Adjustable bracket for engaging first frame member and second frame member and greenhouse comprising the same

Abstract

An adjustable bracket / stay for a movable wing such as a lid of a cold frame (greenhouse). The backet comprising a slidable element 102 coupled to the movable wing (204), the bracket having an elongate channel 104 with a plurality of secondary slots / spurs 106A-106C. A stopped 108 protrudes from the frame (202), the stopper slidably located in the channel 104, the stopper receivable in one of the plurality of slots 106 to retain the wing at one of several positions. The bracket includes a supporting element 110 supported by the movable wing to guide the slidable element 102; the supporting element 110 can be manually operated to displace the slidable element moving the stopper from slots 106 to the main channel permitting the movable wing to moved, e.g. raised or lowered.

Description

The present disclosure relates to adjustable brackets for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member. Moreover, the present disclosure relates to greenhouses comprising a base, a roof supported by the base, and adjustable brackets for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member of at least one of the base, the roof. BACKGROUND Generally, creating a facility that accommodates plants, animals, and humans while ensuring proper ventilation and size adaptability requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. For example, greenhouse ventilation is essential for maintaining optimal growing conditions for plants by regulating temperature, humidity, and air circulation. Conventionally, facilities rely on natural ventilation using passive methods like vents, louvers, and roof openings, that rely on wind and temperature differentials for airflow, are provided in such facilities to allow hot air to rise and escape while drawing in cooler air from outside. However, the passive methods may not provide adequate ventilation during calm or extremely hot days. Moreover, active methods, such as exhaust fans, evaporative cooling systems, thermal screens, may be installed in conjunction with the aforementioned passive methods for enhanced airflow control by actively removing hot air and humidity from the facility. However, such active methods require a constant power supply, water supply, and adjustment throughout the day, respectively. Moreover, the active methods are associated with complexity of integration and potential for mechanical failures, which may increase maintenance requirements. Additionally, the initial setup costs for the active methods can also be higher than individual systems. Furthermore, automated control systems that employ various sensors actuators, and algorithms to automatically control ventilation mechanisms, ensuring optimal growing conditions, are recently employed for controlling ventilation. However, automated ventilation methods have high initial setup costs, especially for advanced systems with multiple sensors and actuators. Moreover, the automated ventilation methods require regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure proper functioning. Furthermore, potential power outages, sensor malfunctions, system failures or software glitches can disrupt ventilation. It may be appreciated that the current facility designs fail to account for size adaptability for different needs and sizes of plants, animals, and humans that promotes productivity, health, and comfort for all occupants while optimising energy efficiency and resource usage accommodating therein, even though one or more of the aforementioned ventilation methods may provide the needful ventilation to the facility. Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. SUMMARY The aim of the present disclosure is to provide an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member of a greenhouse, for example, to facilitate easy adjustment of the distance between them, thereby solving the problem of rigid and fixed frame structures that cannot be easily modified or adapted. The aim of the present disclosure is achieved by an adjustable bracket and a greenhouse comprising an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member of the greenhouse as defined in the appended independent claims to which reference is made. Advantageous features are set out in the appended dependent claims. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise", "include", "have", and "contain" and variations of these words, for example "comprising" and "comprises", mean "including but not limited to", and do not exclude other components, items, integers or steps not explicitly disclosed also to be present. Moreover, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context otherwise requires. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification is to be understood as contemplating plurality as well as singularity, unless the context requires otherwise. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an illustration of an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and FIG. 2 is an illustration of a greenhouse using an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible. It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member, the adjustable bracket comprising: at least one slidable element, coupled to the second frame member, having: a proximal end and a distal end opposite the proximal end, a channel between the proximal end and the distal end, and a plurality of slots extending from the channel; a stopper, extending from the first frame member, configured to be received within the channel of the at least one slidable element; and at least one supporting element, slidably supported by the second frame member, configured to linearly guide the at least one slidable element coupled thereto, to adjust a distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, wherein while adjusting the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, the stopper is inserted and released from one of the plurality of slots. The present disclosure provides an adjustable bracket for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member, specifically designed for use in a greenhouse. The bracket includes a slidable element with a channel and multiple slots, a stopper on the first frame member that fits into the channel, and a supporting element that guides the slidable element to adjust the distance between the two frame members. The key advantage of this aspect is the ability to easily and smoothly adjust the height of a portion of the greenhouse roof, allowing for desired levels of ventilation. In this context, a greenhouse may be any configuration which is suitable for use as a greenhouse. The slotted side stays and control rods enable precise and effortless adjustment, ensuring that the roof can be fixed at various desired heights. In the present disclosure, height means a distance from a front edge of one of the frame members (the pivotally movable frame member) in relation to the other frame member. This mechanism synergistically works together to provide a user-friendly solution for achieving optimal ventilation in a greenhouse. In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a greenhouse comprising a base, a roof supported by the base, and at least one adjustable bracket of the aforementioned first aspect for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member of at least one of the base, the roof. Beneficially, with an adjustable top, for example of a smoke vent or a skylight structure of a greenhouse, cold frame or any residential compartment, its height may be appropriately or as-desired adjusted to control airflow to meet diverse ventilation needs of a facility. For example, a greenhouse comprising the adjustable bracket aims to provide a flexible and adaptable structure that can accommodate changes in environmental conditions or plant growth by allowing easy adjustment of the frame members. The identified prior arts do not appear to have similar structure of two slotted side stays and set of supporting elements for adjusting the height of top. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "adjustable bracket" refers to a device or mechanism that allows for the modification of its position or angle. The terms "first frame member" and "second frame member" refer to a structural component that forms part of a larger framework or assembly, typically serving as a support or attachment point thereof, and designed to interact with each other. In this regard, the first frame member and the second frame member are engaged by using the adjustable bracket. Moreover, the adjustable bracket for engaging the first frame member and the second frame member, allows for their secure connection. Notably, any modification of position or angle of the adjustable bracket is translated to the relative arrangement of the first frame member and the second frame member. It may be appreciated that the adjustable bracket is at least partially coupled to or supported by at least one of the first frame member and the second frame member. Optionally, the adjustable bracket may be designed and made from a suitable fabrication material based on the application (such as strength required, number of adjustment levels, and so on) and to be accommodated within a corresponding first frame member and second frame member of a suitable system, such as a greenhouse, a prefabricated housing facility, furniture or a device. Optionally, the adjustable bracket may be fabricated from metal, alloys of metal or a plastic material. The term "slidable element" refers to a movable part or component of the adjustable bracket that can be displaced along a designated path or track. Herein, the slidable element is an elongated element that is coupled to the second frame member from the proximal end thereof that serves as a point of reference or origin of the adjustable bracket with respect to the end-application system or facility, such as a greenhouse or a cold frame, using it. Moreover, the distal end of the at least one slidable element is arranged to be detachably coupled to the first frame member by means of a mechanical means, such as a stopper, that is coupled to the first frame member. The channel extends at least partially along a middle section of the length of the slidable element between the proximal end and the distal end thereof. Optionally, the channel is at least 50-70% of the length of the slidable element. Additionally, the slidable element includes a plurality of slots that extend from the channel. In this regard, the plurality of slots may be arranged perpendicular or angularly to the channel. It may be appreciated that both the channel and the plurality of slots have cross-sections suitable for receiving the stopper therein to allow the slidable element to slide through the stopper when the adjustable bracket is operated. Herein, the stopper serves as an obstruct or to block an unintended linear movement of the slidable element, by being positioned or placed or received within a designated pathway or groove, created by the channel and the plurality of slots, typically in a secure or fitted manner. Beneficially, the at least one slidable element enables the adjustable bracket to be adjusted and positioned according to the desired height or position of the first and second frame members. In this regard, the channel, the plurality of slots and the stopper provide a mechanism for smooth, effortless, precise and controlled positioning of adjustment of the adjustable bracket. Thereby, allowing for easy customisation and positioning of the first and second frame members, ensuring proper alignment (namely, achieving desired height(s)) and functionality (namely, ventilation and airflow control) of the overall structure. Throughout the present disclosure, the term "supporting element" refers to a component that provides structural stability or reinforcement to another element or system. Herein, the supporting element also serves as a control rod for guiding the at least one slidable element. Notably, the supporting element is not coupled to either the first or the second frame member. The supporting element is merely slidably supported by the second member using a sling. Herein, the term "slidably supported" refers to an arrangement in which the supporting element is capable of moving or sliding along a surface or within a track defined by the sling. In this regard, in an example, the sling is designed in a U-shaped structure, wherein, a lower curved or flat portion of the 'U' slidably supports the supporting element. The sling is configured to be arranged at the second frame member for supporting the supporting element to slide back and forth to linearly guide, i.e., directing or controlling the movement along a straight path, of the at least one slidable element coupled thereto, to adjust the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member. It may be appreciated that the distance between the first and second members may be with respect to a height, a breadth, a length, or any combination of the overall structure. In an example, if the first and second members are a part of a greenhouse or a cold frame, the distance therebetween may be associated with the height of the platform being increased or decreased, if the first and second members are arranged at a base and a roof of the greenhouse. In another example, if the first and second members are a part of a foldable platform, the distance therebetween may be associated with the length of the platform being increased or decreased, if the first and second members are arranged at a base part and a top part of the foldable platform. Notably, while adjusting the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, the stopper is inserted, whereby the stopper moves inside the slot to be locked therein, and released, whereby the stopper moves out of the slot to be unlocked therefrom, from one of the plurality of slots. Beneficially, the use of the stopper and slots enables precise and secure adjustment of the adjustable bracket, ensuring stability and proper engagement between the first and second frame members. Thus, adjustment of the distance between the two frame members using the locking and unlocking of the stopper within the slots provide flexibility in positioning and aligning of the overall