Cantilever suspension assembly

Abstract

A cantilever suspension assembly 100 comprises a suspension member 206 having a profiled cross-section, a support part 300 having a cantilever member 302 for supporting an article, and a securing device 400 comprising a hand release input 404. The hand release input 404 transitions the securing device 400 between securing and release states when hand-actuated. The release state of the securing device 400 enables the support part 300 to be released from the suspension member 206. The securing state of the securing device 400 engages the support part 300 with the suspension member 206. The securing device 400 allows the support part 300 to be engaged with the suspension member 206 at a plurality of heights along the suspension member 206.

Description

[0001] CANTILEVER SUSPENSION ASSEMBLY

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a cantilever suspension assembly. In particular, they relate to a cantilever suspension assembly for supporting an article from an overhead structure such as a ceiling, roof, or overhead beam.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] It is known to suspend articles such as cable conduits and trays, as well as pipes, from roofs or ceilings by mean of brackets attached to threaded rods to define a trapeze-like structure. The rods have to be cut to length and screwed into attachments in the roof or ceiling. The threaded rods are inserted through openings in the brackets and attached to the brackets using nuts screwed onto the rods. All of these steps, particularly the cutting of the rods, can be very time consuming. Similarly, other suspension systems exist that provide the disadvantage that the installation of the pipes and trays requires them to be fed through the systems. Again, this can be time consuming.

[0006] Cantilever suspension methods are known and allow side-loading of articles, rather than end-feeding. However, the installation and assembly process is slow and labour intensive due to the number of fasteners involved.

[0007] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a cantilever suspension assembly. By using a cantilever to support articles, it is advantageously possible to side-load articles onto the cantilever member, rather than feeding articles through the end of a system of trapezes. According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a profiled cross-section; a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article; and a securing device comprising a hand release input, wherein the hand release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when hand-actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member.

[0009] This provides the advantage of a heavy-duty cantilever suspension assembly with conveniently adjustable height. The assembly is heavy-duty because the suspension member’s profiled (non-flat) cross-section can resist both unbalanced cantilever loads and also sway. Further, whereas heavy-duty cantilever suspension assemblies generally require tool-fastened and / or tool- released securing devices to handle the higher forces and / or to prevent accidental or unauthorised disassembly, the present cantilever suspension assembly is advantageously provided with a hand release input to allow convenient, tool-free and rapid height adjustment. Since no tools are required, there is also no risk of tools being dropped from height.

[0010] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a top and a bottom; and a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article, and an upright extender member extending above the cantilever member; a securing device comprising a release input, wherein the release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the upright extender member of the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member including at least one height at which the upright extender member extends below the bottom of the suspension member so that the cantilever member is at an elevation below the bottom of the suspension member.

[0011] By adding to the support part an upright extender member which can extend below the bottom of the suspension member, an advantage is that the height is conveniently-adjustable over a wide range, by sliding / telescoping means. A shortcoming of previous designs was that the length of the suspension member dictated the range of height-adjustability, requiring the suspension member to be long. Then, the bottom of the suspension member would have been cut and capped, or bent up if the suspension member was suitably deformable. Previous designs therefore needed to be specified in precise lengths, otherwise the protruding bottoms of the suspension members needed to be cut down and capped, or bent up if they were deformable strips.

[0012] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a profiled cross-section; and a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article; a securing device comprising a release input, wherein the release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the support part with the suspension member, wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member, and wherein the securing device enables an angle of the cantilever member of the support part to be maintained throughout a state transition between the securing and release states of the securing device.

[0013] This provides the advantage of a heavy-duty cantilever suspension assembly with conveniently adjustable height. The assembly is heavy-duty due to the suspension member’s profiled cross-section. Further, the cantilever member does not need to be tilted up or down in order to release it from the suspension member. Therefore, the article can remain in-situ while the height is adjusted.

[0014] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention there is provided a cantilever suspension assembly comprising a combination of the above features.

[0015] Optionally, the suspension member is a suspension column. Optionally, the cantilever member is a cantilever beam. Optionally, the upright extender member is a column extender.

[0016] Optionally, the suspension assembly comprises a suspension part having the suspension member, and an attaching portion at the top of the suspension member. Optionally, the attaching portion extends transverse to the suspension member. Optionally, the attaching portion comprises a mounting plate. Optionally, the attaching portion comprises one or more fixing points such as one or more fixing holes. Optionally, the cantilever suspension assembly comprises a series of detents, wherein the securing device engages with one of the detents when in the securing state. Optionally, the detents are openings. Optionally, the openings are through holes. Optionally, the suspension member comprises the detents.

[0017] Optionally, the suspension member is profiled in cross-section. This provides the advantage that the suspension assembly can resist both unbalanced cantilever loads and also other loads such as sway.

[0018] Optionally, the suspension member has a second moment of area about a first bending plane and a lower second moment of area about a second bending plane perpendicular to the first bending plane, and wherein when the support part is secured to the suspension member. An advantage is that the suspension member can support unbalanced cantilevered loads, and can also resist side- to-side sway as may be encountered during sway events.

[0019] Optionally, the cantilever member extends from the suspension member when supported therefrom in a direction such that the second bending plane of the suspension member defines a major axis of bending and the first bending plane defines a minor axis of bending.

[0020] In various embodiments, the support part further comprises an upright extender member extending above the cantilever member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the upright extender member of the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the plurality of heights along the suspension member include at least one height at which the upright extender member extends below the bottom of the suspension member so that the cantilever member is at an elevation below the bottom of the suspension member. Optionally, the upright extender member is telescopically slidable with respect to the suspension member between the plurality of positions, when the securing device is in the release state.

