GB2580581A

GB2580581A - Apparatus for converting motion

Info

Publication number: GB2580581A
Application number: GB1818739.3A
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: 2020-07-29
Anticipated expiration: 2038-11-16
Also published as: GB201818739D0; GB2580581B

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 first counterbalance assembly 40 pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly and a second counterbalance assembly 50 pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly. Movement of the assembly from a retracted to an extended position causes at least a portion of one of the first and second counterbalance assemblies to be raised and at least a portion of the other of the first and second counterbalance assemblies to be lowered. The weight of the first counterbalance assembly is at least partially counterbalanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly.

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, WO 2015/033111, WO 2015/033116, WO 2016/030659, 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 has improved ease of operation, especially in moving the assembly and the attached components between the retracted and extended positions.

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; a first counterbalance assembly pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly; and a second counterbalance assembly pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly; wherein movement of the assembly from the retracted position to the extended position causes at least a portion of one of the first counterbalance assembly and the second counterbalance assembly to be raised and wherein movement of the assembly from the retracted position to the extended position causes at least a portion of the other of the first counterbalance assembly and the second counterbalance assembly to be lowered; wherein the weight of the first counterbalance assembly is at least partially counterbalanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly.

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 arm may extend beyond one or both of the first and third arms in either one or both of the distal and proximal directions.

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 may be 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 one or both of the first and third arms in either one or both of the distal and proximal directions.

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

In many preferred embodiments, the length of the first connecting arm is equal to the length of the second connecting arm. In particular, in many preferred embodiments, the length of the first connecting arm between its connections with the first arm and the third arm is equal to the length of the second connecting arm between its connections 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 in the distal direction from the first arm and/or extend in the proximal direction from the third 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 first counterbalance assembly and a second counterbalance assembly. The first and second counterbalance assemblies are arranged and each having a weight such that the weight of one of the first and second counterbalance assemblies at least partially counterbalances the weight of the other of the first and second counterbalance assemblies. In this respect, the term counterbalance' is a reference to the weight of the first and second counterbalance assemblies being substantially matched, such that the weight of the first counterbalance assembly when moving downwards is partly or, more preferably wholly, balanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly when moving upwards, and vice versa. In this way, the additional force required to move the assembly between the retracted position and the extended position due to the addition of the counterbalance assemblies is reduced, preferably substantially zero. This arrangement results in the assembly employing gravity to counterbalance heavy components during their movement, in turn reducing the force required to move the assembly between the retracted and extended positions to a minimum.

This arrangement is particularly advantageous. In particular, in operation of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position, one or more components of the assembly itself or one or more components or objects being moved may be required to be raised or lowered. For example, when moving from the retracted position to the extended position, an object being moved by the assembly may need to be raised or lowered into its deployed position. Conversely, when the assembly is moved from the extended position to the retracted position, the same object is lowered or raised. The force required to move the assembly between the retracted position and the extended position is increased as the weight of the object and other components being raised or lowered increases. In the assembly of the present invention, the counterbalance assemblies are provided to counterbalance the weight of the moving components, reducing the force required to move the assembly between the retracted position and the extended position to a minimum.

Each of the first and second counterbalance assembly may consist of or comprise one or more arms.

In one embodiment, one of the first and second counterbalance assemblies comprises or consists of components or objects to be moved by the assembly. In this embodiment, the other of the counterbalance assemblies can be provided solely to counterbalance the weight of the components or objects being moved. Alternatively, both of the first and second counterbalance assemblies comprises or consists of component or objects to be moved by the assembly.

In another embodiment, one of the first and second counterbalance assemblies comprises or consists of a locking assembly, operable to lock the assembly in the extended position. In this embodiment, the other of the counterbalance assemblies can be provided solely to counterbalance the weight of the locking assembly. Alternatively, both of the first and second counterbalance assemblies comprise or consist of a locking assembly.

As discussed above, for the assembly to be counterbalanced, the weight of the first and second counterbalance assemblies must be matched. In some embodiments, the weight of the first and second counterbalance assemblies are equal. In other embodiments, the weight of the first and second counterbalance assemblies are not the same. To provide the desired counterbalance effect, one or more of the components making up each of the first and second counterbalance assemblies may have additional weight added to them. The additional weight required for any embodiment can be readily determined by routine experimentation.

The assembly comprises a first counterbalance assembly. The first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly.

When the assembly is moved from the retracted position to the extended position, at least a portion of the first counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered, depending upon the orientation of the entire assembly. In many embodiments, substantially the whole of the first counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered.

