GB2579064A

GB2579064A - Apparatus for converting motion

Info

Publication number: GB2579064A
Application number: GB1818734.4A
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: GB2579064B; GB201818734D0

Abstract

The assembly 2 comprising a first arm 8 rotatable on a first fixed pivot 4; a second arm 10 rotatable on a second fixed pivot 6; a third arm 12 pivotably connected to the second arm. A first connecting arm 16 extends between the first arm and the third arm and a second connecting arm 22 extends between the first arm and the second arm. Furthermore a locking assembly 30 comprises a first locking arm 32 connected to the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm or the second connecting arm, a first locking member 34 disposed on the locking arm, and a second locking member 36 disposed on the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm or the second connecting arm, wherein the second locking member is disposed on an arm other than the arm to which the locking arm is pivotably connected.

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.

In particular, WO 2016/030659 discloses an assembly of the general configuration of WO 2013/182834 with a locking assembly comprising a first locking member connected to one of the first second or third arms of one of the first or second connecting arms of the assembly and a second locking member.

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. More particularly, there has now been found a development to the assembly described in WO 2013/1828134 which provides increased rigidity and support when the assembly is in the extended position.

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 25 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; optionally 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; optionally a third connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm; a locking assembly comprising: a first locking arm connected at a first position on the locking arm to the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm if present; a first locking member disposed on the locking arm at a second position on the locking arm; and a second locking member disposed on the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm or the second connecting arm, wherein the second locking member is disposed on an arm other than the arm to which the locking arm is pivotably connected.

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 15 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 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 5 arm.

In operation of the assembly, as noted above, the third arm has a position, point A, 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 30 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. Alternatively, the first connecting may extend beyond its connection with one or both of the first and third arms, as noted above.

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 second 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. Alternatively, the second connecting arm may extend beyond its connection with the first arm and/or the second arm, as described above.

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 first and second connecting arms may be of different lengths.

More preferably, the first and second connecting arms have the same length. In particular, it is preferred that the length of the first connecting arm between its connection with the first arm and the third arm is the same as the length of the second connecting arm between its connection with the first arm and the second arm.

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 locking assembly as described hereinafter. 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, point B, 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 same assembly.

As noted above, the assembly comprises a first connecting arm and a second connecting arm. In one preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises a third connecting arm. The third connecting arm is preferably arranged in the manner disclosed in WO 2016/030660.

In one embodiment, the third connecting arm extends between the first arm and the third 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 third arms. The pivot connections between the second connecting arm and each of the first and third arms may be of any suitable form, preferably a pin, spindle or axle passing through one or both of the arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.

The pivot connections may be at any suitable location on the third connecting arm. In one preferred embodiment, the pivot connection between the third connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the third connecting arm and/or the pivot connection between the third connecting arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the second end of the third connecting arm.

The third connecting arm is connected to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm, which fourth position is spaced apart from and between both the second and third positions on the first arm.

The fourth position on the first arm, at which the third connecting arm is connected, may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the third 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 third connecting arm is a factor in determining the location of the fourth position on the first arm. Second, as with the first and second connecting arms, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the third connecting arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the third connecting arm increases.

The fourth position on the first arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the fourth position and the second position on the first arm and the distance between the fourth position and the third position on the first arm may be from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5, still more preferably from 0.9 to 1.1. A preferred ratio is 1.0, that is the fourth position is equidistant from the second and third positions on the first arm.

The third connecting arm is further connected to the third arm at a third position on the third arm. The third position on the third arm is spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the third arm. In this way, the third connecting arm is disposed between the first and second connecting arms.

The third position on the third arm may be at any suitable position. In particular, the ratio of the distance between the third position and the first position on the third arm and the distance between the third position and the second position on the third arm may be from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5, still more preferably from 0.9 to 1.1. A preferred ratio is 1.0, that is the third position is equidistant from the first and second positions on the first arm.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the third connecting arm is spaced equidistantly from the first and second connecting arms.

The third 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 second connecting arm extends. Alternatively, the third connecting arm may extend beyond its connection with the first arm and/or the third arm.

The length of the third connecting arm may be different to that of the first and/or second connecting arms. More preferably, the length of the third connecting arm is the same as the length of the first connecting arm or the second connecting arm, preferably both. More particularly, the length of the third connecting arm between its connections with the first arm and the third arm is preferably equal to the length of the first connecting arm between its connections with the first arm and the third arm and the length of the second connecting arm between its connections with the first arm and the second arm 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.