[0021] Optionally, the suspension member defines a channel along its length. Optionally, a portion of the support part is receivable in the channel. Optionally, the upright extender member is receivable in the channel.

[0022] Optionally, the suspension member comprises a web and one or more flanges when viewed in cross-section, defining the channel. Optionally, the suspension member comprises a pair of the flanges. Optionally, the flanges are parallel to each other and are arranged to a same side of the web, such that the channel is C-shaped.

[0023] Optionally, the channel is an open channel and the flanges are parallel or tapered outwardly to the tips of the flanges, enabling the support part to be inserted into the channel in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the channel. An advantage is that the support part can be side loaded into the channel of the suspension member without needing free space below the bottom of the suspension member for end-feeding. Additionally, or alternatively, the support part can be end-fed into the channel through the bottom of the suspension member.

[0024] Optionally, the securing device engages with both flanges of the suspension member when in the securing state. Optionally, each flange of the suspension member comprises a series of the detents. Optionally, the securing device simultaneously engages with one of the detents in each flange when in the securing state.

[0025] Optionally, the suspension member comprises an eased edge at a bottom corner of a tip of the or each flange. This provides the advantage that the bottom of the suspension member may not require a protective cap, when the support part is mounted high.

[0026] Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part is sized to substantially or wholly nest within the channel of the suspension member when viewed in cross-section. Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part is sized to be recessed relative to tips of the flanges of the suspension member when nested within the channel. An advantage is that the objects / articles can be located proximally to or against the suspension member without interfering with the slidable upright extender member of the support part.

[0027] Optionally, the securing device is sized to substantially or wholly nest within the channel of the suspension member. Optionally, the securing device is mounted to the upright extender member, and the upright extender member is profiled in cross-section, defining a recess in which the securing device is substantially or wholly recessed. An advantage is that the securing device is protected against collisions and accidental actuation of the release input.

[0028] Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part is slidable within the channel while the securing device is in the release state.

[0029] Optionally, the plurality of heights include at least one height at which the cantilever member of the support part is at an elevation above the bottom of the suspension member. This provides the advantage that the height of the cantilever member can vary from elevations below the bottom of the suspension member to elevations above the bottom of the suspension member.

[0030] Optionally, the channel of the suspension member is wider than a width of a fixed end of the cantilever member of the support part, and / or wider than a width of a bracket coupling the cantilever member of the support part to the upright extender member of the support part. Advantageously, this enables the fixed end of the cantilever member or the bracket to enter the channel of the suspension member and slide up and down within said channel to a desired height.

[0031] Optionally, the illustrated upright extender member is dimensioned to extend a total height of the cantilever suspension assembly by at least 20% or at least 30% or at least 40% when at a lowest of the plurality of heights, compared with the length of the suspension member from the top of the bottom of the suspension member.

[0032] Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part is substantially parallel to the suspension member when engaged with the suspension member.

[0033] Optionally, the securing device is mounted to the upright extender member.

[0034] Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part is profiled in crosssection, defining a recess in which the securing device is mounted. Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part comprises a web and one or more flanges when viewed in cross-section. Optionally, the upright extender member of the support part comprises a pair of the flanges. Optionally, the flanges are parallel to each other and are arranged to a same side of the web, the flanges and web defining a C-shaped recess (channel) in which the securing device is mounted.

[0035] Optionally, the or each flange of the upright extender member of the support part comprises a through-hole which is alignable with a corresponding detent in the suspension member. Optionally, the securing device comprises a movable locking member which extends through the through-hole and into the corresponding detent when the securing device is in the securing state. Optionally, the cantilever member is substantially perpendicular to the upright extender member.

[0036] Optionally, the cantilever member comprises a horizontal upper surface onto which the article can be placed. Optionally, the cantilever member comprises one or more fixing points in the horizontal upper surface, to which the article can be fixed. Optionally, the one or more fixing points comprise through-holes.

[0037] In various embodiments, the securing device enables an angle of the cantilever member of the support part to be maintained throughout a state transition of the securing device. An advantage is that adjustment is rapid and can be performed with the article in-situ.

[0038] Optionally, the support part comprises a second cantilever member located to an opposite side of the cantilever member (first cantilever member). This advantageously defines a double-sided cantilever suspension assembly.

[0039] Optionally, when the support part is engaged with the suspension member, the first and second cantilever members may be located to opposite sides of the suspension member, extending in opposite directions.

[0040] Optionally, the first and second cantilever members are separated by a gap therebetween, through which the suspension member is received, allowing the support part to be slid up and down the suspension member with the securing device in the release state. Optionally, the plurality of heights include at least one height at which the first and second cantilever members of the support part are at an elevation above the bottom of the suspension member.

[0041] In various embodiments, the release input of the securing device is a hand release input. The hand release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when hand-actuated. Optionally, the release input is movable relative to another portion of the securing device. Optionally, the securing device comprises a guide channel within which the release input is movable. Optionally, the guide channel is configured to enable linear translation of the release input. Optionally, the guide channel is formed in a body of the securing device. Optionally, the release input is movable about a vertical axis or lateral axis of the cantilever suspension assembly.

[0042] Optionally, the securing device is mounted to the upright extender member, and the release input is movable in a direction parallel to the upright extender member. Optionally, the release input is recessed within the upright extender member.

[0043] Optionally, the support part defines an open section profile shape in crosssection, allowing access to the release input through a profile opening defined by the open section profile. Optionally, the upright extender member has the open section profile.

[0044] Optionally, the hand release input of the securing device is located such that when the hand release input is actuated by a user’s hand to transition the securing device to the release state, the support part rests on the user’s hand. Optionally, the hand release input of the securing device comprises or is adjacent to a downwards-facing surface which is aligned with the user’s hand while the user’s hand is actuating the hand release input. An advantage is that the support part will not unexpectedly fall down when the securing device is released.

