to a first element by a hinged connection so as to form a four-hinge system and pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the first element. At least two second links are connected to the second element so as to form a four-hinge system and to pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the second element. The two four-hinge systems provided by the first and second links are coupled in series to allow relative motion of the first and second elements.

WO 99/14018 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two link devices coupled between the elements, each comprising two mutually articulated link units. A first link unit is connected to first, moveable element. The second of the link units is connected to the second, static element. Power applied to the link units causes the first element to move relative to the second.

A mechanical linkage is described and shown in US 2,506,151. The linkage comprises a plurality of interconnected levers. The linkage provides for movement of one member with respect to a fixed member. The linkage is specifically described and shown for use in providing movement for components of a chair, in particular to allow for movement of the seat of the chair in a rearwardly-downwardly and forwardly-upwardly direction. The linkage is indicated in US 2,506,151 to provide for movement of the moveable member in a straight path with respect to the fixed member.

US 2,529,451 discloses a linkage for a chair for a theatre. The linkage connects the seat portion of the seat to the back portion, allowing relative movement between the seat and the back.

Perhaps most recently, WO 2013/182834 discloses an assembly for converting motion. The assembly comprises: a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon; and a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm.

Developments of the assembly of WO 2013/182834 are disclosed in subsequently published documents, including WO 2014/029954, WO 2014/184513, W02015/033111, WO 2015/033116, W02016/030659, and WO 2016/030660.

There is a continuing need to provide improved assemblies for converting motion, in particular assemblies for providing movement and support to components to be moved. It would be particularly advantageous if the assembly could be in a compact form when in a retracted position. It would also be advantageous if the assembly and its accompanying components could be supported and moved easily between the retracted position and an extended position.

There has now been found a development to the assembly described and shown in WO 2013/182834 which provides significant additional advantages in the operation of the assembly, in particular when used for moving and supporting components.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position on the first arm about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position on the second arm about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position on 15 the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm spaced apart from the first position on the third arm; a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a foldable assembly extending between the second fixed pivot and the third arm, the foldable assembly comprising: a first member pivotally connected at a first position on the first member to the second fixed pivot; and a second member pivotally connected at a first position on the second member to the third arm at a third position on the third arm; and a foldable support assembly; wherein the foldable support assembly is pivotally connected to the foldable assembly at a first position on the foldable support assembly; and wherein the foldable support assembly is pivotally connected at a second position on the foldable support assembly to an arm of the assembly that has a component of its movement in a direction from the first fixed pivot to the second fixed pivot, as the assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position.

In operation of the assembly, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot results in rotation of the second arm about the second fixed pivot and movement of the third arm. In particular, the third arm is caused to move such that a point on the third arm (herein referred to as 'the said point') spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the said point and the first position moves in a straight line. Thus, rotational motion of the first arm and the second arm about their respective fixed pivots results in a straight line motion of the said point on the third arm. In this respect, it is to be noted that the said point on the third arm referred to traces a line that is substantially straight, that is represents a very close approximation to a straight line. In particular, the path followed by the said point may be characterised as being a very flat sine wave, that is a sine wave of high wavelength and very low amplitude.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, movement of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position results in movement of the said point on the third arm along a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. This is a particularly advantageous arrangement, for example when employing the assembly in a building to provide movement of one portion of the building with respect to another, such as moving a portion of the building laterally from a fixed building structure.

The assembly of the present invention may be arranged such that the arms of the assembly are accommodated in a very compact configuration in the retracted position, such as with the arms lying closely together or adjacent one another, for example one within the other. In one preferred embodiment, the arms are sized and arranged so that they all lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position. This compactness is a significant advantage of the assembly of this invention.

Further, in some embodiments of the assembly the said point on the third arm is arranged to be the forwardmost point of the assembly in the direction extending away from and to one side of the first and second fixed pivots during movement of the assembly. This arrangement provides significant advantages over known assemblies, where the point of the assembly moving in a straight line is contained within or otherwise surrounded by other components of the assembly.

It is a particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly of the present invention that all the components of the assembly are to one side only of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots when the assembly is moving between the retracted position and the extended position.

The point on the third arm referred to above is spaced from the first position on the third arm, with the second position on the third arm lying between the said point and the first position. The location of the said point will depend upon the length of the arms of the device and the positions of their interconnections. In one preferred embodiment, the said point is arranged to be at a distal location on the third arm, that is distal from the first and second positions on the third arm, preferably with the said point being located at the distal end of the third arm or in an end portion at the distal end of the arm.

The extent of the straight line motion of the said point on the third arm varies according the precise positioning of the connections between the arms.

For example, in one embodiment, it has been found that this close approximation to a straight line motion by the said point on the third arm occurs over a distance that is up to 85% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. Further embodiments provide motion of the said point on the third arm that follows a close approximation to a straight line for a distance up to or exceeding 100% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. References herein to a motion of the said point on the third arm in a 'straight line' are references to this movement.

As noted, the said point on the third arm moves in a pattern that is a close approximation to a straight line. The deviation of the movement of the said point from a straight line may be exemplified by the following: In an embodiment of the assembly in which the distance between the first fixed pivot and the second fixed pivot is 3250 mm, the said point on the third arm describes an approximate straight line of 2750 mm in length. In particular, the said point moves between a first or retracted position and a second or extended position. In this respect, references to motion of the said point are with respect to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, with the retracted position being at or close to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots and the retracted position being distant therefrom. As noted, the said point on the third arm moves between the retracted position and the extended position, with the line joining the retracted and extended positions being a straight line perpendicular to the line extending between the first and second pivots. However, in moving between the retracted and extended positions, the said point follows a sine wave having a maximum deviation from the straight line of 8 mm. This deviation represents a deviation of just 0.25% of the distance travelled by the said point between the retracted and extended positions and is generally insignificant in the context of most if not all practical applications of the assembly.

In another embodiment of the assembly in which the distance between the first fixed pivot and the second fixed pivot is 3250 mm, the said point on the third arm describes an approximate straight line of 3254 mm in length. In this embodiment, the deviation of the said point moves in a sine wave having a maximum deviation from a straight line of just 31.4 mm, that is just 0.96% of the distance travelled by the said point.

The arrangement of the assembly of the present invention may be varied depending upon the requirements. For example, the assembly may be arranged to provide a longer straight line movement of the said point on the third arm with a slightly greater deviation from a straight line. Alternatively, the assembly may be arranged to provide a shorter straight line movement of the said point, with the path traced by the said point being a closer approximation to a straight line with less deviation.

