GB2590449A

GB2590449A - Ground surface access assemblies

Info

Publication number: GB2590449A
Application number: GB1918745.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Turner Barry; Sarah Elizabeth Evans Samantha
Original assignee: Wrekin Holdings Ltd
Current assignee: Wrekin Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2019-12-18
Filing date: 2019-12-18
Publication date: 2021-06-30
Anticipated expiration: 2039-12-18
Also published as: GB2590449B; GB201918745D0

Abstract

A fabricated base frame (fig. 1; 12) for a ground surface access assembly 10. The fabricated base frame comprises at least one apparatus 14, the at least one apparatus comprises a part 20 which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame, at least a portion of the perimeter 22 of the part follows a substantially curved line. Methods of attaching the apparatus, replacing a frame and forming the apparatus are also claimed. The frame may have an upstanding wall which may have a flange extending from lower part of the wall, which may extend inwards or outwards at an angle greater than a right-angle. The apparatus may have a mating surface with corresponding features and openings on the frame. The apparatus may have protrusions, a bead surrounding the perimeter and may have a sleeve extending from the bead.

Description

TITLE

Ground Surface Access Assemblies

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

Examples of the disclosure relate to ground surface access assemblies, and particularly fabricated base frames for ground surface access assemblies.

BACKGROUND

Ground surface access assemblies, such as manhole assemblies and gully gratings, comprise a base frame defining an opening and a cover which is mountable in the base frame in the opening. Such assemblies allow access to sewers, water hydrants and other below surface services, via the opening.

Base frames may be generally rectangular and comprise an upstanding side wall and a flange extending outwardly from a lower part of the upstanding side wall.

The flange may comprise relatively narrow side portions and enlarged corner portions extending outwardly from each corner of the generally rectangular base frame.

Conventionally, the flange is mounted within bedding material, e.g. a mortar bed, to retain the assembly in place. In use, when a vehicle travels over the assembly, a force is applied to the cover, and hence to the base frame concentrating at its contact positions within the frame, generally in a downwards direction. Furthermore, because a vehicle is often accelerating or decelerating, a force is also applied to the assembly in a lateral direction substantially parallel to the cover and to the flange, which may cause the frame to detach from the bedding material and/or induce cracks into the bedding material via conventionally sharp, angular flange features. Accordingly, it is known to configure the enlarged corner portions of the flange to minimize such damage, for example, by providing enlarged corner portions without sharp edges (i.e. with rounded corners), and to provide projections on a face of the enlarged corner portions to increase friction with the bedding material to restrict damage inducing lateral movement. These features are known to provide sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material, thus minimizing damage.

The dimensions of a base frame must be selected according to the opening size of the chamber the assembly is covering. As there are limited number of standard opening sizes, it is generally economical to manufacture a mould for cast forming base frames for such standard opening sizes from liquid material, such as liquid metal. The mould may be dimensioned and shaped such that the base frame formed comprises a flange with enlarged corner portions with features configured to minimize damage to the bedding material, such as rounded corners and projections as noted above.

With regard to non-standard opening sizes, it is often not economical to manufacture a mould for cast forming an appropriately dimensioned and shaped base frame because only a limited number of assemblies are required. Accordingly, the cost of the mould may be prohibitive. Accordingly, base frames for non-standard opening sizes are instead formed by fabrication from standard sections, for instance, from standard steel sections by folding and welding. A base frame formed by fabrication from standard sections will not include flange features which minimise damage to the bedding material, i.e. which provide sympathetic load dispersal, for instance as noted above, because the shape and surface structure of the flange is limited to the standard sections available. Accordingly, a flange of a base frame formed by fabrication, i.e. a fabricated base frame, will have sharp and angular mitred corners and plan profile which in use do not provide sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material. Instead, such features induce high point stresses into the bedding material which cause cracks to form. Furthermore, a flange of such a fabricated base frame will not have projections to increase grip, but will instead comprise a smooth surface which relies on adhesion to the bedding material, and does not therefore minimize damage inducing lateral movement.

Accordingly, there is a requirement to minimize the possibility of damage being caused to bedding material in cases where a ground surface access assembly comprises a fabricated base frame.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a fabricated base frame for a ground surface access assembly, wherein the fabricated base frame comprises at least one apparatus, wherein the at least one apparatus comprises a part which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line.