[0045] Optionally, the hand release input of the securing device is slidable between the securing and release states. Optionally, the hand release input is slidable upwardly from the securing state to the release state, and downwardly from the release state to the securing state. Optionally, the hand release input comprises a slider or button.

[0046] Optionally, the release input of the securing device is biased towards a position corresponding to the securing state. Optionally, the securing device comprises an input return spring to exert said bias on the release input.

[0047] Optionally, the securing device comprises a movable locking member operable by the release input to transition the securing device between the securing and release states.

[0048] Optionally, the movable locking member comprises a plug to engage the support part with the suspension member. Optionally, the plug is sized to engage with a corresponding socket of the suspension member. The socket may be a detent as described earlier.

[0049] Optionally, movement of the movable locking member away from a body of the securing device transitions the securing device to the securing state, and retraction of the movable locking member towards the body transitions the securing device to the release state.

[0050] Optionally, the movable locking member is biased towards a position corresponding to the securing state. Optionally, the securing device comprises an output return spring to exert the bias. Optionally, the output return spring engages the movable locking member with the suspension member when the movable locking member is aligned with a respective detent in the suspension member. Optionally, the movable locking member comprises a spring seat, and the output return spring is mounted in the spring seat. Optionally, the movable locking member is movable laterally as the release input is moved in a different direction. Optionally, the different direction comprises vertical translation.

[0051] Optionally, the securing device comprises a release mechanism coupling the release input to the movable locking member.

[0052] Optionally, the release mechanism comprises a slotted guide, and an actuating protrusion on the movable locking member, wherein the actuating protrusion extends into the slotted guide. Optionally, the release mechanism further comprises one or more return springs such as the output return spring and / or input return spring.

[0053] Optionally, the slotted guide is movable by the release input in a transverse direction relative to a direction in which the movable locking member is movable.

[0054] Optionally, the slotted guide comprises a sloped guide surface against which the actuating protrusion of the movable locking member is biased.

[0055] Optionally, movement of the slotted guide in a release direction by the release input slides the movable locking member along the sloped guide surface towards a position corresponding to the release state.

[0056] Optionally, movement of the slotted guide in an opposite securing direction is assisted by one or more springs. Optionally, the one or more springs are the input return spring and / or output return spring as described above.

[0057] Optionally, the release mechanism comprises a blocking portion to prevent the movable locking member from moving from a securing state position to a release state position until the blocking portion is first moved out of interference with the movable locking member. This is advantageous in embodiments where the detent in the suspension member is a through-hole and the movable locking member protrudes beyond said through-hole, to prevent users from pushing in the movable locking member which could cause the support part to unexpectedly fall to the ground before the user has a chance to grasp the support part with their other hand. Therefore, the blocking portion ensures that only the hand release input can be used to release the support part, so that the support part will fall onto the hand of the user which was used to actuate the hand release input rather than falling to the ground.

[0058] Optionally, the blocking portion prevents the movable locking member from being pushed in a retracting direction.

[0059] Optionally, the blocking portion is formed in the slotted guide. Optionally, the blocking portion is formed at one end of the slotted guide.

[0060] Optionally, the blocking portion comprises a blocking surface nonparallel to the sloped guide surface. Optionally, the blocking surface extends transversely to a direction in which the movable locking member is movable.

[0061] Optionally, the actuating protrusion on the movable locking member is wedge- shaped, having a sliding surface parallel to the sloped guide surface and slidable along the sloped guide surface, and an opposite abutment surface parallel to the blocking edge, the sliding surface and abutment surface of the movable locking member defining the wedge shape.

[0062] Optionally, the securing device comprises a pair of the movable locking members. Optionally, the movable locking members are operable simultaneously by a same actuation of the release input. Optionally, the movable locking members are located to different sides of the securing device. Optionally, the movable locking members are located oppositely and move in generally opposite directions in dependence on actuation of the release input to engage with opposite respective sides of the suspension member. Optionally, the movable locking members are located oppositely and movable apart from each other in opposite directions to engage with opposite detents in opposite respective flanges of the suspension member.

[0063] Optionally, the output return spring is located between the movable locking members to bias the movable locking members apart from each other. Optionally, each movable locking member comprises one of the respective spring seats for the output return spring, the output return spring being seated in the spring seats to bias the movable locking members apart from each other.

[0064] Optionally, the actuating protrusions of the movable locking members extend into the slotted guide.

[0065] Optionally, the slotted guide comprises a pair of opposite sloped guide surfaces that slope towards each other, against which the actuating protrusions of the movable locking members are biased.

[0066] Optionally, movement of the slotted guide in a release direction by the release input slides the movable locking members along the sloped guide surfaces from a wider separation of the sloped guide surfaces to a narrower separation of the sloped guide surfaces, to retract the movable locking members and therefore transition the securing device to the release state.

[0067] Optionally, the blocking portion of the release mechanism is located between the sloped guide surfaces. Optionally, the blocking portion of the release mechanism is located to an end of the slotted guide corresponding to the wider separation of the sloped guide surfaces. It would be appreciated that a different form of hand release input could be provided, such as a wing nut, cotter pin, or quick release pin, or the movable locking member(s) may themselves be depressed to act as the hand release input. The release mechanism may differ accordingly. Such alternative embodiments may achieve fewer of the advantages of rapid adjustment, one- handed use, and / or settling of the support part onto the user’s hand.

[0068] Optionally, the suspension member is multi-sided, allowing a first of said support part to be secured to a first side of the multi-sided suspension member, and a second of said support part to be secured to a different second side of the multi-sided suspension member, at the same time.

