A shim assembly

Abstract

A shim assembly comprises a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member. The shim assembly further comprises a second wedge member comprising a wedge body. The wedge body of the first wedge member, and the wedge body of the second wedge member, each comprise a support surface and a ramped surface. In an assembled state, a height of the shim assembly is defined by a distance between the support surface of the first wedge member and the support surface of the second wedge member. The height of the shim assembly is adjustable by a force applied to the extension to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

Description

ASHIM ASSEMBLYFIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present invention relates to shim assemblies that are for instance suitable for: levelling, shimming space between building components in construction, or facilitating spacing adjustment in a variety of contexts.BACKGROUND

[0002] In various industries, including construction, carpentry, manufacturing, and assembly processes, there is a need for shimming objects and structures. For instance, ensuring that doors, windows, machinery components, and various other elements are correctly positioned may increase functionality, safety, and aesthetics.

[0003] T rad itional ly, shimming has been accomplished by for instance, manually stacking shims, or manually preparing wedges from materials such as wood, cardboard, or plastic. These methods may however be labour-intensive and imprecise. In particular, adjusting the height of shim or the wedge may be time-consuming and difficult.

[0004] It is an object of the disclosure to provide an improved shim assembly which addresses or ameliorates one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.SUMMARY

[0005] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a shim assembly, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body; wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member, and the wedge body of the second wedge member, each comprise a support surface and a ramped surface; wherein, the shim assembly is configurable in an assembled state by locating the ramped surface of the first wedge member against the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state a height of the shim assembly is defined by a distance between the support surface of the first wedge member and the support surface of the second wedge member, and the height of the shim assembly is adjustable by a force applied to the extension to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0006] The extension may project from the wedge body of the first wedge member, in a ramped direction of the wedge body of the first wedge member.

[0007] The extension may project longitudinally from the wedge body of the first wedge member.

[0008] The extension may project through the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0009] The extension may be insertable through the wedge body of the second wedge member to configure the shim assembly in the assembled state.

[0010] When in the assembled state, the extension may project from a base of the wedge body of the second wedge member

[0011] One of the ramped surfaces may comprise a groove, and the other of the ramped surfaces may comprise a corresponding projection, the groove and the corresponding projection being configured to couple when the shim assembly is configured in the assembled state.

[0012] The ramped surface of the first wedge member may comprise a groove, and the ramped surface of the second wedge member may comprise a protrusion that is configured to couple with the groove when the shim assembly is in the assembled state.

[0013] The ramped surface of the second wedge member may comprise a groove, and the ramped surface of the first wedge member may comprise a protrusion that is configured to couple with the groove when the shim assembly is in the assembled state.

[0014] When in the assembled state, the shim assembly may be configured to have a resistance to the ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0015] The shim assembly may further comprise at least one retention feature operable to slidingly retain the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second member.

[0016] The wedge body of the second wedge member may comprise a retaining feature that is configured to engage with the extension when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

[0017] The retaining feature of the second wedge member may comprise at least one pawl ora plurality of teeth.

[0018] The extension may comprise a retaining feature that is configured to engage with the wedge body of the second wedge member when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

[0019] The retaining feature of the extension may comprise at least one pawl or a plurality of teeth.

[0020] The wedge body of the second wedge member may comprise a retaining feature, and the extension may comprise a retaining feature, wherein each retaining feature may be configured to engage with the other retaining feature when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

[0021] The retaining feature of the wedge body may comprise a pawl, and the retaining feature of the extension may comprise a plurality of teeth, wherein in the assembled state the pawl may be configured to engage with the plurality of teeth, to create the resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

[0022] The retaining feature of the wedge body may comprise a bar, and the retaining feature of the extension may comprise one or more hooks, wherein in the assembled state the bar may be configured to selectively engage with the one or more hooks, to create the resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

[0023] The extension may comprise a zone of weakness at which the extension is snappable.

[0024] The zone of weakness may comprise one or more lines of weakness, wherein the extension is snappable at each of the one or more lines of weakness.

[0025] The wedge body of the first wedge member may be truncated relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0026] When in a fully de-ramped condition, a base of the wedge body of the first wedge member may not extend beyond a tip of the wedge body of the second wedge member, and in a fully ramped condition a tip of the wedge body of the first wedge member may not extend beyond a base of the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0027] A length of the wedge body of the first wedge member may be less than a length of the wedge body of the second wedge member

[0028] When in the assembled state, a position of the wedge body of the first wedge member, relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member, may be restricted such that: a first end of the wedge body of the first wedge member cannot be located beyond a first end of the wedge body of the second wedge member, and a second end of the wedge body of the first wedge member cannot be located beyond a second end of the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0029] When in the assembled state, the height of the shim assembly may be greater than both a maximum individual height of the wedge body of the first wedge member, and a maximum individual height of the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0030] When in the assembled state, the support surface of the first wedge member may be substantially parallel to the support surface of the second wedge member.