The assembly of the present invention further comprises a locking assembly. The locking assembly locks the assembly in the extended position by having the first and second locking members engage and provides the assembly with rigidity, allowing the assembly to provide increased to support to components. In addition, the locking assembly holds the assembly in the extended position and limits, more preferably, prevents movement of the assembly out of the extended position. The locking assembly is preferably releasable, allowing the first and second locking members to be released or disengaged from one another, in turn permitting movement of the assembly out of the extended position, for example to allow the assembly to move to the retracted position.

The locking assembly comprises at least one arm in addition to the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm and the second connecting arm, of the assembly discussed above, as well as the fourth arm or the third connecting arm, if present. By comprising at least one additional arm, the locking assembly may be arranged to provide the optimum rigidity and support for a wide range of embodiments of the assembly. The locking arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the locking arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.

The locking arm is connected at a first position on the locking arm to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present. It is preferred that the locking arm is pivotably connected at the first position on the locking arm to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present.

The first position may be at any suitable location on the locking arm. In one embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the locking arm. Alternatively, the first position on the locking arm may be between the two ends of the arm, such that the locking arm extends beyond the pivot connection with another arm of the assembly.

The locking assembly further comprises a first locking member disposed on the locking arm. The locking member is disposed on the first locking arm at a second positon on the locking arm spaced apart from the first position on the locking arm. The second position may be at any suitable location on the locking arm. In one embodiment, the second position is at or adjacent one end of the locking arm. Alternatively, the second position on the locking arm may be between the two ends of the arm, such that the locking arm extends beyond the first locking member.

In addition, the locking assembly comprises a second locking member. The second locking member is disposed on another of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present. That is, the second locking member is disposed on an arm of the assembly other than the arm to which the locking arm is connected.

In operation of the assembly, when the assembly is in the extended position, the first locking member engages with the second locking member to lock the assembly and prevent movement out of the extended position. For example, in this locked condition, the assembly can be prevented from overextending, that is extending from the retracted position past the extended position. Alternatively, or in addition, the assembly can be prevented from moving out of the extended position towards the retracted position.

In some preferred embodiments, the locking arm engages directly with the second locking member, such that in the extended position with the locking assembly locked, the locking arm extends between the second locking member and the connection between the locking arm and the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present.

In alternative preferred embodiments, the locking arm engages indirectly with the second locking member. In these embodiments, the first locking member comprises one or more additional locking arms.

The first and second locking members may have any suitable form for engaging with one another to lock the assembly in the extended position. The engagement between the first and second locking members is preferably releasable. The locking members may each be formed integrally with an arm. The locking members may be arranged to engage automatically once the assembly is in the extended position. One or both of the locking members may be biased into a locked position, wherein releasing the locking members from engagement requires movement of one or both locking members against the biasing force. Alternatively, the locking members may be arranged to require an action to lock them together once in the extended position. Any suitable form for the locking members to engage with one another to lock the assembly in the extended position may be employed. Examples of suitable arrangements for the locking members to engage include a pin engaging with a slot, a pin engaging with a cup, a pin engaging with a bore, a latch or the like.

In a first preferred embodiment, the locking assembly comprises a single locking arm. In this embodiment, the locking arm engages directly with the second locking member. The locking arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present.

In one preferred embodiment, the single locking arm is connected at its first position to one of the second arm, the third arm and/or the second connecting arm, more preferably to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm at the second position on the second arm. In this embodiment, the second locking member is preferably disposed on one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and also the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking arm is connected at its first position to one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm. In this embodiment, the second locking member is preferably disposed on one of the second arm, the third arm and/or the second connecting arm, more preferably to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm at the second position on the second arm.

In these embodiments with a single locking arm, when in the extended position and locked, a rigid connection is formed between the first position on the third arm and the first position on the first connecting arm, a rigid connection between the second position on the first arm and the second position on the second connecting arm, as well as a rigid connection between the second position on the first arm and the second position on the second arm, leading to a rigid assembly.

Alternatively, the locking arm may be connected, preferably pivotably connected, at the first position on the locking arm to the third arm at a position on the third arm between the first position and the second position on the third arm. Again, the second locking member is preferably disposed on one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm.

In a second preferred embodiment, the locking assembly comprises a first locking arm and a second locking arm. The first locking arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the first locking arm to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present. The second locking arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the second locking arm to a different one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present, such that the second locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to an arm other than the arm to which the first locking arm is pivotably connected. The second locking arm is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm to the first locking arm at a second position on the first locking arm.