structure comprising the first and second frame members. Moreover, such mechanism allows for easy and accurate customisation of the bracket's position, accommodating different sizes and configurations of frame members. Optionally, the at least one supporting element comprises a first section having a proximal end and a distal end; a tab perpendicularly extending from the proximal end of the first section; and a second section angularly extending from the distal end of the first section, wherein a distal end of the second section is attached to the proximal end of the at least one slidable element. Herein, the terms "first section", "second section" and "tab" refer to distinct portions or divisions within the at least one supporting element. Optionally, the second section and the tab make an angle with the first section. Optionally, the angular arrangement of the second section and the tab may be perpendicular to the first section. Notably, the first section is slidably supported by the sling. The first section provides a stable base, while the tab ensures proper alignment and prevents unwanted movement, and the second section is secured to the slidable element to connect the at least one supporting element with the at least one slidable element. Beneficially, the different sections of the at least one supporting element and their slight angular arrangement with respect to each other allows for achieving different degrees of inclination (for example from 30 to 90 degrees) or distance adjustment of the first and second frame members (for example over 90 degrees to make it easier for larger objects to be inserted or taken away). Moreover, the aforesaid design enhances the overall performance and usability of the adjustable bracket in an overall structure or system. Optionally, the at least one supporting element is operated manually by pulling the tab to release the stopper from a first slot and simultaneously applying any of: a pulling force on the second frame member to slide the at least one slidable element to increase the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member; a pushing force on the second frame member to slide the at least one slidable element to decrease the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member. Notably, the tab is provided proximal to a front edge of the second frame member, for ease of operation thereof by an operator of the system. Notably, at least one supporting element is operated from the front edge of the second frame member, by means of the tab, to guide the at least one sliding element such that the stopper moves in and out of the respective slots, to enable smooth and effortless adjustment of the distance between the first and second frame members. Herein, a pull or push at the tab results in a pulling or pushing of the entire sliding element in the direction of the pull or pull, respectively. Moreover, a pulling or pushing force at the second frame member simultaneously with the pull or push at the tab, results in a desired movement of the stopper in between the channel and the plurality of slots. The terms "pulling force" and "pushing force" refer to a physical exertion or energy applied in a direction away from and towards a reference point or object, namely, the first frame member, typically resulting in the movement or displacement of another object, namely, the first frame member, with respect to the reference point or object. Notably, the term "firstslot" refers to a designated slot, space or aperture within the sliding element that is positioned to accommodate the insertion or attachment of a corresponding stopper therein to lock the stopper therein to provide a desired distance between the first and second members. Beneficially, employing the disclosed mechanism, allows for easy and convenient adjustment of the adjustable bracket's position, enabling operators to increase or decrease the distance between the second frame member and the first frame member as desired, in order to adjust the height and control airflow for desired ventilation needs in a smooth and effortless manner. Optionally, the at least one supporting element is operated manually by pushing the tab to insert the stopper into a second slot that is different from the first slot, to adjust a distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member. Subsequent to guiding the stopper to move in and out of the first slot, and pulling and pushing the second frame member to slide the at least one sliding element such that the stopper is arranged at an opening of a desired slot, namely a second slot, pushing at the tab at this point results in locking the stopper into the second slot, for achieving a desired distance between the first and second frame members. The present disclosure also relates to the greenhouse as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned adjustable bracket, apply mutatis mutandis to the greenhouse. Typically, the greenhouse includes a base and a roof, constructed of glazing bars and panes (glass sheets, fabric, metal, tiles, or any polymeric material or blend) supported by the glazing bars or frames, such as the first frame member and the second frame member. For example, glass sheets may be made of 4mm thick toughened safety glass. For example, the glazing bars or the frames may be made of aluminium of any grade, but preferably premium or "finest grade box-section" aluminium, or of stainless steel, preferably marine grade stainless steel. The base provides a stable foundation for the greenhouse. Typically, the base is implemented as an at least partially closed-walled structure. It may be appreciated that the base is suitably designed to ensure that the greenhouse is securely positioned and to prevent it from toppling over or being easily moved, as will be known to a person skilled in the art. The roof is the uppermost covering of the greenhouse designed to protect the interior of the greenhouse from weather elements such as rain, snow, and sunlight. Beneficially, by having the roof supported by the base, the greenhouse is able to withstand external forces such as wind and snow, providing protection for the plants and maintaining a controlled environment inside. Moreover, the use of the adjustable bracket allows for smooth and effortless adjustment of the greenhouse's height (or alternatively length or breadth or a combination thereof, depending upon the placement of the at least one adjustable bracket), providing flexibility in meeting diverse ventilation needs and space needs. Notably, such use of the adjustable brackets is novel and inventive for adjusting the height of the roof (or alternatively the length and / or breadth of the base). Moreover, the greenhouse includes at least one window either arranged on the base or the roof of the greenhouse for ventilation. Optionally, the at least one window is implemented as a roof vent, a side vent or a louver. Typically, the roof vent is a hinged vent installed along the roof ridge or gable ends, while the side vent is installed along the sides of the greenhouse, i.e., along the base. The roof vent and the side vent allow for cross-ventilation, drawing in fresh air and exhausting