[0031] The shim assembly may further comprise at least one supplementary member comprising a contacting surface and a supplementary support surface, wherein the contacting surface is configured to contact the support surface of the first wedge member.

[0032] The supplementary support surface may be configured to contact the contacting surface of another of the at least one supplementary members.

[0033] A shape of the at least one supplementary member may correspond to a lateral dimension of the support surface of the first wedge body.

[0034] The contacting surface may comprise a lower securing mechanism configured to secure the at least one supplementary member to the support surface of the first wedge body.

[0035] The supplementary support surface may comprise an upper securing mechanism configured to secure the at least one supplementary member to the contacting surface of another of the at least one supplementary members.

[0036] The lower securing mechanism may comprise a protrusion that is configured to couple with a groove in the support surface of the first wedge member.

[0037] The upper securing mechanism may comprise a groove that is configured to couple with the protrusion of the lower securing mechanism of another of the at least one supplementary members.

[0038] The support surface of the first wedge member may comprise an adhesive and / or the support surface of the second wedge member may comprise an adhesive.

[0039] A non-adhesive removable layer may be provided over the adhesive of the first wedge member and / or a non-adhesive removable layer may be provided over the adhesive of the second wedge member.

[0040] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a kit of parts for a shim, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body; wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member, and the wedge body of the second wedge member, each comprise a support surface and a ramped surface; wherein, the shim assembly is configurable in an assembled state by locating the ramped surface of the first wedge member against the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state a height of the shim assembly is defined by a distance between the support surface of the first wedge member and the support surface of the second wedge member, and the height of the shim assembly is adjustable by a force applied to the extension to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

[0041] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a shim assembly, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member, wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member comprises a support surface and a ramped surface; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body, the wedge body comprising a support surface and a ramped surface; a pawl connected to the first wedge member; and a plurality of teeth connected to the second wedge; wherein, the shim assembly can be provided in an assembled state by positioning the rampedsurface of the first wedge member in contact with the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state the pawl is configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of teeth so that a position of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member can be secured.

[0042] The pawl and the at least one plurality of teeth may be disengaged by a user actuating a release mechanism.

[0043] An end portion of the extension may comprise a lever, and the release mechanism may be actuated by pulling the lever so that the pawl and the at least one plurality of teeth disengage.

[0044] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a shim assembly comprising: a first wedge member comprising an extension and a wedge body defining a ramped surface, the extension projecting along the wedge body of the first wedge member and extending distally of a tip of the wedge body of the first wedge member, and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body defining a ramped surface, wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member is operable to be drawn to the wedge body of the second wedge member by the elongate tab to slide the respective ramped surfaces against each other to expand the shim assembly.

[0045] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame, the method comprising: inserting a shim assembly into a space, the shim assembly comprising: a) a first wedge member having an extension and b) a second wedge member, and drawing on the extension while retaining a support surface of the second wedge member to expand the shim assembly and shim the space.

[0046] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame, the method comprising: mounting a first wedge member to the door or the frame by an adhesive of a support surface of the first wedge member, assembling a second wedge member to the first wedge member so that an extension of the second wedge member projects beyond a base of the first wedge member and respective ramped surfaces of the first wedge member and second wedge member are mutually slidable, and drawing on the extension to rampingly slide the first wedge member against the second wedge member on their respective ramped surfaces.

[0047] The term "axis" as used in this specification means the axis of revolution about which a line or a plane may be revolved to form a symmetrical shape. For example, a line revolved around an axis of revolution will form a surface, while a plane revolved around an axis of revolution will form a solid.

[0048] As used herein the term "and / or" means "and" or "or", or both.

[0049] As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and / or singular forms of the noun.

[0050] For the purposes of this specification, the term "plastic" shall be construed to mean a general term for a wide range of synthetic or semisynthetic polymerization products, and generally consisting of a hydrocarbon-based polymer.

[0051] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be chronologically ordered in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

[0052] The term "comprising" as used in the specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising," features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0053] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0054] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

[0055] Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0057] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0058] Figure 2 shows a top view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0059] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0060] Figure 4 shows a bottom view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0061] Figure 5 shows a top view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0062] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0063] Figure 7 shows a bottom view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0064] Figure 8 shows a top view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0065] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0066] Figure 10 shows a bottom view of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0067] Figure 11 -14 shows various perspective views of a configuration of the shim assembly.

[0068] Figures 15 and 16 show perspective views of a configuration of the shim assembly comprising a supplementary member.

[0069] Figures 17-19 show configurations of the shim assembly in use.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0070] The shim assembly 100 has a first wedge member 110 and a second wedge member 102.

[0071] With reference to Figure 1 , the first wedge member 110 comprises a wedge body 115, and the second wedge member 102 comprises a wedge body 120. The wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 comprises a support surface 117 and a ramped surface 116. The wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 comprises a support surface 122 and a ramped surface 121.