The first locking member is disposed on the first locking arm.

Preferably, the first locking member is disposed at or adjacent the pivot connection between the first locking arm and the second locking arm.

The second locking member is disposed on one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present. It is particularly preferred that, in this embodiment, the second locking member is disposed at a position such that, in the extended position with the first and second locking members engaged to lock the assembly, the first and second locking arms do not lie on a straight line, but rather form a V-shape. In this way, the first and second locking arms do not lock in the extended position and prevent the assembly from being moved towards the retracted position, when the first and second locking members are disengaged.

Taking the length of the first and second locking arms as being the distance between the first and second positions on each arm, the first and second locking arms may have the same length or be of different lengths. It is preferred that the first and second locking arms are equal in length.

In one preferred embodiment, one of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the second arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the locking arm and the second arm is at a position between the first and second positions on the second arm. Preferably, the other of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the third arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the other locking arm and the third arm is at a position between the first and second positions on the third arm. The second locking member may be disposed on one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and also the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm. Alternatively, the second locking member may be disposed on one of the second arm, the third arm and/or the second connecting arm, more preferably to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm at the second position on the second arm.

In an alternative preferred embodiment, one of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the second arm.

Preferably, the pivot connection between the locking arm and the second arm is at or adjacent the first position on the second arm. More preferably, the locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to the first position on the second arm and the second fixed pivot. Preferably, the other of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the third arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the other locking arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the point A on the third arm, most preferably at the point A. The second locking member may be disposed on one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and also the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm.

In another alternative preferred embodiment, with the assembly having a fourth arm as described above, one of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the first arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the locking arm and the first arm is at or adjacent the first position on the first arm. More preferably, the locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to the first position on the first arm and the first fixed pivot. Preferably, the other of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the fourth arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the other locking arm and the fourth arm is at or adjacent the point B on the fourth arm, most preferably at the point B. The second locking member may be disposed on one of the second arm, the third arm and/or the second connecting arm, more preferably to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm at the second position on the second arm.

As noted above, when using two locking arms pivotably connected to each other, if the arms lie on a straight line when the assembly is in the extended position, the two locking arms tend to lock and can resist movement out of the straight line. This is particularly the case when the force applied to the locking arms to move them out of the locked position is applied longitudinally along or parallel to the axes of the arms. This phenomenon can be used to lock the assembly in the extended position.

In one embodiment employing this form of locking, the assembly comprises a first locking arm and a second locking arm, as described above. As described above, the first locking arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the first locking arm to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present. The second locking arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the second locking arm to a different one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present, such that the second locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to an arm other than the arm to which the first locking arm is pivotably connected. The second locking arm is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm to the first locking arm at a second position on the first locking arm.

The first and second locking arms are arranged whereby, in the extended position, they extend in a straight line, that is the longitudinal axes of the first and second locking arms lie on the same straight line. Preferably, the straight line extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. The first and second locking arms may be pivotably connected to other arms of the assembly to achieve this arrangement.

In one embodiment, one of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the second arm. Preferably, the pivot connection between the locking arm and the second arm is at or adjacent the first position on the second arm. More preferably, the locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to the first position on the second arm and the second fixed pivot. Preferably, the other of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the third arm.

Preferably, the pivot connection between the other locking arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the point A on the third arm, most preferably at the point A. The first locking member preferably comprises an arm connected, more preferably pivotably connected, at a first position on the arm to one or both of the first and second locking arms. Preferably, the arm of the first locking member is connected to the pivot connection between the first and second locking arms. In the extended position, the arm of the first locking member engages with the second locking member, to hold the first and second locking arms in a straight line.

The second locking member may be disposed in any suitable position on the assembly. Preferably, the second locking member is disposed at a position such that, with the assembly in the extended position, the arm of the first locking member extends perpendicular to the line of the first and second locking arms. In one embodiment, the second locking member is disposed on one of the second arm, the third arm and/or the second connecting arm, more preferably to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm at the second position on the second arm. Alternatively, the second locking member may be disposed on one of the first arm and the first connecting arm, and the fourth arm, if present; more preferably to both the first arm and the first connecting arm, and also the fourth arm, if present, at the second position on the first arm. In a further alternative, the assembly comprises a third connecting arm, as described above, and the second locking member is disposed on the third connecting arm.