In one embodiment, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm. The first counterbalance assembly may be connected to any position on the second arm. Preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at a position from the first position on the second arm to the second position on the second arm. More preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at a position close to or adjacent the first position on the second arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at the first position on the second arm, such that the first counterbalance assembly is also pivotably connected to the second fixed pivot.

In another embodiment, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm. The first counterbalance assembly may be connected to any position on the third arm. Preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position from the second position on the third arm to the said point on the third arm.

More preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position close to or adjacent the said point on the third arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at the said point on the third arm.

In one preferred embodiment, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to two different arms of the assembly. In this case, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly comprises a first counterbalance component and a second counterbalance component, more preferably with the first and second counterbalance components being pivotably attached to one another. In many preferred embodiments, the first counterbalance assembly has the first counterbalance component pivotably attached to the second arm and the second counterbalance component pivotably attached to the third arm. In these embodiments, the first counterbalance assembly may be connected by way of the first counterbalance component to any position on the second arm. Preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at a position from the first position on the second arm to the second position on the second arm. More preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at a position close to or adjacent the first position on the second arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm at the first position on the second arm, such that the first counterbalance assembly is also pivotably connected to the second fixed pivot. The first counterbalance assembly may be connected by way of the second counterbalance component to any position on the third arm. Preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position from the second position on the third arm to the said point on the third arm. More preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position close to or adjacent the said point on the third arm.

In many embodiments, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at the said point on the third arm.

The first counterbalance assembly may be further connected to an arm of the assembly, preferably pivotably connected, by way of a counterbalance connecting arm assembly. For example, a counterbalance connecting arm assembly may be pivotably connected at a first position on the counterbalance connecting arm assembly to the first counterbalance assembly and pivotably connected at a second position on the counterbalance connecting arm assembly to an arm of the assembly. In this case, the counterbalance connecting arm assembly is preferably pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly different from the arm or arms to which the first counterbalance assembly is connected.

The counterbalance connecting arm assembly may comprise a single counterbalance connecting arm. In one embodiment, the counterbalance connecting arm is connected to one of the first or second connecting arms or, if present, the third connecting arm.

In some preferred embodiments, the first counterbalance assembly is further connected to another arm of the assembly by way of a counterbalance connecting arm assembly comprising a plurality of counterbalance connecting arms. For example, the counterbalance connecting arm assembly may comprise a first counterbalance connecting arm and a second counterbalance connecting arm assembly. The first counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, at a first position on the arm to the first counterbalance assembly. The first counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, at a second position on the arm to a first position on the second counterbalance connecting arm. The second counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, to an arm of the assembly. In one preferred embodiment, the lengths of the first and second counterbalance connecting arms, that is the distance between the first and second positions on each arm, are the same.

The assembly of the present invention further comprises a second counterbalance assembly. The second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly.

When the assembly is moved from the retracted position to the extended position, at least a portion of the second counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered, depending upon the orientation of the entire assembly, and moves in the opposite direction to the first counterbalance assembly. In many embodiments, substantially the whole of the second counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered.

The second counterbalance assembly may be connected to the same arm as the first counterbalance assembly. In this case, the second counterbalance assembly is preferably pivotably connected to the arm at a different position to that of the first counterbalance assembly.

In many embodiments, the second counterbalance assembly is connected to an arm or arms of the assembly different to the arm or arms to which the first counterbalance assembly is connected.

When the assembly is moved from the retracted position to the extended position, at least a portion of the second counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered, depending upon the orientation of the entire assembly. In many embodiments, substantially the whole of the second counterbalance assembly is raised or lowered. The movement of the second counterbalance assembly in the vertical direction either upwards or downwards is opposite to that of the first counterbalance assembly.

In one embodiment, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm. The second counterbalance assembly may be connected to any position on the first arm. Preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at a position from the first position on the first arm to the third position on the first arm. More preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at a position close to or adjacent the first position on the first arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at the first position on the first arm, such that the first counterbalance assembly is also pivotably connected to the first fixed pivot.

In another embodiment, in which the assembly comprises a fourth arm, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the fourth arm. The second counterbalance assembly may be connected to any position on the fourth arm. Preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the fourth arm at a position from the first position on the fourth arm to the said point on the fourth arm. More preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the fourth arm at a position close to or adjacent the said point on the fourth arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the fourth arm at the said point on the fourth arm.

