GB2580745A

GB2580745A - Life extension assembly for structures

Info

Publication number: GB2580745A
Application number: GB1916498.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Mansell Paul
Original assignee: Haywood And Jackson Fabrications Ltd
Current assignee: Haywood And Jackson Fabrications Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-13
Filing date: 2019-11-13
Publication date: 2020-07-29
Anticipated expiration: 2039-11-13
Also published as: GB201916498D0; WO2021094745A1; GB2580745B

Abstract

The life extension assembly includes a pile structure 16; a frame 17 on the upper end of the pile; a receiver 18 to engage the structure and a locating arrangement 19between the frame and the receiver. The locating arrangement may comprise a number of length adjustable arms which hold portions of the receiver to clamp around the structure to hold the structure. Also claimed is a method of installing a life extension assembly. The life extension assembly keeps the structure upright and reduces leaning.

Description

LIFE EXTENSION ASSEMBLY FOR STRUCTURES Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to building structures and particularly to an assembly used to rectify the leaning or collapsing of a structure relative to a ground surface or to minimise movement of a structure relative to a ground surface.

Background to the Invention

Peat is an organic complex soil, well known for its high compressibility and low stability. Peat forms naturally by the incomplete decomposition of plant and animal constituents under anaerobic conditions at low temperatures.

Due to its low stability, over time, structures that are installed into peat soil or soils which include a large amount of peat, tend to slowly sink into the peat soil, or if, the compressibility is uneven, can lean over in the soil.

This situation is clearly not desired, particularly if the structure is intended to remain upright or if the upright nature of the structure is important to its function, for example for lighting or signalling equipment.

It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome or ameliorate any one or more of the disadvantages mentioned above.

Summary of the Invention

In one form, the present invention resides in a life extension assembly for a structure, the life extension assembly comprising at least one pile structure configured to be driven into a support body relative to the structure, a frame provided relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure, a receiver assembly to engage a portion of the structure and at least one locating arrangement provided between the frame and the receiver assembly.

Advantageously, the present invention provides an assembly which can extend the operating life of a structure, particularly a structure which is prone to or is leaning or sinking in a support body such as low stability soil which would otherwise adversely affect the service life of the structure.

The assembly of the present invention can be used to stabilise the structure. The assembly of the present invention can be used to reorient a leaning structure into a service position. The assembly of the present invention can be used to maintain a structure in a service position. In other words, the assembly may be installed at any point in the service life of the structure, to proactively minimise any displacement and/or to correct unwanted leaning or sinking.

The life extension assembly of the present invention can be used in relation to any type of structure. The assembly is particularly adapted for use in relation to a structure which is or includes an elongate post or similar upright which is mounted to, relative to or partially embedded in, a footing.

In one embodiment, the footing for such a structure will typically be a concrete footing. Footings of this type are typically a solid, three-dimensional block of material such as concrete. The block is normally formed by erection of formwork to define the shape and dimensions of the footing and a cementitious material such as concrete is typically poured into the formwork and allowed to set. A three-dimensional rectangular footing is particularly preferred.

A number of bolts can be partially embedded in the block of material prior to setting such that the threaded ends of the bolts stand upright, extending from the upper surface of the block. The structure can then be mounted to the upper surface of the footing, typically using a substantially horizontal plate with a number of openings therein to receive the threaded ends of the bolts and to allow a nut to be attached.

Alternatively, a lower portion of the structure can be embedded in the block material prior to setting in order to fix the position of the structure relative to the footing.

Use of the life extension assembly of the present invention can to prevent the original structure from moving out of use position or orientation, typically vertical, if still connected to the original foundation and becoming un-operational or a risk on the operational infrastructure, and/or allowing correction of a leaning structure or supporting a sinking structure and therefore replacement of the structure may not be required and operational use can continue.

The life extension assembly of the invention is preferably a skeletal structure which does not require or rely on any fixing in to the original base or footing of the structure. The skeletal structure will preferably support the structure off any original holding down bolts, which are fixed in the original foundation block and halt the movement of the structure from the vertical. Alternatively, once the skeletal structure is attached to the structure, if required the original holding down bolts can be disconnected and the structure adjusted back to the vertical and left in operational use, discarding the original foundation. The life extension assembly or skeletal structure preferably supports the structure independently of the footing, whether present or not.

The life extension assembly of the present invention may be installed when the structure is installed in order to minimise any issues or alternatively, the life extension assembly of the present invention may be installed sometime after the structure was installed in order to correct any faults with the structure which may otherwise adversely affect the service life of the structure.