[0072] With continued reference to Figure 1 , the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 and the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102 are each substantially planar. The ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110 is configured to be at an acute angle relative to the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110. The ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102 is configured to be at an acute angle relative to the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102. For example, the ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110 and the ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102 may each be provided at 45 degrees relative to the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 and the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102 respectively. It will be appreciated that other combinations of angles are possible.

[0073] In some configurations, the first wedge member 110 further comprises an extension 108, as shown in Figures 1 -15. It should be appreciated that in some configurations the first wedge member 110 does not comprise an extension 108.

[0074] The extension 108 may project outwards from the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. For instance, in some configurations as shown in Figures 1 -10, the extension 108 may project in a ramped direction of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. In some configurations, such as shown in Figures 1 -10, the ramped direction may define a longitudinal axis of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, the extension 108 may project longitudinally relative to the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. In other examples, the extension 108 may project in different directions from the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. For instance, the extension 108 may project laterally relative to the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110.

[0075] In some configurations, the extension 108 may define an elongated shape, as shown for instance in Figures 1-10. For instance, the extension 108 may define an elongated tab shape. It should be appreciated however that the extension 108 may define an alternative shape.For instance, the extension 108 may be wider than it is long.

[0076] In some configurations, such as that shown in Figures 2-4, the extension 108 may comprise an upper surface 125 and an opposing lower surface 126. The upper and lower surfaces 125 126 may be planar. In some configurations, the extension 108 may comprise a single continuous surface, for instance, the extension 108 may define a cylindrical shape and comprise a single cylindrical surface.

[0077] In some configuration, such as shown in Figures 2-10, the extension is insertable through the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 to configure the shim assembly 100 in the assembled state.

[0078] The shim assembly 100 is shown in an assembled state in Figures 2-10. In the assembled state the ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110 is positioned in contact with the ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102.

[0079] As shown in Figures 2-10, in the assembled state, each of the support surfaces 117 122 of the first and second wedge members 102 and 110 face outwards and define an upper and lower surface of the shim assembly 100. A height of the shim assembly 100 is defined by the distance between the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 and the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102.

[0080] The shim assembly 100 may comprise a coupling arrangement to secure the first wedge member 110 and the second wedge member 102 in the assembled state. For instance one of the ramped surfaces 116 121 may comprises a groove, and the other of the ramped surfaces 116 121 may comprise a corresponding projection. The groove and the corresponding projection may be configured to couple when the shim assembly 100 is configured in the assembled state. In some configurations, the protrusion may be configured to securely engage with the groove by inserting into the groove when the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 are placed in contact.

[0081] It should be appreciated that whilst the coupling arrangement may secure the wedge members 102 110 in the assembled state, the coupling arrangement may be configured to still allow movement of the wedge members 102 and 110 with respects to one another. For instance, the coupling arrangement may nonetheless still allow the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 to be slid longitudinally over the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0082] The height of the shim assembly 100 can be adjusted by adjusting a position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. For instance, as shown in Figure 17, the first wedge member 110 is shown in afirst position with a first height. In Figure 18, the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 has been adjusted to a second position. As a result, the height of the shim assembly 100 shown in Figure 18 has changed to a second height. That is, the height of the shim assembly 100 has increased from the first height shown in Figure 20 to the second height shown in Figure 21.

[0083] As discussed, it will be appreciated that the angle of the ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110, and the angle of the ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102, relative to the respective support surfaces 117 and 122 may vary in different configurations. It will be appreciated that theses angles of the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 may determine at what rate the height is adjusted. Different angles of the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 will affect how much the height of the shim assembly 100 is adjusted, relative to the adjustment of the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110.

[0084] The height of the shim assembly 100 is adjustable by applying a force to the extension 108 to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. For instance, the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 can be adjusted from the first position shown in Figure 17 to the second position shown in Figure 18, by moving the extension 108 outwards, for example by pulling the extension 108 longitudinally. Accordingly, this pulling of the extension 108 changes the height of the shim assembly 100 from the first height to the second height. The position of the wedge body 115 can be adjusted back from the second position to the first position by longitudinally moving the extension 108 inwards, for example by pushing. Accordingly, pushing the extension 108 inwards adjusts the height of the shim assembly 100 from the second height to the first height.

[0085] It will be appreciated that the first and second positions, and the first and second heights, are illustrative, and a user is able to adjust the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 across various positions relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102, to change the shim assembly 100 to various different heights.

[0086] The adjustability of the height of the shim assembly 100 may enable users to shim spaces 140 with greater precision and flexibility. Adjusting the height of the shim assembly 100 by applying force to the extension 108 may provide a simple and convenient mode of height adjustment to a user. For instance, in applications such as those shown in Figures 17-18, where the assembly 100 is employed in a confined space 140, because the extension 108 may project out from the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 it may be more accessible to a user.