In one preferred embodiment, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to two different arms of the assembly. In this case, it is preferred that the second counterbalance assembly comprises a first counterbalance component and a second counterbalance component, more preferably with the first and second counterbalance components being pivotably attached to one another. In many preferred embodiments, the second counterbalance assembly has the first counterbalance component pivotably attached to the first arm and the second counterbalance component pivotably attached to the fourth arm. In these embodiments, the second counterbalance assembly may be connected by way of the first counterbalance component to any position on the first arm. Preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at a position from the first position on the first arm to the third position on the first arm. More preferably, the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at a position close to or adjacent the first position on the first arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm at the first position on the first arm, such that the second counterbalance assembly is also pivotably connected to the first fixed pivot. The second counterbalance assembly may be connected by way of the second counterbalance component to any position on the fourth arm. Preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position from the second position on the third arm to the said point on the third arm. More preferably, the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at a position close to or adjacent the said point on the third arm. In many embodiments, it is preferred that the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the third arm at the said point on the third arm.

The second counterbalance assembly may be further connected to an arm of the assembly, preferably pivotably connected, by way of a counterbalance connecting arm assembly. For example, a counterbalance connecting arm assembly may be pivotably connected at a first position on the counterbalance connecting arm assembly to the second counterbalance assembly and pivotably connected at a second position on the counterbalance connecting arm assembly to an arm of the assembly. In this case, the counterbalance connecting arm assembly is preferably pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly different from the arm or arms to which the second counterbalance assembly is connected.

In some preferred embodiments, the second counterbalance assembly is further connected to another arm of the assembly by way of a counterbalance connecting arm assembly comprising a plurality of counterbalance connecting arms. For example, the counterbalance connecting arm assembly may comprise a first counterbalance connecting arm and a second counterbalance connecting arm assembly. The first counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, at a first position on the arm to the second counterbalance assembly. The first counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, at a second position on the arm to a first position on the second counterbalance connecting arm. The second counterbalance connecting arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, to an arm of the assembly. In one preferred embodiment, the lengths of the first and second counterbalance connecting arms, that is the distance between the first and second positions on each arm, are the same.

The first and second counterbalance assemblies may be connected to one another. For example, the first and second counterbalance assemblies may be connected to each other by a counterbalance connecting arm. Preferably, the counterbalance connecting arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the arm to the first counterbalance assembly and pivotably connected at a second position on the arm to the second counterbalance assembly.

In one embodiment, the second counterbalance assembly comprises a counterbalance arm pivotably connected at a first position on the counterbalance arm to an arm of the assembly. The first position on the counterbalance arm is located between the ends of the counterbalance arm, such that both ends of the counterbalance arm rotate about the first position.

In one preferred embodiment, the counterbalance arm is pivotably connected at its first position to the second arm or the third arm of the assembly, more preferably the second arm. The counterbalance arm is preferably connected to the second arm at a position between the first and second positions on the second arm.

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

Preferably, the counterbalance arm is connected to the first counterbalance assembly by a counterbalance connecting arm. The counterbalance connecting arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the connecting arm to the counterbalance arm at the second position on the counterbalance arm. The counterbalance connecting arm is further pivotably connected to the first counterbalance assembly at a second position on the connecting arm.

In use, the portion of the counterbalance arm extending beyond the first position on the arm away from the second position counterbalances the weight of the first counterbalance assembly and moves in the opposite direction to the first counterbalance assembly. The counterbalance arm is preferably provided with one or more weights on the portion extending beyond the first position on the other side to the second position. The length of the counterbalance arm and the weight provided are selected to provide the desired counterbalancing effect.

The assembly may employ a third counterbalance assembly to assist one of the first or second counterbalance assemblies in counterbalancing the other of the first and second counterbalance assemblies. Suitable arrangements for the third counterbalance assembly include the arrangements described above for the first and second counterbalance assemblies.

As noted above, the assembly comprises the first arm, the second arm, the third arm, the first connecting arm and the second connecting arm. 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 pivotably 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.

As noted above, one or both of the first and second counterbalance assemblies may comprise or consist of components or objects to be moved and deployed. The objects to be deployed may be any part of a building, for example balconies, walls, floor components, floor extensions, roof components, roof extensions, canopies and the like.

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 6a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 5 in a retracted position; Figure 6b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure in a first partially extended position; Figure 6c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 5 in a second partially extended position; Figure 6d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 6 in a third partially extended position; Figure 7 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 8 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 9a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8 in a retracted position; Figure 9b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8 in a first partially extended position; Figure 9c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8 in a second partially extended position; Figure 9d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8 in a third partially extended position; and Figure 10 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fifth 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 of Figure 1 further comprises a fourth arm 26. The fourth arm 26 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 26 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 26 of the assembly 2 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 26. 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 2 are shown in Figure 1 to be pivotably connected to a moveable component 30.