The perimeter of the part may follow a substantially curved line at each respective corner portion of the part.

Possibly, the fabricated base frame comprises an upstanding wall, wherein the part of the at least one apparatus extends outwardly from a lower part of the upstanding wall.

The at least one apparatus may be attached to a flange extending from the lower part of the upstanding side wall.

The flange may extend outwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall. Alternatively, the flange may extend inwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall into a fabricated base frame opening defined by the fabricated base frame.

In examples wherein the flange extends inwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall, the upstanding side wall may be at an angle of greater than 90° to the flange.

The at least one apparatus and the flange may comprise corresponding mating surfaces, wherein the mating surface of the flange is comprised on the in use lower face of the flange, and the mating surface of the at least one apparatus is comprised on the in use upper face of the at least one apparatus.

Possibly, each of the corresponding mating surfaces comprise a first area and a second area in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area located between the first area and the second area. The first area may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area.

The corresponding mating surfaces may each comprise at least one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is located through the at least one aligned opening to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.

The corresponding mating surfaces may each comprise a plurality of aligned openings, wherein a fastening means is located through each of the corresponding aligned openings to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.

The plurality of aligned openings may be in a non-linear arrangement.

Possibly, the respective first areas, second areas, and third areas of the corresponding mating surfaces may each comprise an aligned opening.

Alternatively, the corresponding mating surfaces may each comprise only one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is located through the only one aligned opening to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame. Possibly, the mating surface of the at least one apparatus comprises a plurality of further openings, and wherein the mating surface of the flange comprises a plurality of projections which respectively locate in the plurality of further openings.

The only one aligned opening may be in a non-linear arrangement with the plurality of projections located in the plurality of further openings. Possibly, the first area and the second area of the mating surface of the flange each comprise a projection and the first area and second area of the mating surface of the at least one apparatus each comprise an opening into which a projection locates, and the third area of each of the corresponding mating surfaces comprises the only one aligned opening.

At least a portion of at least one face of the part may comprise a plurality of projections. At least a portion of both faces of the part may comprise a plurality of projections. The projections may be provided over substantially the whole of the at least one face of the part. The projections may be provided over substantially the whole of both faces of the part.

Possibly, a generally rounded section of bead extends around the perimeter of the part.

The part may comprise at least one opening extending through the part. The part may comprise a plurality of openings extending through the part. At least some of the plurality of openings may be in a non-linear arrangement.

Possibly, a generally rounded section of bead extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the flange. The bead may comprise a sleeve which extends over at least a portion of one or both faces of the flange. The sleeve may extend over substantially the whole of one or both faces of the flange.

The sleeve may comprise a plurality of projections, which may be provided over substantially the whole of the sleeve.

Possibly, the fabricated base frame is generally rectangular in plan view, and comprises an apparatus on each corner.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method of attaching at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame according to the above paragraphs, wherein the method comprises attaching the at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame using fastening means, or attaching the at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame by welding or adhering the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method of replacing a fabricated base frame of a ground surface access assembly, the fabricated base frame being according to the above paragraphs, wherein the method comprises: unfastening fastening means attaching the fabricated base frame to at least one apparatus embedded in bedding material; removing the fabricated base frame; attaching a replacement fabricated base frame to the at least one apparatus embedded in bedding material using fastening means.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus attachable to a fabricated base frame of a ground surface access assembly, the fabricated base frame being according to the above paragraphs, wherein the apparatus comprises a part which extends in use outwardly from the fabricated base frame, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line.

The apparatus may comprise a mating surface for mating with the fabricated base frame, wherein the mating surface comprises a first area and a second area in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area located between the first and second areas.

The first area may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area.

The mating surface may comprise at least one opening, wherein a fastening means is locatable in the opening to attach the apparatus to a fabricated base frame.

The mating surface may comprise a plurality of openings, wherein a fastening means is locatable in at least one of the plurality of openings to attach the apparatus to a fabricated base frame. The plurality of openings may be in a non-linear arrangement. Possibly, the respective first area, second area and third area of the mating surface each comprise an opening.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method of forming an apparatus according to the above paragraphs from a liquid material.

The method may comprise forming the apparatus by casting, injection moulding, 01 30 printing from the liquid material.