As noted above, in many embodiments of the assembly, the straight line path followed by the said point on the third arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second pivot points. This is an advantage over assemblies of the prior art and allows the assembly of the present invention to be more versatile and have a wider range of applications. In particular, it allows the assembly to be placed or mounted on a plane and to have all motion of the components confined to one side of the plane. Thus, for example, the assembly may be used on a surface of a construction, such as a building or the like, and all components move from the retracted to the extended positions on one side of the plane, without encroaching on or requiring space on the other side of the plane.

The assembly has been defined hereinbefore by reference to a plurality of arms. It is to be understood that the term 'arm' is used as a general reference to any component that may be connected as hereinbefore described and/or moved about a pivot connection. Accordingly, the term 'arm' is to be understood as being a reference to any such component, regardless of shape or configuration.

As noted, operation of the assembly results in motion of the third arm.

It is to be understood that the assembly may be used to convert a rotational motion of the first or second arms about the first or second fixed pivots into a motion of the said point on the third arm, that is by having drive to the assembly provided at the first or second arms. Alternatively, the assembly may be used to convert a motion of the third arm into a rotational motion of the first and second arms, that is by having drive to the assembly applied at the third arm. As a further alternative, drive may be applied to one or more other arms or components of the assembly.

References herein to 'distal' and 'proximal' with respect to the position of components of the assembly are to be understood as being relative to the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position of the assembly, that is 'proximal' being at or towards the first and second fixed pivots and 'distal' being away from the first and second fixed pivots.

The assembly of the present invention is connected to a pair of fixed pivots comprising a first fixed pivot and a second fixed pivot. In this respect, the term fixed' as used in relation to the fixed pivots is a reference to the first and second pivots being fixed in relation to one another, such that the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is constant. The first and second fixed pivots are typically provided on a member or structure. The member or structure may be non-moveable, such as a building, or may be moveable. The components of the assembly are to be considered to be moveable with respect to the first and second fixed pivots and references to the movement of the components of the assembly are to be understood in this respect.

The fixed pivots are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. In one embodiment, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots is arranged vertically, with the first fixed pivot above the second fixed pivot. However, the assembly may have other orientations. In particular, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots may be arranged vertically with the second fixed pivot above the first fixed pivot. Other orientations are also possible, such as with the first and second fixed pivots arranged other than vertically.

The assembly of the present invention comprises a first arm. The first arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the first arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The first arm is rotatable at a first position on the first arm about the first fixed pivot. Preferably, the first arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the arm to the first fixed pivot. The pivot connection at the first position of the first arm may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through the arm and/or the first fixed pivot.

The first position on the first arm may be in any suitable location on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the first arm.

The first arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the first arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly.

The first arm may have any suitable length. However, generally, the ratio of the length of the first arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the first arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The first arm is preferably no longer than, more preferably the same or shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the first arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the first arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.

The assembly further comprises a second arm. The second arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The second arm is rotatable at a first position on the second arm about the second fixed pivot. Preferably, the second arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the second arm to the second fixed pivot. The pivot connection at the first position of the second arm may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the second arm about the second fixed pivot. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through the arm and/or the second fixed pivot.

The first position on the second arm may be in any suitable location on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the second arm.

The second arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the second fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the second arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the second fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly.

The second arm may have any suitable length. The ratio of the length of the second arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the second arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The second arm is preferably the same or shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the second arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the second arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.

The length of the second arm is preferably selected to be as long as possible, within the constraints of the other components of the assembly and the desired motion. In this way, the arc through which the second position on the second arm moves about the second fixed pivot has as large a radius as possible. This facilitates the positioning of the second connecting arm.

The second arm may be longer or shorter than the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first and second arms are of the same length.

The assembly further comprises a third arm. The third arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the third arm is an elongate 10 member, for example a bar or a rod.

The third arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the third arm to the second arm at a second position on the second arm. The pivot connection between the second and third arms may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the third arm about the second position on the second arm. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the second and third arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The third arm is pivotably connected to the second arm at a first position on the third arm and a second position on the second arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the third arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the third arm.

The second position on the second arm is spaced apart from the first position on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the second arm.

In operation of the assembly, as noted above, the third arm has a point thereon that follows the path of a straight line when the assembly is moved between the retracted and extended positions. This point on the third arm is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm, that is the position on the third arm at which the second and third arms are pivotably connected together.

The third arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the third arm to move, such that the said point on the third arm follows the straight line path between the retracted and extended positions. Alternatively, the third arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the third arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly. For example, application of a straight line force to the said point on the third arm between the retracted and extended positions results in rotational movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot and rotational movement of the second arm about the second fixed pivot.

The third arm may have any suitable length. The ratio of the length of the third arm, that is the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The third arm is preferably the same or shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the third arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the third arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.

Taking the length of the third arm to be the distance between the first position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm, the length of the third arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the connecting arms. In some embodiments, the length of the third arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the third arm has a length of about 0.975 of the length of the first and/or second arms.

In one preferred embodiment, the length of the third arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second and third arms are the same length. In this way, the assembly can be formed from a minimum number of different components.

The assembly further comprises a first connecting arm. The first connecting arm extends between the first arm and the third arm. The first connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the first connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The first connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and third arms. The pivot connections between the first connecting arm and each of the first and third arms may be of any suitable form to allow the first connecting arm to pivot about each of the first and third arms. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the first connecting arm and the second arm or the third arm about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivot connections may be at any suitable location on the first connecting arm. In one embodiment, the pivot connection between the first connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the first connecting arm and/or the pivot connection between the first connecting arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first connecting arm. Alternatively, the first connecting arm may extend beyond the first arm in the direction towards the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.

Alternatively, or in addition, the first connecting arm may extend beyond the third arm in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.

The first connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a second position on the first arm. The second position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm.

The first connecting arm is further connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm, which second position is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm.

The first connecting arm may have any suitable length. Its length may be the distance between the positions on the first and third arms between which the first connecting arm extends.

The second position on the third arm, at which the first connecting arm is connected, is disposed between the first position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm. The second position on the third arm may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the first connecting arm acts to provide support for the third arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the third arm. The requirement for the third arm to be supported in this manner by the first connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the second position on the third arm. Second, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the first connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the first connecting arm increases.

In one preferred embodiment, the first connecting arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.

The assembly further comprises a second connecting arm. The second connecting arm extends between the first arm and the second arm. The second connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The second connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and second arms. The pivot connections between the second connecting arm and each of the first and second arms may be of any suitable form to allow the second connecting arm to pivot about each of the first and second arms. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the second connecting arm and the first arm or the second arm about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivot connections may be at any suitable location on the second connecting arm. In one embodiment, the pivot connection between the second connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the first connecting arm and/or the pivot connection between the second connecting arm and the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the second connecting arm. Alternatively, the second connecting arm may extend beyond the first arm in the direction towards the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. Alternatively, or in addition, the second connecting arm may extend beyond the second arm in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots The second connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a third position on the first arm. In one embodiment, the third position on the first arm is spaced apart from and between both the first and second positions on the first arm. In an alternative embodiment, the third position on the first arm coincides with the second position on the first arm, such that the second connecting arm is pivotally connected to the first arm and also pivotally connected to the first connecting arm.