Alternatively, the second locking member may comprise an arm, which engages with the first locking member disposed on the first locking arm in the extended position. The arm of the second locking member is connected, preferably pivotably connected, to the positions on the arms of the assembly discussed above.

In an alternative embodiment of the locking assembly for assemblies comprising a fourth arm, as described above, one of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the first arm.

Preferably, the pivot connection between the locking arm and the first arm is at or adjacent the first position on the first arm. More preferably, the locking arm is pivotably connected at its first position to the first position on the first arm and the first fixed pivot. Preferably, the other of the first and second locking arms is pivotably connected at its first position to the fourth arm.

Preferably, the pivot connection between the other locking arm and the fourth arm is at or adjacent the point B on the fourth arm, most preferably at the point B. Again, the first locking member preferably comprises an arm connected, more preferably pivotably connected, at a first position on the arm to one or both of the first and second locking arms. Preferably, the arm of the first locking member is connected to the pivot connection between the first and second locking arms. In the extended position, the arm of the first locking member engages with the second locking member, to hold the first and second locking arms in a straight line.

One embodiment of the assembly comprising a fourth arm, as described above, comprises a first locking assembly having a first pair of 30 locking arms connected to the second arm and the third arm, as described above, and a second locking assembly having a second pair of locking arms connected to the first arm and the fourth arm, as also described above. In the extended position, the two locking assemblies employ a single arm, which forms part of the locking members of both locking assemblies. The single arm may be connected, preferably pivotably connected, to one or both of the locking arms of one of the first and second locking assemblies. Alternatively, the single arm may be connected, preferably pivotably connected, to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present, as described above.

Various embodiments of locking assemblies have been described above. It is to be understood that the assembly may comprise one locking assembly or a plurality of locking assemblies. If a plurality of locking assemblies are employed in the assembly, they may be of the same or different embodiments.

As noted above, the assembly comprises the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm and the second connecting arm, together with one or more locking assemblies. As also noted above, the assembly may comprise additional arms, for example a fourth arm and/or a third connecting arm, also as described above. The assembly may comprise still further arms.

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 pivotable connected to the third arm, for example at the said point on the third arm.

In addition, 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.

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 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.

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.

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 3 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 4a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a retracted position; Figure 4b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a first partially extended position; Figure 4c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a second partially extended position; Figure 4d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a third partially extended position; Figure 5 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 6 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 7 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 8a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 7 in a retracted position; Figure 8b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 7 in a first partially extended position; Figure Sc is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 7 in a second partially extended position, Figure 8d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 7 in a third partially extended position; Figure 9 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 10 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure lla is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 10 in a retracted position; Figure llb is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 10 in a first partially extended position; Figure 11c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 10 in a second partially extended position; Figure lid is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 10 in a third partially extended position; Figure 12 is a diagram matical 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 locking assembly, generally indicated as 30. The locking assembly 30 comprises a locking arm 32. The locking arm 32 is pivotably connected at a first position on the locking arm adjacent one end of the arm to the pivot connection 14. In this way, the locking arm 32 is pivotably connected to all of the second arm 10, the third arm 12 and the second connecting arm 22 at the pivot connection 14.

The locking arm 32 is provided with a locking member 34 at a second position at the second end of the locking arm. The locking member 34 is in the form of a hole adjacent the end of the locking arm 32 A second locking member 36 is provided at the pivot connection 18. The second locking member 36 is in the form of a pin.

In the extended position shown in Figure 1, in this embodiment the first 5 locking member 34 on the locking arm 32 is engaged with the second locking member 36, such that the locking arm 32 is connected to the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16 at the pivot connection 18. The pin of the second locking member 36 may also be used to provide the pivot connection 18 between the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16. In an alternative 10 embodiment, the second locking member 36 is provided on one of the first arm 8 or the first connecting arm 16, for example adjacent or close to the pivot connection 18.

The locking arm 32 provides a rigid connection between the pivot connections 14 and 18, in turn locking the assembly 2 in the extended position shown in the figure. To move the assembly 2 out of the extended position shown, the first and second locking members 34, 36 are disengaged, which allows the assembly 2 to be moved, for example into a retracted position.

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

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

As shown in Figures 1 and 2a to 2d, the locking arm 32 is pivotably connected at a first end of the arm to the pivot connection 14 and is provided with the first locking member 34 at a second end of the arm, whereby the first locking member 34 engages with the second locking member 36 at the pivot connection 18. It is to be understood that the pivot connection and the first locking member 34 of the locking arm 32 may have their positions reversed, such that the locking arm 32 is pivotably connected at its second end to the pivot connection 18 and is provided at its first end with the first locking member 34. The second locking member 36 may then be provided on one of the second arm 10, the third arm 12 or the second connecting arm 22, for example at or in the region of the pivot connection 14.