[0087] It will be appreciated that in some configurations, for instance where the shim assembly 100 does not comprise an extension 108, the position of the wedge body 115 of the firstwedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 can be adjusted by alternative means.

[0088] In some configurations, the shim assembly 100, in the assembled state, may be configured to have a resistance to the ramping displacement of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0089] In some configurations, the shim assembly 100 may have at least one retention feature 104 106 operable to slidingly retain the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0090] The shim assembly 100 may comprise at least one body retaining feature 106. As shown in Figure 1 , the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 may comprise a retaining feature 106. As shown in Figures 1 -3, the extension 108 of the first wedge member 110 may comprise a retaining feature 104.

[0091] It will be appreciated that in some configurations the shim assembly 100 does not comprise any retaining features 104 and 106. In some configurations, only the extension 108 may comprise a retaining feature 104. In some configurations, only the second wedge body 102 may comprise a retaining feature 106, as is shown in Figures 5-7. In some configurations, such as those shown in Figures 1 -4, both the extension may comprise a retaining feature 104, and the second wedge member 102 may comprise a retaining feature 106.

[0092] In some configurations, the extension 108 may comprise a plurality of retaining features 104. For instance, the extension 108 may comprise two retaining features, which, by way of example may be provided on opposing sides of the extension 108, such as is shown in Figures 8- 10. In some configurations, the second wedge member 102 may comprise a plurality of retaining features 106. For instance, the second wedge member 102 may comprise two retaining features 106, as is shown in Figures 8-10. Each of the two retaining features 106 may be configured to engage with opposing sides of the extension 108.

[0093] The retaining feature 106 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 may be configured to engage with the extension 108 of the first wedge member 110, when the shim assembly 100 is in the assembled state. The engagement with the extension 108 may be configured to create resistance to ramping displacement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110.

[0094] The retaining feature 104 of the extension 108 may be configured to engage with the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 when the shim assembly 100 is in the assembled state. The engagement with the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 may be configured to create resistance to ramping displacement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0095] In configurations such as Figures 1 -4 in which the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 comprises the retaining feature 106, and the extension 108 comprises the retaining feature 104, each retaining feature 104 and 106 may be configured to engage with the other to create a resistance to ramping displacement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0096] It will be appreciated that the resistance created by the retaining feature(s) 106 may allow a desired position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 to be secured. That is, a user may adjust the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 in order to change the height of the shim assembly 100. Once the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 has been adjusted to the desired position for the chosen height, the resistance created by the retaining feature(s) 104 and 106 may retain the desired position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0097] The degree of resistance to ramping displacement that is created by the retaining feature(s) 104 106 may vary. For example, in some configurations the retaining feature(s) 104 and 106 are configured so that the resistance to ramping displacement in each direction can only be overcome by a user applying a moderate degree of force in a longitudinal direction. In some configurations, the retaining feature(s) 104 and 106 may be configured so that the resistance to ramping displacement can only be overcome in one direction. In some configurations the resistance to ramping displacement may be overcome by actuating a release mechanism. For instance, the release mechanism may comprise a lever, a button, a smooth portion of the extension 108 or wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102, or similar mechanism accessible to the user.

[0098] In some configurations the retaining feature 106 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 comprises at least one pawl 106, and the retaining feature 104 of the extension 108 comprises a plurality of teeth 104 configured to engage with the at least one pawl 106. For instance, as shown in Figures 1 -4, the retaining feature 106 of the second wedge member 102 comprises a single pawl 106, and the retaining feature 104 of the extension 108 comprises a plurality of teeth 104. In the assembled state, as shown in Figures 2-4, the pawl 106 engages with an adjacent tooth 104 to create resistance to ramping displacement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. By way of further example, as shown in Figures 8-10, the retaining feature 106 may comprise a first and a second pawl 106, and the plurality of teeth 104 may be arranged on both a first and second side of the extension 108. In the assembled state, the first pawl 106 may be configured to engage with the plurality of teeth 104 onthe first side of the extension 108, and the second pawl 106 may be configured to engage with the plurality of teeth 104 on the second side of the extension 108.

[0099] It will be appreciated that in some configurations (not shown) the retaining feature 106 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 may comprise a plurality of teeth, and the retaining feature 104 of the extension may comprise at least one pawl. In some configurations (not shown) both retaining features 104 and 106 may comprise a plurality of teeth, or they both may comprise at least one pawl.

[0100] In some configurations only the retaining feature 106 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102, or only the retaining feature 104 of the extension 108 may comprise a pawl or a plurality of teeth. For instance, as shown in Figures 5-7, the retaining feature 106 of the second wedge member 102 comprises a pawl 106, and the extension 108 does not comprise a plurality of teeth or any other retaining feature 104. In this example, the pawl 106 may f rictiona lly engage with the extension 108 to create resistance to ramped displacement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0101] It will be appreciated that the pawls may be provided at various angles. For instance, as shown in Figures 1 -7, the pawls are angled to be substantially perpendicular to a side of the extension 108 when the shim assembly 100 is in the assembled state. By way of further example, as shown in Figures 8-10, the pawls are angled to form an acute angle with the side of the extension 108 when the shim assembly 100 is in the assembled state.