[0069] Optionally, the suspension member is double-sided. Optionally, the first and second sides of the suspension member are opposite sides.

[0070] Optionally, the multi-sided suspension member allows the first and second support parts to be engaged with the opposite first and second sides of the multi-sided suspension member, at different heights along the multi-sided suspension member than each other, at the same time.

[0071] Optionally, the multi-sided suspension member allows the first and second support parts to be engaged with the opposite first and second sides of the multi-sided suspension member, at the same heights along the multi-sided suspension member as each other, at the same time.

[0072] Optionally, the first and second support parts are independently releasable from the multi-sided suspension member.

[0073] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of various examples of embodiments of the present invention reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0074] FIG. 1 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an example cantilever suspension assembly;

[0075] FIGS. 2A, 2B illustrate a securing state and a release state of a securing device of a cantilever suspension assembly, respectively;

[0076] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of an example securing device of a cantilever suspension assembly; and

[0077] FIGS. 4A, 4B illustrate different example heights at which a support part is engaged with a suspension member of a cantilever suspension assembly;

[0078] FIGS. 5A, 5B illustrate different example heights at which a second example support part is engaged with a suspension member of a cantilever suspension assembly; and

[0079] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C illustrate a cantilever suspension assembly comprising a multi-sided suspension member.

[0080] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0081] The Figures illustrate an example cantilever suspension assembly 100 into which articles (not shown), such as cable conduits and cable trays, can be side loaded.

[0082] The Figures also illustrate a global coordinate system where x is a longitudinal horizontal direction, y is a lateral horizontal direction, and z is a vertical direction. When in use, the x-y plane is a horizontal plane parallel to earth ground. A cable conduit or other article would extend in the y-direction shown.

[0083] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the cantilever suspension assembly 100, viewed from below. In summary, the cantilever suspension assembly 100 comprises a suspension part 200, and an adjustable-height support part 300 mounted to the suspension part 200.

[0084] In summary, the suspension part 200 comprises an attaching portion 202 at the top 208, for mounting the cantilever suspension assembly 100 to an overhead structure such as a ceiling or roof or overhead beam. The suspension part 200 further comprises a suspension member 206 extending down from the attaching portion 202.

[0085] In summary, the support part 300 comprises a cantilever member 302 extending in the x-axis, onto which an article extending in the y-axis (e.g., cable tray or the like) can be placed. The support part 300 further comprises an upright extender member 304 extending up from the cantilever member 302. The upright extender member 304 is slidably connected to the suspension member 206, to act as a column extender for hanging the cantilever member 302 below the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4A, if desired.

[0086] In detail, starting from the top of FIG. 1 , the illustrated attaching portion 202 is an attaching bracket. This is because the attaching portion 202 comprises a mounting plate with fixing points 204 in the form of bolt holes, allowing the suspension part 200 to be mounted to the overhead structure by fixings such as bolts. The illustrated mounting plate is a flat horizontal plate to suit most overhead structures.

[0087] The illustrated suspension member 206 is a suspension column because the suspension member 206 is upright, extending in the z-axis.

[0088] The illustrated suspension member 206 is rigid and substantially straight from its top 208 to its bottom 210. The suspension member 206 has a length of hundreds of millimetres, for example 400mm or another value from the range 200mm to 1500mm, without limitation.

[0089] The top 208 of the suspension member 206 abuts the attaching portion 202 and is secured to the attaching portion 202.

[0090] The bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 is a free unsupported end. Therefore, the suspension member 206 is a cantilever column.

[0091] High bending moments would be expected due to the asymmetric design of the cantilever suspension assembly 100 of FIG. 1. Therefore, to support high bending moments, the suspension member 206 has a profiled cross-section. Further, the suspension member 206 may be welded to the attaching portion 202. Further, the suspension part 200 and support part 300 may each be formed from a metal such as steel. Further, they may have a metal thickness of more than 1 ,8mm.

[0092] The illustrated suspension member 206 has an open section profile shape, such as the illustrated C-section shape (also referred to as U-shaped) when viewed in cross-section. The C-section shape is defined by a pair of straight parallel flanges 218 connected to a straight web 216. The web 216 is flat in the y-z plane and is elongate in the z-direction.

[0093] The flanges 218 are flat and parallel in the x-z plane and each extend in the z- direction.

[0094] The flanges 218 are connected to the opposite ends of the web 216 by eased edges 224 in the form of bends. The flanges 218 and / or web 216 of the suspension member 206 connect to the attaching portion 202 at the top 208 of the suspension member 206.

[0095] As best shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the pair of flanges 218 and the web 216 define a channel 214 of the suspension member 206, along its length. The upright extender member 304 of the support part 300 can slide within the channel 214. The channel 214 extends continuously from the top 208 to the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206. The channel 214 is open at the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206.

[0096] Where the suspension member 206 has an open section profile shape, the channel 214 is an open channel along its length, defining an elongate opening between the elongate tips 220 of the flanges 218, the elongate opening and tips 220 of the flanges 218 extending in the z-direction.

[0097] The geometry of the flanges 218 and web 216 define the second moment of area of the suspension member 206. The second moment of area of the suspension member 206 lyz for bending in the y-z plane is higher than the second moment of area Ixz for bending in the x-z plane.