The third position on the first arm, at which the second connecting arm is connected, may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the second connecting arm acts to provide support for the first arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the first arm. The requirement for the first arm to be supported in this manner by the first connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the third position on the first arm. Second, as with the first connecting arm, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the second connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the second connecting arm increases.

The second connecting arm is further pivotally connected to the second arm at a third position on the second arm. In one embodiment of the assembly, the third position is spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the second arm. In an alternative embodiment, the third position on the second arm coincides with the second position on the second arm, such that the second connecting arm is connected to both the second and third arms.

The second connecting arm may have any suitable length. Its length is preferably the distance between the positions on the first and second arms between which the second connecting arm extends.

In one preferred embodiment, the second connecting arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.

The arms of the assembly of the present invention may consist essentially of the first, second and third arms and first and second connecting arms described hereinbefore, together with the foldable assembly and the foldable support assembly. Alternatively, the assembly may comprise one or more further arms connected to the aforementioned first, second, third and connecting arms. Further arms may be added, for example, to provide additional support to one or more components being moved by the assembly and connected thereto.

In one preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises a fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fourth arm to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm.

The fourth arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the fourth arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The fourth arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the fourth arm to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm. The pivot connection between the first and fourth arms may be of any suitable form to allow the rotational movement of the fourth arm relative to the first arm. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the arms about which the arms are free to move.

The fourth arm is pivotably connected to the first arm at a first position on the fourth arm and a fourth position on the first arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the fourth arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the fourth arm, in particular the end of the fourth arm that is proximal to the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.

The fourth position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the fourth position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm, that is the end distal of the first fixed pivot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fourth position on the first arm coincides with the second position on the first arm, that is the fourth arm is connected to the first arm at the same position as the first connecting arm.

The fourth arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the fourth arm to move. Alternatively, the fourth arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the fourth arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly to result in movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot and the second arm about the second fixed pivot.

The fourth arm may be connected to an object to be moved relative to the first and second fixed pivots. The connection between the fourth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, the end of the fourth arm that is distal of the first and second fixed pivots. It has been found that when the fourth arm is connected to the object to be moved there is a position on the fourth arm that moves in a substantially straight line, corresponding to the movement of the said point on the third arm described in detail above. The connection between the fourth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, this position on the fourth arm.

Taking the length of the fourth arm to be the distance between the first position on the fourth arm and the said point on the fourth arm, the length of the fourth arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the connecting arms. The length of the fourth arm is preferably less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the fourth arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the length of the fourth arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the fourth arm has a length of about 0.975 of the length of the first and second arms.

In alternative embodiments, the length of the fourth arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. Preferably, the length of the fourth arm is the same as the length of the third arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second, third and fourth arms are the same length In one embodiment, both the third arm and the fourth arm are connected to the same object to be moved, most preferably with both arms connected to the object at the said point on each of the third and fourth arm.

In alternative embodiment, each of the third and fourth arms is connected to a respective component or object to be moved. In this way, two components or objects may be moved independently of each other by the 30 same assembly.

As noted above, the assembly may comprise additional arms. Such additional arms may be rigidly connected to one of the aforementioned arms of the assembly or may be pivotably connected to an aforementioned arm. The additional arms may be provided to provide support for one or more components or structures to be moved by the assembly. Alternatively or in addition, the additional arms may be provided to extend the distance a component or object may be moved and supported relative to the first and second fixed pivots.

For example, in one embodiment, the first connecting arm may extend beyond the third arm in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. A support arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the support arm to the first connecting arm at a third position on the first connecting at a position on the first connecting arm spaced from the first and second positions and distal of the third arm. The support arm may be pivotably connected at a second position on the support arm to a component to be moved and supported. The component is preferably also pivotably connected to the third arm, for example at the said point on the third arm.

The assembly of the present invention further comprises a foldable assembly. The foldable assembly extends between the second fixed pivot and the third arm. The foldable assembly comprises a plurality of members, with adjacent members being pivotably attached to each other.

In particular, the foldable assembly comprises a first member pivotably connected at a first position on the first member to the second fixed pivot. The connection between the first member and the second fixed pivot may be of any suitable form allowing the first member to pivot about the second fixed pivot. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the first member and the second fixed pivot and about which the first member is free to move.

In the extended position of the assembly, the first member extends to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, that is the same side as the arms of the assembly. The first position on the first member may be at or adjacent an end or edge of the first member. Alternatively, the first position on the first member may be spaced from an end or edge of the first member. In this way, in the extended position, the first member extends on both sides of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.

The foldable assembly comprises a second member. The second member is pivotably connected at a first position on the second member to the third arm at a third position on the third arm. The third position on the third arm is spaced apart from the first and second positions on the third arm, in particular located distally of the second position on the third arm, that is beyond the second position in the direction from the first position to the second position. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the third position on the third arm coincides with the said point on the third arm, such that the second member is pivotably connected to the said point on the third arm. In this way, the first position on the second member moves along a substantially straight line as the assembly moves between the retracted and extended positions.

The foldable assembly comprises a plurality of members, in particular the first and second members, that is the foldable assembly comprises at least two members. The foldable assembly may comprise more than two members. In many embodiments, the foldable assembly consists essentially of the first and second members. In these embodiments, the second member is pivotably connected at a second position on the second member to the first member at a second position on the first member. The second position on the first member is spaced apart from the first position on the first member. The second position on the second member is preferably at or adjacent an end or edge of the second member. The second position on the first member is preferably at or adjacent an end or edge of the first member.

In preferred embodiments, the members of the foldable assembly, including the first and second members of the foldable assembly, lie along a straight line when the assembly is in the extended position. It is particularly preferred for many embodiments that the members of the foldable assembly lie along a straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the extended position.

The members of the foldable assembly may have any configuration and form. For example, the members may be elongate members, such as arms. In many embodiments, the members of the foldable assembly are components that are deployed as the assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position. For example, in the case of the assembly being employed to move components of a building, the members of the foldable assembly may comprise components of the floor of the building, for example with the foldable assembly forming a floor of the building when the building and the assembly are in the extended position.

The members of the foldable assembly may have any suitable size. The size of the members may be determined by the function to be performed by the members, for example when the assembly is in the extended position. It is particularly preferred that each member of the foldable assembly is of a size that allows the foldable assembly to be folded and lie between the first and second fixed pivots when the assembly is in the retracted position.