The fabricated base frame, apparatus and methods may comprise any of the features described in any of the preceding statements or following description.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there may be provided examples as claimed in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

For a better understanding of various examples that are useful for understanding the detailed description, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a ground surface access assembly from above; Fig. 2 illustrates the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 1 in plan view from above; Fig. 3 illustrates the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 1 in plan view from below; Fig. 4 illustrates an exploded view of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 1 in perspective from above; Fig. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 1 in perspective from below; Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 1 with the cover removed from above; Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded view of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 6 in perspective from above; Fig. 8 illustrates a corner section of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 6 in perspective from above; Fig. 9 illustrates a corner section of another ground surface access assembly with the cover removed in perspective from above; Fig. 10 illustrates an exploded view of the corner section of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 9 in perspective from above; Fig. 11 illustrates an exploded view of the corner section of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 9 in perspective from below but comprising the cover; Fig. 12 illustrates a cross section view of the corner section of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 9 in use embedded in bedding material; Fig. 13 illustrates a cross section view of the corner section of the ground surface access assembly Fig. 6; Fig. 14 illustrates a cross section view of the corner section of another ground surface access assembly; Fig. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a corner section of another ground surface access assembly in perspective from below; Fig. 16 illustrates a perspective view of another ground surface access assembly from above; Fig. 17 illustrates a cross section view through a side of the base frame of the ground surface access assembly of Fig. 16; and Fig. 18 illustrates a cross section view through a side of the base frame of another ground surface access assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures illustrate a ground surface access assembly 10 comprising a fabricated base frame 12, wherein the fabricated base frame 12 comprises at least one apparatus 14. The figures also illustrate a fabricated base frame 12 comprising at least one apparatus 14. The figures also illustrate an apparatus 14 attachable to a fabricated base frame 12. The apparatus 14 may be referred to as a foot, or a corner portion or an enlarged corner portion.

A fabricated base frame 12 is a base frame formed by fabrication from standard sections, for instance, standard steel sections by welding. Accordingly, fabricated base frames 12 are not formed from a liquid material, for instance by casting, injection moulding or 3D printing.

A ground surface access assembly 10 according to examples of the disclosure comprises a fabricated base frame 12 defining a fabricated base frame opening 16.

A ground surface access assembly 10 according to examples of the disclosure comprises also comprises a cover 18 mountable to the fabricated base frame 12 in the fabricated base frame opening 16. Access to underground services is permitted via the fabricated base frame opening 16. Ground surface access assemblies 10 according to examples of the disclosure include manhole assemblies and gully gratings.

The fabricated base frame 12 comprises at least one apparatus 14. The at least one apparatus 14 comprises a part 20 which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame 12. In the illustrated examples, the part 20 is substantially planar. The part 20 may be referred to as a flange part 20.

At least a portion of the perimeter 22 of the part 20 follows a substantially curved line 24, which provides sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material in which the part 20 is in use embedded.

In some examples, the perimeter 22 of the part 20 follows a substantially curved line at each respective corner portion 21 of the part 20, i.e. the corner portions 21 are rounded. In the illustrated examples, the part 20 comprises three corner portions 21.

The perimeter 22 follows a substantially straight line adjacent each respective corner portion 21.

Examples of the disclosure also provide a fabricated base frame 12 for a ground surface access assembly 10, the fabricated base frame 12 comprising at least one apparatus 14 as described above. Accordingly, the at least one apparatus 14 comprises a part 20 which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame 12. At least a portion of the perimeter 22 of the part 20 follows a substantially curved line 24.

In the illustrated examples, the fabricated base frame 12 is generally rectangular in plan view, and comprises an apparatus 14 on each corner 26.

The at least one apparatus 14 is not integrally formed with the fabricated base frame 12. Accordingly, the at least one apparatus 14 is formed separately from the fabricated base frame 12 and subsequently attached thereto. The at least one apparatus 10 may be removably attachable to the fabricated base frame 12, as described in more detail below. Alternatively, the at least one apparatus 10 may be welded or adhered to the fabricated base frame 12, for instance as illustrated in Fig. 16, noting welding points 13.

In the illustrated examples, the fabricated base frame 12 comprises an upstanding wall 28. The part 20 of the at least one apparatus 14 extends outwardly from a lower part 30 of the upstanding wall 28.

In some examples, the fabricated base frame 12 comprises seats extending inwardly from each corner 26 into the fabricated base frame opening 16 defined by the fabricated base frame 12. The at least one apparatus 14 is coincident with the seat(s).

