A grid assembly

Abstract

A grid assembly (10) which includes a plurality of bars (12) arranged to form a grating (14); a retaining arrangement (16) for retaining the bars (12) in a grating forming position; and a securing arrangement (18) for securing the retaining arrangement (16) and the plurality of bars (12) to an inlet of a drain (not shown).

Description

[0001] A GRID ASSEMBLY

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This invention relates to a grid assembly. In particular, this invention relates to a grid assembly for a drain, preferably being a catchment drain.

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to the invention there is provided a grid assembly including: - a plurality of bars arranged to form a grating;

[0006] a retaining arrangement for retaining the bars in a grating forming position; and a securing arrangement for securing the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars to an inlet of a drain.

[0007] The plurality of bars may have an elongate form. The plurality of bars may have a generally rectangular shape when viewed in plan.

[0008] The plurality of bars may be arranged in any suitable configuration to form the grating. In one form of the invention, the plurality of bars may be arranged substantially parallel to each other to form the grating. In another form of the invention, the plurality of bars may be arranged in a first and a second set. Preferably, the first set of bars may be arranged substantially parallel to each other, and the second set of bars may also be arranged substantially parallel to each other and substantially normally relative the first set of bars in the grating forming position.

[0009] The plurality of bars may include engaging formations for allowing complementary engagement with each other to form the grating. The engaging formations may be in the form of a plurality of any one or more of the group including a slit, slot, aperture, and recess, preferably being in the form of a plurality of slots. Theslots may extend from an edge region towards a substantially central region of each bar.

[0010] The plurality of bars may engage with each other via their respective slots. The plurality of bars may engage with each other via their respective slots such that terminal ends of the respective slots abut each other in an engaged condition. In the engaged condition, the plurality of bars may be arranged such that their respective opposing surfaces are substantially flush with each other. Further, in the engaged condition, sections of the bars adjacent to the slots may sit astride portions of the bars extending between the terminal ends of the slots and an outer surface of the bars.

[0011] The first set of bars may be substantially identical to each other. The second set of bars may be substantially identical to each other. The first set of bars and the second set of bars may have different lengths. Preferably, the first set of bars may be longer than the second set of bars. The first set of bars and the second set of bars may have a different number of slots defined therein. The first set of bars may have more slots defined therein than the second set of bars. The first set of bars may have 9 slots defined therein for engaging with 9 bars of the second set. The second set of bars may have 7 slots defined therein for engaging with 7 bars of the first set.

[0012] The first set of bars may have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively, preferably being 741 cm, 5 cm, 0.5 cm respectively.

[0013] The second set of bars may have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively, preferably being 586 cm, 5 cm, and 0.5 cm, respectively.The grating formed by the plurality of bars may be of any suitable geometric shape when viewed in plan. Preferably, the grating formed by the plurality of bars may have a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in plan.

[0014] The retaining arrangement may be sized, shaped, and configured to correspond to a size, shape, and / or configuration of the plurality of bars in the grating formation.

[0015] The retaining arrangement may be in the form of a plurality of elongate retaining members. Preferably, four retaining members may be provided, one for each side of the grating formation. The retaining members may be generally rectangular when viewed side on and may have a generally U-shaped or C-shaped cross section. In particular, each of the retaining members may include a base wall and side walls extending from opposing end regions of the base wall so as to define a receiving zone for receiving a side region of the grating formation therein, in a retained condition, wherein each retaining member receives one of four side regions of the grating formation. The retaining members may be sized, shaped, and / or configured to accommodate each other in the retained condition. In particular, end regions of the retaining members may be chamfered to permit end-to-end placement of each retaining member around the perimeter of the grating formation. The end regions of the retaining members may be chamfered at an angle in the region of 45 degrees.