[0102] It will be appreciated that the teeth may vary. For instance, the width and depth of the teeth may vary. The shape of the teeth may also vary, for instance, the teeth may form sharper protrusions such as shown in Figures 8-10, or more rounded protrusions as shown in Figures 1 -7. The teeth may form a cavity 170 that another feature, such a pawl, may protrude into. The shape of the space may vary, for instance, as shown in Figure 4, the cavity 170 may be symmetrical, or as shown in Figure 8 the cavity 170 may be asymmetrical.

[0103] As shown in Figures 8-10, an end portion of the extension 108 may comprise a lever 109. In configurations in which the retaining feature 106 of the second wedge member 102 comprises the at least one pawl or the plurality of teeth, and the retaining feature 104 of the extension 108 comprises the at least one pawl or the plurality of teeth, the release mechanism may be actuated by pulling the lever 109 up or down so that the at least one pawl and the plurality of teeth disengage.

[0104] It will be appreciated that the retaining feature(s) 104 and 106 may comprise various forms beyond at least one pawl and / or a plurality of teeth. For instance, in one example configuration shown in Figures 11 -14, the retaining feature 106 of the second wedge member 102 may comprise a bar 106, and the retaining feature 104 of the extension may comprise one or more hooks 104. In the assembled state the bar 106 may be configured to engage with the one or morehooks 104 to create a resistance to movement between the extension 108 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0105] Wherein the zone of weakness comprises one or more lines of weakness, wherein the extension is snappable at each of the one or more lines of weakness.

[0106] As shown in Figures 1 -3, the extension 108 may comprise a zone of weakness 135. The extension 108 may be snappable at the zone of weakness 135.

[0107] It will be appreciated that in some configurations the extension 108 may not comprise a zone of weakness 135.

[0108] The zone of weakness 135 may be an area of the extension 108 that is weaker relative to other parts of the extension 108. For instance, as shown in Figures 1 -3, the zone of weakness 1 -3 may comprise one or more lines of weakness 136. The lines of weakness 136 may be provided in parallel. The lines of weakness 136 may each comprise indents, and / or an area of relative thinness, and / or an area of weakened material, and / or any other suitable configuration that makes the lines of weakness 136 weaker than the other parts of the extension 108. It will be appreciated that the zone of weakness 135 may comprise other configurations, for instance, it may comprise a generalised area of weakness.

[0109] The zone of weakness 135 is configured so that a user can snap the extension 108 by applying force at the zone of weakness 135. For instance, when the shim assembly 100 is in the assembled state, and the wedge bodies 115 and 120 have been longitudinally adjusted to create a desired height, a user may snap the extension 108 at the zone of weakness 135 to minimise the length of the extension 108 that protrudes past the wedge bodies 115 120.

[0110] In some applications the shim assembly 100 may be placed, in assembled state, into a space 140 that requires shimming, for instance as shown in Figures 17-18. The zone of weakness 135 may allow the user to snap the extension 108 to minimise the length protruding from the space 140. Shortening the length protruding from the space 140 may be useful as it creates more space for users to perform activities around the assembly 100 without being obstructed.

[0111] In some configurations the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 may be truncated relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. For instance, the length of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 may be shorter than the length of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102, as shown in Figures 1 -3. In further alternate configurations the lengths of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge body 102 may be equal.

[0112] In configurations in which the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 is truncated relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102, the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 may be restricted. That is, as shown in Figures 17, when in a fully de-rampedcondition, a base 118 of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 may not extend beyond a tip 124 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. In a fully ramped condition, a tip 119 of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 may not extend beyond a base 123 of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0113] In some configurations there may be no restriction to moving the base 118 and 123 and tips 119 124 of each wedge body 115 120 past the other.

[0114] In some examples, in the assembled state, the height of the shim assembly 100 is greater than both a maximum individual height of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, and a maximum individual height of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102. This means that in the assembled state, a first outer surface and a second outer surface of the shim assembly 100 may be defined only by the support surfaces 117 and 122 of the wedge bodies 115 120. That is, regardless of the position of the wedge bodies 115 and 120 with respect to one another, neither of the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 will extend through to the first and second outer surfaces of the shim assembly 100. For instance, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, irrespective of the position of the wedge bodies 115 120, the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 are always lower than a level of the first and second outer surfaces of the shim assembly 100. This may be useful, as the support surfaces 117 and 122 may provide a more stable and supportive interface with external objects than the ramped surfaces 116 121.