The members of the foldable assembly each have a dimension extending in the direction from the second fixed pivot to the third arm. This dimension of the members of the foldable assembly may be different.

However, in many preferred embodiments, the members of the foldable assembly have this dimension equal. In particular, it is preferred that this dimension of the first and second members is equal. In embodiments in which the foldable assembly has only the first and second members extending between the second fixed pivot and the third arm, it is preferred that this dimension of the first and second members is equal to half the distance between the second fixed pivot and the pivot connection between the second member and the third arm, when the assembly is in the extended position.

The pivot connections between the members of the foldable assembly, between the first member and the second fixed pivot, and between the second member and the third arm may be of any suitable form to allow the rotational movement. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the members and/or arms about which the members are free to move.

The assembly may comprise a single foldable assembly. Alternatively, the assembly may comprise two or more foldable assemblies.

The assembly of the present invention further comprises a foldable support assembly. In use, the action of the foldable support assembly is to unfold and support the foldable assembly, as the assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position. In the extended position, the foldable support assembly supports the foldable assembly. In addition, when the assembly is moved out of the extended position towards the retracted position, the action of the foldable support assembly is to move and fold the foldable assembly. This is a key action of the foldable support assembly, in particular when the members of the foldable assembly all lie on a single straight line in the extended position. The foldable support assembly can also provide a function to lock the entire assembly in the extended position, as described in more detail below.

The foldable support assembly is pivotally connected to the foldable assembly at a first position on the foldable support assembly. The foldable support assembly may be pivotally connected to any member of the foldable assembly. Preferably, the foldable support assembly is connected to a pivot connection between two adjacent members of the foldable assembly or adjacent to such a connection.

The foldable support assembly is further pivotably connected at a second position on the foldable support assembly to an arm of the assembly. In operation of the assembly, as the assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position, the arms of the assembly exhibit rotational movement and, for some of the arms, a displacement. The foldable support assembly is pivotably connected at its second position to an arm of the assembly that has a component of this movement that moves in a direction from the first fixed pivot to the second fixed pivot, that is a direction parallel to the line extending from the first fixed pivot to the second fixed pivot.

Preferably, the foldable support assembly is pivotably connected at the second position on the foldable support assembly to one of the second arm or the third arm.

The foldable support assembly may have any form that is suitable to perform the functions discussed above. In a preferred embodiment, the foldable support assembly comprises a plurality of pivotably connected arms. Each arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for each arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

In one preferred embodiment, the foldable support assembly comprises a first support arm and a second support arm. The first support arm is pivotably connected to the foldable assembly at a first position on the first support arm forming the first position of the foldable support assembly. The first position on the first support arm may be at or adjacent an end of the first support arm. In other embodiments, the first position is disposed between the ends of the first support arm, such that the first support arm extends on opposing sides of the foldable assembly in the extended position. This allows the first support arm to provide an additional support function for the entire assembly.

In many preferred embodiments, the first support arm extends parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the extended position. In embodiments in which the members of the foldable assembly lie along a straight line in the extended position, the first support arm preferably extends perpendicular to the straight line of the foldable assembly.

The second support arm of the foldable support assembly is pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly at a first position on the second support arm, which forms the second position on the foldable support assembly, as discussed above. As previously noted, the second support arm is preferably pivotably connected to either the second arm or the third arm. The first position on the second support arm may be at or adjacent an end of the second support arm. In other embodiments, the first position on the second support arm is disposed between the ends of the second support arm, such that the second support arm extends on opposing sides of the arm to which it is pivotably connected in the extended position.

In one preferred embodiment, the first support arm of the foldable support assembly is pivotably connected at a second position on the first support arm to the second support arm at a second position on the second support arm, this forming a third position on the foldable support assembly. The pivot connection between the first support arm and the second support arm is preferably located at or adjacent an end of the first support arm and/or and end of the second support arm, preferably at or adjacent ends of both the first and second support arms.

The third position on the foldable support assembly is spaced apart from and lies between the first and second positions on the foldable support assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the distance between the first and third positions on the foldable support assembly is equal to the distance between the second and third positions on the foldable support assembly. That is, in the embodiment described above, the first and second support arms are equal in length.

When the assembly is in the extended position, the support arms of the foldable support assembly may lie along a straight line. In one preferred embodiment, the support arms of the foldable support assembly lie on a straight line in the extended position and the second support is pivotably connected to the pivot connection between the second and third arms.

More preferably for many embodiments, the support arms of the foldable support assembly extend at an angle of less than 180° to one another, when the assembly is in the extended position. For example, the first and second support arms of the foldable support assembly may extend at an angle to from 90 to 160°, more preferably from 100 to 150°, still more preferably from 110 to 140° when in the extended position. An angle of 1350 is particularly preferred for many embodiments.

The foldable support assembly may comprise a locking arm. The locking arm may be pivotably connected to a position on the foldable support assembly. In this embodiment, the locking arm is lockable with another arm of the assembly. Alternatively, the locking arm may be pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly, for example the second arm or the third arm. In this embodiment, the locking arm is lockable with the foldable support assembly.

In embodiments with the foldable support assembly comprising a plurality of support arms, the locking arm may be pivotably connected to a support arm of the foldable support assembly. For example, the locking arm may be pivotably connected to a pivot connection between two support arms of the foldable support assembly. In the embodiment described above with the foldable support assembly comprising first and second support arms and having a third position, the locking arm is most preferably pivotably connected to the third position, that is pivotably connected to both the first and support second arms. The pivot connection is preferably located at or adjacent an end of the locking arm.

The locking arm is provided with a locking member. The locking member may be formed at or adjacent an end of the locking arm. The locking member may have any suitable form for engaging with a complementary locking member. The locking member may be formed integrally with the locking arm, for example being a locking pin or a locking slot. The locking member of the locking arm engages with a complementary locking member on another arm or component of the assembly, when the assembly is in the extended position. The complementary locking member may have any suitable form that is complementary with the locking member and forms a lock when the two members are engaged. For example, the complementary locking member may comprise a pin for engaging with a slot in the locking arm or a slot for receiving a pin extending from the locking arm. When the locking member and complementary locking member are engaged, movement of the assembly out of the extended position is at least restricted and is preferably prevented. The engagement between the locking member and the complementary locking member is preferably releasable.

The locking arm may engage with a complimentary locking member on any arm of the assembly which at least restricts, preferably prevents, movement of the assembly out of the extended position. In the preferred embodiment described above, in which the foldable support assembly is pivotably connected at its second position to one of the second or third arms, the locking arm is preferably arranged to engage with a complimentary locking member on the other of the second or third arms.

The locking arm may have any suitable length. In one preferred embodiment, the length of the locking arm between the locking member and the pivot connection between the locking arm and the third position on the foldable support assembly is equal to the distance between the second and third position on the foldable support assembly. In one preferred embodiment, the locking arm, the first support arm and the second support are all equal in length.