[0016] Each of the bars may include a mating formation for mating with the retaining arrangement in a male-female manner. Typically, each of the bars may include mating formations defined on either end thereof for mating with retaining members arranged on either side thereof. The mating formations may include a neck portion which may have a width which corresponds to a size of the receiving zone of each retaining member. In particular, the neck portion may have a width which allows complementary receipt thereof between opposing inner surfaces of the retaining member. The mating formation may include a locating formation for locating the bars relative to each other and to the retaining members. The locating formation may be in the form of aprotrusion extending from the neck portion. The protrusion may be sized and / or shaped to be received complementally by an aperture defined in the base wall of the retaining members in a located condition. In the located condition, an end portion of the protrusion may be arranged substantially flush relative an outer surface of the base wall of the retaining member. A plurality of apertures may be defined in the base wall of each retaining member for receiving protrusions of each of the bars, thereby allowing the bars to be spaced substantially equidistantly from each other.

[0017] The securing arrangement may include a frame sized, shaped, and / or configured to receive the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars complementally therein. The frame may be defined by four elongate supports. Each of the elongate supports may include a base portion and a wall extending substantially normally from the base portion. End regions of each of the elongate supports may be chamfered to permit complementary engagement between elongate supports abutting each other.

[0018] The securing arrangement may include an attachment means for attaching the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars to the frame. The attachment means may be connected via attachment apertures defined in the frame and retaining arrangement. The attachment apertures may be defined in side walls of the retaining members and / or walls of the elongate supports of the frame. Preferably, the attachment apertures may be defined in an operatively lower side wall of the retaining member, wherein the operatively lower side wall of the retaining member may typically be arranged in close proximity to the base portion of the elongate supports of the frame. The attachment means may be in the form of a plurality of nut, bolt, and / or washer assemblies connected via attachment apertures defined in the frame and retaining arrangement. An access aperture may be provided for accessing the attachment apertures and / or the attachment means. Preferably, a plurality of access apertures may be provided for accessing the attachment apertures and / or attachment means. The access aperture may be defined in one of the side walls of the retaining member. Preferably, the access aperture may be defined in an outer side wall of the retaining member. It is to be appreciated that the arrangement of the attachmentapertures in the operatively lower side walls and the access apertures in the operatively upper side walls may make it challenging to access the attachment means arranged in the attachment apertures. The attachment means may be accessed via the access apertures, to deter theft thereof.

[0019] An accessing tool may be provided for accessing the attachment apertures and attachment means via the access apertures. The accessing tool may include a mating portion for mating with the attachment means, and a shaft extending from the mating portion for allowing the mating portion to extend through one of the access apertures to reach the attachment apertures and / or attachment means. The accessing tool may include a handle extending from the shaft for permitting pivotal and / or rotational movement of the shaft, such that the attachment means may be inserted into or removed from the attachment apertures.

[0020] The attachment means may be in the form of a plurality of screws, each screw including a head configured to shear off when a torsional force is applied thereto, thereby deterring the screw from being removed. It is to be appreciated that it may be advantageous to deter the screws from being removed so as to deter theft thereof. The attachment means may be in the form of a screw or bolt designed with a specific head that is more difficult to remove than generic screw or bolt heads.

[0021] The securing arrangement may include an anchoring member for anchoring the frame to the inlet of the drain. The anchoring member may extend from a base region of the frame at an angle, typically extending at an angle in the range of 15 to 60 degrees, preferably being 45-degrees.

[0022] The anchoring member may include an extension portion and legs extending from a free end region of the extension portion for enhancing the anchoring ability thereof. The legs may be arranged at an angle relative to each other, preferably being arranged substantially normally relative to each other. A plurality of anchoringmembers may be provided for anchoring the frame at a plurality of locations around the perimeter thereof.

[0023] The drain may be in the form of a cast concrete channel. The grid assembly may be sized, shaped, and / or configured to correspond to a size, shape, and / or configuration of the drain.

[0024] The grid assembly may be manufactured from any suitable material, preferably being manufactured from any suitable metallic material. Further preferably, the grid assembly may be manufactured from mild steel or stainless steel. Where mild steel is used the completed configuration will be hot dipped galvanised, bitumen treated or painted to ensure durability and protection against corrosion.