[0115] It will be appreciated that in some examples, in the assembled state, the height of the shim assembly 100 may be less than the maximum individual height of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, and / or the maximum individual height of the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102.

[0116] In the assembled state, the ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110 and the ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102 may each be provided at an acute angle relative to a vertical axis. The vertical axis may be defined as perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the shim assembly 100 in the assembled state. In some examples, a combined sum of the acute angles of the ramped surfaces 116 121 of the first and second wedge members 102 and 110 may add to 90 degrees. For instance, as shown in Figures 17-18, the angles of the ramped surfaces 116121 may be configured so that when the ramped surfaces 116 and 121 are provided in contact with each other in the assembled state, the support surfaces 117 and 122 of the first and second wedge members 102 and 110 are substantially in parallel alignment. It should be appreciated that in some configurations the combined sum may differ from 90 degrees, and the support surfaces 117 and122 may not be in parallel alignment.

[0117] Referring to Figures 15-16, in some configurations the shim assembly 100 may further comprise at least one supplementary member 150.

[0118] The supplementary member 150 may comprise a contacting surface 151 and a supplementary support surface 152. As shown in Figures 15-16, the contacting surface 151 may be configured to be positioned upon the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, in contact with the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110.

[0119] When the supplementary member 150 is positioned upon the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, the supplementary support surface 152 may define the first outer surface of the shim assembly 100. In such configurations, for instance as shown in Figure 16, the height of the shim assembly 100 may be defined by the distance between the supplementary support surface 152 and the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102. This height may be greater than the height of the shim assembly 100 when the supplementary member 150 is not positioned upon the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, which is shown for example in Figure 15: in such configurations, the first outer surface of the shim assembly 100 is still defined by the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110, and the height is still defined as the difference between the support surfaces 117 and 122 of the wedge members 102 and 110. The supplementary member 150 may therefore provide a convenient way for a user to increase the height of the shim assembly 100. This may be useful where the user has already adjusted the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 to maximise the height of the shim assembly 100, but the given application still requires additional height, for instance if the shim assembly 100 is being used to shim a space 140 that is larger than a maximum height of the shim assembly 100.

[0120] In some configurations a shape of the supplementary member 150 is configured to correspond to a lateral dimension of the support surface 117 of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. In such configurations, such as shown in Figure 16, when the supplementary member 150 is positioned upon the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110, an edge of the contacting surface 151 may be aligned with an edge of the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110. In some configurations the shape of the supplementary member 150 may be configured to be different to the shape of the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110.

[0121] In some examples, the contacting surface 151 of the at least one supplementary member 150 may comprise a lower securing mechanism configured to secure the supplementary member 150 to the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110. For instance, the lower securing mechanism may comprise a protrusion that is configured to couple with a groove 160 in the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110. In other configurations, the lower securing mechanism 153 may secure the contacting surface 151 to the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 by alternative means. For instance, the lower securing mechanism may comprise a textured surface that securesthe contacting surface 151 to the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 through friction.

[0122] In some configurations the shim assembly 100 may comprise a plurality of supplementary members 150. The contacting surface 151 of one of the plurality of supplementary members 150 may be positioned upon the supplementary support surface 152 of another supplementary member 150. This may allow additional increases in height. This may be useful in applications where the space 140 that requires shimming is larger than the shim assembly 100 with a single supplementary member 150 positioned upon the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110.

[0123] In some configurations the supplementary support surface 152 may comprise an upper securing mechanism 154. The upper securing mechanism 154 may be configured to couple with the lower securing mechanism 153 of another supplementary member 150. For instance, the upper securing mechanism 154 may comprise a groove 154, as shown in Figures 18 and 19. In configurations in which the lower securing mechanism 153 comprises a protrusion 153, such as Figure 15, the groove 154 may be coupled to the protrusion 153. In other configurations, the upper securing mechanism 154 may comprise an alternative form, for instance it may be a textured surface.

[0124] It will be appreciated that in some configurations the supplementary members 150 comprise only the upper securing mechanism 154 or the lower securing mechanism. In some configurations the supplementary members 150 comprise neither the upper securing mechanism 154 nor the lower securing mechanism.

[0125] It will be appreciated that in some configurations the shim assembly 100 may not comprise any supplementary member 150.

[0126] In some configurations the support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 may comprise an adhesive. In some configurations, additionally or alternatively, the support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102 may comprise an adhesive. The adhesive may allow the shim assembly 100 to be adhered to external surfaces. This may increase usability of the shim assembly 100, as it may allow the shim assembly 100 to be held in a desired position, for instance in a space 140 that the assembly 100 is being used to shim.

[0127] In some configurations a non-adhesive removable layer may be provided over the adhesive of the first wedge member 110 and / or the adhesive of the second wedge member 102. The non-adhesive removable layers may adhere to the adhesive layers and be removable when a user chooses to apply the adhesive layers to external surfaces. For instance, the non-adhesive removable layer may be a peel off backing that is non-adhesive on its outer face.