The life extension assembly of the present invention comprises at least one pile structure configured to be driven into a support body relative to the structure. Typically, a plurality of pile structures is provided for each life extension assembly. In practice, the support body will typically be the ground adjacent to the structure.

Each of the pile structures will preferably include at least one elongate member. The at least one elongate member can be formed of a number of separate members which may be connected in an in-line configuration relative to one another. An appropriate connection mechanism such as a complimentary threaded connection can be used to connect members to form the elongate member.

Each at least one elongate member will preferably be tubular. Each at least one elongate member is typically annular in cross-sectional shape. This will reduce weight but maintain the strength of the elongate member.

Each of the pile structures will preferably include at least one helical or part helical flight mounted relative to the at least one elongate member. Generally, a number of helical flights will be provided relative to each at least one elongate member. The helical flights will typically be provided in different sizes. In a particularly preferred form, a small helical flight may be provided closer to the tip of the pile structure with one or more progressively larger helical flights being provided above the small helical flight.

In the preferred configuration, rotation of the pile structure will typically draw the pile structure downwardly into the ground.

As mentioned above, a plurality of pile structures are typically provided for each life extension assembly. Preferably, the pile structures will be spaced, typically equally about the perimeter of the frame. In a preferred embodiment where the frame is rectangular, one pile structure is provided at each corner of the frame.

The pile structures may be driven into the ground in any way. For example, the pile structures may be driven into the ground using a machine. The machine can be a large, vehicle mounted machine or a smaller hand-held machine.

The pile structures may be driven into the ground manually, for example using a tool and attaching the tool relative to the upper end of the pile structure and rotating the tool.

One or more operators may be required to drive the pile structures into the ground depending upon the mechanism or tool used. Small tools or machines will typically be used for smaller pile structures.

The parameters of the at least one pile structure will typically be determined by the soil characteristics of the ground into which the pile structures are to be driven and/or the structure to be supported. For example, parameters such as the number of pile structures, the length of the elongate member of each pile structure, the outer dimension of the elongate member of each pile structure, the number of flights and/or the configuration of the flights may be adjusted depending upon the soil characteristics and/or the structure to be supported in order to allow the pile structures to be driven into the soil but to provide the necessary support for the frame and the structure once in place.

In some situations, the pile structures may be grouted in place once installed, using a suitable material such as a cementitious material for example.

Normally, each of the pile structures will be at least 1 m in length. Preferably, each of the pile structures will be at least one third of the height of the structure, typically up to around 2/3 to 3/4 of the height of the structure.

Each of the pile structures will typically be driven into the ground such that an upper end of each of the elongate members of each respective pile structure is located relative to the top of the footing and/or the ground surface and/or the frame of the life extension assembly.

The frame is preferably provided at or relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure and preferably, the frame will be mounted to or attached to the upper ends of the pile structures.

Typically, the frame will be built onto or attached to the upper end of the pile structures, preferably at the corners or apices of the frame. The pile structures are preferably spaced evenly about the frame in order to spread the load and balance the structure.

The configuration of each of the pile structures can be angled relative to the structure or straight dependent on the geotechnical makeup of the ground. In a preferred embodiment, each of the pile structures are preferably angled outwardly as they extend into the ground, typically away from other pile structures of the same assembly as well.

Although any angle could be used, it is preferred that the angle is approximately between 0 (vertical) -5° and for example I ° to 2° with respect to the vertical axis of the structure.

The pile structures may be driven into the ground and the frame built on or attached to the upper end of the pile structures. Typically, the pile structures will be driven into the ground adjacent to the structure. The pile structures may be driven into the ground without removing the structure.

The life extension assembly of the present invention also includes a frame provided at or relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure. The frame is preferably mounted relative to the pile structures. Preferably, the frame engages the footing of the structure. The frame will typically support the receiver assembly relative to the at least one pile structure.

The frame will preferably be shaped to correspond to the upper end of the footing (if a footing is present). The frame may be provided even if the footing is absent.

Preferably, the frame is symmetrical in order to spread the load over the pile structures provided to balance the structure. In a particularly preferred form, the frame is preferably rectangular when viewed in plan.

The frame will generally be manufactured from number of members which are typically attached together. The frame members can be attached together at the site of installation or may be attached together prior to delivery to the site. The method of attaching the members together will generally depend upon the configuration and/or material of construction of the frame members. The frame members may be metal and if so, welding could be used if permanent attachment is required or one or more bolts if temporary attachment is preferred.