The moveable component 30 may be an arm extending between the third and fourth arms 12, 26, for example connected to the points A and B on the third and fourth arms 12, 26.

The moveable component 30 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 1, 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 30. 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 30 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 2 comprises a first counterbalance assembly 40. The counterbalance assembly 40 comprises a first counterbalance component in 30 the form of a first counterbalance arm 42. The first counterbalance arm 42 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the first arm 8 and, preferably, the first fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The counterbalance assembly 40 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 44. The second counterbalance arm 44 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the fourth arm 26 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point B on the fourth arm. The second counterbalance arm 44 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 46 to the first counterbalance arm 42 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 42.

The assembly 2 comprises a second counterbalance assembly 50.

The second counterbalance assembly 50 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 52. The first counterbalance 52 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The second counterbalance assembly 50 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 54. The second counterbalance arm 54 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the third arm. The second counterbalance arm 54 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 56 to the first counterbalance arm 52 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 52.

In the extended position shown in Figure 1, the first and second counterbalance assemblies 40, 50 both lock the assembly 2 in the extended position. In particular, the first counterbalance assembly 40 has both its first and second counterbalance arms 42, 44 locked to the pivot connection 14.

Similarly, the second counterbalance assembly 50 has its first and second counterbalance arms 52, 54 locked to the pivot connection 18. When locked in this manner, the assembly 2 is prevented from moving out of the extended position shown in Figure 1. Releasing both counterbalance assemblies 40, 50 from being locked with the pivot connections 14, 18 allows the assembly 2 to be moved out of the extended position shown, for example towards the 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 and the fourth arm 26 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. Similarly, the point B on the fourth arm 26 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 2c shows the assembly 2 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm are each 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 and the fourth arm 26 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 26 each 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.

Turning to Figure 3, there is shown a diagrammatical representation of an assembly of a further embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated as 102. The assembly 102 is shown mounted to a fixed structure at a first fixed pivot 104 and a second fixed pivot 106. The fixed pivots 104, 106 are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. In the embodiment shown, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 104, 106 is arranged vertically, with the first fixed pivot 104 above the second fixed pivot 106. However, the assembly 102 may have other orientations. In particular, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 104, 106 may be arranged vertically with the second fixed pivot 106 above the first fixed pivot 104. Other orientations are also possible, such as with the first and second fixed pivots 104, 106 arranged other than vertically.

The fixed pivots 104, 106 are provided in a component or structure, which can be considered to be fixed and with movement of the components of the assembly 102 being relative to this component or structure. For the purposes of illustration only, the fixed pivots 104, 106 are shown in Figure 3 provided on a fixed component 103.

A first arm 108 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end of the first arm to the first fixed pivot 104. A second arm 110 is pivotally connected at a first position on the second arm at one end to the second fixed pivot 106. A third arm 112 is connected at a first position at one end of the third arm by a pivot connection 114 at a second position at the second end of the second arm 110. The third arm 112 has a point A thereon that moves in a substantially straight line perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 104, 106, as the assembly 102 moves between the extended position and its retracted position.

A first connecting arm 116 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 118 at a second position at the second end of the first arm 108. The second end of the first connecting arm 116 is connected by a pivot connection 120 to the third arm 112 spaced from the pivot connection 114.

A second connecting arm 122 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 124 to the first arm 108 at a third position on the first arm 108 spaced apart from both the first and second positions on the first arm 108. The second end of the second connecting arm 122 is mounted to the pivot connection 114, such that the second connecting arm 122 is pivotally connected at the connection 114 to both the second arm 110 and the third arm 112.

The assembly 102 comprises a first counterbalance assembly 140. The counterbalance assembly 140 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 142. The first counterbalance arm 142 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 110 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 106 by way of a pivot connection.

The first counterbalance assembly 140 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 144.

The second counterbalance arm 144 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm 144 to the third arm 112 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the fourth arm. The second counterbalance arm 144 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 146 to the first counterbalance arm 142 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 142.

The assembly 102 comprises a second counterbalance assembly 150. The second counterbalance assembly 150 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 152. The first counterbalance arm 152 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the pivot connection 146 of the first counterbalance assembly 140.

The second counterbalance assembly 150 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 154.