The pivot connections between the components of the foldable support assembly, between the foldable support assembly and the foldable assembly, and between the foldable support assembly and the arm may be of any suitable form to allow the rotational movement. For example, the pivot connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the members and/or arms about which the members are free to move.

The assembly of the present invention may comprise a single foldable support assembly. In many embodiments, the assembly comprises a plurality of foldable support assemblies, for example two, three or more foldable support assemblies. Each foldable support assembly of the plurality may be connected to the same foldable assembly. In embodiments in which the assembly comprises a plurality of foldable assemblies, two or more of the foldable support assemblies may be connected to different foldable assemblies.

The assembly may comprise one or more additional support assemblies. Preferably, each additional support assembly is preferably pivotably connected to the foldable assembly. Preferably, each additional support assembly is also pivotably connected to another component, such as an arm of the assembly, a fixed component, that is the component providing the first and second fixed pivots, or to a component being moved by the assembly. Each additional support assembly may comprise one or more arms, with two arms being preferred for many embodiments. Each arm of each additional support assembly is preferably pivotably connected to another arm of the additional support assembly.

One or more arms of the assembly may extend beyond a pivotal connection and intersect with another arm of the assembly. A locking assembly may be provided at the position where the two arms intersect, to provide a means of locking the assembly in the extended position. For example, the second connecting arm may extend beyond the first arm in the direction of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots and intersect with the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the extended position. A locking assembly mounted on the component or structure providing the first and second fixed pivots at this point of intersection allows the second connecting arm to lock with the component or structure. Similarly, the first connecting arm may extend beyond the third arm in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots and engage with a component or structure connected to the third arm and, if present the fourth arm. Again, a locking assembly may be provided at this point of intersection to allow the assembly to be locked in the extended position. Suitable locking assemblies are as discussed above. The locking assemblies are preferably releasable, allowing the assembly to be moved from the extended position to the retracted position, as required.

Relative movement of the components of the assembly may be limited or restricted, for example to limit the movement of the third arm such that the motion of the said point is confined to a straight line between the retracted and extended positions. Suitable means for limiting the relative movement of components of the assembly include a flexible tie or tether extending between two of the arms and connecting arms. In one embodiment, a flexible tie or tether extends between the first arm and the third arm, in particular between a point on the first arm between the first and third positions thereon and the first position on the third arm. One preferred form for the flexible tie comprises a plurality of hingedly connected arms or arm assemblies moveable between a folded condition when the assembly is in the retracted position and a fully extended condition in the extended position.

It is an advantage of the assembly of present invention that it is highly scaleable and may be constructed and applied at a wide range of scales to convert motion, as described hereinbefore.

The assembly of the present invention finds wide applications and uses, in particular by allowing relative movement between a first component and a second component.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an 30 assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly as hereinbefore described is provided between the first component and second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.

One of the first and second components is connected to the third arm of the assembly and, optionally to the fourth arm in embodiments having a fourth arm. The other of the first and second components provides the first and second fixed pivot points to which the first and second arms are pivotally connected. In this way, movement of the first component with respect to the second component is effected. As noted above, such relative movement may be effected by applying a force to the first arm, the second arm or to the third arm of the assembly.

In many applications, a plurality of assemblies of the present invention is employed. In particular, a plurality of assemblies may be employed in a spaced apart relationship on opposing sides of an object to be moved. For example, a first and second assembly may be provided on opposing sides of an object to be moved with the third arms of two assemblies connected to opposing sides of the object.

In addition, two assemblies of the present invention may be employed in a spaced apart relationship, with the foldable assembly being common to and shared by the two assemblies.

Applications of the assembly of the present invention to convert rotational motion to linear motion include the support and movement of building structures relative to one another.

Accordingly, the present invention further provides a building comprising: a first building portion and a second building portion, the first building portion being moveable relative to the second building portion between a retracted position and an extended position; wherein relative movement between the first and the second building portions and support of one of the first and second building portions with respect to the other of the first and second building portions are provided by an assembly as hereinbefore described.

The first building portion may be any structure or part of a building, in particular a fixed structure, such as a house, apartment or office building, or a mobile building structure, such as a mobile house, caravan or the like. The second building structure may be any structure or component of the installation that is required to be moved relative to the first building portion between the retracted and extended positions. Examples of such structures include balconies, walls, floor extensions, roof extensions, canopies and the like.

In one embodiment, the foldable assembly forms a floor, a wall or a ceiling of the building, when in the extended position. As noted above, the foldable assembly can be shared by a plurality of assemblies, for example by a pair of assemblies disposed on opposing sides of a floor, wall or ceiling of the building.

The principles and operation of the assembly of the present invention will be further explained by reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 2a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a retracted position; Figure 2b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a first partially extended position; Figure 2c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a second partially extended position, Figure 2d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a third partially extended position; Figure 2e is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a fourth partially extended position; Figure 3 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figures 4a and 4b are diagrammatical representations of an assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention in an extended position, with Figure 4a showing the assembly in an unlocked condition and Figure 4b showing the assembly in a locked condition; Figure 5 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 6 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figures 7a to 7d show the assembly of Figure 6 in positions from a retracted position shown in Figure 7a to a partially extended position shown in Figure 7d; Figure 8 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figures 9a to 9d show the assembly of Figure 8 in positions from a retracted position shown in Figure 9a to a partially extended position shown in Figure 9d; Figure 10 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 11 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention in an extended position, and Figure 12 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Turning to Figure 1, there is shown a diagrammatical representation of an assembly of one embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated as 2. The assembly 2 is shown mounted to a fixed structure at a first fixed pivot 4 and a second fixed pivot 6. The fixed pivots 4, 6 are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. In the embodiment shown, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 is arranged vertically, with the first fixed pivot 4 above the second fixed pivot 6. However, the assembly 2 may have other orientations. In particular, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 may be arranged vertically with the second fixed pivot 6 above the first fixed pivot 4. Other orientations are also possible, such as with the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 arranged other than vertically.

The fixed pivots 4, 6 are provided in a component or structure, which can be considered to be fixed and with movement of the components of the assembly 2 being relative to this component or structure. For the purposes of illustration only, the fixed pivots 4, 6 are shown in Figure 1 provided on a fixed component 3.

A first arm 8 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end of the first arm to the first fixed pivot 4. A second arm 10 is pivotally connected at a first position on the second arm at one end to the second fixed pivot 6. A third arm 12 is connected at a first position at one end of the third arm by a pivot connection 14 at a second position at the second end of the second arm 10. The third arm 12 has a point A thereon that moves in a substantially straight line perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6, as the assembly 2 moves between the extended position and its retracted position.