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 reference numerals 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 of the embodiment of Figure 3, in the extended position shown, 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 assembly 102 comprises a locking assembly 130. The locking assembly 130 comprises a first locking arm 132. The first locking arm 132 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection 134, preferably positioned equidistant between the pivot connections 14 and 20 on the third arm 12.

The first locking arm 132 is provided with a locking member 136 at a second position at the second end of the first locking arm. The locking member 136 may be, for example, in the form of a hole adjacent the end of the first locking arm 132.

The locking assembly 130 further comprises a second locking arm 140.

The second locking arm 140 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the second arm 10 by way of a pivot connection 142. The distance between the pivot connections 14 and 142 on the second arm is preferably the same as the distance between the pivot connections 14 and 134 on the third arm. The second locking arm 140 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm by a pivot connection 144 to the first locking arm at the second position on the first locking arm.

A second locking member 36 is provided at the pivot connection 18. The second locking member 36 is in the form of a pin. In an alternative embodiment, the second locking member 36 is provided on one of the first arm 8 or the first connecting arm 16, for example adjacent or close to the pivot connection 18.

In the extended position shown in Figure 3, the first locking member 136 on the first locking arm 132 is engaged with the second locking member 36, such that the first locking arm 132 and the second locking arm 140 are both connected to the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16. The locking arms 132, 140 lock the assembly 102 in the extended position shown in the figure. To move the assembly 102 out of the extended position shown, the first and second locking members 136, 36 are disengaged, which allows the assembly 102 to be moved, for example into a retracted position.

Turning now to Figures 4a to 4d, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 3 in positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 4a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 4d. The components of the assembly of Figures 4a to 4d have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 3 and discussed above.

Referring to Figure 4a, the assembly 102 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 4a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, L'-shaped and 'U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 102 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.

The assembly 102 is shown in Figure 4b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 having moved away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 4b to 4d, 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 4a to the position of Figure 4b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 4c shows the assembly 102 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the line joining 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 4a.

Similarly, Figure 4d shows the assembly 102 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the line joining 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 102 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 4d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 3.

Turning to Figure 5, there is shown a further 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 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 202 comprises a locking assembly 230. The locking assembly 230 comprises a first locking arm 232. The first locking arm 232 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection 234, preferably positioned at the point A on the third arm 12.

The first locking arm 232 is provided with a first locking member 236 at a second position at the second end of the first locking arm. The locking member 236, for example, is in the form of a hole adjacent the end of the first locking arm 232.

The locking assembly 230 further comprises a second locking arm 240. The second locking arm 240 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the second arm 10 by way of a pivot connection, preferably a connection to the second fixed pivot 6. The second locking arm 240 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm by a pivot connection 242 to the first locking arm at the second position on the first locking arm.

A second locking member 36 is provided at the pivot connection 18.

The second locking member 36 is in the form of a pin. In an alternative embodiment, the second locking member 36 is provided on one of the first arm 8 or the first connecting arm 16, for example adjacent or close to the pivot connection 18.

In the extended position shown in Figure 5, the first locking member 236 on the first locking arm 232 is engaged with the second locking member 36, such that the first locking arm 232 and the second locking arm 240 are both connected to the first arm 8 and the first connecting arm 16. The locking arms 232, 240 lock the assembly 202 in the extended position shown in the figure. To move the assembly 202 out of the extended position shown, the first and second locking members 236, 36 are disengaged, which allows the assembly 202 to be moved, for example into a retracted position.

Turning to Figure 6, 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 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: The assembly 302 of Figure 6 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 6 to be pivotably connected to a moveable component 306.

The moveable component 306 may be an arm extending between the 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 above and shown in the accompanying figures, which assembly would function in an analogous manner to that described herein.

In the assembly of the embodiment of Figure 6, 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 assembly 302 comprises a locking assembly 330. The locking assembly 330 comprises a first locking arm 332. The first locking arm 332 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the first arm 8 and, preferably, the first fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The first locking arm 332 is provided with a locking member 336 at a second position at the second end of the first locking arm. The locking member 336 is in the form of a hole adjacent the end of the first locking arm 332.