The second counterbalance arm 154 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm 154 to the second end of the first counterbalance arm 152. The second counterbalance arm 154 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 156 to the second arm 110 at a third position on the second arm 110 spaced from and between the first and second positions on the second arm 110. As shown in Figure 3, the second counterbalance arm 154 extends from the pivot connection 156 in the direction of the component 103 extending between the first and second fixed pivots 104, 106. In the extended position shown in Figure 3, the second counterbalance arm 154 has a free end 158 in the region of the first fixed pivot 104. The second counterbalance arm 154 may be of a weight or have weight applied to the arm between the pivot connect 156 and the free end 158 to counterbalance the weight of the first counterbalance arm 152 and the first counterbalance assembly 140.

Figures 4a to 4d show the assembly of Figure 3 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 4a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 4d.

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 'll-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 112 having moved away from the line joining the 30 fixed pivots 104, 106. 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 104, 106. 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 112 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 4c shows the assembly 102 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 112 moved further away from the line joining the fixed pivots 104, 106. Again, point A on the third arm 112 is tracing a substantially straight line from the 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 112 and the fourth arm 104 still further from the line joining the fixed pivots 104, 106 and the point A on the third arm 112 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.

As can be seen from Figure 3, in the extended position, the counterbalance arms 142,144 of the counterbalance assembly 140 lie on a straight line. In this position, the counterbalance arms 142, 144 tend to lock. The action of the second counterbalance assembly 150, is to raise the counterbalance arms 142, 144 of the first counterbalance assembly 140 out of this locked position. This allows the assembly to be moved from the extended position shown towards the retracted position.

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: As with the assembly of Figure 1, the assembly 202 of Figure 5 comprises a first counterbalance assembly and a second counterbalance assembly. The first counterbalance assembly 40 has the same configuration as that of the assembly of Figure 1. In the assembly of Figure 5, the second counterbalance assembly, generally indicated as 250, has an alternative configuration.

The second counterbalance assembly 250 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 252. The first counterbalance arm 252 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 6 by way of a pivot connection.

The second counterbalance assembly 250 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 254. The second counterbalance arm 254 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the third arm. The second counterbalance arm 254 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 256 to the first counterbalance arm 252 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 252.

The assembly 202 of Figure 5 further comprises a counterbalance 30 connecting arm assembly, generally indicated as 260. The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 260 comprises a first counterbalance connecting arm 262. The first counterbalance connecting arm 262 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the pivot connection 256 of the second counterbalance assembly 250.

The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 260 further comprises a second counterbalance connecting arm 264. The second counterbalance connecting arm 264 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the second end of the first counterbalance connecting arm 262. The second counterbalance connecting arm 264 is further pivotably connected by a pivot connection 266 at a second position on the arm to the second arm 10 at a third position on the second arm spaced from and between the first and second positions on the second arm 10.

Figures 6a to 6d show the assembly of Figure 5 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 6a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 6d.

Referring to Figure 6a, the assembly 202 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 6a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L-shaped and 1Y-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 202 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.

The assembly 202 is shown in Figure 6b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 6b to 6d, 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 6a to the position of Figure 6b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line. Similarly, the point B on the fourth arm 26 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 6c shows the assembly 202 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm are each tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 6a.

Similarly, Figure 6d shows the assembly 202 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 26 each still following a straight line path.

Continued movement of the assembly 202 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 6d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 5.

As can be seen from Figure 5, in the extended position, the counterbalance arms 252,254 of the second counterbalance assembly 250 lie on a straight line. In this position, the counterbalance arms 252, 254 tend to lock. The action of the first counterbalance assembly 40 and the counterbalance connecting arm assembly 260 is to raise the counterbalance arms 252, 254 of the second counterbalance assembly 250 out of this locked position. This allows the assembly to be moved from the extended position shown towards the 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 302, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 1. Components of the assembly of Figure 7 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above.

The assembly 302 of Figure 7 is an example of an embodiment comprising first, second and third counterbalance assemblies.

The assembly 302 of Figure 7 comprises a first counterbalance assembly 40 having the same configuration as the first counterbalance assembly of Figure 1.

The assembly 302 of Figure 7 comprises a second counterbalance assembly 350 having the same configuration as the first counterbalance assembly of the embodiment shown in Figure 3. In particular, the second counterbalance assembly 350 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 352. The first counterbalance arm 352 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 6 by way of a pivot connection.

The second counterbalance assembly 350 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 354. The second counterbalance arm 354 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm 354 to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the fourth arm. The second counterbalance arm 354 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 356 to the first counterbalance arm 352 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 352.