[0025] In use, concrete may be poured around the anchoring members such that they are embedded in the concrete. It is to be appreciated that embedding the anchoring members in concrete may allow the anchoring members, and with them the frame, to remain in a predetermined position and to deter theft and movement thereof. When the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars are connected to the frame via the attachment means, the anchoring member may then retain the frame, retaining arrangement, and plurality of bars in the predetermined position.

[0026] In use, the anchoring members may be connected to the base region of the frame. The frame along, and with it the connected anchoring members, may then placed at the inlet of the drain. Concrete may be poured such that the anchoring members may be embedded therein. Thereafter, the first and second sets of bars may be engaged with one another via their respective slots to form the grating. The protrusions of the plurality of bars may then be mated with the apertures of the elongate retaining members to retain the bars in the grating forming position. The retaining members may then be connected to the elongate supports of the frame by connecting the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies via the attachment apertures. Toremove the grating, the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies may be detached to remove the retaining arrangement, and with it, the grating. It is to be appreciated that the frame may allow different configurations of the grating to be received therein. Additionally, the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies may allow the grating to be removed for maintenance purposes or to access the drain.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] A grid assembly in accordance with the invention will now be described by way of the following, non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] In the drawings: - Figure 1 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a grid assembly in accordance with the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 is a three-dimensional schematic showing an exploded view of a plurality of bars;

[0031] Figure 3 is a three-dimensional schematic showing an exploded view of a retaining arrangement arranged around the plurality of bars in a grating forming position;

[0032] Figure 4 is a three-dimensional schematic showing an assembled view of the retaining arrangement and plurality of bars in the grating forming position;

[0033] Figure 5 is a two-dimensional schematic showing a top view of the retaining arrangement and plurality of bars in the grating forming position;

[0034] Figure 6 is a two-dimensional schematic showing a section view of the retaining arrangement and plurality of bars shown in Figure 5;

[0035] Figure 7 is a two-dimensional schematic showing an enlarged view of the mating between a mating formation of one of the bars and an aperture in the retaining arrangement;

[0036] Figure 8 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a securing arrangement of the grid assembly;Figure 9 is a three-dimensional schematic showing an exploded view of the securing arrangement shown in Figure 8;

[0037] Figure 10 is a two-dimensional schematic showing a top view of the securing arrangement shown in Figure 8 and 9;

[0038] Figure 11 is a two-dimensional schematic showing a side view of the securing arrangement shown in Figure 8, 9, and 10;

[0039] Figure 12 is a three-dimensional schematic showing an enlarged view of an anchoring member of the securing arrangement shown in Figure 1 ;

[0040] Figure 13 is a three-dimensional schematic showing the grid assembly arranged on a drain in the form of a cast concrete channel; and

[0041] Figure 14 is a two-dimensional schematic showing an enlarged section view of an accessing tool and attachment means.

[0042] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] Referring now to the drawings reference numeral (10) refers generally to a grid assembly. The grid assembly (10) includes a plurality of bars (12) arranged to form a grating (14), as shown in Figure 3; a retaining arrangement (16) for retaining the bars (12) in a grating forming position; and a securing arrangement (18) for securing the retaining arrangement (16) and the plurality of bars (12) to an inlet of a drain (not shown).

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, the plurality of bars (12) have an elongate form. The plurality of bars (12) have a generally rectangular shape when viewed in plan.

[0045] The plurality of bars (12) are arranged in any suitable configuration to form the grating (14). In one form of the invention, the plurality of bars (12) are arranged substantially parallel to each other to form the grating (not shown). In another form of the invention, as shown in Figure 2, the plurality of bars (12) are arranged in a first (20) and a second set (22). Typically, the first set of bars (20) are arrangedsubstantially parallel to each other, and the second set of bars (22) are also arranged substantially parallel to each other and substantially normally relative the first set of bars (20) in the grating forming position, as shown in Figure 2 and 3.