In the illustrated examples, the at least one apparatus 14 is attached to a flange 32 extending from the lower part 30 of the upstanding side wall 28.

As illustrated in Figs. 1 to 14, the flange 32 may extend inwardly from the lower part 30 of the upstanding side wall 28 into the fabricated base frame opening 16 defined by the fabricated base frame 12 (i.e. an internal flange 32). Alternatively, as illustrated in Figs. 15 to 18, the flange 32 may extend outwardly from the lower part 30 of the upstanding side wall 28 (i.e. an external flange 32).

In some examples, for instance Fig. 1, the upstanding side wall 28 is substantially at 90° to the flange 32. As illustrated in Fig. 14, in examples wherein the flange 32 extends inwardly from the lower part 30 of the upstanding side wall 28, the upstanding side wall 28 may be at an angle of greater than 90° to the flange, i.e. the upstanding side wall 28 is tapered relative to the flange 32. In some non-illustrated examples, wherein the flange extends outwardly from the lower part 30 of the upstanding side wall 28, the upstanding side wall 28 may be at an angle of less than 90° to the flange 32.

In some non-illustrated examples, the flange 32 may curve upwardly to meet the upstanding side wall 28.

The flange 32 and the at least one apparatus 14 comprise corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36. The mating surface 34 of the flange 32 is comprised on the in use lower face 33 (i.e. downward facing) of the flange 32 (see Fig. 5, for example). The flange 32 also comprises an in use upper face 31 (i.e. upward facing), as illustrated in Fig. 4 for example. The mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 is comprised on the in use upper face 37 (i.e. upward facing) of the at least one apparatus 14 (see Fig. 7, for example). The at least one apparatus 14 also comprises an in use lower face 35 (i.e. downward facing), as illustrated in Fig. 5 for example.

Each of the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 may comprise a first area 38, 40 and a second area 42, 44 in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area 46, 48 located between the first area 38, 40 and the second area 42, 44. The first area 38, 40 may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area 42, 44.

As illustrated in Fig. 5, for example, the mating surface 34 of the flange 32 therefore comprises a first area 38 and a second area 42 in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area 46 located between the first and second areas 38, 42. The first area 38 may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area 42. The first and second areas 38, 42 are elongate.

As illustrated in Fig. 4, for example, the mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 therefore comprises a first area 40 and a second area 44 in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area 48 located between the first and second areas 40, 44. The first area 40 may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area 44. The first and second areas 40, 44 are elongate.

In an attached condition of the at least one apparatus 14 to the fabricated base frame 12, the respective first areas 38, 40 correspond and therefore abut together, the respective second areas 42, 44 correspond and therefore abut together, and the respective third areas 46, 48 correspond and therefore abut together.

In the illustrated examples, the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 each comprise at least one aligned opening 50, 52. Accordingly, the mating surface 34 of the flange 32 comprises at least one opening 50 extending through the flange 32 (see Fig. 5, for example), and the mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 comprises at least one opening 52 extending through the apparatus 14 (see Fig. 4, for example), and the openings 50, 52 are aligned.

A fastening means 54 is located through the at least one aligned opening 50, 52 to attach the at least one apparatus 14 to the fabricated base frame 12. The fastening means 54 may be a nut 56 and bolt 58, as illustrated. The fastening means 54 are removable fastening means 54. The at least one opening 52 is recessed on one face of the at least one apparatus 14 to receive the bolt 58 head.

In some examples, for instance as illustrated in Figs. 9, 10 and 11, the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 each comprise a plurality of aligned openings 50, 52. A fastening means 54 as described above is located through each of the corresponding aligned openings 50, 52 to attach the at least one apparatus 10 to the fabricated base frame 12. Such an arrangement prevents relative movement of the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36, i.e. prevents the apparatus 14 from spinning.

In some examples, the plurality of aligned openings 50, 52 are in a non-linear arrangement, i.e. the aligned openings 50, 52 are not arranged in a straight line. The respective first areas 38, 40, second areas 42, 44 and third areas 46, 48 of the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 may each comprise an aligned opening 50, 52. Accordingly, in examples comprising three aligned openings 50, 52, the first area 38, 40, second area 42, 44 and third area 46, 48 each comprise an aligned opening 50, 52. In the illustrated examples, the aligned openings 50, 52 are provided at each point of a notional triangle.