Each of the members will normally be manufactured from metal. It is preferred that each of the members be L-shaped in cross-section with a pair of substantially planar webs. In use, one of the webs of the preferred L-shaped cross-section is oriented downwardly, preferably abutting a side of the preferred footing and the other of the webs will typically be oriented substantially horizontally, abutting the top surface of the preferred footing. The provision of L-shaped cross-section members will therefore assist with the location of the frame relative to the footing where provided.

Typically, an upper end of the elongate member of the pile structure will be received into a corner of the frame, typically inside the depending sidewall and abutting the substantially horizontal upper wall.

The frame will typically be provided in a substantially planar configuration. Typically, all the members of the frame are in the same plane.

In an embodiment, the frame may comprise a plurality of corner brackets and a plurality of connecting members to be connected between the corner brackets to make the frame modular. Each of the corner brackets will preferably include a pair of portions at an angle to one another. In a preferred form, the angle will be 90°.

Each of the portions of the corner bracket will preferably be L-shaped in cross-sectional shape. In an embodiment, the L-shape is formed through the provision of a pair of arms perpendicularly to one another. Each of the portions will typically include an attachment assembly to attach the connecting members to the portion. Although any type of attachment assembly may be provided, at least one opening will preferably be provided on each of the arms to attach the connecting members using elongate, preferably threaded fasteners such as bolts.

A mount is typically provided on each corner bracket to mount each of the pile structures to the frame. Preferably, the mount will include an opening into which an elongate connector part provided on each pile structure can extend to mount the pile structure to the frame. In a preferred form, the elongate connector part includes a threaded portion. An abutment washer or similar is preferably provided at an upper and a lower side of the mount to abut the mount and a nut is then used to secure the pile structure to the mount.

In an embodiment, each corner bracket is preferably also provided with a mounting flange to attach one end of each of the locating arrangements.

Each of the connecting members is preferably elongate and releasably attachable to one or more corner brackets. Each of the connecting members will preferably be L-shaped in cross-sectional shape. In an embodiment, the L-shape is formed through the provision of a pair of arms perpendicularly to one another. Each of the portions will typically include an attachment assembly to attach the connecting members to the corner brackets to define the frame. Although any type of attachment assembly may be provided, at least one opening will preferably be provided on each of the arms to attach the connecting members to the corner brackets by aligning the respective openings and using elongate, preferably threaded fasteners such as bolts.

In an alternative embodiment, a central support plate may be provided relative to the frame. The central support plate will preferably have a shaped centre portion. A plurality of arms preferably extends from the shaped centre portion. Each arm will preferably abut a connecting member of the frame. Each arm will preferably abut a connecting member of the frame between adjacent corner brackets. The arms will preferably be attached to the connecting member. Although any type of attachment assembly may be provided, at least one opening will preferably be provided on each of the arms to attach the connecting members to the corner brackets by aligning the respective openings and using elongate, preferably threaded fasteners such as bolts.

The shaped central portion will preferably have a plurality of openings therein to allow use of a clamping assembly to clamp a base plate relative thereto.

The life extension assembly of the present invention also includes a receiver assembly to engage a portion of the structure. The receiver assembly will typically be mounted above the frame of the life extension assembly by the locating arrangements provided between the frame and the receiver assembly. Preferably, the receiver assembly will be spaced above the frame by the locating arrangements.

The receiver assembly will preferably engage a portion of the structure by receiving a portion of the structure at least partially within. The receiver assembly is preferably shaped according to an external shape of at least a portion of the structure.

As mentioned above, the structure will preferably include an elongate post, pole or similar. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the receiver assembly will preferably clamp about a portion of the elongate post or pole.

The receiver assembly will typically include at least one, and preferably a pair of opposed, shaped jaws which together define an opening or bore to receive a portion of the structure.

Each of the shaped jaws is preferably at least partially arcuate. In one embodiment, each of the shaped jaws includes a curved body with at least one, and preferably a pair of side flanges extending laterally therefrom.

The side flanges may extend over the length of the curved body. Each of the side flanges is preferably provided with at least a part of an attachment mechanism to allow the respective shaped jaws to be fastened relative to one another to clamp about a portion of the structure. In a preferred form, the attachment mechanism will be or include a number of threaded fasteners such as bolts and each of the side flanges is provided with at least one, and preferably a number of openings which, when aligned with the respective openings in the opposite jaw, will allow the threaded fasteners to be inserted, to attach the jaws together to clamp the portion of the structure.