[0098] Since the illustrated cantilever member 302 extends in the x-axis, the highest bending moments from the cantilever member 302 will be about the x-z bending plane in which the suspension member 206 is geometrically less stiff (Ixz is lower than lyz). Therefore, the suspension member 206 has been provided with long flanges 218 and a high material thickness (e.g., 2mm) so that Ixz is sufficiently high. In examples, Ixz is at least 12% or at least 15% of lyz. The reason that the cantilever member 302 extends in the x-axis rather than the y- axis is to prevent interference between the cantilever member 302 and a flange 218 of the suspension member 206 when the height of the cantilever member 302 is raised to the position shown in FIG. 4B or FIGS. 5A-5B. Each flange 218 of the suspension member 206 comprises a series of detents 212 extending down the suspension member 206, in the form of a straight line of through-holes through the respective flange 218. The detents 212 define a plurality of heights at which the support part 300 can be secured to the suspension member 206 via a later-described securing device 400. Alternatively, the detents 212 may be omitted if the securing device 400 instead operates by clamping-assisted friction or deformation, rather than interference with the detents 212.

[0099] When measured from the highest to the lowest detent 212, the range of heightadjustability of the support part 300 is 360mm, or some other value from the range 100mm-500mm, or 200mm-450mm.

[0100] The illustrated detents 212 are optionally equispaced from each other. FIG. 1 shows each flange 218 comprising thirteen detents 212. The number of detents 212 may vary. For example, each flange 218 can comprise four or more detents 212, or eight or more detents 212.

[0101] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate the detents 212 of each flange 218 being aligned with the detents 212 of the other flange 218 in the z-axis.

[0102] The magnified detail view in FIG. 1 shows that the corners at the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 are eased edges 222 such as fillets (rounded edges), so that there is less of a need to fit a protective cap to the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 when the support part 300 is mounted above the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 as shown in FIG. 4B or FIGS. 5A-5B. For example, the bottom corner of the z-direction tip 220 of each flange 218 is provided with a fillet, transitioning to the x-direction edge of each flange 218. Turning now to the support part 300, the support part 300 illustrated in FIG. 1 is L-shaped, as defined by the cantilever member 302 and the upright extender member 304 which are generally perpendicular to each other.

[0103] The illustrated cantilever member 302 is a cantilever beam because it extends horizontally in the x-axis, for supporting an article such as a cable tray extending in the y-axis.

[0104] The illustrated upright extender member 304 is a column extender extending vertically in the z-axis, into the channel 214 of the suspension member 206 through the downwards-facing opening of the channel 214 at the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206.

[0105] The upright extender member 304 has a smaller cross-section than the suspension member 206 and can therefore slide into the channel 214 of the suspension member 206. Alternatively, this may be reversed so that a smaller suspension member 206 fits in a channel defined by the upright extender member 304.

[0106] The cantilever suspension assembly 100 has a cantilever length in the x-axis of 150-650mm measured from the back of the web 216 of the suspension member 206 to the free end of the cantilever member 302, or another value from the range 200-600mm, for example.

[0107] The cantilever member 302 is connected to the upright extender member 304 by any appropriate means, in this example by a bracket 318. The illustrated bracket 318 is located to the bottom of the upright extender member 304 and comprises fixing holes allowing the cantilever member 302 and upright extender member 304 to be bolted or riveted to each other to form a single rigid support part 300. The cantilever member 302 has a fixed end connected to the upright extender member 304, and a cantilevered free end.

[0108] The illustrated cantilever member 302 is profiled in cross-section to provide geometric stiffness. The illustrated cantilever member 302 comprises a horizontal web and a pair of downwards facing flanges connected thereto. The flanges and web optionally define an inverted U-shaped profile. The upper surface of the web of the cantilever member 302 provides a horizontal upper surface 314, visible in FIGS. 4A-5B, onto which the article can be placed.

[0109] Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 5A-5B, the cantilever member 302 of FIG. 1 can comprise fixing points 316 such as through-holes in the web, allowing the article to be secured to the cantilever member 302 via screws, cable ties, or other fixings.

[0110] The second moment of area of the illustrated cantilever member 302 increases towards the fixed end of the cantilever member 302. Specifically, the height of its flanges increases towards the fixed end.

[0111] Turning now to the upright extender member 304, the upright extender member 304 extends parallel to the suspension member 206 and is slidably connected to the suspension member 206.

[0112] The upright extender member 304 is shorter than the suspension member 206. The upright extender member 304 provides the support part 300 with a total z- axis height of 200mm measured from the bottom of the support part 300 to the top of the upright extender member 304, which is approximately 50% of the length of the suspension member 206. Or, the height of the support part 300 may be another value from the range 100-500mm, for example. The height of the upright extender member 304 and the position of the lowest detent 212 along the suspension member 206, allow the upright extender member 304 to extend the total height (z-axis length) of the cantilever suspension assembly 100 by at least 40% (or at least 20% or at least 30%) when secured to the lowest detent 212. The height of the suspension member 206 is measured from the top 208 of the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206. The extended height of the cantilever suspension assembly 100 is measured from the top 208 of the suspension member 206 to the bottom of the support part 300.

[0113] Several of the detents 212 along the suspension member 206, and not just the lowest detent 212, cause the bottom of the support part 300 to be below the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206. In the illustrated example, this is the case for more than two of the detents 212, or more specifically for six of the detents 212.

[0114] The rest of the detents 212 are higher up and define positions where the bottom of the support part 300 is above the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206, as shown in FIG. 4B or FIGS. 5A-5B.

[0115] The illustrated upright extender member 304 is profiled in cross-section, to provide geometric stiffness. The illustrated upright extender member 304 has an open section profile shape, such as the illustrated C-section shape when viewed in cross-section. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the C-section shape is defined by a pair of flanges 308 connected to a web 306. The flanges 308 and web 306 of the upright extender member 304 are parallel to the respective flanges 218 and web 216 of the suspension member 206.

[0116] The flanges 308 and web 306 of the upright extender member 304 define a recess 310 therebetween, such as a channel similar to that of the suspension member 206. The securing device 400 is mounted within this recess 310, which is why the securing device 400 is not visible in FIG. 1 but is visible in FIGS. 2A- 2B.