In other examples, for instance as best illustrated in Figs. 4 to 8, the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 may each comprise only one aligned opening 50, 52, wherein a fastening means 54 as described above is located through the only one aligned opening 50, 52 to attach the at least one apparatus 14 to the fabricated base frame 12. In such examples, the mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 comprises a plurality of further openings 52 and the mating surface 34 of the flange 32 comprises a plurality of projections 60 which respectively locate in the plurality of further openings 52. Such an arrangement prevents relative movement of the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36, i.e. prevents the apparatus 14 from spinning.

Each of the plurality of projections 60 may be a boss 63 extending from the mating surface 34 of the flange 32.

The only one aligned opening 50, 52 may be in a non-linear arrangement with the plurality of projections 60 located in the plurality of further openings 52. In the illustrated example, the first area 38 and the second area 42 of the mating surface 34 of the flange 32 each comprise a projection 60 and the first area 40 and second area 44 of the mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 each comprise an opening 52 into which a projection 60 locates. In such examples, the third area 46, 48 of each of the corresponding mating surfaces 34, 36 comprises the only one aligned opening 50, 52 through which fastening means 54 locates.

Figs. 3 and 4 in fact illustrate, with regard to the three of the four attached apparatus 14, the attachment type illustrated in Fig. 8 (and described above), and with regard to one of the four apparatus 14, the attachment type illustrated in Fig. 9 (and described above).

Accordingly, the at least one apparatus 14 is removably attachable to the fabricated base frame 12 by removing the fastening means 54. In use, since at least the part 20 of the apparatus 14 is embedded in bedding material 9 (see Fig. 12), the fabricated base frame 12 is in practice removable from the at least one apparatus 14, leaving the at least one apparatus 14 behind in the bedding material 9. The bedding material 9 may be mortar, i.e. a mortar bed. Fig.12 also illustrates a part of the chamber wall 15 defining an opening in the ground, i.e. an opening of a non-standard size.

In the illustrated examples, at least a portion of at least one face 62, 64 of the part 20 comprises a plurality of projections 66, for example, nodules 66. The part 20 comprises an in use upper face 62 (i.e. upward facing) and an in use lower face 64 (i.e. downward facing). In some examples, at least a portion of both faces 62, 64 of the part 20 comprise a plurality of projections 66.

The projections 66 may protrude in a direction substantially perpendicular to a general plane of the part 20. At least some of the plurality of projections 66 may be substantially conical in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. At least some of the plurality of projections 66 may be elongate in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. The projections 66 may be provided over substantially the whole of the at least one face 62, 64 of the part 20. The projections 66 may be provided over substantially the whole of both faces 62,64 of the part 20.

The projections 66 act as mechanical interlocking restraints with the bedding material 9 that envelope the apparatus 14 in use, i.e. the bedding material in which the apparatus 14 is embedded. Projections 66 on the in use upper face 62 help to bind surfacing layers, whereas projections on the in use lower face 64 help to restrict lateral movement. In some examples, the flange 32 may also comprise a plurality of projections 66 on one or both faces.

In the illustrated examples, the mating surface 36 of the at least one apparatus 14 is substantially free of protections 66, i.e. the mating surface 36 has a substantially smooth surface.

In some examples, a generally rounded section of bead 68 extends around the perimeter 22 of the part 20. This provides a generally circular interface with bedding material 9, which in use provides sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material 9.

In some examples, the part 20 comprise at least one opening 70 extending through the part 20. In the illustrated examples, the part 20 comprise a plurality of openings 70 extending through the part 20. At least some of the plurality of openings 70 may be in a non-linear arrangement, as illustrated. The openings have two functions. A first function is for keying the bedding material 9 above the part 20 with the bedding material 9 below the part 20 in an in use condition. A second function is to provide a location or locations for screw adjustment accessories In some examples, for instances as illustrated in Figs. 16, 17 and 18, a generally rounded section of bead 72 extends around at least a portion of the perimeter 74 of the flange. 32. In the illustrated examples, the generally rounded section of bead 72 extends around substantially the whole of the perimeter 74 of the flange 32 apart from an area 76 or areas 76 to which the at least one apparatus 14 is attached, i.e. the corners. This provides a generally circular interface with bedding material, which in use provides sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material 9.