In another embodiment, other types of fasteners may be used such as over centre clips or clamps for example.

One or more engagement portions or surfaces may be provided relative to an inner surface of at least one or both of the shaped jaws in order to engage the portion of the structure received within the jaws. For example, one or more shaped teeth may be provided. A high friction or resilient surface may be provided, such as rubber or a similar material.

The life extension assembly includes at least one locating arrangement provided between the frame and the receiver assembly to position the receiver assembly relative to the frame.

The life extension assembly of one embodiment includes a plurality of locating arrangements provided between the frame and the receiver assembly. The locating arrangements will typically space the receiver assembly relative to the frame.

The locating arrangements may be rigid to maintain the position the receiver assembly relative to the frame.

The locating arrangements are preferably elongate. Each locating arrangement may have any form, for example an elongate plate or similar could be used but each is preferably configured as an elongate arm.

At least some of the preferred arms, and typically all of the arms, may be length adjustable. The provision of individually length adjustable arms will preferably allow adjustment of the angle of the receiver assembly and/or adjusting of a separation distance between the receiver assembly and the frame. The receiver assembly may be mounted relative to the frame at an angle other than perpendicular, but typically, the receiver assembly will extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of the frame.

Each of the arms is preferably mounted to or attached to the frame at one end and to the receiver assembly at the other end. A pivotal attachment at both ends is preferred.

In one embodiment, a mounting flange is provided on the frame to attach one end of each of the arms. The mounting flange will preferably be provided with an opening. A corresponding flange is provided at the respective end of the arm such that a threaded fastener, such as a bolt for example, could be inserted through the aligned openings and a nut attached thereto. A similar arrangement is typically provided at the opposite end of the arm with a mounting flange provided on the receiver assembly and a corresponding flange provided at the end of the arm.

Each of the arms is preferably length adjustable, formed from a number of portions which are mounted relative to one another in order to allow the adjustment of the length of the arm. Preferably, each of the aims is formed from a pair of tubes. Each of the pair of tubes may be provided with a threaded portion at an end opposite to the flange used to mount the arm. These ends of the tubes with the threaded portion will normally face one another.

An elongate threaded member can then be attached between the tubes which connects the tubes together, but also allows length adjustment by rotating the threaded member and/or one or more tubes. Rotation of the threaded member in a first direction will typically extend the length of the arm and rotation of the threaded member of the opposite direction will typically retract the arm.

The threaded member may be oppositely threaded at each end and rotation of the threaded member in one direction will preferably adjust the position of each of the tubes relative to the threaded member in equal amounts.

A gripping portion may be provided on the threaded member in order to rotate the threaded member. In one embodiment, a nut or similar can be provided substantially centrally between two externally threaded portions of the threaded member which are threaded in opposite directions.

In another embodiment, a base plate may be provided on the receiver assembly.

The base plate may be mounted directly above the frame. The preferred receiver tube I1 is preferably provided with a permanently attached radially extending flange. The flange preferably extends perpendicularly to the receiver tube. Bracing is normally provided between the outside of the receiver tube and the radially extending flange. The radially extending flange is preferably releasably attached to the base plate. The base plate is typically radially larger than the radially extending flange.

Typically, the base plate abuts the central support plate. The base plate is preferably provided with a plurality of openings therein to allow the orientation of the base plate and thereby, the receiver assembly, to be adjusted relative to the frame. The openings are preferably arcuate allowing rotation of the base plate and thereby, the receiver assembly. Once the desired orientation has been found, an elongate, preferably threaded fastener can then be used to fix the orientation of the base plate and thereby, the receiver assembly relative to the frame. This configuration may find particular use with foldable signal posts.

The present invention may find particular use for extending the service life of remote infrastructure such as railway infrastructure as one example. It is important that railway infrastructure such as signalling lights for example are oriented correctly and any leaning and/or sinking of this type of device relative to a ground surface can cause visibility issues which in turn is a safety issue.

In another aspect, the present invention resides in a method for installing a life extension assembly for a structure, the method including the steps of: driving at least one pile structure into a support body relative to the structure; mounting a frame relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure; engaging a portion of the structure with a receiver assembly; and providing at least one locating arrangement between the frame and the receiver assembly to maintain the position of the receiver assembly relative to the frame.