The locking assembly 330 further comprises a second locking arm 340.

The second locking arm 340 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the fourth arm 304 by way of a pivot connection at the point B on the fourth arm. The second locking arm 340 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm by a pivot connection 342 to the first locking arm at the second position on the first locking arm 332.

A second locking member 36 is provided at the pivot connection 14. The second locking member 36 is in the form of a pin. In an alternative embodiment, the second locking member 36 is provided on one of the second arm 10, the third arm 12 or the second connecting arm 22, for example adjacent or close to the pivot connection 14.

In the extended position shown in Figure 6, the first locking member 336 on the first locking arm 332 is engaged with the second locking member 36, such that the first locking arm 332 and the second locking arm 340 are both connected to the second arm 10, the third arm 12 and the second connecting arm 22. The locking arms 332, 340 lock the assembly 302 in the extended position shown in the figure. To move the assembly 302 out of the extended position shown, the first and second locking members 336, 36 are disengaged, which allows the assembly 302 to be moved, for example into a retracted position.

Turning to Figure 7, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly of Figure 7, generally indicated as 402, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 6. Components of the assembly of Figure 7 that are common to the assembly of Figure 6 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above.

The assembly 402 of Figure 7 is an example of an embodiment comprising a plurality of locking assemblies. In particular, Figure 7 comprises a locking assembly 330, as described above and shown in Figure 6. In addition, the assembly 402 of Figure 7 comprises a second locking assembly. The second locking assembly has the same configuration as the locking assembly 230 of Figure 5, as described above.

Figures 8a to 8d show the assembly of Figure 7 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 8a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 8d.

Referring to Figure 8a, the assembly 402 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 8a, 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 8b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 having moved away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 8b to 8d, 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 8a to the position of Figure 8b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are both following substantially straight lines.

Figure 8c shows the assembly 402 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 moved further away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are both tracing substantially straight lines from their positions in the retracted position of Figure 8a.

Similarly, Figure 8d shows the assembly 402 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 still further from the line joining 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 402 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 8d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 7.

As can be seen from Figure 7, in the extended position, the locking arms of the locking assemblies 230, 330 do not lie on a straight line. This allows the assembly to be moved from the extended position shown towards the retracted position, once the locking members are disengaged.

It is further to be noted in the assembly 402 of Figures 7 and 8a to 8d that the components of the locking assembly 230 are counterbalanced by the components of the locking assembly 330. This significantly reduces the force required to move the assembly 402 between the retracted and extended positions.

Turning to Figure 9, 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 2 of Figure 1.

Components of the assembly of Figure 9 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 9 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: The assembly 502 of Figure 9 comprises a third connecting arm analogous to the arrangement described and shown in WO 2016/030660. In particular, the assembly 502 comprises a third connecting arm 504. The third connecting arm 504 is pivotably connected at a first position on the third connecting arm to the second arm 10 at a third position on the second arm 10 by way of a pivot connection 506. The third connecting arm 504 is pivotably connected at a second position on the third connecting arm to the third arm 12 at a third position on the third arm by way of a pivot connection 508.

The assembly 502 of Figure 9 further comprises a locking assembly, generally indicated as 530. The locking assembly 530 comprises a first locking arm 532. The first locking arm 532 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 6 by way of a pivot connection.

The locking assembly 530 further comprises a second locking arm 540. The second locking arm 540 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the third arm. The second locking arm 540 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm by a pivot connection 542 to the first locking arm at the second position on the first locking arm 532.

Although shown as arms in Figure 9, the first and second locking arms 532, 540 may take another form. For example, in arrangements where the assembly 502 is being used to support components of a building, the first and second locking arms 532, 540 may comprise floor or roof members, which are moveable between the retracted and the extended positions and which, when in the extended position, are deployed to form a floor or a roof.

The first locking arm 532 is provided with a locking member 546 at a second position at the second end of the first locking arm. The locking member 546 is in the form of a third locking arm pivotably connected at a first end of the third locking arm to the first locking arm 532, for example to the pivot connection 543, as shown in Figure 9. The third locking arm is provided with a hole adjacent the second end of the third locking arm.

A second locking member 548 is provided at a third position on the third connecting arm 504, preferably in the middle of the third connecting arm spaced equally from the first and second positions on the third connecting arm. The second locking member 548 is in the form of a pin.