As illustrated in Fig. 18, in some examples the bead 72 comprises a sleeve 78 which extends over at least a portion of one or both faces 31, 33 of the flange 32. The sleeve 78 may extend over substantially the whole of one or both faces 31, 33 of the flange 32. The sleeve 78 may be attached to the flange 32 by an adhesive, for example.

The sleeve 78 may comprise a plurality of projections 68. The projections 68 may protrude in a direction substantially perpendicular to a general plane of the flange 32. At least some of the plurality of projections 68 may be substantially conical in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. At least some of the plurality of projections 68 may be elongate in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. The projections 68 may be provided over substantially the whole of the sleeve 78.

Examples of the disclosure also provide a method of attaching at least one apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12. The method may comprise attaching the at least one apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12 using fastening means 54. Alternatively, the method may comprise attaching the at least one apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12 by welding or adhering the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.

In examples of the disclosure, the features of the at least one apparatus 14 and flange 32 which provide sympathetic load dispersal in the bedding material 9 (as described above) mean that the bedding material 9 is unlikely to be damaged.

However, in the event of damage to the fabricated base frame 12, examples of the disclosure also provide a method of replacing a fabricated base frame 12 of a ground surface access assembly 10.

The method comprises unfastening fastening means 54 attaching the fabricated base frame 12 to the at least one apparatus 14 embedded in bedding material 9. The method also comprises removing the fabricated base frame 12, and attaching a replacement fabricated base frame 12 to the at least one apparatus 14 embedded in bedding material 9 using fastening means 54. In such examples, a ground surface access assembly 10 need not be completely reinstated if the fabricated base frame 12 requires replacement because of damage. Complete reinstatement is where a ground surface access assembly 10 and the bedding material 9 are replaced, which is time consuming, inconvenient and expensive. Accordingly, in examples wherein the fabricated base frame 12 is generally rectangular in plan view and comprises an apparatus 14 on each corner 26, the four apparatus 14 may be left in place in the bedding material 9, and only the fabricated base frame 12 (and perhaps also the cover) replaced.

The location of the fastening means 54 on the internal flange 32 allows easy access to the fastening means 54 through the opening 16 defined by the fabricated base frame 12.

Examples of the disclosure also provide an apparatus 14 attachable to a fabricated base frame 12 of a ground surface access assembly 10, the apparatus being as described above. The figures illustrate the apparatus 14 in an in use attached condition.

As described above, the apparatus 14 comprises a part 20 which extends in use outwardly from the fabricated base frame 12. In the illustrated examples, the part 20 is substantially planar.

At least a portion of the perimeter 22 of the part 20 follows a substantially curved line 24. In some examples, the perimeter 22 of the part 20 follows a substantially curved line at each respective corner portion 21 of the part 20. In the illustrated examples, the part 20 comprises three corner portions 21. The perimeter 22 follows a substantially straight line adjacent each respective corner portion 21.

In the illustrated examples, the apparatus 14 comprises a mating surface 36 (see Figs. 4 and 7, for example) for mating with the fabricated base frame 12.

In some examples, the mating surface 36 comprises a first area 40 and a second area 44 in a non-linear arrangement, and a third area 48 located between the first and second areas 40, 44. The first area 40 may extend substantially perpendicular to the second area 44. The first and second areas 40, 44 are elongate.

In the illustrated examples, the mating surface 36 comprises at least one opening 52, wherein a fastening means 54 is locatable in the opening 52 to attach the apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12. The at least one opening 52 may extend through the apparatus 10, as illustrated. In the illustrated examples, the mating surface 36 comprises a plurality of openings 52, wherein a fastening means 54 is locatable in at least one of the plurality of openings 52 to attach the apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12. A fastening means 54 may be locatable in each of the plurality of openings 52 to attach the apparatus 14 to a fabricated base frame 12. Alternatively, a fastening means 54 may be locatable in only one of the plurality of openings 52, and projections 60 extending from the flange 32 may be located in the other of the plurality of openings 52.

In the illustrated examples, the plurality of openings 52 are in a non-linear arrangement, i.e. the openings 52 are not arranged in a straight line. The respective first area 40, second area 44 and third area 48 of the mating surface 36 may each comprise an opening 52. Accordingly, in examples comprising three openings 52, the first area 40, second area 44 and third area 48 each comprise an opening 52. In the illustrated examples, the openings 52 are provided at each point of a notional triangle.