[0046] The plurality of bars (12) include engaging formations (24) for allowing complementary engagement with each other to form the grating (14). The engaging formations (24) are in the form of a plurality of any one or more of the group including a slit, slot, aperture, and recess, typically being in the form of a plurality of slots (26). As shown in Figure 7, the slots (26) extend from an edge region (28) towards a substantially central region (30) of each bar (12).

[0047] The plurality of bars (12) engage with each other via their respective slots (26). The plurality of bars (12) engage with each other via their respective slots such that terminal ends (32) of the respective slots (26) abut each other in an engaged condition, as shown in Figure 3. In the engaged condition, the plurality of bars (12) are arranged such that their respective opposing surfaces (34) are substantially flush with each other. Further, in the engaged condition, sections of the bars (36) adjacent to the slots (26) sit astride portions of the bars (38) extending between the terminal ends (32) of the slots and the edge region (28) of the bars (12).

[0048] The first set of bars (20) are substantially identical to each other. The second set of bars (22) are substantially identical to each other. The first set of bars (20) and the second set of bars (22) have different lengths. Typically, the first set of bars (20) are longer than the second set of bars (22). The first set of bars (20) and the second set (22) of bars have a different number of slots (26) defined therein. The first set of bars (20) have more slots (26) defined therein than the second set of bars (22), most clearly shown in Figure 2. The first set of bars (20) have 9 slots (26) defined therein for engaging with 9 bars of the second set (22). The second set of bars (22) have 7 slots (26) defined therein for engaging with 7 bars of the first set (20).The first set of bars (20) have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively, typically being 741 cm, 5 cm, and 0.5 cm, respectively.

[0049] The second set of bars (22) have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively, typically being 586 cm, 5 cm, and 0.5 cm, respectively.

[0050] The grating (14) formed by the plurality of bars (12) is of any suitable geometric shape when viewed in plan. Typically, the grating (14) formed by the plurality of bars (12) has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in plan, as shown in Figure 5.

[0051] The retaining arrangement (16) is sized, shaped, and configured to correspond to a size, shape, and configuration of the plurality of bars (12) in the grating formation (14), as shown most clearly in Figure 3, 4, and 5.

[0052] The retaining arrangement (16) is in the form of a plurality of elongate retaining members (40), as shown in Figure 3. Typically, four retaining members (40) are provided, one for each side of the grating formation (14). The retaining members (16) are generally rectangular when viewed side on and have a generally U-shaped or C-shaped cross section, as shown in Section A-A of Figure 6. In particular, each of the retaining members (40) include a base wall (42) and side walls (44) extending from opposing end regions of the base wall (42) so as to define a receiving zone (46), as shown in Figure 3, for receiving a side region of the grating formation (14) therein, in a retained condition, wherein each retaining member (40) receives one of four side regions of the grating formation (14). The retaining members (40) are sized, shaped, and configured to accommodate each other in the retained condition. In particular, end regions of the retaining members (40) are chamfered to permit end-to-end placement of each retaining member (40) around the perimeter of the grating formation (14), asshown in Figure 5. The end regions (48) of the retaining members (40) are chamfered at an angle in the region of 45 degrees, as shown in Figure 5.

[0053] Each of the bars (12) includes a mating formation (50) for mating with the retaining arrangement (16) in a male-female manner. Typically, each of the bars include mating formations (50) defined on either end thereof for mating with retaining members (40) arranged on either side thereof. The mating formations (50) include a neck portion (52) which has a width which corresponds to a size of the receiving zone (46) of each retaining member (40), as shown in Figure 6 and 7. In particular, the neck portion (52) has a width which allows complementary receipt thereof between opposing inner surfaces (54) of the retaining member (40). The mating formation (50) includes a locating formation (56) for locating the bars (12) relative to each other and to the retaining members (40). The locating formation (56) is in the form of a protrusion (58) extending from the neck portion (52). The protrusion (58) is sized and shaped to be received complementally by an aperture (60) defined in the base wall (42) of the retaining members (40) in a located condition, as shown in Figure 6. In the located condition, an end portion (62) of the protrusion (58) is arranged substantially flush relative an outer surface (64) of the base wall (42) of the retaining member (40), as shown in Figure 6. A plurality of apertures (66) are defined in the base wall (42) of each retaining member (40) for receiving protrusions (58) of each of the bars (12), thereby allowing the bars (12) to be spaced substantially equidistantly from each other.