The assembly 302 further comprises a third counterbalance assembly 360 having the same general configuration as the second counterbalance assembly of the embodiment of Figure 3. In particular, the third counterbalance assembly 360 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 362. The first counterbalance arm 362 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the pivot connection 356 of the second counterbalance assembly 350.

The third counterbalance assembly 360 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 364. The second counterbalance arm 364 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm 364 to the second end of the first counterbalance arm 362. The second counterbalance arm 364 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 366 to the second arm 10 at a third position on the second arm 10 spaced from and between the first and second positions on the second arm 10. As shown in Figure 7, the second counterbalance arm 364 extends from the pivot connection 366 in the direction of the component 3 extending between the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.

In the extended position shown in Figure 7, the second counterbalance arm 364 has a free end 368 in the region of the first fixed pivot 4. The second counterbalance arm 364 may be of a weight or have weight applied to the arm between the pivot connect 366 and the free end 368, such that, the third counterbalance assembly 360 together with the first counterbalance assembly 40 counterbalances the weight of the first counterbalance arm 362 and the second counterbalance assembly 350.

Turning to Figure 8, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly of Figure 8, generally indicated as 402, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 1, described above. The components of the assembly of Figure 8 common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same reference numerals and are as described above. The assembly of Figure 8 differs from the assembly of Figure 1 as follows: The assembly 402 of Figure 8 comprises a first counterbalance assembly 440 having the same configuration as the second counterbalance assembly 250 of the assembly of Figure 5. The first counterbalance assembly 440 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 442. The first counterbalance arm 442 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 6 by way of a pivot connection.

The first counterbalance assembly 440 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 444. The second counterbalance arm 444 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the third arm. The second counterbalance arm 444 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 446 to the first counterbalance arm 442 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 442.

The assembly 402 of Figure 8 further comprises a first counterbalance connecting arm assembly, generally indicated as 450. The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 450 comprises a first counterbalance connecting arm 452. The first counterbalance connecting arm 452 is pivotably connected at a first position on the arm to the pivot connection 446 of the first counterbalance assembly 440.

As can be seen in Figure 8, in the extended position, the first counterbalance connecting arm 452 extends below the first and second counterbalance arms 442, 444 as viewed in the figure. In this way, the first counterbalance connecting arm 452 can act as a support for the assembly and the attached components, for example acting as a leg.

The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 450 further comprises a second counterbalance connecting arm 454. The second counterbalance connecting arm 454 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the second end of the first counterbalance connecting arm 452. The second counterbalance connecting arm 454 is further pivotably connected by a pivot connection 456 at a second position on the arm to the third arm 12 at a fourth position on the third arm spaced from and between the first and second positions on the second arm 10.

The second counterbalance connecting arm 454 may alternatively be connected in an analogous manner to the second arm 10 at a third position on the second arm spaced apart from and between the first and second positions 20 on the second arm 10.

The assembly 402 of Figure 8 comprises a second counterbalance assembly 460 having the same general configuration as the second counterbalance assembly 250 of the assembly of Figure 5. The second counterbalance assembly 460 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 462. The first counterbalance arm 462 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the first arm 8 and, preferably, the first fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The second counterbalance assembly 460 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 464. The second counterbalance arm 464 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the fourth arm 26 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point B on the fourth arm. The second counterbalance arm 464 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 466 to the first counterbalance arm 462 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 462.

The assembly 402 of Figure 8 further comprises a second counterbalance connecting arm assembly, generally indicated as 470. The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 470 comprises a first counterbalance connecting arm 472. The first counterbalance connecting arm 472 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the pivot connection 466 of the second counterbalance assembly 460.

The second counterbalance connecting arm assembly 470 further comprises a second counterbalance connecting arm 474. The second counterbalance connecting arm 474 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the second end of the first counterbalance connecting arm 472. The second counterbalance connecting arm 474 is further pivotably connected by a pivot connection 476 at a second position on the arm to the fourth arm 26 at a third position on the fourth arm spaced from and between the first position on the fourth arm and the point B on the fourth arm 26.

The second counterbalance connecting arm 474 may alternatively be connected in an analogous manner to the first arm 8 at a fourth position on the first arm spaced apart from and between the second and third positions on the first arm 8.

Figures 9a to 9d show the assembly of Figure 8 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 9a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 9d.

Referring to Figure 9a, 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 9a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 12-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 9b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 9b to 9d, 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 9a to the position of Figure 9b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line. Similarly, the point B on the fourth arm 26 is following a substantially straight line.

Figure 9c shows the assembly 402 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm are each tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 9a.