[0117] Since the channel 214 of the suspension member 206 is an open channel, the support part 300 can be side loaded into the channel 214 in an x-axis direction through the elongate opening of the channel 214. This is because end-feeding would require a clearance below the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206, equal to the height of the support part 300. However, the option of endfeeding through the open end of the channel 214 at the bottom 210 of the suspension member 206 may remain possible.

[0118] As best shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the upright extender member 304 of the support part 300 is sized to be smaller (narrower and shallower) than the wider and deeper channel 214 of the suspension member 206 in cross-section, enabling the upright extender member 304 to fit inside the channel 214 and nest within the channel 214. The nesting may be full nesting such that the upright extender member 304 does not protrude out of the elongate opening of the channel 214 of the suspension member 206, beyond the tips 220 of the flanges 218 of the suspension member 206, when viewed from the side such as FIGS. 4A-4B.

[0119] Due to the nesting, the movement of the upright extender member 304 relative to the suspension member 206 could be described as telescopic.

[0120] The securing device 400 comprises an output in the form of a pair of movable locking members 410, which are operably connected to an input in the form of an upwardly-slidable hand release input 404.

[0121] The movable locking members 410 are located to opposite sides of the securing device 400 and slide in generally opposite y-axis directions in dependence on actuation of the hand release input 404. The movable locking members 410 are located oppositely and are movable apart from each other in opposite directions to engage with opposite detents 212 in the opposite flanges 218 of the suspension member 206.

[0122] Where the connection is mechanical, the movable locking members 410 are connected to the hand release input 404 by a release mechanism 424.

[0123] The securing device 400 further comprises a body 402 to which the hand release input 404, the release mechanism 424, and the movable locking members 410, are mounted. The body 402 of the securing device 400 is mounted in any appropriate way to the upright extender member 304 of the support part 300, to engage with the detents 212 formed in the suspension member 206. In another embodiment, the securing device 400 is mounted to the suspension member 206 instead and the upright extender member 304 comprises the detents 212.

[0124] The illustrated securing device 400 is mounted within the recess 310 of the upright extender member 304 of the support part 300. The securing device 400 nests within the upright extender member 304, and is recessed relative to the tips of the flanges 308 of the upright extender member 304. Therefore, the securing device 400 also nests within the channel 214 of the suspension member 206 in a recessed manner. This conceals and protects the securing device 400.

[0125] The body 402 of the securing device 400 comprises a vertical guide channel 436 within which the hand release input 404 is slidable in a vertical direction.

[0126] The body 402 further comprises a horizontal guide channel 437 within which the movable locking members 410 are slidable in a horizontal direction between securing state positions (protruding) and release state positions (retracted). The movable locking members 410 are operable by the hand release input 404 to transition the securing device 400 between a securing state shown in FIG. 2A, and a release state shown in FIG. 2B.

[0127] To transition to the securing state of FIG. 2A, the movable locking members 410 are slid away from the body 402 of the securing device 400 in the y-axis, the movable locking members 410 comprising plugs 412 extending through through-holes 312 in the flanges of the upright extender member 304, and into the detents 212 (sockets) in the suspension member 206. Where the illustrated detents 212 of the suspension member 206 are through-holes, the plugs 412 visibly protrude at the exterior of the suspension member 206.

[0128] To transition to the release state of FIG. 2B, the movable locking members 410 are slidably retracted towards the body 402 of the securing device 400 in the y- axis, until their plugs 412 are no longer engaged with the detents 212 in the suspension member 206. Whether or not they still protrude through the through- holes 312 in the flanges 308 of the upright extender member 304 does not matter, as long as they are recessed relative to the flanges 218 of the suspension member 206.

[0129] The hand release input 404 is a slidable and generally horizontal surface or handle sized and located to receive one or more digits of a human hand beneath the hand release input 404. Therefore, when the release state is entered, the support part 300 will rest on or fall onto the hand, preventing the support part 300 from falling to the ground. The user’s hand therefore remains in continuous contact with ledge-like downwards-facing surfaces such as the hand release input 404 and / or the bottom of the body 402 of the securing device 400.

[0130] The movable locking members 410 are biased apart from each other, towards the securing state, by an output return spring 422. The bias force from the output return spring 422 causes self-engagement of the movable locking members 410 with the detents 212 when the movable locking members 410 are aligned with the detents 212.

[0131] The illustrated output return spring 422 is located in the horizontal guide channel 437 of the body 402 of the securing device 400. Each end of the output return spring 422 is mounted to one of the movable locking members 410. The movable locking members 410 comprise facing spring seats 414 within which the ends of the output return spring 422 are mounted. The illustrated output return spring 422 is a coil spring

[0132] The release mechanism 424 exerts a force moving the movable locking members 410 towards each other in the retracting direction, when actuated (slid) by the hand release input 404. The force of the release mechanism 424 is configured to overcome the opposing bias force of the output return spring 422, to enable the required retraction of the movable locking members 410.

[0133] Each movable locking members 410 comprises a wedge-shaped actuating protrusion 416 that protrudes from the side of the locking members 410 into a slidable slotted guide 426 which is slidable in a direction transverse to the y- axis in which the movable locking members 410 are free to slide.

[0134] The slotted guide 426 comprises left and right sloped guide surfaces 428 that taper to define a narrowing slot. Each of the sloped guide surfaces 428 is in slidable contact with a parallel sliding surface 418 of one of the actuating protrusions 416. As the slotted guide 426 is moved, the slot narrows and therefore pulls the movable locking members 410 together via their actuating protrusions 416.