A first connecting arm 16 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 18 at a second position at the second end of the first arm 8. The second end of the first connecting arm 16 is connected by a pivot connection 20 to the third arm 12 spaced from the pivot connection 14.

A second connecting arm 22 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 24 to the first arm at a third position on the first arm 8 spaced apart from both the first and second positions on the first arm. The second end of the second connecting arm 22 is mounted to the pivot connection 14, such that the second connecting arm 22 is pivotally connected at the connection 14 to both the second arm 10 and the third arm 12.

The pivot connections may be formed by any suitable means, for example by pins extending through holes in one or both of the arms being pivotally joined.

The assembly 2 further comprises a foldable assembly, generally indicated at 30. The foldable assembly 30 comprises a first member 32 pivotably connected at one end to the second fixed pivot 6. The foldable assembly 30 further comprises a second member 34. The second member 34 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 36 to the point A on the third arm 12 and connected at its second end by a pivot connection 38 to the second end of the first member 32. The first and second members 32, 34 are foldable about the pivot connection 38. In the extended position shown in Figure 1, the first and second members 32, 34 extend along a straight line extending between the second fixed pivot 6 and the point A on the third arm and perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.

The assembly 2 further comprises a foldable support assembly, generally indicated as 50. The foldable support assembly 50 comprises a first support arm 52 pivotably connected at one end of the first support arm to the pivot connection 38 between the first and second members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30. The foldable support assembly 50 comprises a second support arm 54. The second support arm 54 has at one end of the second support arm a pivot connection 56 with the third arm 12. The pivot connection 56 is disposed on the third arm 12 between the pivot connection 14 and the pivot connection 20. The second support arm 54 is provided at its second end with a pivot connection 58 with the second end of the first support arm 52. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first and second support arms 52, 54 are equal in length.

As shown in Figure 1, with the assembly in the extended position, the first and second arms 52, 54 of the foldable support assembly 50 extend at an angle a. In many preferred embodiments, the angle a is 135°.

As shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment of the assembly, the first support arm 52 extends perpendicular to the line of the foldable assembly 30 and parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.

In the extended position shown in Figure 1, the foldable support assembly 50 provides support for the foldable assembly 30. In addition, the foldable support assembly 50 acts to lift the foldable assembly 30 when the assembly 2 is moved from the extended position towards its retracted position. In this way, the tendency of the foldable assembly 30 become locked in the position shown in Figure 1 is overcome.

In the orientation shown in Figure 1, the foldable assembly 30 is at the lower end of the assembly 2. In this arrangement, the foldable assembly 30 may form the floor of an expandable building, for example. As will be appreciated, with the assembly 2 inverted, the foldable assembly 30 is at the top of the assembly and may form the roof or ceiling of an expandable building, for example. Other orientations of the assembly 2 are also possible.

Turning now to Figures 2a to 2e, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 1 in positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 2a, and an extended position shown in Figure 2e.

The components of the assembly of Figures 2a to 2e have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 1 and discussed above.

Referring to Figure 2a, the assembly 2 is shown in a retracted position.

The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within one another when in the retracted position of Figure 2a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L-shaped and U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 2 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.

The assembly 2 is shown in Figure 2b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 2b to 2e, the movement of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 2a to the position of Figure 2b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 2c shows the assembly 2 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6.

Again, point A on the third arm 12 is tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 2a.

Similarly, Figure 2d shows the assembly 2 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.

Figure 2e shows the assembly 2 in a fourth partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.

Continued movement of the assembly 2 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 2e results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 1.

Turning to Figure 3, there is shown an assembly of a second embodiment of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 102, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1. Components of the assembly of Figure 3 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 3 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: In the assembly 102, the first support arm 52 extends beyond the pivot connection 38 with the foldable assembly 30 and has a support portion 152 extending below the foldable assembly 30, as viewed in Figure 3. The support portion 152 can act as a support for the assembly 102 and components connected thereto. For example, in the orientation shown in Figure 3, with the support portion 152 extending downwards, as viewed in the figure, the support portion 152 may function as a leg. In cases where the assembly 102 is inverted, the support portion 152 extends upwards and provides an upwardly extending support for components.

In the assembly 102, the second support arm 54 is provided with a pivot connection 156 with the second arm 10.

Turning to Figures 4a and 4b, there is shown a third embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 202, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1.

Components of the assembly of Figures 4a and 4b that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figures 4a and 4b and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: In the embodiment of Figures 4a and 4b, the second connecting arm 22 is connected at one end to the pivot connection 18, such that the second connecting arm is pivotally connected to each of the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16. The second end of the second connecting arm 22 is connected to a pivot connection 214 at a third position on the second arm 10, the third position on the second arm 10 being spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the second arm 10.

The foldable support assembly 50 of the assembly 202 comprises a locking arm 204. The locking arm 204 is pivotably connected at one end thereof to the pivot connection 58 between the first and second support arms 52, 54. The other end of the locking arm 204 is provided with a locking member, in the form of a slot 206. The second arm 10 is provided with a complementary locking member in the form of a locking pin 208 for engaging with the slot 206 in the locking arm 204.

In the position shown in Figure 4a, the assembly 202 is in the extended position, with the locking arm 204 not engaged. In this position, the assembly 202 is free to be moved out of the extended position towards the retracted position. In the position shown in Figure 4b, the assembly 202 is in the extended position, with the locking arm 204 engaged in the locking position. in particular, the slot 206 in the locking arm 204 is engaged with the locking pin 208 on the second arm 10. In this position, the assembly 202 is locked and movement out of the extended position is not possible.

It is to be understood that a locking arm may also be provided in a manner analogous to that shown in Figures 4a and 4b to the assembly of Figure 3, in particular to engage with a complementary locking member provided on the third arm 12.

The arrangement of a slot and a locking pin, as shown in Figures 4a and 4b, have been provided merely as examples of locking members which may be employed to engage and lock the locking arm with another arm of the assembly. Other locking members for achieving this function will be apparent to the person skilled in the art.

Turning to Figure 5, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 302, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1.

Components of the assembly of Figure 5 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 5 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: The assembly 302 of Figure 5 comprises a fourth arm 304. The fourth arm 304 is pivotably connected at one end to the pivot connection 18 between the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16. The fourth arm 304 has a point B thereon that moves in a substantially straight line perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6, as the assembly 2 moves between the extended position and its retracted position, in an analogous manner to the movement of the point A on the third arm 12, described above.

The third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 of the assembly 302 may be connected to a component or structure to be moved relative to the first and second fixed pivots. In particular, a component or structure can be pivotably connected to the points A and B on the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304. In this way, the component or structure can be moved in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. For the purposes of illustration only, the points A and B in the assembly 302 are shown in Figure 5 to be pivotably connected to a moveable component 306.