Similarly, Figure 9d shows the assembly 402 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fourth arm 26 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fourth arm 26 each still following a straight line path.

Continued movement of the assembly 402 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 9d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 8.

In the assembly 402 of Figure 8, the weight of the first counterbalance assembly 440 is balanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly 460. In this way, as the assembly 402 is moved between the retracted position and the extended position, the weight of the components of the first counterbalance assembly 440 moving downwards counteracts the weight of the components of the second counterbalance assembly 460 moving upwards, and vice versa.

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 502, has the same general configuration as the assembly of Figure 1, described above. The components of the assembly of Figure 10 common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same reference numerals and are as described above. The assembly of Figure 10 differs from the assembly of Figure 1 as follows: The assembly 502 comprises a third connecting arm 510. The third connecting arm is pivotably connected at a first position at one end of the third arm to the first arm 8 at a fourth position on the first arm spaced apart from and between the pivot connections 18 and 24 on the first arm 8. The third connecting arm 510 is pivotably connected at a second position at a second end of the third connecting arm to the third arm 12 at a fourth position on the third arm, spaced apart from and between the pivot connections 14 and 20 on the third arm 12.

The assembly 502 of Figure 10 comprises a first counterbalance assembly 540 having the same configuration as the second counterbalance assembly 250 of the assembly of Figure 5. The first counterbalance assembly 540 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 542. The first counterbalance arm 542 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the second arm 10 and, preferably, the second fixed pivot 6 by way of a pivot connection.

The first counterbalance assembly 540 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 544. The second counterbalance arm 544 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the third arm 12 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point A on the third arm. The second counterbalance arm 544 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 546 to the first counterbalance arm 542 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 542.

The assembly 502 of Figure 10 further comprises a first counterbalance connecting arm assembly, generally indicated as 550. The counterbalance connecting arm assembly 550 comprises a counterbalance connecting arm 552. The counterbalance connecting arm 552 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the pivot connection 546 of the first counterbalance assembly 540.

In the extended position shown in Figure 10, the counterbalance connecting arm 552 may extend below the first counterbalance assembly 540 to provide a support for the assembly 502.

In the extended position shown in Figure 10, the counterbalance connecting arm 552 is locked at its second end to the third connecting arm 510. This acts to lock the first counterbalance assembly 540 and the assembly 502 in the extended position. To move the assembly 502 out of the extended position, for example to move the assembly towards the retracted position, the connection of the counterbalance connecting arm 552 to the third connecting arm 510 is unlocked.

The assembly 502 of Figure 10 comprises a second counterbalance assembly 560 having the same general configuration as the second counterbalance assembly 250 of the assembly of Figure 5. The second counterbalance assembly 560 comprises a first counterbalance component in the form of a first counterbalance arm 562. The first counterbalance arm 562 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the first counterbalance arm to the first arm 8 and, preferably, the first fixed pivot 4 by way of a pivot connection.

The second counterbalance assembly 560 further comprises a second counterbalance component in the form of a second counterbalance arm 564.

The second counterbalance arm 564 is pivotably connected at a first position at the end of the second counterbalance arm to the fourth arm 26 by way of a pivot connection, preferably at the point B on the fourth arm. The second counterbalance arm 564 is pivotably connected at a second position on the second counterbalance arm by a pivot connection 566 to the first counterbalance arm 562 at the second position on the first counterbalance arm 562.

The assembly 502 of Figure 10 further comprises a second counterbalance connecting arm assembly, generally indicated as 570. The 30 counterbalance connecting arm assembly 570 comprises a counterbalance connecting arm 572. The counterbalance connecting arm 572 is pivotably connected at a first position at an end of the arm to the pivot connection 566 of the second counterbalance assembly 560.

In the extended position shown in Figure 10, the counterbalance connecting arm 552 may extend above, as viewed in the figure, the second counterbalance assembly 560 to provide a support for the assembly 502.

In the extended position shown in Figure 10, the counterbalance connecting arm 572 is also locked at its second end to the third connecting arm 510. This acts to lock the second counterbalance assembly 560 and the assembly 502 in the extended position. To move the assembly 502 out of the extended position, for example to move the assembly towards the retracted position, the connection of the counterbalance connecting arm 572 to the third connecting arm 510 is also unlocked.

In the assembly 502 of Figure 10, the weight of the first counterbalance assembly 540 is balanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly 560. In this way, as the assembly 502 is moved between the retracted position and the extended position, the weight of the components of the first counterbalance assembly 540 moving downwards counteracts the weight of the components of the second counterbalance assembly 560 moving upwards, and vice versa.