[0054] The securing arrangement (18) includes a frame (68) sized, shaped, and configured to receive the retaining arrangement (16) and the plurality of bars (12) complementally therein. The frame (68) is defined by four elongate supports (70), as shown in Figure 9. Each of the elongate supports (70) includes a base portion (72) and a wall (74) extending substantially normally from the base portion (72). End regions (76) of each of the elongate supports (70) are chamfered to permit complementary engagement between elongate supports (70) abutting each other, as shown in Figure 10.The securing arrangement (18) includes an attachment means (78) for attaching the retaining arrangement (16) and the plurality of bars (12) to the frame (68). The attachment means (78) is connected via attachment apertures (80) defined in the frame (68) and retaining arrangement (16). The attachment apertures (80) are defined in side walls (44) of the retaining members (40) and walls (74) of the elongate supports (70) of the frame (68). Typically, the attachment apertures (80) are defined in an operatively lower side wall (82) of the retaining member (40), wherein the operatively lower side wall (82) of the retaining member (40) are typically arranged in close proximity to the base portion (72) of the elongate supports (70) of the frame (68). The attachment means (78) is in the form of a plurality of nut, bolt, and / or washer assemblies connected via attachment apertures (80) defined in the frame (68) and retaining arrangement (16). An access aperture (84) is provided for accessing the attachment apertures (80) and the attachment means (78). Typically, a plurality of access apertures (84) are provided for accessing the attachment apertures (80) and attachment means (78). The access aperture (84) is defined in one of the side walls (44) of the retaining member (40). Typically, the access aperture (84) is defined in an outer side wall (86) of the retaining member (40), typically being defined in an operatively upper side wall (86) of the retaining member (40), as shown in Figure 13. It is to be appreciated that the arrangement of the attachment apertures (80) in the operatively lower side walls (82) and the access apertures (84) in the operatively upper side walls (86) makes it challenging to access the attachment means (78) arranged in the attachment apertures (80). The attachment means (78) are accessed via the access apertures (84), to deter theft thereof.

[0055] An accessing tool (88) is provided for accessing the attachment apertures (80) and attachment means (78) via the access apertures (84). The accessing tool (88) includes a mating portion (90) for mating with the attachment means (78), and a shaft (92) extending from the mating portion (90) for allowing the mating portion (90) to extend through one of the access apertures (84) to reach the attachment apertures (80) and attachment means (78). The accessing tool (88) includes a handle (94) extending from the shaft (92) for permitting pivotal or rotational movement of the shaft (92), such that the attachment means (78) is inserted into or removed from the attachment apertures (80).The attachment means (78) is in the form of a plurality of screws, each screw including a head configured to shear off when a torsional force is applied thereto, thereby deterring the screw from being removed. It is to be appreciated that it is advantageous to deter the screws from being removed so as to deter theft thereof. The attachment means (78) is in the form of a screw or bolt designed with a specific head that is more difficult to remove than generic screw or bolt heads.

[0056] The securing arrangement (18) includes an anchoring member (96) for anchoring the frame (68) to the inlet of the drain (not shown). The anchoring member (96) extends from a base region (98) of the frame (68) at an angle, typically extending at an angle in the range of 15 to 60 degrees, typically being 45-degrees, as shown in Figure 11.

[0057] The anchoring member (96) includes an extension portion (100) and legs (102) extending from a free end region (104) of the extension portion (100) for enhancing the anchoring ability thereof, most clearly shown in Figure 12. The legs (102) are arranged at an angle relative to each other, typically being arranged substantially normally relative to each other, as shown in Figure 11. A plurality of anchoring members (96) are provided for anchoring the frame (68) at a plurality of locations around the perimeter thereof.