The method may further include the step of undertaking corrective action as to the position and/or orientation of the structure.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a structure supported by a life extension assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a life extension assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a side view of the life extension assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 4 is an axonometric view of an upper portion of the life extension assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 5 is a side view of an extension arm of the life extension assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 6 is an isometric detail view of a receiver assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a side view of the upper portion of the life extension assembly illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 8 is an isometric view of the upper side of the frame engagement assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 9 is an axonometric view of frame and receiver assembly of a life extension assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is an exploded view of the right-hand side of the frame illustrated in Figure 9.

Figure 11 is a detailed view of the connection of a pile structure to the frame illustrated in Figure 9 and identified by reference letter 'A' Figure 12 is an axonometric view of frame and receiver assembly of a life extension assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 13 is an exploded detail view of the frame and receiver assembly illustrated in Figure 12 with one of the corner brackets removed for clarity.

A first embodiment of a life extension assembly for a structure is illustrated in Figures 2 to 7. The use of the preferred embodiment in relation to a set of railway signal lights is illustrated in Figures 1 and 8.

As illustrated in Figures 1 and 8, the life extension assembly 10 is used to support a set of railway signal lights 11. The railway signal lights include a bank of lights 12 provided at the top of an elongate post 13 which is in turn provided with a base plate 14. The base plate 14 of the railway signal lights 11 is attached to an upper side of a footing 13 using a number of threaded fasteners (not shown).

The footing 15 is typically a concrete footing in the form of a solid, three-dimensional block of concrete. The block is normally formed by erection of formwork to define the shape and dimensions of the block and concrete is typically poured into the formwork and allowed to set.

A number of bolts (not shown) can be partially embedded in the block of material prior to setting such that the threaded ends of the bolts stand upright, extending from the upper surface of the block. The base plate 14 of the set of railway lights 11 can then be mounted to the upper surface of the footing 15.

The life extension assembly 10 can be installed when the structure is installed in order to minimise any issues or alternatively, may be installed sometime after the structure was installed in order to correct any faults with structure which may otherwise adversely affect the service life of the structure.

The life extension assembly 10 of the embodiment illustrated comprises four pile structures 16 configured to be driven into the ground adjacent to the set of railway lights 11, a frame 17 provided relative to an upper end of the pile structures 16, a receiver assembly 18 to engage a portion of the set of railway lights 11 and four length adjustable arms 19 mounted between the frame 17 and the receiver assembly 18.

The assembly of the present invention can be used to stabilise the structure and/or to reorient a leaning structure into its correct service position.

Each of the pile structures 16 of this embodiment includes an elongate member as illustrated. Each elongate member is formed of a pair of separate members which are connected in an in-line configuration relative to one another by an appropriate connection mechanism such as a complimentary threaded connection.

Each of the pile structures include three helical or part helical flights 20 mounted relative to the elongate member.

In the illustrated embodiment, each of the elongate members is made up of an upper elongate member 21 attached to the frame 17 at an upper end and a lower elongate member 22 relative to which the helical or part helical flights 20 are mounted.

In the illustrated form, a small helical flight is provided closer to the lower end of the pile structure 16 with one or more progressively larger helical flights being provided above the small helical flight.

I5 In the preferred configuration, rotation of the pile structure draws the pile structure downwardly into the ground.

The pile structures 16 are equally spaced about the perimeter of the frame 17. In the illustrated embodiment, in which the frame is rectangular, a pile structure 16 is provided at each corner of the frame 17.

Each of the pile structures will normally be at least 1 min length, preferably, around 2/3 to 3/4 of the height of the set of railway lights 11 Each of the pile structures 16 is typically driven into the ground such that an upper end of each of the elongate members of each respective pile structure 16 is located relative to the top of the footing 15 and/or the ground surface and/or the frame 17 of the life extension assembly.

As shown, the frame 17 is provided relative to an upper end of the pile structures 16. The frame is mounted to or attached to the upper ends of the pile structures 16.

The frame 17 can be built onto or attached to the upper end of the pile structures 16 at the corners or apices of the frame 17. I5

Each of the pile structures 16 is angled relative to the structure, angled outwardly as they extend into the ground away from other pile structures as well. The angle is approximately 1° to 2° to the vertical axis of the set of railway lights 11 is used.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 17 engages the footing 15 of the set of railway lights 11 and supports the receiver assembly 18 relative to the pile structures 16.

The frame is shaped to correspond to the upper end of the footing 15. The frame illustrated is symmetrical in order to spread the load over the pile structures 16 provided to balance the set of railway lights 11.

The frame 17 illustrated is manufactured from number of members which are attached together permanently by welding.