hot air. The louver is an adjustable slat or panel typically installed on the sides or ends of the greenhouse. The roof vent, the side vent and the louver may be manually operated or automated to regulate airflow. In an embodiment, the first and second frame members may be arranged corresponding to the at least one window of the greenhouse, and a height thereof may be adjusted by using at least one adjustable bracket to engage the first and second frame members, as disclosed above. Optionally, the second frame member is detachably couplable with the first frame member, wherein the second frame member is angularly rotatable around a pivot on the first frame member. Herein, the term "detachably couplable" refers to the capability of two or more components or objects, namely, the first and second frame members, to be connected or joined together in a manner that allows for easy separation or disconnection without causing damage or permanent alteration to the components or objects. Optionally, the greenhouse comprising the first frame member and the second frame member, wherein the second frame member is pivoted to the first frame member, may comprise the pivot arranged at a rear edge of the first and second frame members or at midlength of side edges of the first and second frame members. Herein, the term "angularly rotatable" refers to the capability of an object or component to rotate around a fixed axis, herein the pivot, in a circular or curved motion, enabling movement or adjustment in a specific direction. Optionally, the cross-sections of the first and second frame members are complimentary to each other so as to provide a snug fit between the first and second frame members. Beneficially, the detachable coupling of the first and second frame members flexibility and ease of assembly and disassembly of the greenhouse components to increase the distance between the first and second frame members, facilitating customisation and adaptation to different environmental conditions and user preferences. Moreover, by allowing the second frame member to rotate, the operator can adjust the angle of the greenhouse roof or walls, thereby regulating the amount of airflow and temperature inside the greenhouse. EXPERIMENTAL PART An adjustable bracket was arranged in a cold frame with outer dimensions (length, width and height) of 920 mm, 460 mm and 750 mm. The cold frame with the adjustable bracket was used to grow smaller plants until they achieved a height of 1500 mm, by adjusting the height of roof of the cold frame by adjusting the adjustable bracket. A set of adjustable brackets were arranged in a window of a prefabricated house to extend the window to become a French balcony of the prefabricated house, to adjusting the height and length of window by adjusting the adjustable bracket. In an example, the at least one supporting element is operated manually by pushing the tab to insert the stopper into a second slot that is different from the first slot, to adjust a distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member. Subsequent to guiding the stopper to move in and out of the first slot, and pulling and pushing the second frame member to slide the at least one sliding element such that the stopper is arranged at an opening of a desired slot, namely a second slot, pushing at the tab at this point results in locking the stopper into the second slot, for achieving a desired distance between the first and second frame members, for example: A first opening position (i.e. a height) which is set for essential ventilation is 12 to 13 cm, for example 12.7 cm. A second opening position (i.e. a height) which is preferable for enhanced ventilation is 40 to 41 cm, for example 40.6 cm. A third opening position (i.e. a height) allowing for easy access with a 90° degrees opening is 109 to 110 cm, for example 109.2 cm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is an adjustable bracket 100 for engaging a first frame member and a second frame member, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the adjustable bracket 1OO comprises a slidable element 102, arranged on the second frame member, with a proximal end 102A and a distal end 102B opposite the proximal end 102A; a channel 104 between the proximal end 102A and the distal end 102B; and a plurality of slots, such as slots 106A, 106B and 106C, extending from the channel 104. Moreover, the adjustable bracket 100 comprises a stopper 108, arranged on the first frame member, configured to be received within the channel 104 of the slidable element 102. Furthermore, the adjustable bracket 100 comprises a supporting element 110, slidably supported by the second frame member, configured to linearly guide the slidable element 102 coupled thereto, to adjust a distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, wherein while adjusting the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, the stopper 108 is inserted and released from one of the slots, such as slots 106A, 106B and 106C. As shown, the supporting element 110 comprises a first section 112 with a proximal end 112A and a distal end 112B; a tab 114 perpendicularly extending from the proximal end 112A of the first section 112; and a second section 116 angularly extending from the distal end 112B of the first section 112, wherein a distal end 116A of the second section 116 is attached to the proximal end 102A of the slidable element 102. Moreover, as shown, the stopper 108 and the slidable element 102 are provided with a first attachment means 118 and a second attachment means 120, respectively, to couple the stopper 108 and the slidable element 102 to the first frame member and the second frame member, respectively. Furthermore, as shown, the adjustable bracket 100 further comprises a sling 122 configured to be arranged at the second frame member for supporting the supporting element 110 to slide back and forth to linearly guide the slidable element 102 coupled thereto, to adjust the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member. Referring to FIG. 2, illustrated is greenhouse 200 using an adjustable bracket 100 of the FIG. 1, for engaging a first frame member 202 and a second frame member 204, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the greenhouse 200 comprises a first frame 202 member and a second frame member 204 arranged on at least one of a base 206, a roof 208 supported by the base 206. Notably, the second frame member 204 is detachably couplable with the first frame member 202 and the second frame member 204 is at least partially angularly rotatable around a pivot 210 on the first frame member 202, wherein the pivot 210 is arranged at a rear edge 212 of the corresponding first frame member 202 and the second frame member 204, opposite a front edge 214 of the corresponding first frame member 202 and the second frame member 204, respectively. As shown, the base 206 and the roof 208 have glass panes. Therefore, when the front edge 214 of the second frame member 204 rotates around the pivot 210, the height is adjusted, wherein the height is defined as the distance from the front edge 214 of the second frame member 204 to the first frame member 202.