[0128] The shim assembly 100 may be constructed from durable materials. For instance, in some configurations the shim assembly 100 may be constructed from a durable plastic such asAcrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. By way of further example, the shim assembly 100 may be constructed from metals or composites. It will be appreciated that different parts of the shim assembly 100 may be constructed from different materials.

[0129] As has been discussed, one possible application of the shim assembly 100 is to shim spaces 140. For example, as shown in Figures 17-19, the shim assembly 100 may be inserted into the space 140 between a first external surface 200 and a second external surface 202. The shim assembly 100 may then shim the space 140.

[0130] In some configurations, the height of the shim assembly 100 may be adjusted by adjusting the position of the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member as discussed. By adjusting the height, a user may precisely shim the space 140. For instance, in Figure 17, the shim assembly 100 is shown before being adjusted and does not completely shim the space 140. In Figure 18, the height of the shim assembly 100 has been adjusted so that the shim assembly 100 substantially fills the space.

[0131] In some configurations the disclosure may relate to a method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame. The method may comprise inserting a shim assembly 100 into a space 140, the shim assembly 100 comprising a first wedge member 110 having an extension 108 and a second wedge member 102. The method may then further comprise drawing on the extension 108 while retaining a support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102 to expand the shim assembly 100 and shim the space 140.

[0132] In some configurations the disclosure may relate to a method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame, the method comprising mounting a first wedge member 102 to the door or the frame by an adhesive of a support surface 122 of the first wedge member 102. The method may further comprise assembling a second wedge member 110 to the first wedge member 102 so that an extension 108 of the second wedge member 110 projects beyond a support surface 122 of the first wedge 102 and respective ramped surfaces 116 and 121 of the first wedge member 102 and second wedge member 110 are mutually slidable. The method may further comprise drawing on the extension 108 to rampingly slide the first wedge member 102 against the second wedge member 110 on their respective ramped surfaces 116 and 121.

[0133] It will be appreciated that the shim assembly 100 can be provided in in various unassembled state as shown in Figure 1 . For instance, the shim assembly 100 may be provided as a kit of parts comprising at least:• the first wedge member 110 comprising a wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 and an extension 108; and• a second wedge member 102 comprising a wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102;• wherein the wedge body 115 of the first wedge member 110 comprises a support surface 117 of the first wedge member 110 and a ramped surface 116 of the first wedge member 110, and the wedge body 120 of the second wedge member 102 comprises a support surface 122 of the second wedge member 102 and a ramped surface 121 of the second wedge member 102.In some configurations the kits of parts may additionally comprise any of the other features disclosed in this specification.

[0134] In some configurations the present disclosure relates to an adjustable wedge assembly 100, comprising two wedge-shaped components, namely a base wedge 102 and a top wedge 110. The base wedge 102 and top wedge 110 are constructed from durable materials, such as plastics, metals, or composites, to withstand the demands of their intended applications.

[0135] To maintain the adjusted position securely, the adjustable wedge assembly 100 features an integrated ratcheting mechanism. The ratcheting mechanism includes a toothed element 106, often referred to as a pawl, which is affixed to one of the wedge components, in this case, the base wedge 102.

[0136] The opposing wedge component, the top wedge 110, is equipped with corresponding teeth or serrations along a pull tab 108. When the top wedgel 10 is adjusted to the desired height, the toothed element 104 engages with the teeth 106 on the base wedge 102, preventing unintentional movement and ensuring stability during installation. The ratcheting mechanism may provide secure locking without the need for additional tools.

[0137] To reposition the adjustable wedge assembly 100 or release it from its secured position, a release mechanism is employed. The release mechanism may consist of a lever, button, non-toothed area or similar mechanism accessible to the user. Actuating the release mechanism disengages the toothed element 104 from the serrations, allowing free movement of the top wedge 110 along the inclined surface of the base wedge 102. This feature may provide flexibility and ease of use in various shimming and alignment scenarios.

[0138] The adjustable wedge assembly 100 may provide a versatile, efficient, and secure solution for shimming and alignment tasks in diverse industries and applications. It may provide improved speed, accuracy, and / or ease of use compared to traditional shimming methods.

[0139] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to elements or integers having known equivalents, then such equivalents are included as if they were individually set forth.

[0140] Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Therefore, the preferred embodiments should beconsidered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, and also the technical scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments. Furthermore, the present invention is defined not by the detailed description of the invention but by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope will be construed as being comprised in the present disclosure.

[0141] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A shim assembly, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body; wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member, and the wedge body of the second wedge member, each comprise a support surface and a ramped surface; wherein, the shim assembly is configurable in an assembled state by locating the ramped surface of the first wedge member against the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state a height of the shim assembly is defined by a distance between the support surface of the first wedge member and the support surface of the second wedge member, and the height of the shim assembly is adjustable by a force applied to the extension to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

2. The shim assembly of claim 1 , wherein the extension projects from the wedge body of the first wedge member, in a ramped direction of the wedge body of the first wedge member.