In the extended position shown in Figure 9, the third locking arm of the first locking member 546 extends from the first locking arm 532 and is engaged with the second locking member 548. To move the assembly 502 out of the extended position shown in Figure 9, the first and second locking members 546, 548 are disengaged, which allows the assembly 502 to be moved, for example into a retracted position.

It will be noted that in the extended position shown in Figure 9, the first and second locking arms 532, 540 extend along a straight line between the second fixed pivot Sand the point A on the third arm 12. As a result, the first and second locking arms 532, 540 are locked in this position, such that a force applied along the straight line in the direction from the point A on the third arm 12 towards the second fixed pivot 8 may not move the locking arms.

In this case, to move the assembly 502 out of the extended position towards the retracted position, it may be necessary to lift the first and second locking arms 532, 540, for example by raising the third locking arm of the first locking member 546 Turning to Figure 10, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly of Figure 10, generally indicated as 602, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 7. Components of the assembly of Figure 10 that are common to the assembly of Figure 7 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above.

As with the assembly shown in Figure 9, the assembly 602 of Figure 10 comprises a third connecting arm analogous to the arrangement described and shown in WO 2016/030660. In particular, the assembly 602 comprises a third connecting arm 504. The third connecting arm 504 is pivotably connected at a first position on the third connecting arm to the second arm 10 at a third position on the second arm 10 by way of a pivot connection 506. The third connecting arm 504 is pivotably connected at a second position on the third connecting arm to the third arm 12 at a third position on the third arm by way of a pivot connection 508.

The assembly 602 of Figure 10 is a further example of an embodiment comprising a plurality of locking assemblies. In particular, Figure 10 comprises a locking assembly 530, as described above and shown in Figure 9. In addition, the assembly 602 of Figure 10 comprises a second locking assembly 660. The second locking assembly has the same general configuration as the locking assembly 530 of Figure 9, as described above. However, the second locking assembly 660 extends between a pivot connection with the first arm 8 and the first fixed pivot 4 and a pivot connection with the point B on the fourth arm 304. The second locking assembly 660 has components analogous to those of the locking assembly 630 In particular, the locking assembly 660 comprises a first locking arm 662. The first locking arm 662 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the first arm 8 and, preferably, the first fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The locking assembly 660 further comprises a second locking arm 664.

The second locking arm 664 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first locking arm to the fourth arm 304 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point B on the fourth arm. The second locking arm 664 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm by a pivot connection 666 to the first locking arm at the second position on the first locking arm 662.

Although shown as arms in Figure 10, the first and second locking arms 662, 664 may take another form. For example, in arrangements where the assembly 602 is being used to support components of a building, the first 30 and second locking arms 662, 664 may comprise floor or roof members, which are moveable between the retracted and the extended positions and which, when in the extended position, are deployed to form a floor or a roof.

The first locking arm 662 is provided with a locking member 668 at a second position at the second end of the first locking arm. The locking member 668 is in the form of a third locking arm pivotably connected at a first end of the third locking arm to the first locking arm 662, for example to the pivot connection 666, as shown in Figure 10. The third locking arm is provided with a hole adjacent the second end of the third locking arm. 10 The second locking assembly 660 similarly employs a second locking member 548 in the form of a pin on the third connecting arm 504.

To move the assembly 602 from the extending position shown in Figure 10, the locking members of both of the locking assemblies 630, 660 are released from engagement at the third connecting arm 504. As noted above, the locking arms 532, 540 of the first locking assembly 630 may be locked, requiring the third locking arm of the first locking member 546 to be lifted. In the orientation shown, the second locking assembly 660 uppermost, gravity can be used to unlock the locking arms of the second locking assembly 660.

Figures 11 a to lid show the assembly of Figure 10 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 11 a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 11d.

Referring to Figure 11 a, the assembly 602 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 11a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L-shaped and U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 602 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.

The assembly 602 is shown in Figure 11b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 having moved away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 11b to 11d, 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 ila to the position of Figure 11b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are both following substantially straight lines.

Figure 11c shows the assembly 602 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 moved further away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 304 are both tracing substantially straight lines from their positions in the retracted position of Figure 11a.

Similarly, Figure 11d shows the assembly 602 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 304 still further from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.

In the views shown in Figures llb to 11d, the locking arms 546 and 668 are shown disconnected from the second locking member 548 on the third connecting arm 504 and rotated outwards away from the third connecting 25 arm 504.

Continued movement of the assembly 602 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 11d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 10.

It is to be noted in the assembly 602 of Figures 10 and ha to 11d that the components of the locking assembly 630 are counterbalanced by the components of the locking assembly 660. This significantly reduces the force required to move the assembly 602 between the retracted and extended positions.