Claims

1. An adjustable bracket (100) for engaging a first frame member (202) and a second frame member (204), the adjustable bracket comprising:at least one slidable element (102), coupled to the second frame member, having:a proximal end (102A) and a distal end (102B) opposite the proximal end,a channel (104) between the proximal end and the distal end, anda plurality of slots (106A, 106B, 106C) extending from the channel;a stopper (108), extending from the first frame member, configured to be received within the channel of the at least one slidable element; andat least one supporting element (110), slidably supported by the second frame member, configured to linearly guide the at least one slidable element coupled thereto, to adjust a distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member,wherein while adjusting the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member, the stopper is inserted and released from one of the plurality of slots.

2. An adjustable bracket (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one supporting element (110) comprisesa first section (112) having a proximal end (112A) and a distal end (112B);a tab (114) perpendicularly extending from the proximal end of the first section; anda second section (116) angularly extending from the distal end of the first section, wherein a distal end (116A) of the second section isattached to the proximal end (102A) of the at least one slidable element (102).

3. An adjustable bracket (100) according to claim 2, wherein the at least one supporting element (110) is operated manually by pulling the tab (114) to release the stopper (108) from a first slot and simultaneously applying any of:a pulling force on the second frame member (204) to slide the at least one slidable element (102) to increase the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member (202);a pushing force on the second frame member (204) to slide the at least one slidable element (102) to decrease the distance of the second frame member with respect to the first frame member (202).

4. An adjustable bracket (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one supporting element (110) is operated manually by pushing the tab (114) to insert the stopper (108) into a second slot, different from the first slot, to adjust a distance of the second frame member (204) with respect to the first frame member (202).

5. A greenhouse (200) comprising a base (206), a roof (208) supported by the base, and at least one adjustable bracket (100) of the claim 1-4 for engaging a first frame member (202) and a second frame member (204) of at least one of the base, the roof.

6. A greenhouse (200) according to claim 5, wherein the second frame member (204) is detachably couplable with the first frame member (202), wherein the second frame member is at least partially angularly rotatable around a pivot (210) on the first frame member.

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