Each of the frame members of the illustrated embodiment is manufactured from metal and are L-shaped in cross-section. In use, one of the planar webs of the preferred L-shaped cross-section is oriented downwardly, preferably abutting a side of the footing 15 and the other of the planar webs is oriented substantially horizontally, abutting the top surface of the footing 15. The provision of L-shaped cross-section members will therefore assist with the location of the frame relative to the footing were provided.

An upper end of the elongate member of the pile structure 16 is received into a corner of the frame court as best seen in Figure 8, inside the depending planar web and abutting an underside of the substantially horizontal upper planar web.

As illustrated, all the members of the frame 17 are in the same plane The receiver assembly 18 is mounted relative to the number of arms 19, spaced above the frame 17.

As best illustrated in Figure 1, the receiver assembly 18 engages the elongate post 13 of the set of railway lights 11 by receiving a part of the post 13 at least partially within. The receiver assembly 18 is shaped to correspond to an external shape of post 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiver assembly 18 clamps about a portion of the elongate post 13.

The receiver assembly 18 illustrated includes a pair of opposed, shaped jaws 23 which together define a bore to receive a portion of the structure.

Each of the shaped jaws 23 includes a curved body 25 with a pair of side flanges 26 extending laterally therefrom. The side flanges 26 extend over the length of the curved body 25 as shown in Figures 6 and 7. Each of the side flanges 26 is provided a number of openings 27 which, when aligned with the respective openings in the opposite jaw, allows a threaded fastener to clamp the jaws 23 together about the post 13 as shown.

The elongate, length adjustable arms 19, shown generally in many of the Figures but particularly in Figure 5, space and position the receiver assembly 18 relative to the frame 17. Although of adjustable length, the length of the arms when in service is fixed to maintain the position and/or orientation of the railway lights relative to the frame and pile structures.

In the embodiment illustrated, all of the arms 19 are length adjustable. The provision of length adjustable arms 19 allows adjustment of the angle of the receiver assembly 18 and/or minor variations in the separation distance between the receiver assembly 18 and the frame 17. The receiver assembly 18 is mounted relative to the frame 17 perpendicularly.

Each of the arms 19 is mounted to or attached to the frame 17 at one end and to the receiver assembly 18 at the other end using a pivotal attachment In the embodiment illustrated particularly in Figure 5, a mounting flange 28 is provided at the frame 17 to attach one end of each of the arms 19. The mounting flange 28 is provided with an opening and a corresponding flange 29 with an opening is provided at the respective end of the arm 19 such that threaded fastener, such as a bolt for example (not shown) can be inserted through the aligned openings and a nut attached thereto. A similar arrangement is provided that the opposite end of the arm 19 with a mounting flange 30 provided on the receiver assembly 18 and a corresponding flange 31 provided at the end of the arm 19 each with an opening such that threaded fastener, such as a bolt for example (not shown) can be inserted through the aligned openings and a nut attached thereto.

Each of the arms 19 is length adjustable, formed from a number of portions which are mounted relative to one another in order to allow the adjustment of the length of the arm 19. As illustrated in Figure 5 in particular, each of the arms 19 is formed from a pair of tubes 32, each of which is provided with a threaded nut 33 at an end opposite to the flange 29, 31 used to mount the arm 19. An elongate threaded rod 34 is attached between the tubes 32 and which connects the tubes 32 and allows length adjustment by rotating the threaded rod 34 and/or one or more tubes 32. Rotation of the threaded rod 34 in a first direction extends the length of the arm 19 and rotation of the threaded rod 34 in the opposite direction retracts the arm 19 to decrease the length of the arm.

The threaded rod 34 is threaded in an opposite direction at each end such that rotation of the threaded rod 34 in one direction adjusts the position of each of the tubes 32 relative to the threaded rod 34 in equal amounts.

A gripping nut 35 is provided on the threaded member in order to rotate the threaded rod 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the nut 35 is provided substantially centrally between two externally threaded portions of the threaded rod 32 which are threaded in opposite directions.

In use, once a structure such as a railway signalling light structure is found to be in a compromised position and/or located in an area with low stability soil, one or more operators can then drive pile structures into the ground adjacent to the railway signalling light structure. The operator(s) can then build or locate the frame on the upper end of the at least one pile structure, engaging the footing of the railway signalling light structure, if any. The receiver assembly can then be engaged to the post of the railway signalling light structure. The locating arrangements are then attached to the frame and to the receiver assembly to fix the position and/or orientation of the railway signalling light structure. Minor adjustments to the position and/or orientation of the railway signalling light structure may be made using the preferred length adjustable arms, if required.