[0135] The slope angle of each sloped guide surface 428 may be approximately 25 degrees from vertical, or another value from the range 15 to 35 degrees. This provides a good compromise between the required displacement of the release mechanism 424, and the force required at the hand release input 404.

[0136] As the slotted guide 426 slides in a first direction, it retracts the movable locking members 410 towards their release state positions. As the slotted guide 426 slides in a second, reverse direction, the output return spring 422 is able to bias the movable locking members 410 towards their securing state positions.

[0137] In the illustrated example, the slotted guide 426 is slidable vertically in the z- axis. The slotted guide 426 is slidable upwardly to retract the movable locking members 410, and then downwardly to allow the output return spring 422 to return the movable locking members 410 to their securing state positions.

[0138] The illustrated securing device 400 comprises a slidably movable input part 405 which has a lower horizontal leg 406 exposed at an exterior of the securing device 400 to function as the hand release input 404, and an upright leg 407 in which the slotted guide 426 is formed.

[0139] Therefore, when the user presses up on the horizontal leg 406 of the movable input part 405, the movable input part 405 slides upwardly. As a consequence, the slotted guide 426 slides upwardly so that the part of the slotted guide 426 in sliding contact with the actuating protrusions 416 of the movable locking members 410 becomes narrower, retracting the movable locking members 410.

[0140] If the user wishes to slide the support part 300 up or down by several detent positions, the user can hold the hand release input 404 in a position that keeps the movable locking members 410 retracted while the user slides the support part 300, until the desired detent 212 is reached.

[0141] When the user releases the movable input part 405, an input return spring 408 (FIG. 3) returns the movable input part 405 to a home position. This in turn enables the output return spring 422 to return the movable locking members 410 to their securing state positions.

[0142] The illustrated input return spring 408 is located in the vertical guide channel 436 of the body 402 of the securing device 400. The illustrated input return spring 408 comprises a compression spring, seated at one end to the body 402 of the securing device 400, and at the other end to the horizontal leg 406 of the movable input part 405.

[0143] In another example, the direction of the release mechanism 424 is reversed so that the movable input part 405 is pulled to release the movable locking members 410. In a further alternative example, the movable input part 405 is mounted to the top of the securing device 400, so that its horizontal leg 406 is an upper horizontal leg.

[0144] The slotted guide 426 of the release mechanism 424 further comprises a tab which acts as a blocking portion 430 in the securing state of the securing device 400, to prevent the protruding movable locking members 410 from being squeezed inwardly from their securing state positions. The blocking portion 430 is located between the sloped guide surfaces 428 of the slotted guide 426.

[0145] The blocking portion 430 of the slotted guide 426 is disposed between the actuating protrusions 416 of the movable locking members 410 when the movable input part 405 is in the home position. This creates an interference preventing the movable locking members 410 from retracting from their securing state positions to their release state positions unless the hand release input 404 is actuated. Therefore, if a user tries to press in the protruding plugs 412 of the movable locking members 410, they will not be able to sufficiently retract the movable locking members 410 to reach their release state positions. The illustrated blocking portion 430 is a tab located at the widest end of the slotted guide 426 and between the sloped guide surfaces 428. The blocking portion 430 protrudes partway into the slot defined by the slotted guide 426. The blocking portion 430 has left and right sides providing a pair of opposite blocking surfaces 432.

[0146] The actuating protrusions 416 of the movable locking members 410 each comprise an abutment surface 420 facing a corresponding blocking surface 432 of the blocking portion 430. Since the blocking surfaces 432 and abutment surfaces 420 are parallel to each other, there is no sliding force component. No matter how hard the user squeezes the plugs 412 in a retracting direction, the blocking portion 430 will not slide out of the way.

[0147] If the user actuates the hand release input 404, the slotted guide 426 moves up, moving the blocking portion 430 out of the space between the actuation protrusions of the movable locking members 410. The movable locking members 410 are now able to retract enough to reach their release state positions.

[0148] Each illustrated actuation protrusion is wedge shaped, resulting in an acute internal angle between its sliding surface 418 and its abutment surface 420. The acute angle may match the angle of the corresponding sloped guide surface 428, for example 25 degrees from vertical, because the sliding surface 418 is parallel to the sloped guide surface 428 of the slotted guide 426, and the abutment surface 420 is vertical and parallel to the vertical blocking surface 432 of the blocking portion 430 of the slotted guide 426.

[0149] Finally, FIG. 3 further illustrates a cover plate 434 statically mounted to the body 402 of the securing device 400, covering at least the slotted guide 426 of the release mechanism 424. The above described and illustrated securing device 400 is tool-free, enables rapid adjustment, and enables the cantilever member 302 of the support part 300 to remain horizontal throughout a state transition between the securing and release states of the securing device 400. Therefore, supported articles can remain in-situ while the height is adjusted.

[0150] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate an alternative design of the support part 300, further comprising a second cantilever member 302B located to an opposite side of the cantilever member 302A (first cantilever member). This advantageously defines a double-sided cantilever suspension assembly 100, where the support part 300 is T-shaped.

[0151] Connecting brackets 320 connect the second cantilever member 302B to the first cantilever member 302A.

[0152] There is a gap 322 between the fixed ends of the first and second cantilever members 302A, 302B and the connecting brackets 320, through which the suspension member 206 is received. This allows the support part 300 to be slid up and down the suspension member 206 with the same range of heightadjustment as the design of FIGS. 1-4B.

[0153] 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. It would be appreciated that a different form of hand release input 404 could be provided, such as a wing nut, cotter pin, or quick release pin, or the movable locking member(s) may themselves be depressed to act as the hand release input 404. The release mechanism 424 may differ accordingly. Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described.