[0058] The drain is in the form of a cast concrete channel (106), as shown in Figure 13. The grid assembly (10) is sized, shaped, and configured to correspond to a size, shape, and configuration of the drain.

[0059] The grid assembly is manufactured from any suitable material, typically being manufactured from any suitable metallic material. Typically, the grid assembly is manufactured from mild steel or stainless steel. Where mild steel is used thecompleted configuration will be hot dipped galvanised, bitumen treated or painted to ensure durability and protection against corrosion.

[0060] In use, concrete is poured around the anchoring members such that they are embedded in the concrete. It is to be appreciated that embedding the anchoring members in concrete allows the anchoring members, and with them the frame, to remain in a predetermined position and to deter theft and movement thereof. When the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars are connected to the frame via the attachment means, the anchoring member retains the frame, retaining arrangement, and plurality of bars in the predetermined position.

[0061] In use, the anchoring members are connected to the base region of the frame. The frame along, and with it the connected anchoring members, are then placed at the inlet of the drain. Concrete is poured such that the anchoring members are embedded therein. Thereafter, the first and second sets of bars are engaged with one another via their respective slots to form the grating. The protrusions of the plurality of bars are then mated with the apertures of the elongate retaining members to retain the bars in the grating forming position. The retaining members are then connected to the elongate supports of the frame by connecting the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies via the attachment apertures. To remove the grating, the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies may be detached to remove the retaining arrangement, and with it, the grating. It is to be appreciated that the frame allows different configurations of the grating to be received therein. Additionally, the nut, bolt, and washer assemblies allow the grating to be removed for maintenance purposes or to access the drain.

[0062] It is, of course, to be appreciated that the grid assembly in accordance with the invention is not limited to the precise constructional and functional details as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings and which may be varied as desired.Although only certain embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be understood by any person skilled in the art that other modifications, variations, and possibilities of the invention are possible. Such modifications, variations and possibilities are therefore to be considered as falling within the spirit and scope of the invention and hence form part of the invention as herein described and / or exemplified. It is further to be understood that the examples are provided for illustrating the invention further and to assist a person skilled in the art with understanding the invention and is not meant to be construed as unduly limiting the reasonable scope of the invention.

[0063] The inventor believes that the grid assembly in accordance with the present invention is advantageous in that the arrangement of the access apertures and the attachment apertures is such that the attachment means is challenging to access without having a specific tool, such as the accessing tool as herein described. This is advantageous in that it makes the grating and retaining arrangement challenging to remove without having the accessing tool, thus deterring theft thereof. Additionally, since the attachment means is attached to the lower side walls of the retaining members, vehicles do not drive directly thereover, thus deterring the attachment means from loosening due to vehicles being driven thereover, and deterring the attachment means from catching on the vehicle and potentially creating a hazard. Further, the inventor believes that the engagement of the first and second sets of bars via their respective slots is advantageous as it creates a structure that can withstand a force along an axis of the first set of bars, as well as a force along an axis of the second set of bars, thereby allowing the grating to be placed in a location where it must withstand a greater force, such as on a section of a road. The inventor further believes that the securing arrangement, as well as the attachment means is advantageous as it ensures that the grating and retaining arrangement stays in place and is not displaced when a vehicle drives thereover. This is advantageous, as presently known grid assemblies have a tendency to be displaced if a vehicle drives thereover, thus creating a potential hazard. Further, since the grid assembly can be driven over by vehicles without being displaced, it can form an integral part of a road, as opposed to having to be on the side of the road so as not to create a hazard when a vehicle drives thereover. This may allow for improved water drainage on roads, thuspotentially deterring flooding. The inventor further believes that the grid assembly is advantageous in that different configurations of the bars may be inserted into the frame. The grid assembly also allows high volumes of water or other drainage to pass through the plurality of bars, thus making the grid assembly applicable to industrial or high-volume drainage applications.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A grid assembly including: - a plurality of bars arranged to form a grating;a retaining arrangement for retaining the bars in a grating forming position; and a securing arrangement for securing the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars to an inlet of a drain.

2. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plurality of bars have an elongate form.

3. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the plurality of bars have a generally rectangular shape when viewed in plan.

4. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the plurality of bars are arranged substantially parallel to each other to form the grating.

5. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the plurality of bars are arranged in a first and a second set.

6. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 5 wherein the first set of bars are arranged substantially parallel to each other, and the second set of bars are also arranged substantially parallel to each other and substantially normally relative the first set of bars in the grating forming position.

7. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the plurality of bars include engaging formations for allowing complementary engagement with each other to form the grating.

8. The grid assembly as claimed claim 7 wherein the engaging formations are in the form of a plurality of any one or more of the group including a slit, slot, aperture, and recess.

9. The grid assembly as claimed claim 7 or 8 wherein the engaging formations are in the form of a plurality of slots.

10. The grid assembly as claimed claim 9 wherein the slots extend from an edge region towards a substantially central region of each bar.

11. The grid assembly as claimed claim 9 or 10 wherein the plurality of bars engage with each other via their respective slots.

12. The grid assembly as claimed any one or more of claims 9 to 11 wherein the plurality of bars engage with each other via their respective slots such that terminal ends of the respective slots abut each other in an engaged condition.

13. The grid assembly as claimed claim 12 wherein in the engaged condition, the plurality of bars are arranged such that their respective opposing surfaces are substantially flush with each other.

14. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 12 or 13 wherein, in the engaged condition, sections of the bars adjacent to the slots sit astride portions of the bars extending between the terminal ends of the slots and an outer surface of the bars.

15. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 5 to 14 wherein the first set of bars are longer than the second set of bars.

16. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 5 to 15 wherein the first set of bars and the second set of bars have a different number of slots defined therein.

17. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 5 to 16 wherein the first set of bars have more slots defined therein than the second set of bars.

18. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 5 to 17 wherein the first set of bars have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively.

19. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 5 to 18 wherein the second set of bars have a length, width, and thickness in the region of 30 cm to 120 cm, 3 cm to 8 cm, and 0.3 cm to 0.8 cm, respectively.

20. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the grating formed by the plurality of bars has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed in plan.

21. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the retaining arrangement is sized, shaped, and configured to correspond to a size, shape, and configuration of the plurality of bars in the grating formation.

22. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the retaining arrangement is in the form of a plurality of elongate retaining members.

23. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein four retaining members are provided, one for each side of the grating formation.

24. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 22 or 23 wherein the retaining members are generally rectangular when viewed side on.

25. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 22 to 24 wherein the retaining members have a generally U-shaped or C-shaped cross section.

26. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 22 to 25 wherein each of the retaining members includes a base wall and side walls extending from opposing end regions of the base wall so as to define a receiving zone for receiving a side region of the grating formation therein in a retained condition, wherein each retaining member receives one of four side regions of the grating formation.

27. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 22 to 26 wherein the retaining members are sized, shaped, and configured to accommodate each other in the retained condition.

28. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 22 to 27 wherein end regions of the retaining members are chamfered to permit end-to-end placement of each retaining member around the perimeter of the grating formation.

29. The grid assembly as claimed in claims 28 wherein the end regions of the retaining members are chamfered at an angle in the region of 45 degrees.

30. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein each of the bars includes a mating formation for mating with the retaining arrangement in a male-female manner.

31. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 30 wherein each of the bars includes mating formations defined on either end thereof for mating with retaining members arranged on either side thereof.

32. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 30 or 31 wherein the mating formations include a neck portion which has a width which corresponds to a size of the receiving zone of each retaining member.

33. The grid assembly as claimed claim 32 wherein the neck portion has a width which allows complementary receipt thereof between opposing inner surfaces of the retaining member.

34. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 30 to 33 wherein the mating formation includes a locating formation for locating the bars relative to each other and to the retaining members.

35. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 34 wherein the locating formation is in the form of a protrusion extending from the neck portion.

36. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 35 wherein the protrusion is sized and shaped to be received complementally by an aperture defined in the base wall of the retaining members in a located condition.

37. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 35 or 36 wherein, in the located condition, an end portion of the protrusion is arranged substantially flush relative an outer surface of the base wall of the retaining member.

38. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 26 to 37 wherein a plurality of apertures are defined in the base wall of each retaining member forreceiving protrusions of each of the bars, thereby allowing the bars to be spaced substantially equidistantly from each other.

39. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the securing arrangement includes a frame sized, shaped, and configured to receive the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars complementally therein.

40. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 39 wherein the frame is defined by four elongate supports.

41. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 40 wherein each of the elongate supports includes a base portion and a wall extending substantially normally from the base portion.

42. The grid assembly as claimed in claims 40 or 41 wherein end regions of each of the elongate supports are chamfered to permit complementary engagement between elongate supports abutting each other.

43. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 39 to 42 wherein the securing arrangement includes an attachment means for attaching the retaining arrangement and the plurality of bars to the frame.

44. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 43 wherein the attachment means is connected via attachment apertures defined in the frame and retaining arrangement.

45. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 44 wherein the attachment apertures are defined in side walls of the retaining members and walls of the elongate supports of the frame.

46. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 44 or 45 wherein the attachment apertures are defined in an operatively lower side wall of the retaining member, wherein the operatively lower side wall of the retaining member is arranged in close proximity to the base portion of the elongate supports of the frame.

47. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 44 to 46 wherein the attachment means is in the form of a plurality of nut, bolt, and washer assemblies connected via attachment apertures defined in the frame and retaining arrangement.

48. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 44 to 47 wherein an access aperture is provided for accessing the attachment apertures and the attachment means.

49. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 48 wherein a plurality of access apertures are provided for accessing the attachment apertures and attachment means.

50. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 48 or 49 wherein the access aperture is defined in one of the side walls of the retaining member.

51. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 48 to 50 wherein the access aperture is defined in an outer side wall of the retaining member.

52. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 48 to 51 wherein the attachment means is accessed via the access apertures, to deter theft thereof.

53. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 48 to 52 wherein an accessing tool is provided for accessing the attachment apertures and attachment means via the access apertures.

54. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 53 wherein the accessing tool includes a mating portion for mating with the attachment means, and a shaft extending from the mating portion for allowing the mating portion to extend through one of the access apertures to reach the attachment apertures and attachment means.

55. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 54 wherein the accessing tool includes a handle extending from the shaft for permitting pivotal or rotational movement of the shaft, such that the attachment means is inserted into or removed from the attachment apertures.

56. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 43 to 55 wherein the attachment means is in the form of a plurality of screws, each screw including a head configured to shear off when a torsional force is applied thereto, thereby deterring the screw from being removed.

57. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 43 to 56 wherein the attachment means is in the form of a screw or bolt designed with a specific head that is more difficult to remove than generic screw or bolt heads.

58. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the securing arrangement includes an anchoring member for anchoring the frame to the inlet of the drain.

59. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 58 wherein the anchoring member extends from a base region of the frame at an angle in the range of 15 to 60 degrees.

60. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 59 wherein the anchoring member extends from the base region of the frame at an angle in the region of 45-degrees.

61. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 58 to 60 wherein the anchoring member includes an extension portion and legs extending from a free end region of the extension portion for enhancing the anchoring ability thereof.

62. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 61 wherein the legs are arranged substantially normally relative to each other.

63. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of claims 58 to 62 wherein a plurality of anchoring members are provided for anchoring the frame at a plurality of locations around the perimeter thereof.

64. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the drain is in the form of a cast concrete channel.

65. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the grid assembly is sized, shaped, or configured to correspond to a size, shape, and configuration of the drain.

66. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the grid assembly is manufactured from any suitable metallic material.

67. The grid assembly as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the grid assembly is manufactured from mild steel or stainless steel.

68. The grid assembly as claimed in claim 67 wherein the grid assembly is hot dipped galvanised, bitumen treated or painted to ensure durability and protection against corrosion.

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