The operator(s) may undertake corrective action in relation to the railway signalling light structure to return the railway signalling light structure to the optimum position and/or orientation at any time in this process.

The alternative embodiment illustrated in Figure 9 to 11 shows a frame including a plurality of corner brackets 36 and a plurality of connecting members 37 to be connected between the corner brackets 36. Each of the corner brackets 36 include a pair of portions at a 90° angle to one another.

Each of the portions of the corner bracket 36 are L-shaped in cross-sectional shape with a pair of arms perpendicular to one another as shown. Each of the portions include a plurality of attachment openings 38 to attach the connecting members 37 to the corner bracket 36. Elongate threaded fasteners such as bolts are used in the illustrated embodiment (not shown for clarity).

A mount 39 is provided on each corner bracket 36 to mount each of the pile structures 16 to the frame. As shown, the mount 39 includes an opening 40 into which an elongate threaded rod part 41 provided on each pile structure 16 extends to mount the pile structure 16 to the frame. An abutment washer 42 is provided at an upper side and a lower side of the mount 39 to abut the mount and a nut 43 is then used at an upper side and a lower side to secure the pile structure 16 to the mount 39.

In the illustrated embodiment, each corner bracket 36 is also provided with a mounting flange 28 to attach one end of each of the arms 16.

Each of the connecting members 37 of the illustrated embodiment is elongate and releasably attachable between a pair of corner brackets 36. Each of the connecting members 37 is L-shaped in cross-sectional shape with a pair of arms perpendicular to one another. Each of the connecting members 37 include a plurality of attachment openings 44 to attach the connecting members 37 to the corner brackets 36 to define the frame. Elongate threaded fasteners such as bolts are used in the illustrated embodiment (not shown for clarity).

In the alternative embodiment illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, a central support plate 45 is provided relative to the frame which is the same as the frame illustrated in Figure 9. As illustrated best in Figure 13, the central support plate 45 has a shaped centre portion and a plurality of arms extending from the shaped centre portion. Each arm abuts a connecting member 37 of the frame between adjacent corner brackets as shown in Figure 12. The arms are attached to the connecting member 37. Elongate threaded fasteners such as bolts are used in the illustrated embodiment (not shown for clarity).

The shaped central portion will preferably have a plurality of openings 46 therein to allow use of a clamping assembly to clamp a base plate 47 of a receiver assembly 48 relative thereto.

In this embodiment, the base plate is provided on the receiver assembly 48. The base plate 47 is mounted directly above the frame on the central support plate 45. The receiver tube 49 is provided with a lower, permanently attached, radially extending flange 50. Bracing 51 is provided between the outside of the receiver tube 49 and the radially extending flange 50. The radially extending flange 50 is releasably attached to the base plate 47. The base plate 47 is radially larger than the radially extending flange 50 as shown.

The base plate 47 is provided with a plurality of arcuate openings 52 therein to allow the orientation of the base plate 47 and thereby, the receiver assembly 48, to be adjusted relative to the frame. The openings 52 allow rotation of the base plate 47 and thereby, the receiver assembly 48. Once the desired orientation has been found, an elongate, threaded fastener (not shown) can then be inserted through the arcuate openings 52 and into the openings 46 in the central support plate 45 to fix the orientation of the base plate 47 and thereby, the receiver assembly 48 relative to the frame. This configuration may find particular use with foldable signal posts.

The central support plate and the base plate configuration can be used to fit new signals in the same position as old signal with the frame of an embodiment. Use of a frame as shown in Figure 9, with the arms 19 and receiver assembly 18 removed and replaced with a central support plate 45 and a receiver assembly 48 with a base plate 47 allows use of an existing below ground configuration by swapping the upper configuration. This will result in savings associated with use of the existing pile structure as it means that infrastructure can be replaced in exactly the same location means that re-sighting is not required.

The configuration illustrated in Figure 14 has the same components as that illustrated in Figures 12 and 13. In Figure 14, a number of bolts 140 are provided, one through each of the plurality of arcuate openings 52 in the base plate 47. A nut (not shown, obstructed) is located on each bolt 140 below the base plate 47 and a second nut is located on each bolt 140 above the base plate 47. This spaces the base plate 47 above the central support plate 45 and can also be used to orient the base plate 47.