[0154] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0155] Although features have been described with reference to certain embodiments, those features may also be present in other embodiments whether described or not.

[0156] Whilst endeavouring 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.

[0157] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a further example of a double-sided cantilever suspension assembly.

[0158] In this example, instead of the support part 300 being double-sided, the suspension member 206 is double-sided. The suspension member 206 has two parallel and opposite-facing channels 214A, 214B. The suspension member 206 comprises separate rows of detents 212 for each channel 214A, 214B.

[0159] Separate first and second support parts 300A, 300B are shown connected to the two sides of the double-sided suspension member 206. As shown in FIG. 6B, the first and second support parts 300A, 300B are independently movable. Therefore, they can be set at the same or different heights as each other.

[0160] In some examples, a double-sided suspension member 206 comprises two parallel C-section shaped columns, facing opposite directions, connected at their upper ends to the suspension part 200, and optionally their webs 216 connected to each other at one of more locations along their span, for example by welds 228 (FIG. 6C). In other examples, a double-sided suspension member 206 comprises one l-section column defining both channels 214A, 214B, and having one web 216 shared by both channels 214A, 214B.

[0161] In the illustrated example, the two sides of the double-sided suspension 206 member face opposite directions. In other examples, the two sides face different and non-opposite directions.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a profiled cross-section; a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article; and a securing device comprising a hand release input, wherein the hand release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when hand-actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member.

2. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 1 , comprising a suspension part having the suspension member, and an attaching portion at the top of the suspension member.

3. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, comprising a series of detents, wherein the securing device engages with one of the detents when in the securing state.

4. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the support part further comprises an upright extender member extending above the cantilever member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the upright extender member of the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the plurality of heights along the suspension member include at least one height at which the upright extender member extends below the bottom of the suspension member so that the cantilever member is at an elevation below the bottom of the suspension member.

5. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 4, wherein the upright extender member is telescopically slidable with respect to the suspension member between the plurality of positions, when the securing device is in the release state.

6. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 4 or 5, wherein the securing device is mounted to the upright extender member.

7. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the suspension member defines a channel along its length, and wherein a portion of the support part is receivable in the channel.

8. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 7, wherein the suspension member comprises a web and one or more flanges when viewed in crosssection, defining the channel, optionally wherein the suspension member comprises a pair of the flanges.

9. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 8, wherein the flanges are parallel to each other and are arranged to a same side of the web, such that the channel is C-shaped.

10. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the channel is an open channel and the flanges are parallel or tapered outwardly to the tips of the flanges, enabling the support part to be inserted into the channel in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the channel.

11. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 8, 9, or 10, wherein the suspension member comprises the pair of flanges, wherein the securing device engages with both flanges of the suspension member when in the securing state.

12. The cantilever suspension assembly of any one of claims 8 to 11 , wherein the suspension member comprises an eased edge at a bottom corner of a tip of the or each flange.

13. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of heights include at least one height at which the cantilever member of the support part is at an elevation above the bottom of the suspension member.

14. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the cantilever member comprises a horizontal upper surface onto which the article can be placed.

15. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 14, wherein the cantilever member comprises one or more fixing points in the horizontal upper surface, to which the article can be fixed.

16. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the securing device enables an angle of the cantilever member of the support part to be maintained throughout a state transition of the securing device.

17. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the hand release input of the securing device is located such that when the hand release input is actuated by a user’s hand to transition the securing device to the release state, the support part rests on the user’s hand.

18. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the hand release input of the securing device is biased towards a position corresponding to the securing state.

19. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the securing device comprises a movable locking member operable by the release input to transition the securing device between the securing and release states, wherein the securing device comprises a release mechanism coupling the release input to the movable locking member, and wherein the release mechanism comprises a blocking portion to prevent the movable locking member from moving from a securing state position to a release state position until the blocking portion is first moved out of interference with the movable locking member.

20. The cantilever suspension assembly of any preceding claim, configured as a double-sided cantilever suspension assembly, in which either: the support part comprises a second cantilever member located to an opposite side of the cantilever member; or the suspension member is multi-sided, allowing a first of said support part to be secured to a first side of the multi-sided suspension member, and a second of said support part to be secured to a different second side of the multisided suspension member, at the same time.

21. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 20, wherein the suspension member is multi-sided, allowing a first of said support part to be secured to a first side of the multi-sided suspension member, and a second of said support part to be secured to a different second side of the multi-sided suspension member, at the same time.

22. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 21 , wherein the multi-sided suspension member allows the first and second support parts to be engaged with the opposite first and second sides of the multi-sided suspension member, at different heights along the multi-sided suspension member than each other, at the same time.

23. The cantilever suspension assembly of claim 21 or 22, wherein the multisided suspension member allows the first and second support parts to be engaged with the opposite first and second sides of the multi-sided suspension member, at the same heights along the multi-sided suspension member as each other, at the same time.

24. A cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a top and a bottom; and a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article, and an upright extender member extending above the cantilever member; a securing device comprising a release input, wherein the release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member, wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the upright extender member of the support part with the suspension member, and wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member including at least one height at which the upright extender member extends below the bottom of the suspension member so that the cantilever member is at an elevation below the bottom of the suspension member.

25. A cantilever suspension assembly comprising: a suspension member having a profiled cross-section; and a support part having a cantilever member for supporting an article; a securing device comprising a release input, wherein the release input transitions the securing device between securing and release states when actuated, wherein the release state of the securing device enables the support part to be released from the suspension member,wherein the securing state of the securing device engages the support part with the suspension member, wherein the securing device allows the support part to be engaged with the suspension member at a plurality of heights along the suspension member, and wherein the securing device enables an angle of the cantilever member of the support part to be maintained throughout a state transition between the securing and release states of the securing device.