The moveable component 306 may be an arm extending between the 5 third and fourth arms 12, 304, for example connected to the points A and B on the third and fourth arms 12, 304.

The moveable component 306 may provide the first and second fixed pivots for another assembly, for example an assembly of the kind described 10 above and shown the accompanying figures, which assembly would function in an analogous manner to that described herein.

It is to be understood that the modifications shown in the embodiments of Figures 3 and Figures 4a and 4b and described above may be applied in 15 analogous manner to the assembly 302 of Figure 5.

In the assembly of the embodiment of Figure 5, in the extended position shown, the first connecting arm 16 extends from the first arm 8 to the pivot connection 20 with the third arm 12 and further beyond the third arm 12 to the moveable component 306. A locking assembly (not shown for clarity) may be provided to lock the distal end of the first connecting arm 16 with the moveable component 306 in the extended position.

Similarly, the second connecting arm 22 extends from the second arm 10 to the pivot connection 24 with the first arm 8 and further beyond the first arm 8 to the component 3 providing the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. A locking assembly (not shown for clarity) may be provided to lock the proximal end of the second connecting arm 22 with the component 3 in the extended position.

The first and second connecting arms 16, 22 of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 may be extended in an analogous manner to that shown in Figure 5 and described above.

Turning to Figure 6, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 402, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1. Components of the assembly of Figure 6 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 6 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: In the embodiment of Figure 6, the second support arm 54 is pivotably 15 connected to the second arm 10 at a pivot connection 156, as in the embodiment of Figure 3 discussed above.

The first connecting arm 16 extends from the pivot connection 18 with the first arm 8 to the pivot connection 20 with the third arm 12 and beyond the third arm 12 in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. A support arm 404 is connected at one end thereof to the first connecting arm 16 by a pivot connection 406. The support arm 404 is further pivotably connected by a pivot connection 408 to a component 410. The component 410 is further pivotably connected to the third arm 12, in particular to the pivot connection 36 at the point A on the third arm 12.

The component 410 may be any component or structure that requires movement relative to the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. For example, the component 410 may be of the same type and general configuration as the members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30 and provide an extension of the foldable assembly when in the extended position shown in Figure 6. For example, with the assembly 402 in the orientation shown in Figure 6, the component 410 may comprise a floor member or floor panel. Alternatively, the component 410 may be a component of a ceiling or roof, with the assembly 402 in an inverted orientation.

The component 410 may comprise an arm, which may be employed to move and support other components.

The pivot connection 408 between the support arm 404 and the 10 component 410 may be at an end or edge of the component 410. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 6, the component 410 may extend in the distal direction beyond the support arm 404.

As shown in Figure 6, the support arm 404 has the pivot connection 408 with the component 410 at an end of the support arm 404. However, in alternative embodiments, the support arm may extend beyond the component 410, such that the pivot connection 408 is between the ends of the support arm 404.

Turning now to Figures 7a to 7d, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 6 in positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 7a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 7d. The components of the assembly of Figures 7a to 7d have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 6 and discussed above.

Referring to Figure 7a, the assembly 402 is shown in a retracted position. The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within or adjacent one another when in the retracted position of Figure 7a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L-shaped and 'U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 402 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position The assembly 402 is shown in Figure 7b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6.

As can be seen in Figures 7b to 7d, the movement of all of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 7a to the position of Figure 7b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 7c shows the assembly 402 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, the point A on the third arm 12 is tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 7a.

Similarly, Figure 7d shows the assembly 402 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.

Further movement of the assembly 402 in Figure 7d results in the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 6.

Turning to Figure 8, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 502, has the same general configuration as the assembly 302 of Figure 5. Components of the assembly of Figure 8 that are common to the assembly of Figure 5 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 8 and the assembly of Figure 5 are as follows: The first connecting arm 16 extends from the pivot connection 18 with the first arm 8 to the pivot connection 20 with the third arm 12 and beyond the third arm 12 in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. The first connecting arm 16 is shown as having its distal end in line with the moveable component 306. However, the second connecting arm may extend further in the direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 and beyond the moveable component 306.

A support arm 504 is connected at one end thereof to the first connecting arm 16 by a pivot connection 506. The support arm 504 is further pivotably connected by a pivot connection 508 to a component 510. The component 510 is further pivotably connected to the third arm 12, in particular to the pivot connection 36 at the point A on the third arm 12.

The component 510 may be any component or structure that requires movement relative to the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. For example, the component 510 may be of the same type and general configuration as the members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30 and provide an extension of the foldable assembly when in the extended position shown in Figure 8. For example, with the assembly 502 in the orientation shown in Figure 8, the component 510 may comprise a floor member or floor panel. Alternatively, the component 510 may be a component of a ceiling or roof, with the assembly 502 in an inverted orientation.

The component 510 may comprise an arm, which may be employed to move and support other components.

As shown in Figure 8, the pivot connection 508 between the support 30 arm 504 and the component 510 may be at an end or edge of the component 510. Alternatively, the component 510 may extend in the distal direction beyond the support arm 504 As shown in Figure 8, the support arm 504 has the pivot connection 508 with the component 510 at an end of the support arm 504. However, in alternative embodiments, the support arm may extend beyond the component 510, such that the pivot connection 508 is between the ends of the support arm 504.

A locking assembly may be provided at intersection between the first connecting arm 16 and the component 306, allowing the assembly 502 to be locked in the extended position.

Turning now to Figures 9a to 9d, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 8 in positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 9a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 9d. The components of the assembly of Figures 9a to 9d have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 8 and discussed above.

Referring to Figure 9a, the assembly 502 is shown in a retracted position. The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within or adjacent one another when in the retracted position of Figure 9a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L'-shaped and 'U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 502 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.

The assembly 502 is shown in Figure 9b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. 30 As can be seen in Figures 9b to 9d, the movement of all of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 9a to the position of Figure 9b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are following substantially straight lines.

Figure 9c shows the assembly 502 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are each tracing a substantially straight line from their position in the retracted position of Figure 9a.

Similarly, Figure 9d shows the assembly 502 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.

Further movement of the assembly 502 in Figure 9d results in the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 8.

Turning to Figure 10, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 602, has the same general configuration as the assembly shown in Figure 5. Components of the assembly of Figure 10 that are common to the assembly of Figure 5 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 10 and the assembly of Figure 5 are as follows: The assembly 602 further comprises a foldable support assembly, generally indicated as 650. The foldable support assembly 650 comprises a first support arm 652 pivotably connected at one end of the first support arm to the pivot connection 38 between the first and second members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30. The foldable support assembly 650 comprises a second support arm 654. The second support arm 654 is provided at one end with a pivot connection 656 with the second end of the first support arm 652. The second end of the second support arm 654 is connected to the pivot connection 14, and is thereby pivotably connected to the second arm 10 and the third arm 12. In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the first and second support arms 652, 654 are equal in length.