It is to be noted that the arrangement of the locking members on the locking arms 546 and 668 may be reversed, such that both the locking arms 546, 668 are pivotally attached to the third connecting arm 504 and have the locking members, in particular the holes and the pins, arranged to have the arms releasably lock to the first locking arm 662 and 532 of each locking assembly 530 and 660.

Turning to Figure 12, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly of Figure 12, generally indicated as 702, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 10. Components of the assembly of Figure 12 that are common to the assembly of Figure 10 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, the assembly 702 comprises two locking assemblies 530, 660 as in the embodiment of Figure 10. However, in the embodiment of Figure 12, the second locking members of the two locking assemblies 530, 660 share a common third locking arm 704. The third locking arm 704 is pivotably connected at a position 706 at or adjacent the centre of the third locking arm to the third connecting arm 504, for example by a pin. The first locking member of each locking assembly 530, 660 comprises a pin on the respective first locking arm 532, 662. The third locking arm 704 is provided with a hole at each end for engaging with a respective pin, when in the extended position shown in Figure 12.

To move the assembly 702 from the extended position shown in Figure 12, the third locking arm 704 is released from engagement with the pin of the first locking member of both locking assemblies 530, 660, after which the 5 assembly 702 can be moved, for example towards the retracted position.

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; optionally 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; optionally a third connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm; a locking assembly comprising: a first locking arm connected at a first position on the locking arm to the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present; a first locking member disposed on the locking arm at a second position on the locking arm; and a second locking member disposed on the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm or the second connecting arm, wherein 5 the second locking member is disposed on an arm other than the arm to which the locking arm is pivotably connected.
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 locking arm is pivotably connected to the arm of the assembly.
10. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the locking arm is connected to the second arm, the third arm or the second connecting arm.
11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein the locking arm is connected to all of the second arm, the third arm and the second connecting arm.
12. The assembly according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the locking arm is connected to the first arm, the fourth arm, if present, or the first connecting arm.
13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the locking arm is connected to all of the first arm, the fourth arm, if present, and the first connecting arm.
14. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the locking assembly comprises a first locking arm and a second locking arm; the first locking arm pivotably connected at a first position on the first locking arm to one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present; the second locking arm pivotably connected at a first position on the second locking arm to a different one of the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the fourth arm, if present, the first connecting arm, the second connecting arm, or the third connecting arm, if present; and the second locking arm is pivotably connected at a second position on the second locking arm to the first locking arm at a second position on the first locking arm.
15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first locking arm and the second locking arm have the same length.
16. The assembly according to either of claims 14 or 15, wherein the first locking member is disposed at or adjacent the pivot connection between the first locking arm and the second locking arm.
17. The assembly according to any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first locking arm is pivotably connected to the second arm and the second locking arm is pivotably connected to the third arm.
18. The assembly according to claim 17, wherein the second locking member is disposed at or adjacent the pivot connection between the first arm and the first connecting arm.
19. The assembly according to either of claims 17 or 18, wherein the first locking arm is pivotably connected to the second arm and the second fixed 30 pivot.
20. The assembly according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the second locking arm is pivotably connected to the third arm at the said point on the third arm.
21. The assembly according to any of claims 17 to 20, wherein the first and second locking arms extend in a straight line when the assembly is in the extended position.
22. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein the first locking member 10 or the second locking member comprises a locking arm.
23. The assembly according to any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the assembly comprises a fourth arm, the first locking arm being pivotably connected to the first arm and the second locking arm being pivotably connected to the fourth arm.
24. The assembly according to claim 23, wherein the second locking member is disposed at or adjacent the pivot connection between the second arm and the third arm.
25. The assembly according to either of claims 23 or 24, wherein the first locking arm is pivotably connected to the first arm and the first fixed pivot.
26. The assembly according to any of claims 23 to 25, wherein the second locking arm is pivotably connected to the fourth arm at the said point on the third arm.
27. The assembly according to any of claims 23 to 25, wherein the first and second locking arms extend in a straight line when the assembly is in the extended position.
28. The assembly according to claim 27, wherein the first locking member or the second locking member comprises a locking arm.
29. 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.
30. The assembly according to claim 29 wherein the first component is moveable in a liner motion with respect to the second component between a retracted position and an extended position.
31. The assembly according to either of claims 29 or 30, wherein the first component and the second component are components of a building.