As illustrated in Figure 14, the receiver assembly 48 is permanently mounted to a transverse mounting plate 141. The transverse mounting plate 141 is attached to the base plate 47 using a number of bolts 142. A pivot assembly 143 is mounted on one side of the transverse mounting plate 141, between the transverse mounting plate 141 and the base plate. A rotatable toggle 144 is provided on the base plate 47 substantially opposite to the pivot assembly 143. The toggle 144 can be rotated to overlie the transverse mounting plate 141 or away from the transverse mounting plate 141. If the toggle 144 is rotated away from the transverse mounting plate 141when the bolts 142 are removed, the receiver assembly 48 and transverse mounting plate 141 can be rotated using the pivot assembly 143 to lower the pole mounted to the receiver assembly 48 for access to the signal mounted to the pole or to the pole itself. In reverse, when the receiver assembly 48 and transverse mounting plate 141 are rotated using the pivot assembly 143 to raise the pole, rotating the toggle 144 to overlie the transverse mounting plate 141 can hold the receiver assembly in the raised position while the bolts 142are inserted and tightened.

When the pole is lowered a locking plate 145 having an opening therethrough can be aligned with a locking pin assembly 146 on the base plate 47 to releasably lock the receiver assembly 48 and transverse mounting plate 141 in the lowered position.

The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMSA life extension assembly for a structure, the life extension assembly compri sing: a) at least one pile structure configured to be driven into a support body relative to the structure; b) a frame provided relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure; c) a receiver assembly to engage a portion of the structure; and d) at least one locating arrangement provided between the frame and the receiver assembly.
2. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of the pile structures includes at least one elongate member and at least one helical or part helical flight mounted relative to the at least one elongate member.
3. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein a plurality of pile structures are provided spaced equally about the frame.
4. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the pile structures is at least one third of a height of the structure.
5. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the pile structures is up to around 3/4 of the height of the structure.
6. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the frame is mounted to or attached to an upper end of the or each at least one pile structure.
7. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the pile structures are angled outwardly as they extend into the ground and away from other pile structures of the same assembly.
8. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the frame is symmetrical in order to spread the load over the pile structures provided to balance the structure.
9. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the frame is formed from a plurality of frame members, each of the frame members are L-shaped in cross-section with a pair of substantially planar webs.
10. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 9 wherein a plurality of corner brackets is provided and the frame members are attached to the corner brackets.
11. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the frame has a planar configuration.
12. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the receiver assembly is mounted above and spaced from the frame by the number of a plurality of locating arrangements provided between the frame and the receiver assembly.
13. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the receiver assembly clamps about a portion of the structure.
14. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the receiver assembly comprises a pair of opposed, shaped jaws which together define an opening or bore to receive a portion of the structure.
15. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 14 wherein each of the shaped jaws comprises a curved body with at least one side flange extending laterally therefrom.
16. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the of each at least one side flange is provided with at least a part of an attachment mechanism to allow the respective shaped jaws to be fastened relative to one another to clamp about a portion of the structure.
17. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein one or more engagement portions or surfaces are provided relative to an inner surface of at least one of the shaped jaws in order to engage the portion of the structure received within the shaped jaws.
18. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the locating arrangements comprises an elongate arm.
19.
20.
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27.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 18 wherein each of the elongate arms is length adjustable.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19 wherein each of the arms mounted to or attached to the frame at one end and to the receiver assembly at the other end utilising a pivotal attachment at both ends. A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20 wherein each of the arms is formed from a pair of tubes, each with a threaded portion at one end opposite and an elongate threaded member attached between the tubes which connects the tubes together, but also allows length adjustment by rotating the threaded member and/or one or more tubes.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 21 wherein the threaded member is oppositely threaded at each end.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 22 wherein a gripping portion is provided on the threaded member in order to rotate the threaded member.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 10 further comprising a central support plate mounted to the frame.A life extension assembly for a structure as claimed in claim 24 wherein the receiver assembly is a tubular receiver mounted to a base plate which is rotatably mounted relative to the central support plate.A method for installing a life extension assembly for a structure, the method including the steps of: a) driving at least one pile structure into a support body relative to the structure; b) mounting a frame relative to an upper end of the at least one pile structure; c) engaging a portion of the structure with a receiver assembly; and d) providing a plurality of locating arrangements between the frame and the receiver assembly to maintain the position of the receiver assembly relative to the frame.A method for installing a life extension assembly as claimed in claim 23 wherein the life extension assembly is installed following identification of a specific issue with the structure that requires correction.
28. A method for installing a life extension assembly as claimed in claim 24 wherein method further comprises the step of grouting the pile structures in place once installed.