As shown in Figure 10, with the assembly in the extended position, the first and second arms 652, 654 of the foldable support assembly 650 extend in a straight line perpendicular to the line of the foldable assembly 30 and parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.

In the extended position shown in Figure 1, the foldable support assembly 650 provides support for the foldable assembly 30. In addition, the foldable support assembly 650 acts to lift the foldable assembly 30 when the assembly 602 is moved from the extended position towards its retracted position. In this way, the tendency of the foldable assembly 30 become locked in the position shown in Figure 10 is overcome.

In the orientation shown in Figure 1, the foldable assembly 30 is at the lower end of the assembly 602. In this arrangement, the foldable assembly 30 may form the floor of an expandable building, for example. As will be appreciated, with the assembly 602 inverted, the foldable assembly 30 is at the top of the assembly and may form the roof or ceiling of an expandable building, for example. Other orientations of the assembly 602 are also possible.

Turning to Figure 11, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 702, has the same general configuration as the assembly shown in Figure 10.

Components of the assembly of Figure 11 that are common to the assembly of Figure 10 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 11 and the assembly of Figure 10 are as follows: In the assembly 702 of Figure 11, the first connecting arm 16 is limited in length to extending between the first arm 8 and the second arm 12 and the pivot connections 18 and 20. Similarly, the second connecting arm 22 is limited in length to extending between the first arm 8 and the second arm 10 and the pivot connections 14 and 24.

As with the assembly of Figure 10, the assembly 702 of Figure 11 comprises a foldable support assembly 650, as described above. The assembly 702 of Figure 11 further comprises an additional support assembly 760. The additional support assembly 760 comprises a first support arm 762 pivotably connected at one end of the first support arm to the pivot connection 38 between the first and second members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30. The additional support assembly 760 comprises a second support arm 764. The second support arm 764 is provided at one end with a pivot connection 766 with the second end of the first support arm 762. The second end of the second support arm 764 is pivotably connected to the fixed component 3 by way of a pivot connection 768.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the first and second support arms 762, 764 are equal in length.

Finally, turning to Figure 12, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 802, has the same general configuration as the assembly shown in Figure 11.

Components of the assembly of Figure 12 that are common to the assembly of Figure 11 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 12 and the assembly of Figure 11 are as follows: As with the assembly of Figure 11, the assembly 802 of Figure 12 comprises a foldable support assembly 650, as described above. The assembly 802 of Figure 12 further comprises a first additional support assembly 860. The first additional support assembly 860 comprises a first support arm 862 pivotably connected at one end of the first support arm to the pivot connection 38 between the first and second members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30. The first additional support assembly 860 comprises a second support arm 864. The second support arm 864 is provided at one end with a pivot connection 866 with the second end of the first support arm 862. The second end of the second support arm 864 is pivotably connected to the first fixed pivot 4.

The assembly 802 of Figure 12 further comprises a second additional support assembly 870. The second additional support assembly 870 comprises a first support arm 872 pivotably connected at one end of the first support arm to the pivot connection 38 between the first and second members 32, 34 of the foldable assembly 30. The second additional support assembly 870 comprises a second support arm 874. The second support arm 874 is provided at one end with a pivot connection 876 with the second end of the first support arm 872. The second end of the second support arm 874 is pivotably connected to the fourth arm 304 at the point B on the fourth arm.

Claims

CLAIMSAn assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position on the first arm about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position on the second arm about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to the 10 second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm spaced apart from the first position on the third arm; a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a foldable assembly extending between the second fixed pivot and the third arm, the foldable assembly comprising: a first member pivotally connected at a first position on the first member to the second fixed pivot; and a second member pivotally connected at a first position on the second member to the third arm at a third position on the third arm; and a foldable support assembly, wherein the foldable support assembly is pivotally connected to the foldable assembly at a first position on the foldable support assembly; and wherein the foldable support assembly is pivotally connected at a second position on the foldable support assembly to an arm of the assembly that has a component of its movement in a direction from the first fixed pivot to the second fixed pivot, as the assembly moves from the retracted position to the extended position.
2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first position on the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the first arm and/or the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the first arm
3. The assembly according to either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first position on the second arm is at or adjacent an end of the second arm and/or the second position on the second arm is at or adjacent an end of the second arm and/or wherein the first position on the third arm is at or adjacent an end of the third arm.
4. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the first arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots and/or the length of the second arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots.
5. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the first and second arms is substantially the same.
6. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the lengths of the first, second and third arms are substantially the same.
7. The assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a fourth arm, the fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fourth arm to the first arm at a third position on the first arm.
8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the third position on the first arm coincides with the second position, such that the fourth arm is also pivotably connected to the first connecting arm.
9. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the foldable assembly comprises a plurality of members, the members lying on a substantially straight line when the assembly is in the extended position.
10. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the foldable assembly comprises: a first member pivotably connected at a first position on the first member to the second fixed pivot; a second member pivotably connected at a first position on the second member to the third arm.
11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein the second member is pivotably connected at a second position on the second member to the first 25 member at a second position on the first member.
12. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the foldable support assembly is connected to a pivot connection between two adjacent members of the foldable assembly or adjacent to such a connection.
13. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the foldable support assembly comprises a plurality of pivotably connected support arms.
14. The assembly according to claim 13, wherein the foldable support assembly comprises a first support arm, the first support arm pivotably connected at a first position on the first support arm to the foldable assembly.
15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first position on the first support arm is at or adjacent an end of the first support arm.
16. The assembly according to either of claims 14 or 15, wherein the first support arm extends parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots when the assembly is in the extended position.
17. The assembly according to any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the foldable 20 support assembly comprises a second support arm, the second support arm pivotably connected at a first position on the second support arm to an arm of the assembly.
18. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein the second support arm is pivotable connected to one or both of the second arm and the third arm.
19. The assembly according to either of claims 16 or 17, wherein the first and second support arms lie in a substantially straight line when the assembly is the extended position.
20. The assembly according to either of claims 16 or 17, wherein the first and second support arms extend at an angle of from 100 to 150° when the assembly is in the extended position.
21. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the foldable 10 support assembly comprises a locking arm.
22. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein the locking arm is pivotably connected to a component of the foldable support assembly and is lockable with an arm of the assembly.
23. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein the locking arm is pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly and is lockable with a component of the foldable support assembly.
24. An assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly for converting motion according to any preceding claim is provided between the first component and the second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.
25. The assembly according to claim 24 wherein the first component is moveable in a liner motion with respect to the second component between a retracted position and an extended position.
26. The assembly according to either of claims 24 or 25, wherein the first component and the second component are components of a building.