In the illustrated examples, at least a portion of at least one face 62, 64 of the part 20 comprises a plurality of projections 66. The part 20 comprises an in use upper face 62 (i.e. upward facing) and an in use lower face 64 (i.e. downward facing). In some examples, at least a portion of both faces 62, 64 of the part 20 comprise a plurality of projections 66.

The projections 66 may protrude in a direction substantially perpendicular to a general plane of the part 20. At least some of the plurality of projections 66 may be substantially conical in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. At least some of the plurality of projections 66 may be elongate in shape, with blunt or curved peaks. The projections 66 may be provided over substantially the whole of the at least one face of the part 62, 64. The projections 66 may be provided over substantially the whole of both faces 62, 64 of the part 20.

In the illustrated examples, the mating surface 36 of the apparatus 14 is substantially free of protections 66, i.e. the mating surface 36 has a substantially smooth surface.

In some examples, a generally rounded section of bead 68 extends around the perimeter 22 of the part 20.

In some examples, at least one opening 70 may be provided extending through the part 20. In the illustrated examples, a plurality of openings 70 are provided extending through the part 20. At least some of the plurality of openings 70 may be in a non-linear arrangement, as illustrated.

Example of the disclosure also provide a method of forming an apparatus 14 as described above from a liquid material. The method may comprise forming the apparatus 14 by casting (i.e. from a mould of a particular pattern), injection moulding, or 3D printing from the liquid material. The apparatus 10 may be formed from a liquid form of a metal (for example, ductile cast iron) or plastics material.

Examples of the disclosure provide a number of advantages as detailed above.

Furthermore, only a small number of moulds for an apparatus 14 would need to be manufactured because the dimensions of the apparatus 14 are not dependent on the dimensions of a particular fabricated base frame 12, i.e. apparatus 14 with common dimensions could be used with differently dimensioned fabricated base frames 12.

Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. For instance, the dimensions and materials of the apparatus 14 and fabricated base frame 12 may vary according to a particular application and/or load grade, for instance, driveways, parking areas, pedestrian areas and carriageways.

Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

The term "comprise" is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use "comprise" with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to "comprising only one..." or by using "consisting".

In this brief description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term "example" or "for example" or "may" in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus "example", "for example" or "may" refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that comprise some but not all of the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example.

Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of the invention believed to be of particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed thereon.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fabricated base frame for a ground surface access assembly, wherein the fabricated base frame comprises at least one apparatus, wherein the at least one apparatus comprises a part which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line.
2. A fabricated base frame according to claim 1, wherein the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line at each respective corner portion of the part.
3. A fabricated base frame according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the fabricated base frame comprises an upstanding wall, wherein the part of the at least one apparatus extends outwardly from a lower part of the upstanding wall.
4. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one apparatus is attached to a flange extending from the lower part of the upstanding side wall.
5. A fabricated base frame according to claim 4, wherein the flange extends outwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall.
6. A fabricated base frame according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the flange extends inwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall into a fabricated base frame opening defined by the fabricated base frame.
7. A fabricated base frame according to claim 6, wherein the upstanding side wall is at an angle of greater than 90° to the flange.
8. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one apparatus and the flange comprise corresponding mating surfaces, wherein the mating surface of the flange is comprised on the in use lower face of the flange, and the mating surface of the at least one apparatus is comprised on the in use upper face of the at least one apparatus.
9. A fabricated base frame according to claim 8, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise at least one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is located through the at least one aligned opening to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.
10. A fabricated base frame according to claim 9, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise a plurality of aligned openings, wherein a fastening means is located through each of the corresponding aligned openings to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.
11. A fabricated base frame according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of aligned openings are in a non-linear arrangement.
12. A fabricated base frame according to claim 8, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise only one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is located through the only one aligned opening to attach the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.
13. A fabricated base frame according to claim 12, wherein the mating surface of the at least one apparatus comprises a plurality of further openings, and wherein the mating surface of the flange comprises a plurality of projections which respectively locate in the plurality of further openings.
14. A fabricated base frame according to claim 13, wherein the only one aligned opening is in a non-linear arrangement with the plurality of projections located in the plurality of further openings.
15. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of at least one face of the part comprises a plurality of projections.
16. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of both faces of the part comprise a plurality of projections.
17. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a generally rounded section of bead extends around the perimeter of the part.
18. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a generally rounded section of bead extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the flange.
19. A fabricated base frame according to claim 18, wherein the bead comprises a sleeve which extends over at least a portion of one or both faces of the flange.
20. A fabricated base frame according to claim 19, wherein the sleeve comprises a plurality of projections.
21. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fabricated base frame is generally rectangular in plan view, and comprises an apparatus on each corner.
22. A method of attaching at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: attaching the at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame using fastening means, or attaching the at least one apparatus to a fabricated base frame by welding or adhering the at least one apparatus to the fabricated base frame.
23. A method of replacing a fabricated base frame of a ground surface access assembly, the fabricated base frame being according to claims 9 or 12, or any claim dependent on claims 9 or 12, wherein the method comprises: unfastening fastening means attaching the fabricated base frame to at least one apparatus embedded in bedding material; removing the fabricated base frame; attaching a replacement fabricated base frame to the at least one apparatus embedded in bedding material using fastening means.
24. An apparatus attachable to a fabricated base frame of a ground surface access assembly, the fabricated base frame being according to any of claims 1 to 21, wherein the apparatus comprises a part which extends in use outwardly from the fabricated base frame, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line.
25. A method of forming an apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the method comprises forming the apparatus from a liquid material.15 20 25 30 Amendents to the claims have been filed as follows:CLAIMS1. A fabricated base frame for a ground surface access assembly, wherein the fabricated base frame is generally rectangular in plan view and comprises an apparatus on each corner, wherein each apparatus comprises a part which extends outwardly from the fabricated base frame, wherein at least a portion of the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line.2. A fabricated base frame according to claim 1, wherein the perimeter of the part follows a substantially curved line at each respective corner portion of the part.0 15 3. A fabricated base frame according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the fabricated base C\I frame comprises an upstanding wall, wherein the part of each apparatus extends outwardly from a lower part of the upstanding wall.4. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each I- 20 apparatus is attached to a flange extending from the lower part of the upstanding side wall.5. A fabricated base frame according to claim 4, wherein the flange extends outwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall.6. A fabricated base frame according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the flange extends inwardly from the lower part of the upstanding side wall into a fabricated base frame opening defined by the fabricated base frame.7. A fabricated base frame according to claim 6, wherein the upstanding side wall is at an angle of greater than 900 to the flange.8. A fabricated base frame according to claim 4, wherein each apparatus and the flange comprise corresponding mating surfaces, wherein the mating surface of the flange is comprised on the in use lower race uf the flange, and the mating surface of each apparatus is comprised on the in use upper face of each apparatus.9. A fabricated base frame according to claim 8, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise at least one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is located through the at least one aligned opening to attach each apparatus to the fabricated base frame.10. A fabricated base frame according to claim 9, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise a plurality of aligned openings, wherein a fastening means is located through each of the corresponding aligned openings to attach each apparatus to the fabricated base frame.11. A fabricated base frame according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of aligned 0 15 openings are in a non-linear arrangement. C\I12. A fabricated base frame according to claim 8, wherein the corresponding mating surfaces each comprise only one aligned opening, wherein a fastening means is Ns- located through the only one aligned opening to attach each apparatus to the I-20 fabricated base frame.13. A fabricated base frame according to claim 12, wherein the mating surface of each apparatus comprises a plurality of further openings, and wherein the mating surface of the flange comprises a plurality of projections which respectively locate in the plurality of further openings.14. A fabricated base frame according to claim 13, wherein the only one aligned opening is in a non-linear arrangement with the plurality of projections located in the plurality of further openings.15. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of at least one face of the part comprises a plurality of projections. 0 15 C\I N* I- 2016. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of both faces of the part comprise a plurality of projections.17. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a generally rounded section of bead extends around the perimeter of the part.18. A fabricated base frame according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a generally rounded section of bead extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the flange.19. A fabricated base frame according to claim 18, wherein the bead comprises a sleeve which extends over at least a portion of one or both faces of the flange.20. A fabricated base frame according to claim 19, wherein the sleeve comprises a plurality of projections.21. A method of attaching apparatus to a generally rectangular in plan view fabricated base frame, wherein the apparatus and fabricated base frame are according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: attaching an apparatus to each corner of the fabricated base frame using fastening means, or attaching an apparatus to each corner of the fabricated base frame by welding or adhering.*