3. The shim assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the extension is insertable through the wedge body of the second wedge member to configure the shim assembly in the assembled state.

4. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the ramped surfaces comprises a groove, and the other of the ramped surfaces comprises a corresponding projection, the groove and the corresponding projection being configured to couple when the shim assembly is configured in the assembled state.

5. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the wedge body of the second wedge member comprises a retaining feature that is configured to engage with the extension when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

6. The shim assembly of claim 5, wherein the retaining feature of the second wedge member comprises at least one pawl or a plurality of teeth.

7. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the extension comprises a retaining feature that is configured to engage with the wedge body of the second wedge member when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

8. The shim assembly of claim 7, wherein the retaining feature of the extension comprises at least one pawl or a plurality of teeth.

9. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the wedge body of the second wedge member comprises a retaining feature, and the extension comprises a retaining feature, wherein each retaining feature is configured to engage with the other retaining feature when the shim assembly is in the assembled state to create a resistance to the ramping displacement of the first wedge member relative to the second wedge member.

10. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the extension comprises a zone of weakness at which the extension is snappable.11 . The shim assembly of claim 10, wherein the zone of weakness comprises one or more lines of weakness, wherein the extension is snappable at each of the one or more lines of weakness.

12. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member is truncated relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

13. The shim assembly of claim 12, wherein, in a fully de-ramped condition, a base of the wedge body of the first wedge member does not extend beyond a tip of the wedge body of the second wedge member, and in a fully ramped condition a tip of the wedge body of the first wedge member does not extend beyond a base of the wedge body of the second wedge member.

14. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, in the assembled state, the height of the shim assembly is greater than both a maximum individual height of the wedge body of the first wedge member, and a maximum individual height of the wedge body of the second wedge member.

15. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein in the assembled state, the support surface of the first wedge member is substantially parallel to the support surface of the second wedge member.

16. The shim assembly of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the shim assembly further comprises at least one supplementary member comprising a contacting surface and a supplementary support surface, wherein the contacting surface is configured to contact the support surface of the first wedge member.

17. The shim assembly of claim 16, wherein the supplementary support surface is configured to contact the contacting surface of another of the at least one supplementary members.

18. A shim assembly comprising: a first wedge member comprising an extension and a wedge body defining a ramped surface, the extension projecting along the wedge body of the first wedge member and extending distally of a tip of the wedge body of the first wedge member, and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body defining a ramped surface, wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member is operable to be drawn to the wedge body of the second wedge member by the extension to slide the respective ramped surfaces against each other to expand the shim assembly.

19. A kit of parts for a shim, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body; wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member, and the wedge body of the second wedge member, each comprise a support surface and a ramped surface; wherein, the kit of parts is configurable in an assembled state by locating the ramped surface of the first wedge member against the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state a height of the shim assembly is defined by a distance between the support surface of the first wedge member and the support surface of the second wedge member, and the height of the shim assembly is adjustable by a force applied to the extension to provide a ramping displacement of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member.

20. A shim assembly, comprising: a first wedge member comprising a wedge body and an extension that projects outwards from the wedge body of the first wedge member, wherein the wedge body of the first wedge member comprises a support surface and a ramped surface; and a second wedge member comprising a wedge body, the wedge body comprising a support surface and a ramped surface; a pawl connected to the first wedge member; and a plurality of teeth connected to the second wedge; wherein, the shim assembly can be provided in an assembled state by positioning the ramped surface of the first wedge member in contact with the ramped surface of the second wedge member; wherein, in the assembled state the pawl is configured to engage with at least one of the plurality of teeth so that a position of the wedge body of the first wedge member relative to the wedge body of the second wedge member can be secured.21 . The shim assembly of claim 20, wherein the pawl and the at least one plurality of teeth can be disengaged by a user actuating a release mechanism.

22. The shim assembly of claim 21 , wherein an end portion of the extension comprises a lever, and the release mechanism is actuated by pulling the lever so that the pawl and the at least one plurality of teeth disengage.

23. A method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame, the method comprising: inserting a shim assembly into a space, the shim assembly comprising: a) a first wedge member having an extension, and b) a second wedge member, and drawing on the extension while retaining a support surface of the second wedge member to expand the shim assembly and shim the space.

24. A method of shimming a door or window relative to a frame, the method comprising: mounting a first wedge member to the door or the frame by an adhesive of a support surface of the first wedge member,assembling a second wedge member to the first wedge member so that an extension of the second wedge member projects beyond a base of the first wedge member and respective ramped surfaces of the first wedge member and second wedge member are mutually slidable, and drawing on the extension to rampingly slide the first wedge member against the second wedge member on their respective ramped surfaces.

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