In an alternative embodiment, the counterbalance connecting arms 552, 572 may be arranged to be releasably lockable to positions on the assembly other than the third connecting arm 510. For example, the counterbalance connecting arms 552, 572 may be releasably lockable to the pivot connections 18 and 14 respectively.

As an alternative to the arrangement described above, one or both of the counterbalance connecting arms 552, 572 may be reversed, that is be pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly 502 and releasably lockable to the respective first and second counterbalance assemblies 540, 560.

In an alternative embodiment, the counterbalance connecting arms 552, 572 may be combined to form a single connecting arm. In this arrangement, the single connecting arm is pivotably connected at a central region of the arm to the third connecting arm 510 and is provided with members to releasably lock the connecting arm to both the first and second counterbalance assemblies 540 and 560.

The counterbalance assemblies shown in the accompanying figures and described above are examples of possible counterbalance assemblies that may be employed. The counterbalance assemblies described herein and shown in the figures may be combined in arrangements other than those shown in the figures. Further, the counterbalance assemblies may be arranged to be pivotably connected to different positions or different arms of the assembly, while still achieving the required counterbalancing effects.

Claims

CLAIMSAn assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position on the first arm about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position on the second arm about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to the 10 second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm spaced apart from the first position on the third arm; a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first counterbalance assembly pivotably connected to an arm of the assembly; and a second counterbalance assembly pivotably connected to an arm of 25 the assembly; wherein movement of the assembly from the retracted position to the extended position causes at least a portion of one of the first counterbalance assembly and the second counterbalance assembly to be raised and wherein movement of the assembly from the retracted position to the extended position causes at least a portion of the other of the first counterbalance assembly and the second counterbalance assembly to be lowered; wherein the weight of the first counterbalance assembly is at least partially counterbalanced by the weight of the second counterbalance assembly.
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 at least one 10 of the first and second counterbalance assemblies comprises a component to be moved by the assembly or a locking assembly.
10. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the second arm.
11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected the second arm and the second fixed pivot.
12. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first 20 counterbalance assembly comprises a first counterbalance component and a second counterbalance component.
13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the first counterbalance component is pivotably connected to the second counterbalance component.
14. The assembly according to either of claims 12 or 13, wherein the first counterbalance component is piovotably connected to the second arm and the second counterbalance component is pivotably connected to the third arm.
15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the first counterbalance component is piovotably connected to the second arm at the second fixed pivot and the second counterbalance component is pivotably connected to the said point on the third arm.
16. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to another arm of the assembly by a counterbalance connecting arm assembly.
17. The assembly according to claim 16, wherein the counterbalance connecting arm assembly comprises one or more counterbalance connecting arms.
18. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second counterbalance assembly is connected to different arms to the arms of the first counterbalance assembly.
19. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to the first arm.
20. The assembly according to claim 19, wherein the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected the first arm and the first fixed pivot.
21. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second counterbalance assembly comprises a first counterbalance component and a second counterbalance component.
22. The assembly according to claim 21, wherein the first counterbalance component is pivotably connected to the second counterbalance component.
23. The assembly according to either of claims 21 or 22, wherein the assembly comprises a fourth arm, the first counterbalance component being piovotably connected to the first arm and the second counterbalance component being pivotably connected to the fourth arm.
24. The assembly according to claim 23, wherein the first counterbalance component is piovotably connected to the first arm at the first fixed pivot and the second counterbalance component is pivotably connected to the said point on the fourth arm.
25. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second counterbalance assembly is pivotably connected to another arm of the assembly by a counterbalance connecting arm assembly.
26. The assembly according to claim 25, wherein the counterbalance connecting arm assembly comprises one or more counterbalance connecting arms.
27. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second 20 counterbalance assembly comprises a counterbalance arm pivotably connected at a first position on the counterbalance arm to an arm of the assembly, the first position being between the ends of the counterbalance arm such that the ends of the arm rotate about the pivot connection, the counterbalance arm being connected to the first counterbalance assembly. 25
28. The assembly according to claim 27, wherein the counterbalance arm is pivotably connected to the second arm or the third arm.
29. The assembly according to either of claims 27 or 28, wherein the 30 counterbalance arm is connected to the first counterbalance assembly by a counterbalance connecting arm.
30. 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.
31. The assembly according to claim 30 wherein the first component is 10 moveable in a liner motion with respect to the second component between a retracted position and an extended position.
32. The assembly according to either of claims 30 or 31, wherein the first component and the second component are components of a building.20 25 30